Tips for Banishing Dandruff
There’s no cute way to say this, so let’s just have it out: it’s dandruff season.
If you’ve struggled with dandruff, you are not alone. I’m actually asked about dandruff almost every single day!
Now, the good news about dandruff is that it’s entirely treatable. The other good news? It might not actually be dandruff at all.
Many times, what you think might be dandruff is actually product build up. So, whether you’re battling dandruff or product build up, I’ve got a few tips for you.
Wash with a clarifying shampoo like The Weekender once a week, prior to using your regular shampoo.
Try gently scrubbing your skin with a comb, section by section, to help lift any dandruff or build up from your scalp prior to washing your hair. This prevents the shampoo process from lifting and leaving those small flakes of skin on your scalp! Then, when you do shampoo, it’ll be washing away those bits that you’ve lifted up.
Spending a lot of time outside? You may find that those flakes of skin are actually the result of your scalp being sunburnt. Try to dab a little sunscreen right down your hair’s part, in order to prevent burning. I try to look for the powdered sunscreens that are made to go over makeup. That way my hair doesn’t feel oily from them. Or you can always wear a cute hat!
Of course, if you find that your dandruff is severe and bothersome enough, I’d recommend visiting a dermatologist. When experiencing a dry, flaky scalp, some people will assume they should immediately reach for a dandruff shampoo like Head & Shoulders (which severely strips your color). Dermatologists can actually prescribe a medicated shampoo to treat the problem more thouroughly. With the right treatment, dandruff can often heal quickly.
Invest in a shower filter to soften hard water, which can be especially bad in the South Bay area. There are a few I love that you can find on Amazon. Check out my recommendations, here!
Believe it or not, scalp treatments and clarifying treatments (to help with buildup) are offered at many salons. Ask your stylist if this is something that they offer and you may be able to add it on at your next visit.
Most importantly, please remember to be kind to yourself, and your hair. Dandruff isn’t gross, or embarrassing. It’s a natural and normal thing (especially during season changes) - with the right treatment and proper care your scalp can feel back to normal in no time.
