How to prevent and get rid of dandruff?  

Dandruff is the condition of scalp that causes flakes of skin to appear. Oils and skin cells of scalp gets mixed causing dandruff. 

What causes dandruff?

Despite strong belief, its not always poor hygiene that leads to dandruff. Some common causes of dandruff are:

• Seborrheic dermatitis, a condition affecting skin of face and scalp
• Yeast: People sensitive to yeast are at high risk of getting dandruff.
• Dry skin
• Inadequate hair brushing and shampooing

How to get rid off dandruff?

Follow these simple techniques to get rid of your dandruff from your hair:

Tea tree oil: Massage your scalp with tea tree oil preferably before washing to prevent dandruff. They may help you to get rid of dandruf some extent.

Apply aloe Vera: You can apply aloevera gel to your scalp. Aloevera has antibacterial and antifungal properties which helps to fight off dandruff.

Managing stress: Stress weakens immune system and decreases body’s ability to fight infections which can cause dandruff.

Sunlight: Direct sunlight irritates the scalp and thus causes rashes, itching and dandruff. Don’t part your hair from same place daily to prevent continuous exposure of sunlight at one portion of scalp.

Shampoo more often: If you have a naturally oily scalp you are more prone to dandruff. So know your hair type and shampoo as per your scalp needs.

Boost your Omega 3 level: Omega 3 fatty acidsare very essential for skin health and to prevent dandruff. Some sources are: fatty fish like salmon, trout walnuts, flaxseeds.

Image source: Pintrest

Lemon juice: Massaging  2 table spoons of lemon juice on scalp and let it sit for 5 minutes and then rinse. Lemon prevents growth of fungi in scalp.

Don’t scratch hair: It may sound very obvious but it is very essential. Scratching can exacerbate inflammation and irritation especially if you have long nails.

Choose your shampoo wisely: If you are having dandruff consult a dermatologist and get an antidandruff shampoo or a shampoo that suits your hair type.

When to see a doctor if you are having dandruff?

Visit doctor in the following condition if you are having dandruff.

• If signs of infection such as tenderness, redness or swelling is seen.
• Dandruff is very severe and persists after home treatment.
• Signs of eczema, psoriasis or other skin condition are seen.