Cold, dry winter weather is one of the more common causes of winter dandruff. Central heating that dries out your home and work environment compounds the problem. The dusting of white in your hair and on your shoulders is comprised of dead skin cells, and is more often a source of embarrassment than a cause for medical concern. Winter dandruff presents in the form of smaller, less oily flakes than dandruff that's caused by other skin conditions, such as psoriasis or eczema.
Step 1
Select a good dandruff shampoo. Although there are numerous dandruff shampoos that contain different active ingredients to inhibit dandruff, the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center suggests using a product that contains coal tar, such as Neutrogena T/Gel, which slows down the rate at which dead skin cells on the scalp are shed.
Step 2
Wash your hair regularly. The Mayo Clinic suggests using dandruff shampoo daily until the white flakes are under control. Massage your scalp gently when washing, and leave the shampoo in your hair for at least five minutes so that the active ingredient has time to work.
Step 3
Use a humidifier in your home and work environments to put moisture back into the air. Use a cool mist humidifier, as this type of humidifier is easier to maintain than a hot water type of humidifier. Clean and dry your humidifier regularly.
Step 4
Give your diet a boost. Mayo Clinic experts note that dandruff can be controlled by getting adequate amounts of zinc, B vitamins and certain fats. Integrative physician Dr. Andrew Weil suggests consuming more omega-3 fatty acids, which are found in cold-water fish, flax seeds, walnuts, eggs and leafy greens. Weil advises avoiding dairy products, including milk.
Step 5
Avoid triggers that can make winter dandruff even worse. Mayo Clinic experts cite using hair styling products (or too much product) as one factor that can exacerbate dandruff. Learn how to manage stressful situations--stress can make any condition worse, including dandruff.
Things You'll Need
- Dandruff-fighting shampoo
- Cool mist humidifier
