Dandruff is one of the hair problems which earlier seemed quite normal to me. Sometimes small white flakes would appear on the scalp and sometimes it would appear on dark clothes.
Earlier I used to think that maybe dandruff is happening due to not washing hair properly, but when I observed my hair a bit, I understood that the scalp is also an important part of hair care.
I made some simple changes in my routine and started treating my scalp more gently. In this article, I am sharing the experiences that I found helpful in understanding and managing dandruff.
What is dandruff?
Dandruff means white or light flakes seen on the scalp; flakes can be seen in the hair and sometimes also fall on the shoulders.
The most confusing thing for me was that I used to connect dandruff only with dirty hair. Later I understood that flakes are not only due to hair wash.
Scalp condition, hair products and routine can give different experiences to different people, so I do not consider dandruff as just an issue of cleanliness.
How did I notice it?
I first noticed dandruff on my dark clothes. Even while brushing my hair, some white flakes were visible.
Sometimes the scalp felt normal and sometimes it felt a little dry and uncomfortable.
What can be the common causes of dandruff?
The experience of dandruff is not the same in every person. Some people’s scalp may become dry and dull while some people’s scalp may feel oily. Hair care products can also affect the experience of the scalp, so notice things like flaking.
Changes in weather and routine can also make the scalp feel different, so I felt it would not be right to connect dandruff to just one reason.
What is the role of hair wash routine?
My first focus is on hair wash. While washing the scalp, I massage the scalp with my fingertips instead of rubbing aggressively and focus the shampoo on the wet scalp.
I also understood that the perfect number of hair washes is not for everyone. Washing routine can be different according to the scalp condition and personal routine.
That’s why I set my routine based on my own scalp rather than copying someone else’s routine.
How to select shampoo for dandruff?
At the time of dandruff, I check the ingredients and purpose of the product on the shampoo bottle.
I don’t look at any shampoo just because it has anti-dandruff written on it. I also check how the product feels on my scalp.
If the scalp becomes uncomfortable after using any shampoo, then instead of using it repeatedly, I review my routine.
If dandruff is happening again and again and the scalp problem is more uncomfortable, then taking advice from a dermatologist can be a better option.
Is it okay to scratch the scalp?
When I see flakes on the scalp, I also feel like removing them by scratching the scalp, but I have started avoiding this habit. Routine wash is better than removing the flakes forcefully. I find it simpler to clean the scalp calmly.
Does hair oil remove dandruff?
Hair oiling has been a part of my normal routine, but at the time of dandruff, I did not automatically consider heavy oiling as a solution on the scalp. If your scalp is already getting oily, then I do not find heavy oiling comfortable, hence I look at hair ingredients and scalp needs differently.
How to use hair products at the time of dandruff?
During times of dandruff, I keep it simple with my styling products. I apply hair serums or other products on the hairline unless the products are specifically for the scalp. I avoid trying too many new products at one time.
Does dandruff occur only in winter?
No, I also used to think that dandruff is only a winter problem, but scalp flakes can also be noticed in different seasons.
Sweating and frequent hair washing in summer changes my routine, whereas the scalp can feel different in winter.
My simple routine to manage dandruff
I have followed some basic points to keep my routine simple.
- Keeping the scalp clean regularly according to my routine
- Did not scratch it
- Gently massaged shampoo into scalp
- Did not try too many products at once
- Observed the condition of the scalp
- Heavy oiling should not be considered an automatic dandruff solution
- Did not ignore professional advice if the problem repeated
The most useful change for me was that I did not consider dandruff as just a problem to remove flakes; I started looking at my complete care routine.
FAQs
What is dandruff?
Dandruff is visible white or light flakes on the scalp.
Is dandruff caused only by dirty hair?
No, dandruff is not caused only by dirty hair. A dry or oily scalp and product buildup can also cause it.
Is there a difference between dandruff and dry scalp?
Both can be similar but not the same.
Does oiling remove dandruff?
It is not necessary to consider oil as a direct solution to dandruff.
What to do if dandruff occurs again and again?
If the problem is repeating, then it is better to take advice from a dermatologist.
Can dandruff happen in summer?
Yes, dandruff can also be noticed in summer. Sweating and changes in hair-washing routines can make the scalp feel different.
Disclaimer
This article is based on my personal hair care experience and general information. Every person’s scalp may be different. If the scalp problem repeats or becomes more uncomfortable, it is advisable to seek professional advice.
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