- Skin continuously sheds layers as a natural function. Our scalp sheds more layers of skin than any other part of the body. Dandruff is the shedding of an excessive amount of larger-than-normal flakes that stick to the hair and eventually fall on collars and shoulders. Itching or irritation often accompanies the flaking.
Terms and Meanings:
Dandruff : - pityriasis - scales formed in excess upon the scalp
Pityriasis: - dandruff; - an inflammation of the skin characterized by the formation and flaking of fine branny scales.
Seborrhea: - over-action of the sebaceous ( oil ) glands
Seborrhea capitis; - seborrhea of the scalp, commonly called dandruff; -pityriasis.
- Pityrosporum is a microscopic fungus that is normally found on oily areas of the skin. Those who have dandruff often have an unusually large amount of pityrosporum.
- Wash your hair regularly with an anti-dandruff shampoo with fungicides. Rinse well to eliminate any build-up of hair products.
- Increase the circulation of your scalp with a few minutes of scalp massage every day. Follow this with a vigorous brushing to loosen flakes.
- After shampooing, rinse your hair with equal parts fresh lemon juice and water, cider vinegar and water or white vinegar and water.
- Rinse oily hair with one of the above mixtures before shampooing, applying it directly to the scalp. Use it twice a week.
- A hot oil treatment, once a week, will benefit dry scalp. Massage castor oil, olive oil or linseed oil into your hair and scalp. Wrap it in a hot towel for at least 10 minutes. Shampoo.
- Herbal Treatment - This solution is said to be effective in treating dandruff.
- Boil 4 T dried thyme for 10 minutes in 2 cups of water
- Stain it and let it cool.
- Shampoo and towel dry your hair
- Massage the cooled solution into clean damp hair. Leave it on for 1 hour before rinsing with warm water.
- Boil 4 T dried thyme for 10 minutes in 2 cups of water
- Increase the circulation of your scalp with a few minutes of scalp massage every day. Follow this with a vigorous brushing to loosen flakes.
- Try changing shampoo. Be sure to rinse your shampoo out of your hair VERY well.
- Stress and negative emotions can play a part in dandruff as well as other skin conditions. Relaxation techniques may help.
- Severe or persistent dandruff may be a symptom of eczema, psoriasis or seborrhoeic dermatitis. If your dandruff is very noticeable, very itchy and uncomfortable or hangs on weeks after you have tried to correct it, see a doctor.
Click here to read about Cradle Cap.
Nizoral Anti-Dandruff Shampoo