Dandruff is a common scalp condition characterized by itching and flaking skin. Dandruff can be caused by a number of things, including sebum oil production, dry skin, hygiene and disease. When dandruff occurs, there are several ways to stop its formation before it gets out of control.
Step 1
Use a shampoo designed for dandruff. There are several brands of shampoo on the market, both prescription and over-the-counter, that provide dandruff relief. These shampoos use specific active ingredients, such as zinc pyrithione or selenium sulfide, to help treat dandruff.
Step 2
Shampoo your hair on a regular basis. Your scalp contains sebaceous glands which produce an oil called sebum. Sebum is used by the body to retain moisture, as well as protect the skin from bacterial and fungal infections. One potential cause of dandruff is the excess buildup of sebum on the hair shafts and scalp, which attracts dirt and dead skin cells. Shampooing your hair helps prevent too much sebum from building up, and helps remove the dead skin cells and grime from the hair strands.
Step 3
Change your haircare products. One potential cause of dandruff is contact dermatitis. Contact dermatitis is marked by dry, itchy and red scalp, and can commonly be caused by ingredients in your haircare products. Experimenting with other products with different ingredients may help relieve the irritation and reduce dandruff breakouts.
Step 4
Reduce your use of styling products. Excessive amounts of styling products can build up on your scalp and hair, causing dandruff.
Step 5
Change your diet. According to the Mayo Clinic, diets high in B vitamins (found in foods such as turkey, tuna and bananas) and zinc (found in oysters, wheat bran and pecans) can provide the necessary nutrients to help prevent dandruff from forming.
