The Truth About Dandruff

The truth is dandruff is a, very, common skin condition that many people suffer from. However, for some people, it can be an embarrassing topic which they may wish to avoid speaking about. As a result, people grab a quick fix that claims to get rid of dandruff once and for all. But what not many people know is that there are different reasons you may be suffering from dandruff, and each treatment can vary.

Causes of Dandruff

• Stress and hormonal changes.
• Weather and diet.
• A dry scalp.
• The scalps yeast production.
• Medical conditions, for example, psoriasis and dermatitis.

How to Prevent Dandruff

 Although dandruff can sometimes be complicated to treat and in some cases cannot be cured, there are a few ways you can help to prevent dandruff. An easy tip to follow is to wash your hair more or less than your usual hair routine. It is, recommended to wash your hair 1-2 times a week, depending on your hair type. You will already have a rough idea of how often you need to wash your hair for it to feel good.

 Stress can be another trigger for dandruff. So, big lifestyle changes and daily worries can both have a knock-on effect on your scalp. Therefore, you must take time to practice self-care and release any anxieties that may be troubling you.

 Selfcare Tips

•  Run yourself a hot, bubble bath and treat yourself to a hair mask after a long day.
• Pick up the phone and talk to a friend or family member, remember a problem shared is a problem halved.
• Get an early night. Before going to sleep, make a note of anything that might be bothering you, or any tasks you may not have managed to get finished that day. This way, your mind is more likely to be able to switch off as you go to sleep.
• Put on your favourite comedy. After all, laughter is the best medicine.

 

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Dry Scalp

The most common cause of dandruff is an, extremely, dry scalp. You will experience ‘snowflake’ type dandruff; small, white flakes. This type of dandruff doesn’t need aggressive treatment. You should stay clear of shampoos targeted at dandruff and instead opt for one that is much gentler. A mild, soothing shampoo like the Sensi Care Sensitive Scalp Shampoo is what your dry scalp needs. Key ingredients, Aloe Vera and Panthenol, both contribute to scalp health and helps to ease the scalp’s itchiness. It also provides a gentle cleansing action and re-establishes the natural equilibrium of both the hair and scalp.

 

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Yeast Production

 The opposite of a dry scalp is an oily scalp, and excessive oil can lead to a yeast-like fungus which causes dandruff. If you have oily skin, then it is likely you will also have an oily scalp. Just like your skin, your scalp has sebaceous glands, when these glands produce too much sebum your scalp becomes oily. Infrequent hair washing can be another explanation for an oily scalp.

To kill the fungal infection that causes dandruff you need a shampoo that contains piroctone olamine. Such as the Purity Anti-Dandruff Shampoo. Not only does this shampoo kill the fungus to prevent further dandruff, but it also has sebum control. Another product that will contribute to easing dandruff is a scalp scrub. Introducing a scalp scrub, or exfoliator, to your routine once a week will be able to get rid of, product and oil build-up. One more thing to consider for your hair routine is what conditioner you are using and where you are applying it. An oily scalp will benefit from a lightweight conditioner like the Nutricare Bi-Phase Restructuring Leave-In Conditioner. You should also avoid applying conditioner to your scalp as you don’t want to overload it with products.

 

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Diet

Some people may be surprised to know that diet affects the skin but also the scalp and hair health. Hydration is essential for a healthy scalp and to avoid it becoming dehydrated and dry you need to consume 1.5-2 litres of water a day. A dry scalp can experience itching sensations and it is important you resist the urge to itch. There are foods you can incorporate into your diet to reduce an itchy scalp. For instance, the anti-inflammatory properties of fish oil can ease an irritated scalp. Oily fish like salmon, sardines, and mackerel contain omega-3 fatty acids which keep your scalp and hair hydrated. As well as omega-3 fatty acids, you should try and ensure you are getting enough vitamin A in your diet. It is because vitamin A is necessary for the body to make sebum. Without enough sebum, your scalp can become dry and itchy.

 

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Final Notes

Although you would assume that there is one answer to treat dandruff, there are many depending on which type of dandruff you are experiencing. It is important to consider the reasons why you are suffering from dandruff to help you find the right treatment for you. If you find that your scalp’s health isn’t improving or is worsening after trialling a treatment, then you should visit your doctor for more advice.