WHY DO I HAVE DANDRUFF? 

Dandruff is a common dermatological condition, affecting 50% of the population. Not only does it cause discomfort when wearing dark clothes and impact one’s appearance or communication, but it is also a persistent skin condition that is challenging to treat completely and can even persist for a lifetime. If you have dandruff, keep reading to learn more about this issue and how to get dandruff out of your hair. But first, we will start with a brief overview of this condition before moving on to the most effective treatments for it. Scroll down!

WHAT DOES DANDRUFF LOOK LIKE

Dandruff presents itself as small, white or yellowish flakes on the scalp and hair. These flakes are often noticeable on dark clothing, creating an aesthetic concern for many individuals. In addition to the visible flakes, dandruff may be accompanied by itching and irritation of the scalp. Sometimes, the skin on the scalp appears dry or oily, contributing to the formation of these flakes. Dandruff is a common condition, and its appearance may vary from person to person, but the characteristic flakes and associated discomfort are key indicators.

CAUSES OF DANDRUFF

Your skin cells usually grow, die, and fall off regularly. When you have dandruff, the skin cells on your scalp fall off faster than usual. The main reason for dandruff is a condition called seborrheic dermatitis, which makes your skin oily, red, and scaly. This leads to white or yellow flakes that become dandruff. A fungus called Malassezia is often responsible for triggering dandruff. This fungus normally lives on your scalp, but having too much of it can make your skin cells multiply too quickly. Factors like age, hormones, stress, and some health conditions can cause this fungus to increase. It’s important to note that having dirty hair doesn’t cause dandruff, but not washing your hair enough can lead to an oily buildup that contributes to flakes.

HOW TO FIX DANDRUFF

What helps with dandruff? There will be many interesting solutions that you may not know revealed below. Please continue scrolling down:

Dandruff shampoos

If you have a little dandruff, wash your hair every day with a mild shampoo to reduce the oil on your scalp. If it’s worse or regular shampoo doesn’t help, use an anti-dandruff shampoo. These shampoos usually have medicine that fights the fungus on your scalp or gets rid of the flaky skin. Here are a few examples:

Pyrithione zinc (like in Head and Shoulders or Jason Dandruff Relief 2 in 1) is a medicine that fights the fungus on your scalp, stopping it from making flakes. You can use shampoos with pyrithione zinc every day because they’re gentle.

Selenium sulfide (found in Selsun Blue) reduces the fungus and prevents too many skin cells from falling off. If you have blond or gray hair, or if you dye your hair, ask a healthcare professional before using shampoo with selenium sulfide. It might change your hair color.

Ketoconazole (like in Nizoral) gets rid of the fungus causing dandruff. You can get it without a prescription or with one.

Salicylic acid (Neutrogena T/Sal) removes extra scales from your scalp before they can flake. Be careful, though, because salicylic acid can dry out your skin and make more flakes.

Coal tar (Neutrogena T/Gel) slows down how fast skin cells grow and fall off your scalp. Tar-based shampoos might also change your hair color if it’s blond or gray.

Dandruff tea tree oil

Tea tree oil shampoos can be a natural way to deal with dandruff. Tea tree oil has stuff in it that fights the fungus causing dandruff, as some studies suggest. But, be careful—some folks can be allergic to it. It’s smart to check with a doctor before you give it a go. If you notice any redness or swelling, stop using it.

No matter which dandruff shampoo you use, make sure to read and follow the instructions on the bottle. If you’re not sure which one to pick or how often to use it, ask a doctor or pharmacist for advice. It might take trying a few brands before you find the one that works best for you.

Once your dandruff gets better, you might not need to use the shampoo as often. But if your dandruff is tough, a doctor can give you a stronger shampoo or something with medicine to help.

HOW TO PREVENT DANDRUFF 

Gentle Scalp Care

Gentle scalp care is crucial in preventing dandruff and maintaining a healthy scalp. To effectively ward off dandruff, it’s essential to choose hair care products specifically formulated for sensitive scalps. Opt for mild, sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners that nourish and hydrate the scalp without causing irritation.

