Dandruff in winter: causes and how to get rid of it

Dandruff is very common and doesn't mean poor hygiene. Many people notice it gets worse in winter, because of dry air, hot water and wearing a headscarf or hat for long hours.

Dandruff or a dry scalp?

• Dry scalp: small, white, dry flakes; the scalp itself feels dry and tight, and the skin is often dry all over.
• Dandruff (seborrhoeic): larger, yellowish or greasy flakes with itching and sometimes redness, and the hair gets oily quickly.

The most common cause of dandruff is a natural yeast on the scalp called Malassezia, which increases with oil, stress and changes in weather.

Shampoo ingredients that treat dandruff

• Zinc pyrithione: antifungal and suitable for regular use.
• Ketoconazole: a strong antifungal, useful for stubborn dandruff.
• Salicylic acid: loosens and removes flakes.
• Selenium sulfide: reduces the yeast and slows skin turnover.

You can alternate between two types, and the pharmacist will help you choose for your hair and scalp.

How to use the shampoo properly

1. Massage the shampoo into the scalp itself, not the ends of the hair.
2. Leave it on for 3 to 5 minutes before rinsing, so the active ingredient can work.
3. Use it two or three times a week at first, then once a week for prevention once the dandruff eases.
4. Rinse with lukewarm, not hot, water.

Winter tips

• Don't sleep with wet hair under a headscarf or hat; dry it well first.
• Change pillowcases and headscarves regularly.
• Cut down on heavy oils on the scalp if you have oily dandruff, because they can make it worse.

When should you see a doctor?

• The dandruff hasn't improved after a month of the right shampoo.
• Severe redness, thick scales, sores, or noticeable hair loss.
• Flakes also appear on the face, eyebrows or behind the ears.