Dandruff
One in five of us suffer from scalp flaking. Keeping your scalp healthy and hair looking great needn’t be a struggle. Using an anti-dandruff shampoo for your hair and scalp type and following the advice below means you can start beating flakes and have beautiful hair from the first wash. In addition, the following hints and tips may help you to ‘ditch the itch’:
- If your scalp is irritated all the time, you could be allergic to an ingredient in one of your styling products. Try eliminating the products that you use one at a time to identify the culprit.
- We know it’s hard to do, but drink plenty of water throughout the day (at least two litres) as this will help to increase hydration in the body, including the scalp.
- A hot soak might be tempting, but try to shampoo with lukewarm (instead of hot) water. Hot water may strip the scalp of the natural oils it needs to keep it from drying out.
- Going for a swim? Be aware that pool chemicals may irritate sensitive scalps. Use a bathing cap or rinse hair thoroughly after swimming.
- Say ‘no’ to scratching. Although scratching may temporarily relieve the itch, scraping the sensitive skin on the scalp may lead to infection or lead to an even worse condition.
- Don’t be taken-in with fancy shampoos and products. Use a medicated shampoo for your specific scalp and hair type.
- Avoid blow-drying hair with a high heat. Letting hair dry naturally or using a towel until its 80% dry then using a low heat will stop the scalp from becoming dehydrated, and will also reduce damage to the hair-shaft making split ends a thing of the past.
- Still itching? If your itching continues despite the use of anti-dandruff or medicated shampoos, consult your doctor or pharmacist. He or she will be able to provide you with a proper diagnosis and treatment options.
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