Dandruff is caused when the dead skin cells on the scalp shed excessively. A resilient fungus called malassezia normally present on the skin's surface plays a role in dandruff. This fungus feasts on the sebum on the skin, causing white flakes and an itchy, irritated scalp in certain people. But the Mayo Clinic cites other reasons for dandruff, including psoriasis, eczema or exposure to cold weather. If you want to avoid dandruff, the Mayo Clinic notes you may find resolution simply by using the right specialty hair care products and shampooing more frequently.
Step 1
Select a gentle dandruff-fighting shampoo from the drugstore or pharmacy. Mayo Clinic experts note that these products contain different active ingredients, each which control dandruff differently. Look for dandruff shampoos that contain zinc pyrithione, tar, salicylic acid, selenium sulfide or ketoconazole. Keep in mind that one shampoo may work better than the others--you may have to try several before you find the one that works best for you. You may even wish to select two or three different dandruff shampoos and alternate them.
Step 2
Wash your hair frequently. The University of Michigan Health Service points out that you might need to shampoo every day, although in some cases washing your hair two or three times a week is sufficient.
Step 3
Use the right shampooing techniques. Mayo Clinic experts advise leaving the shampoo on for at least five minutes to give the active ingredient time to take effect. You also may wish to shampoo your hair twice. When washing your hair, massage your scalp gently--don't scrub.
Step 4
Reduce your chances of getting dandruff by avoiding triggers that make it worse. Some of these include stress and using too many styling products in your hair. The Mayo Clinic advises eating a diet with adequate amounts of zinc, B vitamins and certain fat types. Simply going outside and getting a little sun on your scalp can help you avoid dandruff.
Step 5
Give your home treatment time to work. If you've used several dandruff shampoos and dandruff doesn't resolve in several weeks, see your doctor. The University of Michigan Health Service states that medical attention is appropriate if you experience inflammation and severe shedding of skin cells on other parts of your body, in addition to your scalp or if your scalp becomes even itchier despite using a dandruff shampoo.
Tips and Warnings
- Although anyone can get dandruff, it is most likely to begin in adolescence and continue up to middle age, says the Mayo Clinic. Males tend to get dandruff more frequently than females.
- Tea tree oil is a natural anti-fungal used in some dandruff shampoos. The Mayo Clinic warns that tea tree oil can cause allergic reactions in some individuals.
Things You'll Need
- Over-the-counter dandruff shampoo
