Learn How To Get Rid Of Dandruff

By Trevor Johnson

Dandruff is a common problem without a true cure, but that doesn't mean that it can't be controlled. Although scientists have yet to identify the underlying causes of the condition, which causes an itchy scalp and visible white flakes of dead skin cells, there are plenty of remedies that can help you keep your hair free of flakes. Read on to learn about some ideas and suggestions on how to get rid of dandruff.

1.Look at possible dietary causes of your dandruff.

Food can affect your scalp in two ways. One way is by directly aggravating the scalp. Foods that are known to have a potentially inflammatory effect include sugary foods, drinks that have a lot of caffeine in them, and foods that have been very refined or processed. The other way is by failing to provide proper nourishment to the scalp and hair. A diet low in zinc and Omega 3 may lead to the presence of dandruff. If you suspect that this is the cause of your condition, talk to your physician or nutritionist. They might suggest taking supplements or making changes to your diet.

2.Are poor quality shampoos and conditioners drying out your hair?

Poor quality hair products can have a big influence on scalp health. Your local hairdresser should be able to suggest a product that will properly moisturise your head and scalp without stripping away essential oils or causing inflammation of the scalp.

3.Have you tried an anti-dandruff shampoo?

If you still aren't seeing any results with the suggestions above, you may want to consider an anti-dandruff shampoo. There are a host of different products available in shops that are designed to help you be rid of your dandruff. They differ mainly in their active ingredients.

One of the most commonly used ingredients used is Zinc Pyrithione, or Zinc Omadine. This is a combined anti-fungal and anti-bacterial. It has been shown to be effective in the treatment of dandruff, but if treatment is stopped then the condition often returns even worse than before.

Ketoconazole is an anti-fungal that is directed at dandruff whose cause lies in the presence of yeasts and fungi on the scalp. Dandruff usually returns after treatment has ended. Selenium sulfide is a similar product to this.

A by-product of distilled coal, coal tar is commonly used to treat dandruff linked to head lice and psoriasis. The NIOSH lists this product as a carcinogen, meaning that it may increase the likelihood of cancer, so those who use this product should be aware of this.

4.Still not seeing the effects you are after? Speak to a dermatologist.

If you are not getting anywhere with your condition through the various treatments you have tested out, try talking to a specialist. They will be able to give a full assessment of your condition and create a treatment plan that takes into account your unique case. - 30305

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