Groove Magazine Zimbabwe Issue 1 | Page 38

Hair factors Dandruff: Is that flake giving you a headache? There is nothing as annoying as annoying as an itching head. Scratching seems to be a great idea until your clothes have flakes, (and we don’t mean corn flakes). Dandruff! What is Dandruff? Dandruff is a harmless, chronic condition that occurs when the scalp becomes dry or greasy and produces white flakes of the dead skin that appear in the hair or on the shoulders. Dandruff is very embarrassing, and affects up to 40% of people over the age of 30. Causes:  Allergies Most of the chemicals used in hair products tend to be slightly aggressive on the scalp’s natural process therefore in certain individuals who are hypersensitive, they develop dandruff.  Skin conditions Skin conditions such as psoriasis, seborrhoeic dermatitis, or eczema  Age Dandruff begins at as young as 10 years old and continues into middle age. This problem can be life-long.  Being male Researchers think that dandruff is more prevalent in men due to male hormones. HAIR TIPS • First, shampoo with a shampoo containing zinc pyrithione. This kills the fungus. • Follow this shampoo with one that has salicylic acid, which "scrubs" off the flakes. These two in combination should control your dandruff problems, but if this doesn't work, THEN consult a dermatologist, who can prescribe stronger medication. 36 They have longer oil-producing glands on their scalps, which contribute dandruff.  Poor diet If your diet lacks food high in zinc or vitamin B, you may be more likely to have dandruff.  Illnesses Neurological diseases such as Parkinson’s disease, stress, compromised immune system, heart attacks and strokes  Oily hair and scalp Excessively oily skin and hair makes you prone to dandruff. Remedies for dandruff Can you believe that you can relieve dandruff with stuff found in your own kitchen or medicine cabinet. Skip the dandruff shampoo, here are six homemade remedies for dandruff. Aspirin Crush two aspirins to a fine powder and adding it to the normal amount of shampoo you use each time you wash your hair. Leave the mixture on your scalp for 1-2 minutes, then rinse well and wash again with plain shampoo.