Best Anti-Dandruff Hair Treatments in Australia
Dandruff is a common skin condition that can be very frustrating. It is caused by an overgrowth of the fungus Malassezia. Anti-dandruff hair treatments work to stop the fungus from growing and causing dandruff. They have antifungal ingredients like ketoconazole, zinc pyrithione, selenium sulphide, and coal tar that kill the fungus and stop it from spreading. In some cases, these active ingredients are combined with a moisturising ingredient to keep your skin soft. Some products also contain conditioners that help to make the hair soft and shiny.
What causes dandruff?
Dandruff is caused by the overgrowth of the fungus Malassezia globosa or Pityrosporum ovale. These yeasts are found in everyone's scalp but under certain conditions, they can grow out of control and cause irritation to the skin. Many people find their scalp becomes dry, itchy, scaly and sometimes filled with white flakes of dead skin. While dandruff is not a serious medical condition it can be very uncomfortable to live with. Although dandruff does not cause any permanent damage to your scalp it is usually a sign that you have a fungal infection. If it is not treated properly it can spread to other parts of the body and cause more serious medical problems.
How do anti-dandruff products work?
*Anti-fungal shampoos and creams can be used to treat dandruff. These work by destroying the fungus causing the infection. The active ingredient in these products is usually an antifungal agent like ketoconazole, zinc pyrithione, selenium sulphide, or coal tar. Ketoconazole works best on oily dandruff while selenium sulfide works best for dry dandruff. Coal tar may cause skin irritation if used in high concentrations, so it's best to avoid this ingredient if you have sensitive skin. To keep dandruff from coming back, it's best to use an anti-dandruff shampoo regularly.
*If the flaking persists you should see a doctor as you may be suffering from seborrheic dermatitis which is an inflammatory disease that affects the scalp, eyebrows, and sides of the nose. This can be treated with steroidal creams which soothe the skin and reduce inflammation. Steroids shouldn't be used every day, though, because they can change the way your skin's oils work and cause other skin problems. In most cases the condition can be managed with the medications described above but if symptoms persist your doctor may prescribe oral antibiotics to treat the infection. Seborrheic dermatitis can also be prevented and treated by using a mild, moisturising shampoo at least twice a week.
Is using anti-dandruff shampoo harmful?
*No, using an anti-dandruff shampoo will not harm your hair or body. Some shampoos contain harsh chemicals that can irritate the scalp or cause allergic reactions. However, most over-the-counter anti-dandruff shampoos contain only natural ingredients that are safe for most people to use.
*There are a few precautions you should follow when using an anti-dandruff shampoo: Make sure you wash and rinse your hair thoroughly after using the shampoo to remove any chemicals from the scalp. Apply the shampoo directly to the affected area and rub it in gently for a few seconds. Rinse out the shampoo and then apply the conditioner to your hair. Make sure the conditioner is applied to the whole length of your hair and not just to your scalp. Leave it on for a few minutes and then rinse it out.
Anti-Dandruff Hair Treatments:
- Philip Kingsley Flaky Itchy Scalp Mask: This deep-conditioning treatment relieves itchy, flaky scalps caused by seborrheic dermatitis, eczema and other skin conditions. It is formulated with soothing jojoba oil and added vitamins E and C.
- Davroe Scalp Remedy: This product reduces flakiness and prevents dandruff flare-ups. It contains a unique combination of antimicrobial agents that help to inhibit the growth of microbes on the scalp.
