Bad Dandruff
Moderator: talkhealth
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Justine Greenwood
- Posts: 98
- Joined: Mon Dec 29, 2014 5:41 pm
Re: Bad Dandruff
Hello Simon,
Thank you for your question. I should hopefully be able to help you with this condition.
Firstly, I'd just like to reassure you that although dandruff can be very embarassing, it is very common. In fact, it is estimated that 1 in 2 individuals suffer from this condition.
Since you have already tried a couple of treatments unsuccessfully we need to ascertain the severity of the problem. Do you find the dandruff affects only the scalp or has it spread to other areas such as the eyebrows or behind the ears? Is there any reddening or crusting of the scalp skin? Have any red plaque patches developed?
If the answer is yes to these questions, it may be wise to visit your local Pharmacy or GP for a more indepth private consultation. Do not be worried if you have answered yes, we just need to make sure that it is dandruff and not alternative conditions such as psoriasis which can masquerade as severe dandruff.
What products have you already tried?
There are lots of alternatives out there but the active ingredients fall into 3 distinct groups:
Ketoconazole, an antifungal shampoo, is estimated to be the most effective treatment available over the counter. Selenium sulphide or coal tar products are also available from most pharmacies however are less effective.
Whichever product you choose, once applied and massaged into the scalp, it must be left for at least 5 minutes to work. Most cases of dandruff should begin to improve within 12 weeks of treatment.
I would also advise that you ensure all hair products are washed out of the hair adequately to avoid any irritation.
Unfortunately, dandruff is what we term a chronic condition; it will return once an individual stops treatment. Once under control, it is recommended that you use an anti-dandruff product on a less frequent basis as a preventative measure.
In your case Simon, since you have tried a couple of treatments already, I would suggest a visit to your local community pharmacy who will be able to advise you further.
Best wishes,
Justine
Thank you for your question. I should hopefully be able to help you with this condition.
Firstly, I'd just like to reassure you that although dandruff can be very embarassing, it is very common. In fact, it is estimated that 1 in 2 individuals suffer from this condition.
Since you have already tried a couple of treatments unsuccessfully we need to ascertain the severity of the problem. Do you find the dandruff affects only the scalp or has it spread to other areas such as the eyebrows or behind the ears? Is there any reddening or crusting of the scalp skin? Have any red plaque patches developed?
If the answer is yes to these questions, it may be wise to visit your local Pharmacy or GP for a more indepth private consultation. Do not be worried if you have answered yes, we just need to make sure that it is dandruff and not alternative conditions such as psoriasis which can masquerade as severe dandruff.
What products have you already tried?
There are lots of alternatives out there but the active ingredients fall into 3 distinct groups:
Ketoconazole, an antifungal shampoo, is estimated to be the most effective treatment available over the counter. Selenium sulphide or coal tar products are also available from most pharmacies however are less effective.
Whichever product you choose, once applied and massaged into the scalp, it must be left for at least 5 minutes to work. Most cases of dandruff should begin to improve within 12 weeks of treatment.
I would also advise that you ensure all hair products are washed out of the hair adequately to avoid any irritation.
Unfortunately, dandruff is what we term a chronic condition; it will return once an individual stops treatment. Once under control, it is recommended that you use an anti-dandruff product on a less frequent basis as a preventative measure.
In your case Simon, since you have tried a couple of treatments already, I would suggest a visit to your local community pharmacy who will be able to advise you further.
Best wishes,
Justine
Justine Greenwood
Learning and Development Pharmacist, Rowlands Pharmacy
http://www.talkhealthpartnership.com/on ... enwood.php
Learning and Development Pharmacist, Rowlands Pharmacy
http://www.talkhealthpartnership.com/on ... enwood.php
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