Divake22
New Member
I had always thought that having dandruff means that your hair is dry. And I would subsequently slather oil on it to relieve it in the past. But is means the contrary, your scalp is shedding its top layer/oily and you need to wash it more.
http://skin-care-tips-from-dermatologist.com/dandruff.htm:
What is Dandruff?
http://skin-care-tips-from-dermatologist.com/dandruff.htm:
What is Dandruff?
Dandruff is the term used to describe the simple scaling of the scalp. The top layer of skin is constantly being shed and renewed. Normally this goes unnoticed on the rest of the body, however, on the scalp the hair traps the scaling skin so that the scales become more evident.
About 50 per cent of the population suffer from dandruff. It can be treated by regular washing of the scalp with a medicated shampoo. Sometimes prescribed creams and lotions are necessary to bring it under control.
Dandruff is a chronic scalp condition that causes scaling and flaking of the skin. The skin on our scalp sheds more than any other area. Flakes get trapped in the hair and mix with oil, causing dandruff. What causes this increased shedding of scalp skin is still unknown. Some experts believe it is caused by a yeast or fungus, which irritates the scalp. The body's reaction to this irritation causes increased shedding of dead cells. Others believe factors such as stress, weather, oily skin, diet or hormones cause dandruff. About 50 per cent of the population suffer from dandruff. It can be treated by regular washing of the scalp with a medicated shampoo. Sometimes prescribed creams and lotions are necessary to bring it under control.
Dry scalp and dandruff are not the same thing. Dry scalp is caused by a lack of moisture or natural oils on the scalp, which results in small, dry flakes, and itchiness. Dandruff is caused by the shedding of skin, which results in medium-to-large size, white, oily flakes. Having dandruff does not mean your scalp is too dry. It means you need to wash your hair more often.
Dandruff Treatment
Although dandruff can't be cured, it can be controlled. Early treatment is the key. If you have dandruff, follow these guidelines:
Dandruff Treatment
Although dandruff can't be cured, it can be controlled. Early treatment is the key. If you have dandruff, follow these guidelines:
- Use a dandruff shampoo, such as Head & Shoulders, Sebulex, or Tegrin. Wet your hair and rub the shampoo into your scalp and hair. Leave it on the scalp for at least 5 minutes or as directed. Then rinse it out. Use it every day until the dandruff is gone.
stop using hairspray and other hair preparations - Continue to use the medicated shampoo 2 or 3 times a week to keep the dandruff away. Or alternate the dandruff shampoo with your regular shampoo.
- Contact a dermatologist if the dandruff persists, even with continued treatment, or if other skin problems arise.