DANDRUFF

What is it?

Most people suffer from mild dandruff at some point in their lives. It usually appears as dry or greasy flakes on the scalp and in the hair. Sufferers often complain of an itchy scalp as well.

What causes it?

There is an overgrowth of the skin cells that make up the scalp. These then clump together and flake off as dandruff. Dandruff is affected by changes in the weather and is usually better in summer and worse in winter. It often runs in families. People with greasy hair tend to get dandruff more often. Doctors now think that some types of dandruff may be caused by the scalp being infected with a fungus.

How can I help myself?

• Shampoo your hair as often as possible. The more you shampoo the easier the dandruff will be to control.
• Start off with a mild medicated shampoo. Gradually build up to stronger shampoos until the dandruff is under control.
• For dandruff that is very difficult to treat use tar-based shampoos. Lather with the shampoo and then leave for five to ten minutes so the tar has a chance to work. Some tar-based shampoos may be too harsh for everyday use. Try alternating them with your regular shampoo. Some people with light hair (blond or silver) find that tar shampoos can give their hair a brownish stain.
• Anti-fungal shampoos are also available from your chemist. They may help if other treatments have not worked.
• Always lather twice with the shampoo of your choice and massage it in with your fingertips. Work up the first lather as soon as you start your shower. Leave it on until you have almost finished washing, then rinse out your hair very thoroughly. Follow this with a second lather. Rinse again gently. This will leave some of the medication on your scalp so it can keep working until the next shampoo.
• If you use the same brand of shampoo for many months your skin may get used to it and the dandruff may return. Try changing your brand of shampoo every three months.

Most anti-dandruff shampoos are a little harsh on the hair. Use conditioner after every shampoo to protect your hair.

• Stop using beer. Some people use beer as a rinse and styling lotion. Beer can dry out the scalp and cause dandruff. Use a warm-oil treatment to soften and loosen dandruff scales and flakes. Apply a few ounces of warm olive oil to wet hair with a brush or cotton ball. Leave for 30 minutes before washing out with your anti-dandruff shampoo. This can be done once or twice a week.
• Get some sunshine - up to 30 minutes without a hat. The ultraviolet light of a sunny day can calm down scaly skin conditions. Use a normal sunscreen on exposed skin.
• Practise some anti-stress techniques. Stress and anxiety often make skin conditions worse. Tapes, books and videos on relaxation may help.

When should I see my GP?

See your GP if you have any of the following:

• Red patches especially along the neckline and forehead.
• Yellow crusting on the scalp.
• Thick scales and irritation even after regularly using anti-dandruff shampoos.