Avoid harsh chemicals

Steer clear of hair products containing harsh chemicals like bleach and alcohol, as these can dry out your scalp, exacerbating dandruff issues. Additionally, avoid oily hair products that can accumulate on your scalp, as this buildup may lead to an imbalance in oil production and contribute to dandruff formation.

Nourishment and Hydration

Ensuring proper nourishment and hydration is essential in the prevention of dandruff. A well-balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals, particularly those like zinc and B vitamins, promotes a healthy scalp and reduces the likelihood of dandruff. Additionally, staying adequately hydrated supports overall skin health, including the scalp, and helps prevent dryness that can contribute to dandruff. 

Manage stress

Incorporate stress-management techniques such as meditation, yoga, and deep breathing into your routine. These relaxation methods can contribute to overall scalp health and reduce the likelihood of dandruff.

Exfoliate with Care

To effectively prevent dandruff through exfoliation, it’s crucial to understand the balance between removing dead skin cells and avoiding scalp irritation. Gentle exfoliation helps eliminate accumulated dead skin cells, which can contribute to dandruff when left unchecked.

WHEN TO SEE A DOCTOR

If your dandruff persists despite trying over-the-counter shampoos and home remedies, it’s advisable to see a doctor. Additionally, seek medical attention if you experience severe itching, redness, or swelling on your scalp, as these symptoms could indicate an underlying skin condition that requires professional evaluation. 

A healthcare provider can help determine the specific cause of your persistent dandruff and recommend appropriate treatments, which may include prescription-strength shampoos, topical medications, or other interventions tailored to your individual needs. Don’t hesitate to consult a doctor if you have concerns about the effectiveness of your current dandruff management or if the condition is significantly affecting your scalp health.

FAQ

1. Is dandruff good or bad?

Dandruff is a common skin condition. It’s not harmful and you cannot catch it.

2. How often should I wash my hair if I have dandruff?

People may need to shampoo their hair at different frequencies—some might do it twice a week, while others may choose to shampoo more frequently, possibly even every day.

3. Does cutting hair reduce dandruff?

Whether your hair is short or long, dandruff can still occur. This is because dandruff is influenced by what’s happening on the scalp.

4. Is it OK to use head and shoulders everyday?

You can use Head & Shoulders as often as you like because it’s pH balanced and gentle on hair, making it suitable for daily use. What is the best dandruff shampoo?

CONCLUSION

The journey to understanding why dandruff occurs has taken us through the intricacies of scalp health and the factors contributing to this common concern. From the shedding of skin cells to the influence of environmental factors, lifestyle choices, and underlying conditions, the article has aimed to provide clarity on the question, “Why do I have dandruff?” . Remember, whether it’s the role of natural oils, the impact of stress, or the use of specialized shampoos, addressing dandruff is a personalized journey. Your questions have been explored, and armed with this knowledge, you can embark on a path towards a healthier, flake-free scalp.

15 Best Moisturizers for Oily Skin That Derms Love

I hate to break this to you, just because your skin generates more sebum than others doesn’t mean you shouldn’t moisturize. To avoid dehydration, everyone—we stress again—should moisturize every day. This includes people with oily skin. Save the thick creams for your friends with dry skin; instead, choose a mild, mattifying moisturizer that can balance the moisture barrier of the skin and regulate excess oil. If you have been confused with posts telling you the right product for your skin type these 15 best moisturizers for oily skin will help you.

CeraVe Daily Moisturizing Lotion

This lotion is a triple threat because it is XL in size, offers great value, and excels in increasing skin moisture by 48.1% over the course of six hours. It also leaves skin incredibly soft, absorbs rapidly, and isn’t oily. It is found that this moisturizer works well with prescription acne medications and “hydrates skin instantly without feeling heavy or greasy.” Customers have reported, nevertheless, that this lotion doesn’t calm skin as well as other ones. But after all, this is still on top of one of the best moisturizers for oily skin.

