Image by Getty Images/John Sommers
Do you suffer from dandruff? An itchy scalp and the shedding of yellowish flecks of dead skin characterize this common problem. It is caused by an overgrowth of a yeast-like fungus called Malassezia furfur. Other triggers, such as allergic reactions to hair products, dry skin, eczema, or seborrheic dermatitis, can also cause your scalp to flake at an alarming rate.
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Sometimes, two or more conditions exist simultaneously, so properly caring for your scalp is important. While ordinary dandruff is harmless, it is best to consult your dermatologist before trying the recommendations below if you feel yours is particularly stubborn or uncomfortable.
Try the Aspirin Trick
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Here is a fast and inexpensive remedy to rid your scalp of flakes and itching. You will need:
- 1-2 crushed, powdered, uncoated aspirin tablets
- 1-2 nickel-sized pumps of clarifying shampoo
Mix the aspirin and shampoo. For shorter hair, use one aspirin and one pump of shampoo, two aspirins and two pumps of shampoo, or wash hair twice. Apply the mixture to your scalp and massage it in with the pads of your fingers, ensuring you have reached all areas of your scalp. Rinse thoroughly. You can repeat this process every time you wash until your dandruff issue has been resolved. Generally, it will take 1-3 washes.
Starve the Fungus
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Sebum, the natural oil that lubricates the scalp and hair shaft, is a favorite food of Malassezia furfur. Keeping your scalp clean without stripping the rest of your hair is key to getting the yeast under control. To do so, coat your hair with conditioner from the mid shafts to the ends, and then scrub your scalp with your favorite clarifying shampoo.
Optimize Your Environment
Is the air in your home excessively dry? Do you have hard water (you can see mineral build-up around your plumbing fixtures, spots on your glasses, and stains in the toilet bowl?) Both problems can be easily remedied. Add moisture to your indoor air with a humidifier. Look for dual mist models that will be comfortable in winter and summer. Hard water is best addressed with a shower filter.
Kick Out the Chemicals
While skin is a highly sensitive organ that can react negatively to anything at a time, some sure bets to flare it up include hair dyes, relaxers, bleach, and any other product with harsh ingredients like sulfates, silicones, and parabens. The Curly Girl Method is a great starting point for many of us curlies, and if you need advice on tailoring your products further, check out DIY recipes.
Show Your Scalp Some TLC
If you want healthy, bouncy, shiny hair, scalp care is key, particularly if you are battling dandruff. Besides removing environmental and chemical irritants, scalps need to be regularly massaged, exfoliated, and provided with nourishment. Try these curly community favorites to get your scalp in tip-top shape.
- CURLS Blueberry & Mint Tea Scalp Treatment: This treatment refreshes the scalp, prevents dryness, and can encourage hair growth.
- Mielle Organics Oats &Honey Scalp Stick: If you’ve got a sensitive scalp, this scalp stick can help calm and soothe your dry scalp with a gentle formula.
- Naked X by Essations Serenity Instant Scalp Refresher: Stop the itch with this soothing peppermint oil blend to help relieve inflammation by bacteria.
What is your favorite way to ditch the dandruff? Let us know in the comments.
