Winter's coming, and so is dandruff! Tackle those snowflakes the natural way with these expert-approved tips

Winter is almost here, and so is the dreaded D-word. That’s right, dandruff! As the chill sets in, it's not just the temperature that drops—so does the moisture in the air that leaves your scalp feeling like a desert.?

A familiar sight for many, as the season rolls in, those little white, snowy white flakes stamp their stubborn presence. It can be extremely frustrating to see white flakes on blazers and tops. Dandruff is a common scalp problem that affects many people across age groups. But how does one get rid of it —we asked a few experts what the ideal solution is.?

Is dandruff dangerous? Know from experts?

Dandruff is a common skin condition characterised by flakes of dead skin on the scalp. "The major factors behind dandruff include genetics, increased oil activity (seborrheic dermatitis), sensitivity to hair care products, dry skin, eczema, psoriasis, and fungal infections. Hormonal changes, stress, and poor diet can also contribute to dandruff," says Dr Rashmi Sriram, Consultant-Dermatology, Fortis Hospital, Rajaji Nagar.?

Understanding these factors is crucial to managing and preventing dandruff. According to a study published in the Indian Journal of Dermatology, keratinocytes, the specific skin cells, play a vital role in developing dandruff. This is a condition that is uncomfortable and problematic for many. The condition also leads to issues like itching, discomfort, and even hair loss.?

Explaining the risk factors of dandruff, Dr Rashmi Aderao, MBBS, MD Dermatology, said, “The risk of having dandruff can be linked to an itchy scalp; you can get pimples on the forehead and the cheeks; it can also cause boils in the scalps sometimes. Additionally, there is a risk of developing infections if you scratch your scalp too much.”?

Going back to the kitchen for home remedies?

Winters can aggravate dandruff due to dry air and increased scalp irritation. To deal with dandruff in winter, we generally use gentle, sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners. According to Dr. Sriram, you should reduce the product buildup by washing your hair regularly. Sometimes the best solutions are the simple ones that we often miss to notice, and those are passed down through generations. Dr. Aderao also emphasised the power of time-tested, natural remedies for scalp issues like dandruff.?

For instance, Dr. Aderao listed some natural oils packed with nutrients that can help combat winter dandruff:?

Coconut oil: If you have a dry scalp, coconut oil can work wonders for you since it is a natural moisturizer that penetrates deep into the scalp, offering hydration and soothing dryness.?

Lavender oil: Lavender oil can also offer you a calming effect as it is rich in anti-inflammatory properties that help to reduce scalp irritation and itching.?

Rosemary oil: In case you have an oily scalp, then you can use rosemary oil. It can give you great results as it has astringent properties in it, which helps in reducing the oil production to a large extent.?

Do’s and Don’ts to Stay Dandruff

FreeAvoid applying oil on the scalp: Avoid applying oil on the scalp as it can support the growth of the fungus Pityrosporum ovale and further aggravate dandruff.?

Practise Yoga: According to Dr. Sriram, “It is always better to avoid and try out some stress relaxation techniques like meditation or yoga. Stop using harsh chemicals:?

Avoid harsh chemicals: Avoid harsh chemical treatments and use a humidifier to add moisture to the air. Finally, consider consulting a dermatologist for personalized advice on managing dandruff during the winter. Wash your scalp at least three times a week. If you are struggling with dandruff, aim to wash your hair at least three times a week. Dr Aderao went on to explain, “A regular cleansing may help you remove excess oil, dead skin cells, and flakes that are accumulated on the scalp.”?

Say goodbye to those winter flakes and hello to a healthier scalp with these simple tricks, if you also have some secret home remedies to share with us, feel free to comment in the comment section below? ?

For more on lifestyle, astrology and health from around the world please visit?Indiatimes Lifestyle.