Tatcha The Water Cream

This oil-free Tatcha moisturizer is a good option if you tend to let oils take over your face. Made from a combination of non-irritating plant ingredients, this non-comedogenic solution soothes and hydrates your skin while guarding against clogged pores. Water Cream is a great name for this product, which is a really light hybrid of a gel and a cream that feels like it will melt into the skin right away. This face moisturizer is ideal if you’re searching for anything that meets all your needs. But this moisturizer is rather expensive when you compare it to most other products on this list.

Paula’s Choice Skin Balancing Invisible Finish Moisture Gel

A product is considered “invisible” because it is so light on the skin that you can hardly feel it, as this Paula’s Choice moisturizer is. Above all, we thought this product felt amazing; it moisturizes, minimizes oil, leaves our face feeling smooth, and can replenish moisture without making our skin look shiny. If cost and moisture are your top priorities, this moisturizer is really decent; nevertheless, people who are prone to breakouts may find the additional algae extract irritating.

La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer

This moisturizer is a little thicker than the other products on our list, but testers reported that it still feels light on the face and absorbs rapidly. It has a mixed consistency that is similar to that of gel and cream. The gel cream spreads quickly, has a pleasant texture and consistency, and, once applied, nearly has a cooling effect. Some people with oily skin may not appreciate the thicker consistency, especially in hot months or humid climates, even if it still feels lightweight.

Kopari Moisture Whipped Ceramide Cream

This whipped cream is a treat for your skin; it uses whipped coconut milk to shield the barrier from damage caused by free radicals while also smoothing and softening the skin with moisturizing elements like hyaluronic acid and ceramides.  Skin appears totally natural after using this moisturizer—there is no tinge or residue. It leaves the face feeling moisturized without being overly glossy, and it works wonders on Black skin without giving the appearance of paleness. Its superb consistency adds to its appeal. All things considered, this is among the best cream moisturizers for oily skin.

Shani Darden Skin Care Weightless Oil-Free Moisturizer

Red algae extract helps both the goals of hydration and softer skin. Other ingredients in this moisturizer include hyaluronic acid, which increases moisture, hydrolyzed collagen, which stimulates skin cell growth and plumps the skin for a more supple appearance. This formula is quite light and milky, and the skin absorbs it right away. It is advised to massage this product into your face and neck using two to four pumps. All in all, it gave us skin that was visibly smoother and gave off a faint glow. It’s advised to use two to four pumps for each application, so you might finish this quite quickly.

BeautyStat Cosmetics Universal Pro-Bio Moisture Boost Cream

Sometimes oily skin might look lifeless and drab. We suggest attempting the Beautystat Universal Pro-Bio Moisture Boost Cream to counteract this problem. It contains a strong combination of ceramides, hyaluronic acid, vitamin F, pomegranate sterols, and a Bio-fermented Nutrient Complex to provide a more hydrated appearance and a glow that looks natural. Users find that a little goes a long way, so even though this product is pricey, it may last for a long time.

Innisfree Green Tea Hyaluronic Acid Hydrating Moisturizer

It can be annoying to locate products that address texture issues and control oil production if you have oily and uneven skin. This rich solution contains panthenol, which softens skin for a smoother finish, along with a combination of oils and ingredients from green tea. During our tests, users reported that it instantly absorbed into their skin. There may be a little sheen to the feel and look, but it appears more moisturized and fresh than greasy or oily. When applied to the face, the green tea aroma can be a little overpowering at first. Still, the fragrance wanes with wear and the sheer coverage dries soon.

Earth Harbor Mermaid Milk Nutrient Glow Moisturizer

Regarding texture, the Earth Harbor Mermaid Milk Nutrient Glow Moisturizer won over the most satisfied customers. The lightweight, frothy texture of this skin cream makes it easy to apply and absorbs quite quickly. Its abundance of hydrating and invigorating ingredients—including some of the biggest names in skincare, like spirulina, matcha, seaweed extracts, peptides, aloe, and hyaluronic acid—not only relieves oily skin but also leaves the skin with a semi-matte appearance after absorption. It might not be the greatest option for people who are more sensitive to scents, nevertheless, due to its powerful aroma.

