Often referred to as seborrheic dermatitis (which means “reproducing dryness”), dandruff is caused by the same type of fungus that infects athlete’s foot — Malassezia globosa. The fungus lives in the pores of people affected by dandruff, causing irritation that leads to flakes of dead skin appearing on the scalp. If left untreated, these flakes can grow into itchy red bumps.

The positive note to take from all of this is that dandruff is not hard to contain. All you really need is a good daily routine of washing, moisturizing and meditating. However, before we get into that, let’s take have a gander at why our heads even become saturated in dandruff to begin with.

How does your scalp shed its skin?

There are two types of skin cells on your body: keratinocytes and Langerhans cells. Keratinocytes form the outer layer of your skin while Langerhans cells are responsible for producing melanin, which gives your skin coloration. Both cell types also produce sweat and oil called sebum, which moistens your skin. In healthy individuals, Langerhans cells migrate up through your dermis until they reach the upper part of your hair follicle.

Once inside the hair follicle, Langerhans cells start producing melanin, which generates pigment for healthy hair growth. When the amount of Langerhans cells drops due to age, sun damage or other factors, you’ll notice less pigmentation in your hair.

In addition, when Langerhans cells drop down below the surface of the skin, they leave behind empty spaces that allow moisture to escape. This process creates an environment that allows bacteria to flourish, which can lead to dandruff.

What are some causes of dandruff?

While most cases of dandruff occur naturally, sometimes external factors like stress, diet, medication use and weather conditions can cause flare ups. Certain foods like spicy food, alcohol, caffeine and chocolate can irritate the skin and make it harder for your scalp to clear itself of excess oils. Other triggers include excessive sweating, hot showers, oily products applied directly to the scalp, and even shaving.

An important take away from this is that not everyone who shaves their face will be afflicted with dandruff. It depends on whether you have enough oil glands on your scalp and which kind of razor you choose to shave with. For those looking to avoid getting dandruff, try using a non-soap based cleanser to remove oil from your face instead of rinsing with water.

Another factor that increases your likelihood of developing dandruff is living in humid climates. High humidity levels create ideal breeding grounds for germs and microbes that feed on the natural fats found in your scalp and hair shafts. As such, the combination of high humidity and low air circulation makes your home feel warm and cozy. Unfortunately, this climate will only exacerbate your symptoms. You might want to consider moving to a drier area if you’re experiencing constant dandruff outbreaks.

It’s easy to assume that once you begin treating your dandruff, it will stop completely. However, don’t lose hope just yet. There are ways to help ease symptoms without resorting to harsh chemicals or expensive prescription medications. We’ll discuss how to deal with mild, moderate and severe dandruff next.

Can I prevent or reduce my chances of getting dandruff?

You’ve probably heard all kinds of advice ranging from wearing hats to avoiding certain foods. While none of these things work miracles, following a few simple steps can significantly reduce your risk of breaking out and can help you figure out how to get rid of dandruff.

Firstly, it is prevalent that you wash your face & hair every other day with a gentle shampoo. Avoid bar soaps, especially during times when you experience frequent dandruff episodes. Wash your hair everyday regardless of whether you have dandruff because doing so will help keep your scalp clean and free of oil buildup. Also, try drying your hair with a soft towel rather than a heated one. Ensure that you gently dry your hair with a soft towel before using a blow-dryer on your hair. Having a wet scalp can cause a burn to happen with the blow-dryer.

Next, apply a thickening serum to your damp hair after each shower. The thicker the better, so opt for something thicker than normal conditioners. Thick serums will trap dirt and grime on your hair strands, preventing them from clumping together and making it easier for your scalp to slough off the dead skin cells. Apply the product liberally throughout your hair and massage gently before allowing time to soak in. Remember to rinse thoroughly to ensure no product remains so that your way of true

Lastly, remember to moisturize regularly. Using a light hand and keeping your fingers away from your scalp will help prevent irritation. To keep your scalp hydrated, try applying a rich moisturizer once every three days. Are you still needing to learn how to get rid of dandruff? Keep reading for more expert tips!

Are there any over-the-counter treatments for dandruff?

There are quite a few “OTC” remedies to assist you in relieving the symptoms associated with dandruff. Some examples include zinc supplements, tea tree oil and salicylic acid products. Salicylic acid acts as an exfoliant and reduces the appearance of existing scales. Zinc is another popular option used to combat dandruff, especially in children, since it strengthens the immune system and improves overall health. Tea tree oil has been shown to inhibit bacterial growth and promote healing of damaged tissue. Finally, calcium pantothenate is a vitamin B5 derivative that works as an antihistamine for relieving itchiness.

Try taking a supplement containing lactic acid, which is known to soften the cuticles and encourage new growth. Applying a thin paste made of cornstarch and turmeric powder mixed with coconut oil onto the affected areas is said to provide relief from inflammation.
Also, stay away from products that contain fragrances, preservatives, petroleum derivatives, parabens and sodium lauryl sulfate. Be wary upon usage, however, because a few of these ingredients/chemicals can trigger an allergic reaction to those of us with sensitive skin/scalp. Instead, try choosing products with herbal extracts like aloe vera and chamomile. Look for shampoos labeled organic, hypoallergenic or fragrance-free.
Finally, talk to a professional if your dandruff persists despite trying all of the above tips.

A dermatologist may prescribe oral antibiotics to kill bacteria, topical steroids to reduce inflammation, or cortisone creams to decrease itching. If your dandruff continues to worsen, & you haven’t figured out how to get rid of dandruff, then consult a physician immediately.

Is there anything else that helps fight dandruff besides shampooing more often?

Yes! One thing you definitely should do if you suffer from dandruff is wear loose clothing and limit contact between your scalp and clothes. Wearing tight pants and accessories can rub against your scalp and increase friction between your skin and hair follicles. Loose cotton shirts and blouses will help protect your scalp from scratching. If possible, switch to long sleeves instead of sleeveless tops. Keep your hair tied back whenever possible. And, if you must tie it up, try wrapping it tightly around a scarf or bandana. Ensure that you’re wearing a fitting pair of comfortable shoes that also give your feet some breathing room.

Lastly, you should always wear gloves whenever you handle any objects that absorb oil, like makeup brushes and combs.

When should I see my doctor if I’m having trouble fighting off an outbreak?

See a medical professional if your dandruff doesn’t improve within four weeks or if you develop a rash, fever, headache or painful sores. Your doctor may prescribe a steroid cream to reduce inflammation or prescribe stronger antibiotic pills to eliminate infection.

If this article has helped you, feel free to read up on some of our others topics, including a chopsticks tutorial!

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