Itchy, white flakes are the last thing that one hopes to find on their scalp but if you thought that treating all kinds of dandruff with a uniform approach would work, it might be time to reconsider. The yellow, clingy flakes of oily dandruff differ from the smaller, white flakes shed by dry dandruff and here’s what Dr Sravya C Tipirneni, consultant trichologist at Manipal Hospitals in Bengaluru, wants you to know about treating each:
Understanding the difference between oily and dry dandruff
Dr Tipirneni believes that oily and dry dandruff can each be categorised by their colour and causes. “Oily dandruff is a common scalp condition caused by an overgrowth of a fungus called malassezia that makes flakes appear on the scalp. However, unlike dry dandruff, these flakes are larger, yellower and more likely to stick to the scalp and hair,” she explains.
Dry dandruff, on the other hand, is a similar scalp condition that causes small, white
flakes to appear on the scalp. “These flakes are primarily made up of dead skin cells that have flaked off from the scalp. It can be caused by several factors, including dry skin, stress, over-washing the hair leading to a dearth of natural oils, using harsh hair products and certain medical conditions, such as eczema or psoriasis,” she adds.
How to treat dry vs. oily dandruff
Since both types of dandruff stem from different causes, the treatment for both cannot be the same, intones the Bengaluru-based trichologist. If you are looking to combat dry dandruff, here is her top advice:
- Switch to a mild, sulfate-free shampoo that won’t strip the scalp of its natural oils.
- Avoid over-washing your hair during the week to retain its natural moisture.
- Use a leave-in conditioner to help hydrate the scalp and keep dryness at bay.
- Applying a warm compress to the scalp for 10-15 minutes before washing hair can further boost its hydration levels.
- Incorporate a scalp oil in your haircare routine to further moisturise the scalp.
Those looking for a helping hand with oily dandruff will want to note the following:
- Switch to an anti-dandruff shampoo that contains an antifungal ingredient, such as zinc pyrithione or selenium sulfide.
- Wash your hair everyday or every other day to prevent build-up of sebum and debris on the scalp.
- Avoid using styling products that contain oil or heavy ingredients as it will further weigh down your hair.
- Use a scalp brush to gently exfoliate the scalp and distribute the natural oils for avoiding build-up.
Long-term measures to combat dry and oily dandruff
If you are looking for long-term relief from dandruff, here are the lifestyle measures to adopt, according to Dr Tipirneni:
Eat a healthy diet:
Consuming a balanced diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains can help improve overall skin health, including the scalp.
Manage stress:
Stress can often trigger dandruff flare-ups. Finding healthy ways to manage stress, such as exercise, yoga, or meditation, can help reduce dandruff.
Avoid smoking:
Tobacco smoke can further dry out the scalp and weaken the hair follicles, thereby aggravating the symptoms of dandruff.
Opt for scalp treatments:
Consult a certified dermatologist on the in-clinic dandruff treatments that can offer long-term relief, such as light therapy as well as scalp treatments that help reduce inflammation, soothe itchiness and remove dandruff flakes. Regular massages can also improve blood circulation and reduce dandruff.
If you are looking to fortify your haircare shelf with the best shampoos for dry scalp and dandruff, here are the names to bookmark:
Dove Hair Therapy Dry Scalp Care Shampoo With Niacinamide
Sadhev Ayurvedic Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
Mediceuticals Scalp treatment Kit for Dandruff
Rene Furterer Neopur Anti-Dandruff Shampoo for Dry Flaking Scalp
