Dandruff is a common issue that almost everyone faces at some point in their life. Regardless of age or skin type, this dermatological condition can cause both physical and emotional discomfort. Its causes can vary from improper hair care to internal health problems. In this article, Baltimore Chronicle’ll explore in detail how to effectively fight dandruff, which remedies work best, and how to prevent it from returning.
Main Causes of Dandruff
Before tackling the problem, it’s crucial to understand its root cause. Dandruff can result from both external and internal factors.
Exogenous (external) factors:
- Improper shampoo selection
- Frequent use of styling products
- Washing hair too rarely or too often
- Overheating the scalp with a hairdryer
- Chemical hair dyeing
Endogenous (internal) factors:
- Hormonal imbalances
- Gastrointestinal issues
- Vitamin B deficiency
- Weakened immune system
- Stress and lack of sleep
Eliminating these underlying causes is the first step to treatment, as even the best remedies won’t work long-term without addressing the root of the problem.
Types of Dandruff: Dry and Oily
Dandruff comes in different types, each requiring a specific approach to treatment.
| Type of Dandruff | Main Features | Recommended Remedies |
|---|---|---|
| Dry | Easily flakes off, itching, dry scalp | Moisturizing shampoos, oils |
| Oily | Large flakes, greasy shine | Anti-seborrheic treatments |
Identifying your dandruff type is key to effective therapy. If unsure, it’s best to consult a trichologist.
The Most Effective Dandruff Remedies
Modern cosmetics and medicine offer many solutions to combat dandruff—both over-the-counter and natural.
Pharmacy treatments:
- Shampoos with ketoconazole (e.g., Nizoral, Sebozol)
- Products containing salicylic acid
- Shampoos with zinc pyrithione
- Lotions with clotrimazole or ciclopirox
Natural remedies:
- Tea tree oil
- Oak bark decoction
- Aloe vera juice
- Castor or coconut oil
Avoid products that dry out the scalp and opt for sulfate-free shampoos for gentler care.
Home Dandruff Treatments: Proven Recipes
Folk medicine also offers many solutions. Below are effective recipes you can prepare at home.
Homemade masks:
- Kefir mask
Application: Apply warm kefir to the scalp, leave for 30 minutes. - Egg and lemon mask
Ingredients: 1 egg yolk, 1 tsp lemon juice, 1 tbsp olive oil. - Onion juice mask
Apply onion juice to the scalp, leave for 20 minutes, rinse with shampoo.
Rinses:
- Chamomile infusion
- Vinegar water (1 tbsp per 1 liter)
- Nettle decoction
These home remedies can be very effective if used regularly for several weeks.
Prevention: How to Avoid Dandruff
Prevention plays a key role. Even if you’ve already treated dandruff, it can return without proper care.
Tips:
- Wash your hair regularly according to your scalp type
- Avoid overheating the scalp
- Don’t share combs or towels
- Eat a balanced diet and avoid junk food
- Reduce stress and improve sleep quality
- Change your shampoo periodically
Simple habits can significantly reduce the risk of dandruff recurrence.
When to See a Doctor
In some cases, self-treatment isn’t enough, and it’s important to consult a specialist.
See a dermatologist if:
- Dandruff is accompanied by severe itching and inflammation
- Ulcers or crusts appear on the scalp
- You’re experiencing significant hair loss
- Home treatments haven’t worked after a month
A doctor can help diagnose the exact cause and recommend appropriate treatment.
Earlier we wrote about how to fight hair loss.