Doctor explains HOW TO TREAT DANDRUFF AT HOME and 5 different anti-dandruff shampoos to use...

Summary

This video provides helpful tips on treating dandruff, a common scalp condition causing dry, flaky skin. It explains the key ingredients to look for in anti-dandruff shampoos, such as zinc pyrithione, salicylic acid, selenium sulfide, ketoconazole, and coal tar, and highlights how to use these shampoos for effective treatment. The video also covers when to consult a doctor, such as if symptoms persist despite home treatments or if irritation occurs. Viewers are encouraged to share their tips, like the video, and subscribe for more medical education content.

Takeaways

• 😀 Dandruff is a common condition that causes dry, flaky skin on the scalp, often visible on hair and shoulders.
• 😀 Dandruff may worsen in cold weather, during stressful times, or if hair is not washed regularly.
• 😀 Most cases of dandruff can be treated at home using anti-dandruff shampoos, which are available over the counter.
• 😀 Key ingredients to look for in anti-dandruff shampoos include zinc pyrithione, salicylic acid, selenium sulfide, ketoconazole, and coal tar.
• 😀 Zinc pyrithione (found in shampoos like Head & Shoulders) is an antibacterial and anti-fungal agent.
• 😀 Salicylic acid-based shampoos (e.g., Jason Dandruff Relief) help eliminate scalp scaling.
• 😀 Selenium sulfide-based shampoos (like Head & Shoulders Intensive) contain anti-fungal properties and should be rinsed well to avoid discoloration.
• 😀 Ketoconazole (found in Nizoral) helps kill fungi that cause dandruff.
• 😀 Coal tar shampoos (e.g., Neutrogena T-Gel) slow down the shedding of scalp skin cells but may cause discoloration or sensitivity to sunlight.
• 😀 If symptoms persist despite using shampoos for a month or if there is severe irritation, redness, or swelling, it's important to consult a doctor for potential other causes, such as psoriasis or fungal infections.

Q & A

What is dandruff, and what are its common symptoms?

Dandruff is a common skin condition that causes the scalp to become dry and flaky. The main symptoms include white or gray flakes appearing on the scalp and hair, often more noticeable on darker hair. The scalp may also feel dry and itchy.

What are the common causes of dandruff?

The exact cause of dandruff is not fully known, but it may be more noticeable in cold weather, which can dry out the skin. Stress and infrequent hair washing can also contribute to dandruff.

Can dandruff be treated at home, and if so, how?

Yes, dandruff can often be treated at home using over-the-counter anti-dandruff shampoos. These shampoos contain ingredients that target the causes of dandruff, such as fungi or excessive skin cell turnover.

What ingredients should I look for in an anti-dandruff shampoo?

Look for ingredients like zinc pyrithione, salicylic acid, selenium sulfide, ketoconazole, and coal tar. These ingredients have antibacterial, anti-fungal, or skin-scaling properties that help treat dandruff.

What is the role of zinc pyrithione in dandruff treatment?

Zinc pyrithione is an antibacterial and anti-fungal agent commonly found in dandruff shampoos like Head and Shoulders. It helps reduce the fungi that can cause dandruff on the scalp.

How does salicylic acid help with dandruff?

Salicylic acid is used in dandruff shampoos to eliminate scalp scaling by helping to remove excess skin cells. It works well in treating flakes but may require additional moisturizing, as it can dry out the scalp.

What should I know about using selenium sulfide for dandruff?

Selenium sulfide, found in shampoos like Head and Shoulders Intensive, is an anti-fungal agent that helps treat dandruff caused by fungi. However, it can discolor the hair and scalp, so it should be rinsed thoroughly after use.

Can coal tar shampoos be used for dandruff treatment?

Yes, coal tar shampoos, such as Neutrogena T-Gel, slow down the rate at which skin cells die and flake off. They can be effective for treating dandruff but may discolor light-colored hair and increase sensitivity to sunlight.

How long should I use anti-dandruff shampoo before expecting results?

It is recommended to use anti-dandruff shampoo consistently for at least a month to see improvements. If one type of shampoo becomes less effective over time, alternating between different types may help.

When should I see a doctor for dandruff treatment?

If dandruff persists despite using anti-dandruff shampoos for a month, or if the scalp becomes extremely itchy, red, or swollen, it is advisable to consult a doctor. Also, if there are flaky, itchy patches on the face or other parts of the body, a doctor can help determine the underlying cause.