The dry air of winter months often brings fun little white flakes that manage to dot dark winter wardrobe at the most inappropriate of times. Yes, we’re talking dandruff here folks and it’s an embarrassing itch that simply needs to go away!
Between arid winter air, blasting heaters, less frequent brushing or shampooing (you know it happens), and regular use of circulation stomping woolen hats, colder months seem to be the most active season for the scratchy matter.
In addition to the contagious fungal form of dandruff, flakes can also be caused by a buildup of hair products, improper diet, use of certain medications or aggravated by high amounts of stress. There are also hormonal, hereditary and allergic issues to take into consideration but those may be best left up to your doctor for treatment.
Here are some suggestions for combating flakes:
Humidity Control
During winter days, consider using a humidifier at home. This will reduce the dryness level in the environment and will put moisture back into the air. When using a humidifier be sure to clean and dry the appliance regularly or else it can form mold and cause issues to your health.
Dietary Concerns
It has been found that a diet rich in zinc, B vitamins, and certain fats can help control dandruff to some degree. With that in mind, try to consume more cold-water fish, flax seeds, walnuts, eggs, and leafy green vegetables.
Product Issues
In some cases, overuse or improper use of some styling aides cause their own flaking. In this case, ask your hairstylist to help you learn how to use the product without causing any flaking. In other cases, hair styling products can be drying or can aggravate the problem of dandruff even more. In that case, consider holding off on using these products until the flakes have diminished.
De-Stress
Too much stress can aggravate dandruff. So, learn how to manage stressful situations by practicing yoga, meditating, listening to soft music, or whatever stress-busting method works best for you.
Suds Away
Regular shampooing is highly essential to keep your scalp healthy and free of dandruff or any type of flaking. It’s suggested to use a dandruff shampoo and massage your scalp gently when washing. In addition to the cleansing effects during shampooing, the massaging action helps to remove dead skin cells and stimulates the circulation in your scalp, which helps increase the reproduction of new cells.
You’ll want to choose a shampoo with active ingredients that specifically inhibits dandruff. Look for such ingredients as coal tar, zinc pyrithione, selenium sulfide, ketoconazole, and salicylic acid. Natural ingredients such as tea tree oil have also proven to be highly effective in stabilizing scalp conditions, including too much sebum production (which usually causes oily scalp) or for combating psoriasis, eczema, and dandruff.
Here are a few anti-dandruff solutions to consider.
If after several weeks of at-home treatment you still have flakes or an itchy scalp, or if any of the treatments cause further irritation, stop using and consult a doctor or a dermatologist.
