Dandruff- First Aid and Emergency Treatment Guide

What is Dandruff?

• White flakes of dead skin 
• Dandruff mostly affects scalp
• Not a health hazard but a nuisance

 Symptoms

• Itchy, scaly scalp

Causes

• A fungus, Malassezia
• It feeds on scalp's natural oils 
• Produces acid which causes itch
• Other factors:
1. Climate
2. Stress
3. Hormone production
4. Oily skin
5. Food habits

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Treatment

• Use anti-dandruff, conditioner-based shampoo
• Rinse scalp for 5 minutes with shampoo
• If resistant, apply 1 % hydrocortisone cream
• If severe, consult a dermatologist /trichologist

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Prevention

• Cannot be prevented but managed 
• Use good quality shampoo 
• Wash hair frequently 
• Avoid using gels/ waxes
• Eat a healthy diet

Related infections

• Psoriasis, Impetigo, Tinea capitis