Tata Harper Water-Lock Moisturizer

This creamy moisturizer will melt into your skin to provide your skin with an intense moisture boost that will prevent the oily sheen. Made without oils or parabens, the consistency is really well received. It absorbs fast and doesn’t leave behind any oily residue, leaving the skin feeling incredibly soft. This moisturizer reduces inflammation and softens skin texture with ingredients like niacinamide. The packaging is heavy, but it should endure for a while. In our opinion, this product receives bonus points because its packaging is reusable and contributes to the reduction of plastic waste. For those who can afford it, this moisturizer is well worth the expenditure even though it is somewhat pricey given its value.

Versed Dew Point Moisturizing Gel-Cream

Numerous active components found in more expensive moisturizers are also present in this affordable option. A combination of chemicals in Versed Dew Point Moisturizing Gel Cream works to provide comfort and moisture. Prominent ingredients like glycerin and squalane offer intense moisturizing, while green tea extract and aloe vera calm and shield the skin. This solution delivers value and efficacy in addition to natural hydration from aloe vera and antioxidants like green tea. 

e.l.f. Blemish Breakthrough Calming Water Cream

Thanks to the potent combination of salicylic acid and zinc PCA, this aqueous cream helps reduce excess oil while also soothing and balancing the tone of the skin. It’s also non-comedogenic, dermatologist-designed, and fragrance-free. The cream has a very light, pleasant consistency that is hardly perceptible on our skin. Quick and effective absorption ensures that no residue or pilling is left behind. The most amazing thing about it is how well it keeps you hydrated and moisturized while drastically reducing oiliness. Salicylic acid, which is beneficial for oily skin types prone to acne, may not be appropriate for all skin types, but overall, this is one of the best moisturizers for acne-prone skin.

BYOMA Moisturizing Gel Cream

Choosing a lightweight moisturizer is essential if you have oily skin in order to prevent feeling heavy and clogged. Oily skin types benefit greatly from the oil-free, well-balanced moisture provided by the BYOMA Moisturizing Gel Cream. In spite of its slightly thicker consistency, people adore its silky, lightweight feel. It applies with an airy, refreshing feeling because of its gel-like consistency, which is neither too thick nor too loose. Although there was a little sticky feeling, it quickly goes away and the skin is smooth again. However, when there isn’t much product left in the bottle, using the pump dispenser can be challenging.

Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hyaluronic Acid Hydrating Gel-Cream

Dustin Portela, DO, another doctor we spoke with, suggests gel moisturizers like the Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hyaluronic Acid Hydrating Gel-Cream for people with oily skin instead of thick creams. Hyaluronic acid, an ingredient in its formulation, gives skin long-lasting moisture without making it feel greasy or heavy. It is perfect for oily and acne-prone skin because of its lightweight texture and non-comedogenic recipe. Even if it doesn’t have as many active ingredients as some of the other moisturizers on our list, it’s still a product that’s worth trying.

Basebutter Balancing Gel Facial Moisturizer

During the spring and summer, BaseButter Balancing Gel Facial Moisturizer is a refreshing and antioxidant-rich alternative that is perfect for oily skin types. Because of its lightweight nature, which guarantees that it won’t clog pores or feel heavy on the skin, people with oily skin who want hydration without extra shine can use it. It is ideal for the warmer months due to its cooling effect and gel-like consistency. It leaves our skin feeling nice and calming, with a faint minty aftertaste that, happily, didn’t burn. For individuals who are looking for extreme moisturization, it might not be enough, nevertheless.

Oftentimes, people with oily skin tend to forget to use moisturizer. You may be thinking to yourself, Why add more to my already shiny, oily skin? However, you can be harming your face if you neglect this stage of your skincare regimen. If you’ve been perplexed by articles telling you how to a choose moisturizer for oily skin, these 15 excellent options will undoubtedly help.