How to Treat Growing Dandruff

Dandruff refers to the white, flaky dead skin cells that develop on your scalp. Though dandruff is not a communicable disease, it causes embarrassment because it appears on hair follicles and falls on your clothing. The Mayo Clinic website says that different conditions increase your chances of getting dandruff, including psoriasis, eczema, oily skin, dry skin and a yeast-like fungus. Not washing hair regularly, sensitivity to hair products and a poor diet also create an inviting environment for dandruff. Treating growing dandruff consists of maintaining proper hair hygiene and changing your lifestyle.

Things You'll Need

• Dandruff shampoo

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Instructions

• 1

  Look for dandruff shampoos containing medications for your specific condition. The Mayo Clinic website states that zinc pyrithione reduces scalp fungus, coal tar works best on people with psoriasis, salicylic acid gets rid of hair scales, selenium sulfide slows skin cell death and ketoconazole has antifungal properties. Shampoos with these medications are available over-the-counter, as well as by prescription.

• 2

  Wash your hair daily or according to the instructions on the product. Once you find a shampoo with the chemicals that tackle your specific risk factor for dandruff, you have to wash your hair regularly to reduce growth. The University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics says to make sure you get the shampoo in your scalp and let it set for about five minutes before rinsing.

• 3

  Use tea tree oil shampoos as a natural alternative to chemicals. The Bastyr Center for Natural Health says that tea tree oil comes from a shrub-like tree in Australia and has antifungal properties. The Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology published a study stating that people suffering from dandruff who used shampoos containing five percent tea tree oil saw a 41 percent improvement in the condition of their scalps.

• 4

  Minimize your use of hair products and wash your hair regularly. Hair sprays and styling products increase the oils in your hair and scalp, making your hair susceptible to dandruff growth. If you use hair care products, wash your hair at the end of the day to get rid of the residue they cause.

• 5

  Manage stress and eat a healthy diet. The Mayo Clinic website says that stress triggers dandruff growth or worsens the condition, as well as a diet lacking zinc, B vitamins and healthy fats. Exercise and relaxation techniques reduce stress -- even simple activities such as walking, biking and swimming. Foods rich in B vitamins and zinc include whole grains, seafood, eggs, leafy greens, nuts and meats.

• 6

  Get a little sunlight on your scalp. The University of Michigan Health Services says dandruff decreases during the summer unless it's humid. You don't have to spend a lot of time outside to reap the benefits, but you need to wear sunblock on your face and body.