Dandruff is one of those hair issues that we have all struggled with at one time or another, and honestly, it is frustrating. The white flakes on your shoulders can be embarrassing, and that constant itching can drive you crazy. But you need not worry, as getting rid of dandruff does not have to be a great deal. With the right steps, you can tackle dandruff and have a healthy and fresh scalp. This blog will walk you through what dandruff is, why it occurs, and how to eliminate it with easy, everyday steps. If you are ready to say goodbye to dandruff, this guide is what you need.
What Exactly Is Dandruff?
Dandruff is a common scalp condition that results in flaking of the skin on your scalp. These flakes will most likely appear as small white or light yellowish spots that will drop onto your shoulders or hair. It occurs when the skin on your scalp sheds more than usual, due to one reason or another. Dandruff is not contagious, so there is no need to fear that it's going to infect other people.
Does Dandruff Cause Hair Fall?
Dandruff in itself does not lead to hair loss, but it may create some issues that impact your hair growth. If your scalp is extremely dry or inflamed because of dandruff, it might cause your scalp to itch, and excessive scratching of your scalp can damage hair follicles. In other people, the buildup of flakes on your scalp hampers hair follicles, and hence, it is more difficult for the hair to grow. Hence, dandruff by itself does not lead to hair fall, but it will make your scalp unhealthy and will result in hair fall because of dandruff.
What Causes Dandruff?
There are several reasons why dandruff occurs, and if you know them, you will be able to determine how you can avoid it. Here is what could be causing dandruff:
- Dry Scalp: Dry scalp lacks moisture, and it results in dryness and flakiness, followed by itchiness. When the scalp is not well-hydrated, it sheds skin cells at a higher rate, resulting in flakes that are visible.
- Oily Scalp: The oily scalp provides an excellent environment for yeast growth. Overgrowth of yeast (Malassezia) results in irritation and flakiness, and your scalp is oily.
- Fungal Infections: Malassezia is a fungus that is naturally found on the scalp. If it grows too much, it irritates the skin, resulting in dandruff.
- Sensitive Scalp: Some people's scalps are sensitive to some ingredients in shampoos or conditioners. If very harsh products are applied, then they cause irritation to the skin, and it becomes even flakier, and one gets an itching sensation on the scalp.
- Poor Diet: Not getting enough nutrients, such as vitamins and healthy fats, in your diet will soften your scalp. It makes it even more susceptible to dryness, oiliness, or irritation that results in dandruff.
Maintaining a healthy scalp and using the right products helps to prevent dandruff. Now that we know what causes it, let us look at the ways to remove it.
The Step-by-Step Guide on How to Remove Dandruff from Hair
Removing dandruff is simple. You just need to follow this quick, effective hair dandruff removal treatment:
Step 1: Apply Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
Begin by shampooing your hair with a good anti-dandruff shampoo. Pick one that matches your hair type and has active ingredients such as zinc pyrithione or salicylic acid. Massage the best shampoo for hair fall and dandruff on your scalp with your fingertips (not nails) to remove the flakes. Clean thoroughly with lukewarm or cold water so that your scalp doesn't dry out too much.
Step 2: Use a Hair Conditioner
After shampooing, apply a hair conditioner to maintain soft and moist hair. Use it on hair lengths and ends, but avoid applying it to the scalp. Leave it on for 1–2 minutes to condition hair, then wash it off with cold water. It conditions hair, detangling it and keeping it soft and non-drying.
Step 3: Treat with Hair Oil to Moisturize
After your hair is partially wet and not dripping, work with your hair and scalp with a light hair oil. Be cautious to gently treat your scalp with the oil by massaging it against your scalp to moisturize and calm irritation. Hair oils hydrate your scalp, minimize dryness, and maximize shine in your hair. Leave it on for 20–30 minutes and then wash it out, or sleep with it for a more intense nourishment.
Step 4: End with a Hair Serum
After your hair has dried, apply a hair serum to lock in moisture and add shine to your hair. A serum can calm frizz and generally make your hair healthier. It will also protect your hair from the damage caused by styling tools. Simply apply a small amount to the ends of your hair to leave it soft and shiny.
These are the steps that will assist you in saying goodbye to dandruff and keeping your scalp fresh.
Ingredients to Look for in Anti-Dandruff Shampoos
While you are on the hunt of a hair dandruff solution, there are a few ingredients you should search for. These ingredients will assist in decreasing flakes and calming your scalp.
- Piroctone Olamine: It's widely used in dandruff shampoos because it has antifungal activity. It decreases the yeast Malassezia that causes dandruff.
- Climbazole: A gentle antifungal, Climbazole combats dandruff by inhibiting the growth of the fungus on your scalp. Pleasant and gentle but strong on flakes.
- Zinc Pyrithione (ZPTO): An everyday and reliable active for dandruff, ZPTO possesses antibacterial and antifungal properties that manage flakes and redness in the scalp.
- Aloe Vera: Aloe Vera is soothing and moisturizing, which can calm irritated scalp skin. It's great for sensitive skin and can reduce dryness and itching.
They are great for combating dandruff while keeping your scalp healthy and well-nourished.
When to See a Dermatologist?
If your dandruff persists even after trying various treatments, it may be high time to visit a dermatologist. The following are some signs to look out for:
- Worsening dandruff even after treatment.
- Redness or inflammation of the scalp.
- Excessive hair loss due to dandruff.
- Itchy patches that don't heal.
- Irritation or tenderness of the scalp that doesn't go away.
- Patches of scaly skin that become widespread quickly.
- No improvement even after a product change.
If you experience any of these, a dermatologist can help you sort out what's going on and suggest the best treatment for your scalp.
Conclusion
Dandruff does not necessarily have to be a constant struggle. Given that you do the right thing, use the right products, and maintain consistency, you can get that healthy scalp with no flakes. It is just a matter of getting the best shampoo for hair loss and dandruff, being gentle with your scalp, and utilizing the right ingredients to combat dandruff. If you are looking for the best shampoo for hair fall and dandruff, Lavister offers amazing hair care products that start showing results from the first wash. Start your journey to flake-free hair with Lavister, for flawless-looking hair every day!
