Flaky remedies: Curing and disguising dandruff
It's that time of year again: flaky scalps and snow-dotted shoulders. But dandruff doesn't have to be your reality this year! It can be a condition that you can avoid this season–or, at least, manage. Say goodbye and good riddance to dandruff dusted shoulders with a few pointers!
SEBORRHEIC DERMATITIS VS DANDRUFF
Seborrheic dermatitis and dandruff can look quite similar: dry, itchy scalp and flakes. If the dandruff shampoos haven't been working for you and you've been using them for a while, you might have seborrheic dermatitis. Seborrheic dermatitis, not to be confused with psoriasis, is a step up from dandruff. However, it can also occur on the face and on folds such as between the backs of ears and around your nose.
Treating seborrheic dermatitis is different from treating run-of-the-mill dandruff. Consult your medical professional to manage the situation.
DANDRUFF: WHAT IS IT AND ITS CAUSES
You know dandruff when you see it: the dry, white flakes on your scalp and trapped in the strands of your hair.
Many people see seasonal flaky scalp caused by transitional weather. The drop in temperature and humidity can cause your scalp to get flaky.
HERE ARE SOME SOLUTIONS
1. Brush and give yourself a scalp massage
Brushing your hair can sweep errant flakes from strands and a scalp massage will help dislodge flakes as well as bring oils down to parched ends.
2. Scalp mask
The next step up from the scalp massage, the scalp mask, can slough away flakes more effectively. We like Christophe Robin’s Cleansing Purifying Scrub.
3. Dandruff shampoo
Use a dandruff shampoo consistently if you know seasonal dandruff happens to you. Use your preferred shampoo once or twice a week, paying special attention to your scalp.
If dandruff shampoos aren't your cup of tea, try natural alternatives. Natural cures, such as tea tree oil and apple cider vinegar, might be a shot. But, YMMV.
It's important to use the dandruff shampoo throughout the season if you suffer from seasonal dandruff. Dandruff can come back if you've let up on the regimen once your scalp has cleared.
HOW TO STYLE WITH DANDRUFF
1. Brush or pluck any visible flakes
Brushing your hair can sweep errant flakes from strands and a scalp massage will help dislodge flakes as well as bring oils down to parched ends.
2. To avoid irritating the scalp, don't heat style close to the root
Avoid heat styling very close to the root. While this won’t irritate your scalp, flattening the hair around the scalp will bring attention to your dandruff.
3. Avoid dying–or perming–your hair
Dying, perming or semi-permanent straightening may exacerbate your condition. At any rate, doing so makes dandruff look worse. Straightening, especially, will flatten the hair at the root and make dandruff extra visible. Avoid at all costs.
4. Sport scalp covering hairstyles
Any style hiding your scalp is a good one! We’re always down for some beachy waves! Use our Lunata hair styler for loose, casual waves or our Lunata curling wand for bombshell curls. A messy pony or braid work too!
