What is Dandruff?
Dandruff is the most common condition affecting the scalp.
Our skin is constantly renewing itself and dead cells from the scalp fall off as new cells form beneath them. We all lose skin cells in this way, but with dandruff the process is faster, so a greater number of cells are shed in large clumps. They are noticeable when brushing the hair and can gather on the shoulders. The scalp can also be itchy.
Dandruff responds very well to treatment, but will commonly recur if treatment is stopped.
Who gets dandruff?
The condition mostly occurs after puberty, usually between the ages of 20 and 30, and affects males more than females.
How can dandruff be treated?
If dandruff is a problem then the use of an anti-dandruff shampoo is recommended. A variety of shampoos are available, containing different ingredients. Trying several will help you find out which anti-dandruff shampoo is most effective for you. Shampoo daily to prevent a build up of dead skin cells on your scalp.
What if dandruff returns?
If an anti-dandruff shampoo helps stop dandruff for a while but the dandruff problem returns, try a different anti-dandruff shampoo.
What are the benefits of the different anti-dandruff shampoos?
Anti-dandruff shampoos containing the antimicrobials selenium sulphide (eg
Selsun) or zinc pyrithione or saliclyc acid are helpful for mild dandruff.
Coal tar solutions and extracts (eg
Polytar or
Capasal) are found in many anti-dandruff shampoos and they are the principal ingredients in many prescribed products for scaly skin conditions, including psoriasis.
Antifungal shampoos containing ketoconazole (eg
Nizoral dandruff shampoo) provide a mild, yet effective treatment for dandruff, particularly more persistent or severe dandruff.
Need more help?
If you need any advice on dandruff, please don't hesitate to phone our pharmacist in complete confidence on 0800 542 1203.
