It goes without saying that the cheery winters are approaching at your doorstep with the Christmas carols and a chance to adorn those fuzzy socks while sipping on hot cocoa. However, much to your dismay, among those mirthful and jolly delights, winter also brings an onslaught of dry scalp and dandruff. We understand that this can certainly be disheartening, especially because flaky dandruff can be extremely uncomfortable and embarrassing. A study published in the US National Library of Medicine explains that dandruff is generally a chronic condition that affects your scalp, eyebrows, beard etc. The study further unfolds that understanding the root causes behind dandruff helps to treat and prevent it effectively. We realize that this may get confusing and worrisome for you, especially with a plethora of possibilities and reasons being blamed to cause dandruff during winters. Even so, we would urge you to leave your worries with this passing season and step into the winter tides as a jaunty and mirthful-self as we have enlisted the perfect solution for you.
MAIN REASONS
- Dry scalp
- Improper diet
- Yeast overgrowth
- Hot water showers
- Irregular hair wash
1. Dry scalp
Dry scalp is by far one of the most common reasons behind the development of dandruff during winters. Cold winter air along with central heating present at homes is certainly not a good combination. Numerous studies show that the central heating during winters is a dominant factor behind the rise of flakes, dandruff, and dryness. The sudden change in the temperature takes away the nourishment from your scalp, thus leaving behind dehydrated and flaky skin.
2. Improper diet
We understand that the cravings to consume hot chocolate, late-night pizza and various other delicacies increases during the cold days. However, it is imperative to recognize that along with fulfilling the needs of your taste buds it is equally essential to fulfill the need of your body. Avoiding nutrient-rich meals while binge-eating on junk food will not bring your health at great risk but also give rise to the development of dandruff and other scalp ailments.
3. Yeast overgrowth
Overgrowth of yeast plays a major role in the development of dandruff. Malassezia is a fungus that usually results in dandruff problem, especially during colder months of the year. Furthermore, a study conducted in the early months of 2016 concluded that people who are sensitive to yeast are at a higher risk of developing dandruff.
4. Hot water showers
Have you ever noticed the impact the hot water has on your scalp and manes? It is no surprise that applying heat on to your scalp or hair can make them brittle and dry. This is why you need to acknowledge that hot water is just as much of a culprit behind dandruff as heating tools. Various researches show that hot water strips away the natural oil present in your scalp, thus drying your scalp and weakening its roots. The best way to recover and improve the habit of washing your hair with hot water is to consider a temperature check. Opting for normal to warm water instead of hot water helps to cleanse away the dirt and grime without causing any damage or irritation to your scalp.
5. Irregular hair wash
Needless to say, cozy winters are the main reason behind the frequent episodes of laziness. Although, we are sure that understanding the disadvantages that laziness brings along for your hair health will perk up your attention and bring back your ever-so energetic-self. Infrequent hair washing leads to the build-up of dirt and dead skin cells, thus resulting in dandruff. On this ground, we would urge you to look after your hair and maintain a hair care regimen to attain healthy, glowing and dandruff-free hair.
POTENT REMEDIES
- Opt for an anti-dandruff shampoo
- Condition often
- Frequent hot oil treatments
- Try out ACV rinsing
- Avoid heating tools
1. Opt for dandruff control shampoo
Switching from normal shampoo to a dandruff control shampoo is one of the most basic yet largely effectual steps to get rid of dandruff. Numerous studies elaborate that using an anti-dandruff shampoo is sufficient for someone experiencing dandruff due to fungal infections. A dandruff control shampoo helps to treat stubborn dandruff easily without drying your scalp. What’s more, the studies further demonstrate that an anti-dandruff shampoo containing key ingredients like Lemon, Ivy, and sage has shown best results when curbing the pesky white flakes.
2. Condition often
Various trichologists confirm that the primary cause behind the development of dandruff is dry scalp. They further explain that a dry scalp usually tends to flake and itch more than an oily scalp. This is where the need for a good conditioner arises. Conditioning your hair often allows your scalp and manes to hold the moisture within locks, thus lending you nourished scalp and lustrous tresses. We would recommend you to always condition your manes right after washing them with a mild shampoo for best results.
3. Frequent hot oil treatments
Have you ever felt nostalgic when thinking about those champi sessions given by your grandma during winter mornings? Those episodes not only created ever-lasting cherished memories but also bestowed great health to your scalp and manes. Yes, you heard it right. Hot oil champi which is now popularly known as hot oil treatments are the best way to keep your scalp nourished and dandruff-free. Tea tree oil or jojoba oil when combined with coconut oil makes a potent combination to get rid of dandruff easily. Furthermore, a study unravels that massaging warm oil on your scalp with fingertips helps to regulate the blood flow of your scalp, thereby increasing hair growth rate.
4. Try out ACV rinsing
Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is a widely used method that assists in curing dandruff at home effectively. This natural ingredient is known to possess numerous purposes. One among them is restoring and maintaining the pH level of your scalp. Top hair specialist explains that the change in weather disrupts the protective layer of cells and lipids present on your scalp, thus making your scalp vulnerable to bacteria and fungus. They further explain that an ACV rinse helps to protect your scalp against fungus and bacteria while easing off itchiness, flakes etc.
Directions
- Pour ½ cup of apple cider vinegar and 2 cups of water in a bottle.
- Blend both ingredients together.
- Wash your manes normally and make a final rinse with this mixture by pouring it from the top of your scalp to the tips of your hair.
- Massage your scalp and allow it to rest for 20 minutes before washing it away with normal water.
Important note - If you feel a burning or stinging sensation then remember to dilute the rinsing solution with more water. In addition, it is advisable to conduct a patch test before trying out the remedy.
5. Avoid heating tools
A 2017 study shows that the heating tools like straightening irons, blow dryers etc whisk away any moisture left behind on your scalp, thus making your scalp appear excessively dry. This further leads to a rise in white flakes and itching on your scalp. Reducing or better yet, avoiding the usage of heating tools will not only save your tresses but also your scalp from some damage. If you still feel the need to iron your manes, then consider using it at the lowest temperature possible.
Enduring dandruff can be troublesome, without question. Be aware that neglecting dandruff may cause more harm than good. Numerous trichologists confirm that dandruff doesn’t indicate a serious health issue and can be easily cured by following a healthy hair care regimen and remedies. What’s more, the itching and excessive flaking often respond positively to OTC hair care products. Trying these remedies and techniques will not only help you treat but also effectively prevent dandruff, irrespective of the season.
P.S.
Top board-certified trichologists unfold that anti-dandruff lotion is an imperative method that helps to get rid of dandruff easily. They further elaborate that the presence of certain essential oil like jojoba, sage etc plays the role of a chef’s kiss. These bio-active compounds present in an anti-dandruff recurrence lotion re-balances the pH level of your scalp while warding off any dandruff-causing bacteria or fungus. Incorporating this step in your hair care routine will help you cure dandruff and dry scalp effectively.
