Dandruff is like a haunting dream that keeps coming. You want it to stop, but it never goes away. It just manages to appear in all the most unexpected places, shaming you and making you uncomfortable in the process. Indeed, it’s a nightmare of global stature. Statistics show dandruff is affecting millions, more people than you think globally. If that were not enough, it has also been listed as a possible side effect of COVID-19.
If you notice dry flakes oozing out from your hair and it gets itchy, then you most likely have dandruff already. Indeed, it’s not a welcome sight. So if you’re beginning to get worried about it, then that’s good. You should already start getting rid of it. The good news is that you’re not powerless when it comes to getting rid of all the messy bits lurking in your hair. You have to know where to start.
1. Don’t skip washing your hair.
It’s easy to skip all the washing during the pandemic. Stay-in-place orders should have you grounded for some time now. But all that fear of water can have drastic consequences: dandruff or flaky, itchy hair.
The only consolation if you have dandruff is you’re not alone. Over 50 million Americans suffer all the scalp flaking and itching. Untreated dandruff sure makes you look like a dog with fleas. It’s not deadly, but it’s socially embarrassing.
One thing you must realize is that not washing your hair can cause unnecessary buildup. Overproliferation of oils and yeast in your hair is a hotbed for dandruff. However, take note that water alone won’t be able to get rid of oils and yeast. That job goes to your most dependable shampoo.
One thing’s certain. Not all shampoos are created equal and not by a long shot.
When choosing your shampoo, there are things you need to look out for. For starters, steering clear of products with a lot of chemicals would bid you well. Yup, organic is the way.
Why? That’s simply because organic is free from toxic chemicals that can cause more harm than good to your scalp. We’re talking about synthetic chemicals such as sulfates and parabens. Making matters worse, you could develop skin rashes and skin inflammations due to manufactured chemicals.
On the other hand, organic dandruff shampoo contains natural ingredients that nourish your hair gently and effectively. Ingredients like coconut oil and Aloe Vera stimulate hair growth.
Then again, don’t overdo the washing of your hair. If you do it too vigorously, you can end up worse than when you started. It’s a vicious cycle that, in the end, can give you an exaggerated version of your dry, irritated scalp.
2. Up your diet.
You might be surprised, but it’s no mistake that diet is on this list. It’s true. It’s so easy to opt for junk foods and sugary foods rather than a proper meal.
With all the time in the world, it’s very tempting to lie down on your couch and eat your heart away. But you could be eating our way to dandruff.
A study presented in WebMD showed that there’s a link between food and the presence of dandruff. Simply put, it means that what you eat can affect your scalp health. For one, limiting your intake of sugar can boost your fight to free your scalp of all the itching. Instead, you should opt for fruits and vegetables for the best results.
3. Destress!
Recent research showed that stress indeed is a factor in the pesky presence of flakes in your hair. It has been found out that the prevalence of anxiety in COVID 19 is around 29.6%. And all that burden in a person can be the perfect breeding ground for dandruff to flourish.
The study showed that stress causes the production of the hormone cortisol. When this hormone is released, sebum is produced. Such an accumulation of sebum would cause dandruff over time.
It certainly pays off to destress. If you’re running out of ways how to in this pandemic, hop in here.
4. Scrub your scalp.
Another helpful tip is opting for scalp scrubs. Just like you have your regular body scrubs, scalp scrubs do exist. By doing so, you will be able to get rid of all those accumulated oils in your scalp that shampoo can’t get rid of.
A fair warning, though. Scalp scrubs need to be done gently. Make sure to rinse off your scalp w after you’re done. And if you’re not sure you need one, Sheel Desai Solomon MD should be able to help you.
5. Deploy a hot oil mask.
Don’t fret. You might think oils can harm your scalp. But this one should be able to help. This is because with the proper application of oil you can draw excess oil in your scalp out.
To effect a hot oil hair mask like a pro, proceed here. Or you can have your sister do it for you for better bonding time.
As embarrassing as dandruff is, it’s not the end of the world. Put in the mix your due diligence and your undying desire to get rid of all the itching, and you should get that scalp and hair in great shape in no time. Then you can start loving your free life despite the pandemic.
