Dandruff occurs when the fine cells of the outer layer of skin on the scalp are shed at a faster rate than normal, causing the characteristic flakes of dead skin. This is caused by a disorder of the sebaceous glands. If too little sebum is secreted the hair is dry and dandruff appears as white flakes; if too much sebum is produced the hair is greasy, and the dandruff yellow. The flakes are usually most obvious after brushing or combing the hair, which loosens them. Certain types of seborrheic dermatitis are also responsible for dandruff, which will cause inflammation and itchiness in addition to flaking.
TREATMENT
Herbalism
Improve circulation to the scalp. Rosemary is the herb of choice, taken internally as a tea and used as an application. For dry hair, rub rosemary-infused oil into the scalp before washing. For greasy hair, add rosemary vinegar or a few drops of rosemary essential oil to the rinsing water. Take a combination of the herbs burdock, kelp, and heartsease internally to improve the general condition of the scalp.
Aromatherapy
Rosemary, cedarwood, tea tree, or patchouli can be massaged into the scalp, added to unscented shampoos, and used in the final rinse when washing your hair. Dilute lavender oil in a little almond or coconut oil and massage into the scalp to eliminate dandruff.
Homeopathy
Constitutional treatment may be useful, but the following remedies may help:
• Arsenicum, for a dry, sensitive, hot scalp with bare patches of skin.
• Nat. mur., for a white crust around the hairline, and greasy hair.
• Fluoric acid, for flaky scalp and hair loss.
• Graphites, for a moist scalp with smelly crusting.
• Sulfur, for thick dandruff which is itchier at night.
• Sepia, for moist, greasy scalp, which is sensitive around the ears.
Vitamins and Minerals
Increase your intake of selenium, vitamin E, vitamin C, B-complex vitamins, and zinc.
Monday, 13 January 2014
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