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Dandruff Treatment Guide: From Home Remedies to Dermatologist Solutions

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Medically Reviewed by
Dr Kalyani Deshmukh Published Date:
Updated: 7 April 7:20 AM


Dr. Deshmukh is an MD (Dermatology, Venerology, and Leprosy) with more than 4 years of experience. She successfully runs her own practice and believes that a personalized service maximizes customer satisfaction.

Dandruff Treatment Guide: From Home Remedies to Dermatologist Solutions

Dandruff is a common condition in which your scalp sheds excess skin due to irritation or itchiness, and requires an effective dandruff treatment to get rid of it. Dandruff can cause flaky skin to shed on the scalp and is more visible in people with darker hair colour. Persistent dandruff issues can cause extreme discomfort and redness on the scalp. Fortunately, both home remedies and medical solutions exist to treat dandruff and soothe the flaky scalp. So if you’re currently irritated about your persistent dandruff, know that there are proven dandruff treatment options available to you. Here are the best dandruff treatments that have proven beneficial for those with dandruff. 

What is dandruff? 

Almost 50% of the world’s population may suffer from dandruff at least once in their life. Dandruff develops when the scalp appears flaky and starts coming off in flakes. These dry skin flakes can be seen in your hair and on your shoulders. Dandruff is more visible in darker hair or if it falls from your scalp onto your clothing. Although the symptoms of dandruff may vary, the signs are easy to spot on your scalp. Here are the symptoms generally seen in people with dandruff:

Symptoms of dandruff

  • White or grey flakes of skin
  • Dry and itchy scalp 
  • Red or swollen scalp

Types of dandruff: Dry vs oily dandruff

Dandruff can also appear on the scalp in different forms. The two primary types of dandruff are dry and oily dandruff. Let’s understand the key difference between these two types. 

Dry dandruff 

Oily dandruff

Dry, itchy scalp

Excessively oily scalp 

Absence of sebum causes cracks on your scalp and shedding of flakes

Can cause overgrowth of fungus, Malassezia Globosa

Flakes are typically smaller and drier

Flakes developed are large and oilier

White or grey coloured flakes 

Slightly yellow-coloured flakes 

It isn’t stuck to your hair and can fall onto your shoulder

It can be seen on your eyebrows or face 

Causes of dandruff 

Dandruff is caused by several underlying factors. Here are some of the most common causes of dandruff:

  • Dry and flaky scalp 
  • Fungal infections are usually due to the Malassezia fungus
  • Overuse of hair products leads to chemical buildup
  • Existing skin conditions such as seborrheic dermatitis, eczema, and psoriasis
  • Nutrient deficiency of zinc, vitamin B, and omega-3 fatty acids
  • Dehydration, stress, and lack of sleep

How to remove dandruff? 

Persistent dandruff can cause issues and hamper your comfort or confidence. However, dandruff can be cured either through home remedies or medical treatments. These dandruff treatments, if used consistently, can reduce scalp itchiness and the flakiness that results from it. 

Dandruff treatment at home 

  • Apple cider vinegar can be applied to the scalp to balance its pH scale and reduce discomfort. 
  • Tea tree oil, when applied to the head, can help soothe the scalp.  
  • Using aloe vera is another way to calm scalp irritation caused by dandruff. 
  • Yoghurt and honey, when combined, can help reduce scalp dryness and dandruff. 

There are some simple measures that one can use to treat dandruff at home. However, these home remedies may only keep it under control for a few days and not eliminate it from the scalp.

Hair care routine for treating dandruff at home

  • Use an anti-dandruff shampoo: Choose the right shampoo for your anti-dandruff treatment. Check if the key ingredients of the shampoo include salicylic acid, selenium sulphide, ketoconazole, coal tar, and zinc pyrithione. There are several shampoos available over the counter at your local drugstore. 
  • Follow the instructions on the shampoo bottle: those with dandruff often overlook the statutory instructions. It is usually advised to apply and lather the shampoo on your scalp thoroughly. Allow it to sit on your scalp for at least 5-10 minutes before washing it off.  
  • Wash your hair frequently: It is also recommended, depending on your hair type. Those with naturally straight hair or an oily scalp need to wash their hair often. On the other hand, if you have naturally curly hair, you need to wash your hair once a week. 
  • Cover your head from the sun: The most common reason for dandruff is the accumulation of sweat on your scalp. You need to protect your scalp and avoid exposing it to harmful UV rays. So if you’re stepping out in the sun, wear a wide-brimmed hat and apply sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher on your scalp. 

Common mistakes that can worsen dandruff 

  • Using hair products with harsh ingredients 
  • Avoid excessively sugary or processed food
  • Include intake of omega-3 fatty acids 
  • Not washing your hair enough or washing it too often   
  • Overstyling or brushing your hair excessively 
  • Inadequate conditioning of your hair 

Lifestyle tips to get rid of dandruff  

These lifestyle tips and home remedies can help you get rid of dandruff in a few weeks. However, if dandruff persists even after 3 weeks of following these measures, we recommend consulting a specialist for a medically proven anti-dandruff treatment. 

When to seek medical treatment? 

Dandruff generally doesn’t require the best dandruff treatment, as it can be addressed immediately with home remedies. However, if you’re experiencing any dandruff-like symptoms that are persistent or severe, you should consider seeking medical care before these conditions disturb your comfort and affect your confidence. A haircare specialist can assess the condition of your scalp and suggest an appropriate medical treatment for dandruff. Explore Traya’s Ultimate Hair Supplements combo that blends Ayurveda and dermatology to address the root causes of your hair health. 

FAQs 

  1. Is dandruff harmful to your scalp? 

No, dandruff isn’t actually harmful and can be treated either through home remedies or medical treatments. 

  1. Is dandruff a contagious condition?

No. You do not catch dandruff from someone who already has it. Dandruff develops on your scalp for various health and hygiene reasons. 

  1. Does dandruff go away on its own? 

Yes, certain types of dandruff may go away easily. However, if you have persistent issues, you should consider seeking dandruff treatment. 

  1. What treatment should I rely on to get rid of the dandruff?

You can use home remedies or seek medical treatment to treat your dandruff faster. 

  1. How often should you wash your hair if you’re suffering from dandruff?

Dandruff can be easily tackled by washing your hair with medicated dandruff shampoo at least 2-3 times a week.   

  1. When should you seek medical care for anti-dandruff treatment?

Consult a doctor if your dandruff isn’t getting addressed even after consistent use of special shampoos or home remedies. 

 

References: 

 

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