Flakes in your hair, an itchy scalp, and constant scratching are the realities for many people who suffer from dandruff. Luckily, beyond the flakes and frustration, there are tips and tricks for improving and treating it.
Emily Rams from Johannesburg, who normally experiences dandruff around winter and autumn, says not washing her hair three times a week due to fear that would break her hair or make it thin, worsens her dandruff.
She says her dandruff was triggered by opting for hair oil instead of washing her hair, and her scalp became itchy.
Triggered by oils and other hair products
“Each time I had to comb my hair or go to the salon, my scalp would be all fungal, which later resulted in small or big open wounds or scars due to the itchy scalp. Braiding [and] using extensions also increase the chance of dandruff for me because I cannot wash my hair frequently when braided,” she says.
“Previously, I used coconut, cooking, and castor oil for my scalp, but instead, they made my scalp drier and itchy. So I switched to washing my hair often, which has helped me along with using rice water and petroleum jelly.”
Emily Rams
Nandi Maps, also from Johannesburg, says she has had dandruff ever since she started growing her hair at a young age. She believes the type of shampoo she uses and sometimes the hair products she uses, like gel when doing braids, add to dandruff.
“I once went to the salon, and they used this other shampoo; it didn’t have a nice smell. I plaited my hair the next day, and a week had not yet passed; my hair was already full of dandruff,” she says.
“I can’t stay with my braids for a long time because once they start building up, they are very visible, and when people notice it, they point it out, which kind of makes me feel like I am dirty even though my braids are a week old. So that has a toll on my confidence. I’ve tried washing my hair frequently with the anti-dandruff shampoo, and it works.”
According to Centurion-based dermatologist Dr Temi Awotedu, dandruff, known medically as pityriasis capitis, is primarily caused by the overgrowth of a yeast-like fungus called Malassezia on the scalp.
Dead skin cells from the scalp
“The overgrowth of malassezia can be triggered by factors such as hormonal changes, stress, oily skin, certain skin conditions like seborrheic dermatitis, and improper hair care practices. Additionally, genetics and a compromised immune system can play a role in its development and the excessive shedding of dead skin cells from the scalp due to these factors leads to the characteristic flakes associated with dandruff.”
Dandruff can affect any hair type, according to Awotedu. It may appear more noticeable on darker hair due to the contrast with the scalp, she adds.
“Some individuals with black hair may experience scalp dryness or irritation more frequently due to certain hair care practices, such as the use of harsh chemical products or heat styling, which can exacerbate dandruff symptoms.
Dermatologist Dr Temi Awotedu
“Wearing weaves and braids can further worsen the dandruff problem, especially when the scalp is inflamed and itchy. “
You can get rid of dandruff
Adowetu highlights that treating dandruff typically involves a combination of proper scalp hygiene, using medicated shampoos, and making lifestyle adjustments. She shares effective approaches such as:
- Medicated shampoos: Look for shampoos containing active ingredients such as ketoconazole, pyrithione zinc, selenium sulphide, or coal tar. These ingredients help to control yeast growth and reduce inflammation on the scalp.
- Wash your hair regularly to remove excess oil, dirt, and dead skin cells from the scalp. However, avoid washing your hair too frequently, as it can strip the scalp of its natural oils and exacerbate dandruff.
- Gentle care: Be gentle when shampooing and brushing your hair to avoid irritating the scalp further. Use a soft-bristled brush and avoid scratching or picking at the scalp.
- Moisturise: If your scalp tends to be dry, use a moisturising conditioner or scalp oil to help hydrate and soothe the skin.
- Consult a dermatologist: If over-the-counter treatments are not effective, or if you have severe dandruff or other scalp conditions, consult a dermatologist for further evaluation and treatment options.
Overall, she advises people to seek help from their dermatologist early if dandruff is not under control, as long-standing scalp issues can lead to hair loss.
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