Tips to Prevent Dandruff Growth

The first thing anyone wants to know when they notice those white flakes is how to get rid of dandruff. Either natural dandruff remedies can be tried or specific dandruff shampoos can be used.

Home Remedies

There are a number of natural ways to combat the flaking and mild itch dandruff causes. An equal mixture of apple cider vinegar and lemon juice with a pinch of salt can be applied to the hair and left for several minutes before shampooing. In extreme cases apply the mixture at night and do not shampoo until the next morning. If you prefer, use the apple cider vinegar only as a rinse after you shampoo. The slight acidity of the vinegar and lemon juice act as a natural anti-fungicide and also help to remove excessive skin flakes.

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Dandruff Shampoos

Most often the answer to ridding yourself of dandruff is simply to start using a dandruff shampoo. Probably the best dandruff shampoo in terms of availability and familiarity is Head and Shoulders. The main ingredient in this product is zinc pyrithione which will work against the malassezia furfur fungus and help to remove dead skin cells. (All dandruff shampoos contain either an anti-fungal agent, a mild acid, or both.)

Other more powerful products include shampoos like Selsun Blue and Neutrogena T-Gel. Be careful of these stronger formulations however as it may be an instance of killing a fly with an elephant gun. T-Gel, for instance, contains coal tar which is more appropriate for an outbreak of seborrheic dermatitis. The product is not meant for long-term use and can cause sensitivity to the sun. It is always better to start out with a mild shampoo and only to go to a stronger product in the case of an extremely persistent case of dandruff. (Use the stronger product only until the dandruff is brought under control and then resume the use of a milder agent.)

Normally no medication is required for simple dandruff. If there is an inflammation of the scalp with lesions and severe itching you have a more serious condition and should consult a dermatologist.

Are There Preventative Measures?

Dandruff can begin at any phase in life and usually comes and goes, often disappearing for years at a time. The best defense is a good quality shampoo and frequent shampooing to prevent over-production of oil on the scalp. Always leave lather in the hair at least five minutes. If dandruff is a chronic problem, Head and Shoulders is mild enough to be used on a long-term basis as your everyday shampoo.

Normally a dandruff home remedy or an over-the-counter shampoo will take care of the condition. You need only consult a dermatologist if there is greater evidence of a potential scalp infection. Thankfully more of an annoyance than a serious medical condition, dandruff causes frustration more than anything else.

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