Dandruff

Dandruff is a minor problem but it can be embarrassing. Dandruff may be a result of different causes.

First, dandruff can be associated with oily hair. A second common cause is a yeast infection of the scalp. Hormonal and seasonal changes can also cause dandruff to become worse. Finally, dandruff may simply be a result of a dry scalp.

If dandruff becomes a problem, there are normally simple solutions. Use a dandruff shampoo that contains coal tar, salicylic acid, pyrithione zinc, sulfur or selenium sulfide. Each of these ingredients reduces dandruff in a different way. The tar-based shampoos slow cell production, while salicylic acid-based shampoos slough off dead cells before they clump. And both shampoos have antifungal properties and help fight invading yeast microbes, which is one of dandruff’s most persistent triggers. Finally, pyrithione zinc and selenium sulfide reduce cell turn over.

When you shampoo, rub vigorously. Regardless of the dandruff shampoo you’re using, a little hard rubbing can enhance its effectiveness. When you wash your hair, lather once, rinse, lather a second time and really rub your scalp as you shampoo. Your fingers will help dislodge excess cells. After you lather a second time, let the shampoo sit on your head for at least five minutes. That way, you give the anti-dandruff ingredients time to work. After you’ve loosened all those little cells, rinse and rinse again.

Shampoo daily. The more frequently you shampoo, the better. It prevents your scalp from accumulating dead cells that will precipitate a major outbreak.

Rotate your shampoo. If you’ve been using one shampoo successfully for several months and your dandruff suddenly returns, just switch shampoos. No one knows why a perfectly good dandruff shampoo suddenly stops working, but they sometimes do. Alternate dandruff shampoos with regular ones as well. Shampoo every other day with a regular nondandruff shampoo suited to your particular natural hair type-dry, oily or normal. This will protect your hair from the harsh chemicals in dandruff shampoos, which have a tendency to dry your hair.

Condition with tar. If your hair starts to feel dry after you’ve been using a dandruff shampoo for a while, don’t reach for a heavy after-shampoo conditioner. Instead, switch to a tar-based shampoo.

These simple tips should eliminate dandruff as a problem.