Dry Scalp and Dandruff

Most people have had to deal with at least one bout of dry scalp dandruff at least once in their lives. While rarely ever a serious problem, it is nonetheless quite an embarrassment. No matter how beautiful and lustrous your hair is, when flecked with white dust, it is not a pretty sight. And the problem goes beyond the hair. When that nice black sweater of yours has flecks of dry scalp skin on it, then you know you have a problem. Apart from the aesthetic problem it presents, a dry scalp can be itchy, which can cause quite a bit of discomfort. This article will help you better understand this condition and explore treatment options.

What Causes Dry Scalp and Dandruff

Dandruff is the shedding of dead skin cells from the scalp. Before we start, it is important understand what causes dry scalp dandruff, to be able to treat it. What many people refer to as dry scalp dandruff is actually flaking of the skin on your scalp. The most common cause of this is regular drying of the skin that happens during the winters, when the air is cold and rooms are overheated. This kind of dandruff is usually very fine flakes that aren't too oily. Another cause of dandruff is not washing your hair regularly, which causes the build up of oils and skin cells. Another cause of dandruff, referred to as contact dermatitis, is when your scalp becomes sensitive to certain hair care products or hair dyes.

There are a few skin ailments that cause dandruff, the most common being seborrheic dermatitis, psoriasis and eczema. Seborrheic dermatitis can be identified by red, oily skin covered with flaky white or yellow scales, that may affect parts of your body apart from the scalp. Psoriasis is the accumulation of dead skin cells that results in thick silvery scales. Another fairly common cause of dandruff is a yeast-like fungus known as malassezia, which sometimes grows out of control, and triggers a chain of reactions that results in dandruff.

How to Get Rid of Dry Scalp and Dandruff

The good news is that dandruff can almost always be controlled, and all one requires is patience and persistence. Mild dandruff is usually easily cured with daily washing with a gentle shampoo. If this doesn't work, the next step is to try over-the-counter dandruff shampoos. However, be ready to try a few before you find a product that gives you results. Some shampoos contain Zinc Pyrithione, which has antibacterial and anti fungal properties, and is thus effective in reducing the fungus on your scalp. Some contain Coal tar, a byproduct of the coal manufacturing process, which slows the pace at which scalp skin cells die and flake off. While using any kind of dandruff shampoo, it is advisable to leave it on for about five minutes, before you rinse out your hair. However, if you do not see any reduction in dandruff after several weeks of shampooing, then consult your doctor or dermatologist, who may prescribe a stronger shampoo or a steroid lotion.

In addition to these steps, you can try some home remedies for dry scalp and dandruff. One is to apply a moisturizing product, such as a hot oil, to the scalp. If your dandruff is due to a dry scalp, then you may benefit form an oil massage using olive oil, that is left on overnight and washed out the next morning. If dry scalp dandruff is a problem, reduce the number and amount of styling products you use, and try to expose your scalp to a little sun.