What are the treatment options for dandruff?

Dandruff causes flakes and may cause itch, but the scalp is not always infected. Oil, irritation, sensitivity to hair products and an overgrowth of naturally occurring scalp yeast can contribute. Treatment aims to loosen scale, reduce inflammation and limit the factors that allow flaking to return. Redness extending beyond the hairline, thick plaques or loss of hair may point to another condition and deserve an examination.

Use Medicated Shampoo Treatment according to the product or clinician instructions, working the lather through the scalp rather than only the hair. Give the active ingredient enough contact time when the label advises it, and rinse thoroughly. If scaling remains active or the scalp is inflamed, a clinician may recommend Topical Antifungal Treatment. Avoid scratching, very hot water and newly introduced fragranced products while the scalp settles. Once controlled, maintenance washing may help prevent recurrence.

Arrange a medical review if flakes do not improve with correct shampoo use, return quickly after stopping, or come with marked redness, swelling, pain, crusting or oozing. Seek prompt assessment for patchy hair loss or thick scale. Facial swelling, hives or breathing trouble after a product requires urgent care.

Ask which active ingredient suits your scalp, how often to wash during the flare, whether you need an antifungal medicine and how to maintain control afterward. Mention hair dyes, oils, gels and any rash around the ears, eyebrows or nose.