Haircare Tips for Dandruff-Affected Scalps

Dandruff is not a sign of poor hygiene – it’s a medical condition linked to a fungus called malassezia. While it is not serious, it can be embarrassing, distressing and awkward to deal with. If there is itching involved, it is also physically uncomfortable.

But living with dandruff doesn’t mean accepting those hassles. You can effectively treat your dandruff with these three simple haircare tips.

• Develop a Shampoo Regimen: Striking a balance with your shampoo regimen is key to preventing dandruff. But shampooing too often or too sporadically can produce conditions that are ripe for dandruff; many people shampoo daily, but for some individuals with dandruff daily shampooing is too harsh. Alter the frequency and try out different products to find the perfect shampoo routine to keep your hair and scalp healthy.
• Avoid Harsh Haircare Products: Sometimes the solution to dandruff can be as simple as switching your hair gel. Some haircare products may irritate the scalp and trigger a dandruff flare up. Alcohol-based products and fragrances are the usual culprits that can contribute to a dry, inflamed scalp.
• Call for Backup: If you suffer from dandruff fairly often, put your dandruff management on autopilot by finding a medicated shampoo. Shampoos containing ketoconazole offer some of the strongest antifungal medicine available without a prescription. There are also other effective formulations containing zinc pyrithione, coal tar, selenium sulfide and sulfur. 

If your dandruff persists even with these interventions, you could have another condition such as psoriasis or seborrheic dermatitis. Consult your physician if you see no improvement after a few weeks.

Learn more haircare tips for staying dandruff-free and maintaining a healthy hair and scalp.

©Johnson & Johnson Consumer Inc. 2016