In this harmless but sometimes embarrassing condition, excessive amounts of skin cells flake off the scalp. They show up as white flakes in your hair, and on your shoulders if you wear dark clothes. Your scalp may also be itchy and red, and your eyelids, nose, and forehead may be affected. Dandruff is usually associated with the growth of a yeast-like fungus on the scalp, or it can be a mild form of seborrhoeic dermatitis - a scaly, itchy rash that can also affect the eyelids. Dandruff I smore common in men and may be made worse by stress, illness, and some hair products. Scaly, flaking skin on a baby’s scalp is known as cradle cap.
Shampooing
After shampooing, rinse your hair thoroughly to remove every trace of anti-dandruff shampoo.
Seek medical advice
Arrange to see your doctor if :
* The dandruff does not clear up after you have been using these home treatments
* You develop sensitivity to an anti-dandruff shampoo that persists for more than a few days
* Your scalp becomes red and develops sore patches or crusts
What you can do yourself
Dandruff can usually be controlled with the treatments below. You may need to repeat them occasionally, because the condition tends to recur.
* Use an anti- dandruff shampoo (see DRUG REMEDIES, right) and wash your hair in warm rather than hot water. Massage the shampoo into your scalp and make sure you leave it on long enough to work – generally about 3-5 minutes. Rinse thoroughly afterwards.
* Keep using the brand of anti-drandruff shampoo that you find works for you. If you develop itchiness or a rash, however, stop using the shampoo immediately and try switching to one with a different active ingredient.
* Don’t below-dry your hair because it may aggravate the dandruff.
* Avoid alcohol-based hair products such as hair sprays, which tend to dry out the scalp, and mousses, gels, and dyes, which may increase irritation and make dandruff worse.
DRUG REMEDIES
Anti- dandruff shampoos should clear up your dandruff within a few weeks. Follow the instructions carefully because different brands have different treatment advice. Shampoos may contain pyrithione zinc, selenium sulphide, or ketoconazole, which is particularly effective. Alternatively, use a shampoo that contains coal tar, or coal tar and salicylic acid.
Also Read: What is Cord Blood?
