How to Treat Dandruff

Do you have a favourite black cloth that you are afraid of to wear because of dandruff?
Try this tips from Dr.vishwas Patel:

Dandruff is a common scalp condition in which small pieces of dry skin flake off the scalp.
If you have dark hair or if you are wearing dark colours, you may notice flakes in your hair or on your shoulders.
Dandruff may also make your scalp itch.
Many people believe that dandruff is caused by poor hygiene but this is not true.
To treat and control dandruff, use dandruff shampoo and scalp treatments.
There are many types of dandruff shampoos and active ingredients for controlling symptoms.

The active ingredients are :

  • Zinc pyrithione
  • Salicylic acid
  • Sulfur
  • Tar shampoo
  • Selenium sulfide
  • Ketoconazole

When using dandruff shampoo follow these tips to get the best results :

  • Follow the instruction on shampoo bottle:
  • Lather the shampoo into the hair & onto the scalp
  • Some dandruff shampoos require that you leave it in for about 5-10 minutes before rinsing
  • If you have Caucasian or Asian hair, shampoo daily and use a dandruff shampoo at least twice a week.
  • If you are African-American, shampoo your hair and scalp once a week using dandruff shampoo.
  • See a dermatologist for best product recommendation for your hair type
  • If using one dandruff shampoo does not bring relief, try alternating between dandruff shampoos with different active ingredients.
  • Be careful when using a dandruff shampoos that contains coal tar
  • Tar shampoo can discolour blonde, grey or white hair. So, if you have light coloured hair you may have to choose different dandruff shampoo.
  • Tar shampoo also has the potential to make your scalp more sensitive to sun light If you use this type of dandruff shampoo, it is important to protect your scalp from the sun by wearing hat when outdoor and seeking shades whenever possible

NOTE : for most people dandruff just not require medical attention. However sometimes flaking and itching that appears like dandruff is actually a medical condition such as seborrheic dermatitis, psoriasis, fungal infection of the scalp or eczema. If you continue to have symptoms after using shampoo, see a dermatologist. A dermatologist can properly diagnose your condition and recommend a plan that best meets you needs.