Dealing with Dandruff
Dandruff is a common chronic scalp condition that involves itching and flaking of the skin on your scalp. It isn’t contagious or serious, but can be embarrassing and often difficult to treat.
Thankfully, dandruff can usually be controlled. Often mild cases of dandruff require just daily shampooing with a gentle cleanser. Medicated shampoos are sometimes necessary for more extreme cases.
Treatment of dandruff can require some patience and persistence. In the instance that your case of dandruff requires a medicated shampoo, consult with a board certified dermatologist to determine your plan of attack. Sometimes these formulas are stronger to be effective and there is a chance some people will experience reactions to them.
There are different dandruff shampoos which contain different medicines. Some of these medications/varieties are:
- Zinc pyrithione shampoos – These contain the antibacterial and antifungal agent zinc pyrithione, which can reduce the fungus on your scalp that can cause dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis.
- Tar-based shampoos – Coal tar, a byproduct of the coal manufacturing process, helps conditions such as dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis and psoriasis by slowing how quickly skin cells on your scalp die and flake off.
- Shampoos containing salicylic acid – These “scalp scrubs” help eliminate scale, but they may leave your scalp dry, leading to more flaking. Using a conditioner after shampooing can help relieve dryness.
- Selenium sulfide shampoos – These shampoos slow your skin cells from dying and may also reduce malassezia. Because they can discolor blond, gray or chemically colored hair, be sure to use them only as directed, and rinse well after shampooing.
- Ketoconazole shampoos – Ketoconazole is a broad-spectrum antifungal agent that may work when other shampoos fail. It’s available over-the-counter as well as by prescription.
Some of these are available over the counter while others require a prescription. As always, if you are suffering from a case of dandruff or other skin condition, a member of our team here at Knoxville Dermatology Group is happy to assist you in getting on track to better skin health.
Would you like to learn more about the treatments and products available to get your skin in better shape? A member of our team here at Knoxville Dermatology Group can help! Skin health is an important part of total body wellness. Schedule an appointment today with one of our board certified physicians to get your skin the care it needs so it can reach its fullest, healthiest potential.
Contact Knoxville Dermatology Group at 865.690.9467.
