Have you ever been wearing your favorite black top only to look down and notice that it is covered in white flakes? If so, you probably have some experience dealing with dandruff and while it can sometimes be considered embarrassing, it is actually very common. Most people experience this condition at least once in their lives, but that doesn’t mean that you should leave it to go away on its own. Find out more about what dandruff is and what you can do to control it.

What Is Dandruff?

While many people assume that dandruff is a result of poor hygiene, it is actually often the result of a dry scalp and has nothing to do with your hair or how clean you keep it. Instead, this skin condition is the simple flaking away of skin cells, which can be accompanied by itching. Treatment of this condition isn’t always easy, but with the appropriate over-the-counter or prescription products, it can be accomplished.

What Is the Cause?

The exact cause for this and other scalp conditions is not clear. However, there are a few factors that may increase your chances of having dandruff:

• Dry Skin – People who often have dry skin are likely to develop flakiness of the scalp, especially during the colder months when the air is dry.
• Seborrheic Dermatitis – This condition affects many different parts of the body but is common on the scalp. Some medical professionals believe that it is caused by a fungus, while others think it may be related to an immune system disorder.
• Stress – High levels of stress can make a dry scalp worse.
• Hair and Skin Care Products – Those who have sensitive skin may find that certain shampoos, conditioners, or lotions can result in a dry, flaky scalp.

Some medical conditions, such as Parkinson’s disease, HIV, or heart disease, may also leave patients more prone to dandruff, perhaps due to weakened immune systems.

Tips for Controlling Your Dandruff

If you have dandruff, there are a few things you can do to keep it under control, both naturally and with the assistance of a dermatologist:

1. Try Dandruff Shampoo – There are many different brands of shampoos that you can purchase over-the-counter. Different types use different ingredients to battle the flakes so you may have to test them all out to find the one that works best for you.
2. Apply Coconut Oil – This natural oil can be used to treat a range of skin conditions, and it may even be helpful in hydrating the skin on your scalp.
3. Decrease Your Stress – It is widely known that increased stress levels can negatively impact all areas of your health. Lowering the stress in your life may help you keep your dandruff under control by improving your immune system. Consider meditation, deep breathing, or therapy.

Let Us Help

 If you’ve already tried all of these tips and haven’t seen any improvement, it may be time to see a dermatologist. One of our experienced professionals can help find a treatment option that works best for you. Call our office today at 609-443-4500, or fill out an online form, to schedule an appointment.