Dandruff: 18 Tips to help stop the flaking

IF you suffer form dry, flaky scalp, you are not alone.

According to The Doctors Book of Home Remedies, some hairdressers say dandruff is the single most common scalp complaint their clients have.

The article recommends the following steps to combat the problem:

• Don’t ignore it – this lets the scales build up, causing your scalp to itch. Vigorous scratching can lead to open wounds which could become infected.
• Shampoo often – wash your hair every day if necessary.
• Try using a shampoo for oily hair – sometimes dandruff is caused by an overly oily scalp.
• Switch to medicated shampoo – if that doesn’t work, try a shampoo formulated to fight dandruff.
• For very stubborn cases – use a tar-based shampoo.
• If this proves to harsh for your scalp – alternate with your regular shampoo.
• Don’t forget to condition – dandruff shampoos can be harsh on your hair, so use a good conditioner.

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• If you have grey or blonde hair – be careful, as tar-based shampoos may leave your hair with a light brown stain.
• Lather twice – the experts recommend lathering up and leaving the shampoo on while you bath or shower. Rinse, and repeat.
• Another tip – after you lather, cover your head with a shower cap for an hour before rinsing.
• stick with it – if you find a shampoo that works, stick with it but switch brands every few months to maintain effectiveness.
• Massage in well – when shampooing massage the shampoo well into your scalp to help loosen scales and flakes.
• Turn to nature – try a rinse made by boiling together 4 heaped tablespoons of dried thyme in 500ml water for 10 minutes. Strain and allow to cool. Pour half over clean, damp hair, making sure it covers the scalp. Massage in gently. Do not rinse.
• Don’t use beer – if you use beer as a rinse, stop. Beer has a drying effect on the scalp and may aggravate dandruff.
• Soak up the sun – ultraviolet rays have a beneficial effect on many scaly skin conditions and may help your dandruff too.
• Get oily – an occasional warm oil treatment can help soften and loosen scales. Warm some olive oil, wet your hair and apply the warm oil to your scalp. Cover, leave on for 30 minutes and was with anti dandruff shampoo.
• Chill – skin conditions – including dandruff – can be made worse by stress, so make time to relax and rejuvenate.

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