Dandruff is a common condition affecting the scalp. It occurs when the scalp sheds small bits of dry skin, resulting in an itchy scalp. The severity of dandruff can vary from mild to severe, and it can also affect the health of the hair.
Sign & Symptoms
- Severe dandruff may cause yellowish to reddish, scaly, raised bumps along the hairline.
- Itchy scalp.
- Greasy or dry scales on the scalp.
How to Handle Dandruff?
To reduce oil and skin cell buildup, wash your hair daily with a gentle shampoo, lightly massaging the scalp to loosen flakes.
- Protect the scalp from sunlight.
- Moisturize the scalp.
- Shampoos containing the following ingredients can help reduce dandruff:
- Ketoconazole: An antifungal agent that works very well for dandruff. However, it may result in some hair loss.
- Selenium sulfide: Common in anti-dandruff shampoos available in the local market, this antifungal slows down the shedding of skin cells.
- Pyrithione zinc: Acts as an antibacterial and antifungal agent.
- Salicylic acid: A mild acid that helps slough away flakes and promotes healthier skin.
- Tar-based shampoos: These act as both an antibiotic and antifungal. However, if you have blond, white, or gray hair, a tar shampoo can cause discoloration. This treatment can also make the scalp more sensitive to sunlight.