Access Doctor Dandruff Treatment Options

Dandruff Treatment Options: Dandruff is a common scalp skin condition affecting millions of people worldwide. It is characterised by white or grey flakes of skin on the scalp. While dandruff is not contagious, it can be embarrassing and can negatively affect a person’s self-confidence.

There are many reasons why people find dandruff embarrassing. For some, it is the physical appearance of the flakes. They may worry that people will see the flakes on their shoulders or clothing or that their hair will smell bad. Others may be embarrassed about the itching, constant scratching, and irritating discomfort dandruff can cause. They may worry that people will think they have poor hygiene habits or are dirty.

Dandruff can also make people feel so self-conscious that they actively avoid people. They may worry about what others will think of them or avoid social situations altogether, such as turning down invitations to parties or nights out with friends. This can harm a person’s mental health, general mood and happiness, and overall quality of life.

If you are struggling with dandruff, knowing that you are not alone is essential. Many thousands of people are dealing with dandruff every day. There are many treatments available that can help to control dandruff and reduce the embarrassment it can cause. 

What are the symptoms of dandruff?

The main symptoms of dandruff are:

• White or grey flakes of skin on the scalp
• Itchy scalp
• The scalp may be red or inflamed
• Flakes may be greasy or dry
• Flakes may fall onto shoulders or clothing

Dandruff symptoms can range from mild to severe. In mild cases, the flakes may be small and barely noticeable, yet the person can have an incredibly itchy scalp that can cause them tremendous anxiety. In severe cases, the flakes may be large, thick and very noticeable, and the scalp may be very red and itchy, which can be severe enough to distract someone from their everyday tasks.

Dandruff is not contagious, so don’t worry about giving it to your partner or family. It is also not caused by poor hygiene. However, it can be made worse by certain factors, such as:

• Dry skin
• Oily skin
• Leading a stressful life 
• Hormonal changes
• Certain medical conditions, such as seborrheic dermatitis
• Certain medications, such as steroids
• Hair products that contain alcohol or fragrance, which can irritate the scalp

What can I do to treat dandruff?

If you have dandruff, here are three top tips you can use to help treat it:

1: Using a dandruff shampoo

There are many different dandruff shampoos available over the counter. Look for one that contains an antifungal ingredient, such as ketoconazole, selenium sulfide or zinc pyrithione. 

Access Doctor recommends Nizoral Anti-Dandruff Shampoo, a clinically proven, over-the-counter shampoo containing ketoconazole, an antifungal agent that effectively eliminates the fungus that causes dandruff. It is also gentle on the scalp and does not contain harsh chemicals or fragrances.

In addition to fighting dandruff, Nizoral Anti-Dandruff Shampoo also helps to promote healthy, beautiful hair. It can help to reduce hair loss, dandruff, and scalp itching, and it can also help to improve the appearance of your hair by making it shinier and more manageable. It is a safe and effective way to get rid of dandruff and promote healthy, beautiful hair.

To use Nizoral Anti-Dandruff Shampoo, massage it into your wet scalp and hair, and leave it on for 3-5 minutes before rinsing it out. Use it twice a week to keep your scalp dandruff-free. 

2: Wash your hair regularly

 Wash your hair at least every other day with an effective, clinically-proven dandruff treatment shampoo. It would help if you also used a good quality hair condition after washing your hair. This will help moisturise your scalp and prevent skin dryness on your scalp, which can contribute to dandruff.

3: Avoid scratching your scalp

When you scratch your scalp, you can irritate it and make dandruff worse. This is because scratching can damage the skin and make it more susceptible to infection. Scratching can also increase the production of sebum, an oily substance your skin produces to moisturise the scalp, but in excess, it can worsen dandruff.

In addition, scratching can also spread the fungus that causes dandruff, called Malassezia, to other parts of the scalp. This can lead to more widespread dandruff and itchy, irritated skin on your scalp.

If you have dandruff, you must avoid scratching your scalp as best as possible. If you feel the urge to scratch, try your hardest to resist. It would help if you also tried using a good-quality dandruff shampoo to help control dandruff.

See a doctor or dermatologist if you have tried these suggestions for a few weeks and your dandruff is still not improving. They may recommend other treatments, such as topical or prescription medication.

How does dandruff shampoo work?

Dandruff shampoo works by killing the fungus that causes dandruff (Malassezia). The most common active ingredients in dandruff shampoos are:

• Selenium sulfide: This antifungal agent works by killing the fungus that causes dandruff.
• Zinc pyrithione is another antifungal agent that works similarly to selenium sulfide.
• Ketoconazole: This is a more potent antifungal agent often prescribed by doctors for more severe cases of dandruff.
• Salicylic acid: This is a keratolytic agent that helps to remove dead skin cells from the scalp.
• Coal tar is an anti-inflammatory agent that helps reduce itching and redness.

Dandruff shampoos must be left on the scalp for a few minutes before rinsing to allow the active ingredients to work effectively. It may take several weeks of regular use to see results.

Here are some tips for using dandruff treatment shampoo:

• Apply the shampoo to your wet scalp and hair.
• Gently massage the shampoo into your scalp for a few minutes.
• Leave the shampoo on your scalp for the recommended amount of time.
• Rinse the shampoo thoroughly.
• Use the shampoo twice a week at first. Once your dandruff is under control, you can reduce the frequency of use to a maintenance level.

If you have any concerns about your dandruff and using dandruff shampoo, you can follow our steps to complete a consultation with one of our medical prescribers, who will recommend a selection of treatments deemed appropriate for you. Access Doctor Dandruff Treatment, find out more on our website today.