Dandruff is a problem that can affect absolutely everyone. Though, not all people have an equal share: some of them have to suffer more that others and struggle the condition constantly. This condition inspired many companies for the remedy search and now cleansing shampoo industry counts billions of dollars. In line with P&G many are trying to develop a means to eliminate dandruff. The sufferers are torn between the natural remedies and products available in the stores in order at least to temporary relieve the condition if there is no chance to get rid of it completely.
Dandruff represents dry, white or grayish substance that appears in the head. The scalp sheds dead skin cells and we have dandruff in the form of scales. Head skin has a tendency to renew itself in a period of about a month and commonly this process is unnoticeable. But in some cases the process becomes too fast and we are able to see dead cells shed. This is what we call dandruff and it makes us feel embarrassed especially if the condition is severe.
A micro-organism called Pityrosporum-Ovale, or Malassezia furfur is considered a reason of dandruff appearance. This fungus is present on the skin of all people. It feeds eagerly on fat and is very active in the areas with lots of sebaceous glands. Dandruff shows more significantly in the conditions of dust, UV light, harsh chemical based shampoo, hair dyes exposure. It is therefore important not to confuse the condition with more serious ailments such as seborrheic dermatitis or psoriasis.
It is also true that people with oily scalps suffer more from dandruff because oil leads to yeast development. Hereditary as well as stress and anxiety are able to cause the condition. Other reasons in the list: hairsprays, hair curlers, tight fitting hats and cold weather.
Dandruff is basically helped by certain remedies. First of all it is a mild shampoo with cytostatic agent (selenium sulfide or zinc pyrithione). Such agents are able to interfere with the further cell multiplication and decrease the appearance of dandruff in a few weeks. But this means is unsuitable provided there are cuts on the scalp. Perhaps, the best and the most effective means is Nizoral shampoo. It is a medically tested and approved remedy that has ketoconazole as an active patented ingredient and so far the only one known to fight Malassezia furfur. It is used and recommended all over the world, perhaps, not without a reason. But mind that if your condition is caused by a nutritional deficiency, then, you should pay more attention to your diet and add B6, B12, F and selenium into your daily allowance.
Apart from medications and shampoos there are enough of various natural remedies to try. Garlic and oil of oregano, fresh onion, apple cider vinegar applied to a scalp – what you like best. All of them are antiseptic. You can try head stands and contrast showers also – to improve circulation. Perhaps you will be lucky and manage if not rule out the condition but at least keep it under control.