Recognizing and Treating Dandruff

Pityriasis capitis simplex – The dry type associated with flaking, scattered scales, and itching.  It is very visible on the hair and shoulders.

Pityriasis steatoides – Greasy or waxy type.  Large Scales are combined with sebum causing the scales to stick to the scalp in white creamy patches.  When the waxy, creamy scales are removed with a comb, bleeding or oozing sebum may result.  Medical Treatment is required.

Also note Seborrheic Dermatitis – Its looks like wet dandruff.  It consists of white creamy and yeast-like film or patches that coatsthe scalp.  There is little flaking.  Avoid heavy oils and medical help from a dermatologist.

Factors for dandruff (internal):

• Poor circulation or metabolism

• Hormonal imbalance

• Poor nutrition

• Lack of water

• Stress and tension

Factors for dandruff (external):

• Improper cleansing

• Infrequent shampooing

• Topical medication ointments

• Oils or creams that irritate the scalp

• Poor scalp stimulation

Note: Dandruff is considered contagious.  Cross-Contamination can occur from the use of brushes and combs.

 Dandruff Treatment and Procedures

Some commercial dandruff shampoos treat the problem, but due to the substances contained within the shampoo, the reoccurrence of dandruff is likely.  This causes the user to wash their hair frequently, which may be very drying and damaging to hair. 

Substances and products that contain the following ingredients that have been noted to treat dandruff:

Horsetail, sulfur, amino acids, rosemary, sage, nettle, jojoba oil, peppermint oil

Cleansing the Hair and Scalp
Gently brush or comb the scalp to stimulate blood flow and life scales.  NO PRESSURE.  If blood or sebum seepage occurs, stop.  They may have seborrheic dermatitis.(Seborrheic dermatitis is a reaction to some commonly used hair products, such as lanolin, soy bean oil, wheat germ, lecithin, castor oil, or squalene. 

Treat the Scalp – Shampoo hair with medicated or special shampoo.  Leave shampoo on the hair for 5-20 minutes.  Rinse the hair and scalp thoroughly.

Treat the Hair – The second shampoo should be a conditioning shampoo.  Massage the shampoo with circular movements to soothe and stimulate.  Rinse thoroughly.

Herbal Rinse or Oil Treatment – Apply warm herbal rinse or hot oil treatment to parted small sections of the scalp.

Deep Condition – Use a deep conditioner on the hair.

Stimulate – Slowly massage the scalp.

Cover the Head – Place a plastic cap over the hair.  Be sure to protect the eyes and clothing.

Heating Cap – Place a heating cap on the head for 15-20 minutes.

Rinse – Rinse the hair thoroughly.

Towel Dry – Gently towel dry the hair to avoid tangles.

Detangle – Spray a detangler/ leave in conditioner on the hair.  Comb the hair from the ends working your way to the roots.

Blow dry the hair with a warm dryer or let the hair air dry.

Style the hair as usual.