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If you’re venturing out again, the last thing you want is white specks accumulating on your head and shoulders.
Treat dandruff with this survival kit.
Can dandruff cause premature hair loss?
No – and treatments shouldn’t make it worse. Just don’t use dandruff and hair-loss treatments at the same time. Use one in the morning and one at night to maximise the benefits of each. Classic minoxidil treatments like Rogaine can be oily, so try HairStim (by prescription from your dermatologist) because it’s not as greasy.
The Symptom: Flaky, scaly dead skin
The Diagnosis: It’s dandruff. “It’s caused by an overgrowth of yeast on the skin,” says dermatologist Raymond Kleinfelder. That yeast thrives on moisture. Stress, sweat and the wrong hair-care products can all lead to dandruff.
The Treatment: “Grab an anti-yeast, antifungal shampoo that contains selenium sulfide or zinc pyrithione,” says Kleinfelder. Massage it into your scalp and let it sit for a minimum of five minutes so the ingredients can go to work.
Try: Head & Shoulders Clinical Strength Dandruff Defense
+ Advanced Oil Control Shampoo ($37).
The Symptom: Red, irritated, dry, itchy scalp
The Diagnosis: Um, a dry, itchy scalp. Air-conditioning can hamper your skin’s ability to produce and maintain moisture, which can turn an otherwise healthy scalp into an arid environment any time of year.
The Treatment: Easy on the shampooing. “I recommend men shampoo their hair only once or twice a week, especially in the cooler months,” says Kleinfelder. On no-shampoo days, use a conditioner to enhance moisture levels.
Try: Aveeno Rose Water & Chamomile Blend Shampoo ($12); Jack Black Nourishing Hair & Scalp Conditioner ($37).
Well, that didn’t work. Now what?
If snowy conditions don’t improve, ask your dermatologist about the following.
Psoriasis
A super-itchy scalp with heavy build-up could signal this disorder – especially if you notice a crusty dryness on your elbows, knees and hands. Try Neutrogena T/Gel Therapeutic Shampoo ($11), which has coal tar to calm the itch and scaling. If that’s not effective, request a prescription.
Folliculitis
If you feel bumps on your scalp in addition to itchiness, your pores could be clogged and bacteria may have infested your hair follicles. Fear not!
Try CLn Shampoo ($96), which contains antimicrobial ingredients that can help kill the dastardly, bump-causing bacteria.
