Dandruff hair and scalp will certainly make you uncomfortable, not even a few people feel inferior because of dandruff. Jif you are one of them, do not worry. There are some choice dandruff medicine effective to get rid of dandruff in the hair and scalp.
Dandruff is flakes of dead skin that appear white or gray in color. These dandruff flakes are mostly found on the scalp, but sometimes they can also form on the eyebrows, eyelashes, and chest.
The exact cause of dandruff is not clearly known. However, the appearance of dandruff is usually associated with:
- Rarely shampooing or bathing.
- The scalp is oily and too moist or dry.
- Dermatitis on the scalp, for example due to the use of hair care products that are irritating.
- Certain diseases, such as seborrheic dermatitis, eczema, psoriasis, and fungal or bacterial infections of the scalp.
- Stress.
- Weakened immune system.
Various Drug Options for Dandruff
Dandruff is not a dangerous condition nor is it contagious to other people, but its presence can affect the sufferer's self-confidence.
To treat stubborn dandruff, both dry dandruff and wet dandruff, try the following types of dandruff medications:
1. Zinc pyrithione
Anti-dandruff shampoos that are sold in the market usually contain ingredients like: zincpyrithione. This active ingredient serves to reduce itching and burning in the head, inhibit the growth of fungi and bacteria on the scalp that can trigger the appearance of dandruff. This content is also widely used to treat dandruff due to seborrheic dermatitis and wet dandruff due to excess oil on the scalp.
When using it, shake the shampoo bottle first, then apply it to wet hair and scalp (same as shampooing). Leave it on for about 10 minutes and then rinse the shampoo with clean water.
However, this type of shampoo is not recommended for use on dry scalp conditions. Also avoid using this anti-dandruff shampoo beyond the instructions for use and try not to get it in your eyes.
2. Salicylic acid
Shampoos containing salicylic acid can also help get rid of dandruff. This content works by removing dead skin cells that have accumulated on the scalp. Salicylic acid also works to prevent excess oil on the scalp which can cause wet dandruff.
How to use this salicylic acid shampoo is the same as regular shampoo. Apply at least twice a week or as directed by a doctor. You can also use conditioner after shampooing to avoid dry scalp and irritation. However, do not use this type of shampoo if you have rashes and sores on your scalp.
3. Selenium sulfide
Selenium sulfide works by reducing irritation, inflammation, and eradicating the fungus on the scalp that causes dandruff.
Apply this shampoo on the scalp by massaging. Leave for 2-3 minutes, then rinse with water until clean. You can wash using this shampoo 1-2 times a week or as advised by a doctor.
Avoid using shampoos containing selenium sulfide too often because it can cause hair loss, dry scalp, and irritation.
4. Ketoconazole
Ketoconazole is one type of antifungal drug that is widely used to treat dandruff on the scalp. How to use this shampoo is the same as when you wash it with regular shampoo. However, you have to wait about 5 minutes before rinsing your hair with clean water.
5. Coal tar (coal tar)
This content can inhibit the growth of skin cells that grow too fast and peel, eradicate fungi, and relieve inflammation on the scalp. Because it has these effects, coal tar is widely used as a treatment for dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis, and psoriasis.
Shampoos containing these ingredients are used by massaging into the scalp and leaving for 5-10 minutes, then rinse with water until clean. If you have blonde or light hair, this shampoo can make your hair darker.
In addition, this dandruff medication that contains coal tar material can also make the skin more irritated when exposed to sunlight.
6. Sodium Laureil sulfate (SLS) and sodium laureth sulfate (SLES)
Both of these ingredients are widely used in body care products, including shampoo. SLS and SLES play a role in increasing the effectiveness of shampoo in eradicating and cleaning dandruff, both in the hair and scalp.
7. Dimethicone
Dimethicone in shampoo products play a role in maintaining hair moisture, promoting hair growth, and preventing frizz. In addition, this content also functions to prevent dry scalp which can be a trigger for dandruff.
8. Guar hydroxypropyltrimonium chloride (Guar hydroxypropyltrimonium chloride)
The content derived from guar gum plant extract functions to smooth the hair and prevent it from tangling so that it is easier to comb and manage. In addition, this content can also moisturize the hair and prevent dry scalp which can trigger the appearance of dandruff.
In addition to some of the ingredients or dandruff drugs above, some types of shampoo are also added with menthol content. The menthol in shampoo can prevent dandruff, relieve itching, and provide a cooling sensation that refreshes the scalp.
Not only that, menthol also functions to increase blood flow to the scalp which is beneficial for overall scalp health.
When using the dandruff medication, read the instructions for use carefully first. Do not use the dandruff drug more than the dose or duration of use stated on the product
To make sure that the dandruff medication or shampoo is suitable for use or not, try applying the shampoo on the skin of your hands first, then wait for a few minutes.
If you have an allergic reaction, such as itching, rash, or bumps, don't use the product and try another type of dandruff remedy. You can consult a doctor to get the right and safe dandruff medication, especially if the drug will be used on children, pregnant women, and breastfeeding mothers.
