Dandruff Treatment

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Antidandruff shampoos available over the counter are effective for many people. The active ingredients in these shampoos may include one or more of the following: salicylic acid, selenium sulfide, menthol, and zinc pyrithione (ZPT). If a particular medicated shampoo seems to be losing its effectiveness after a few uses, select another shampoo with a different active ingredient and switch back and forth between formulas. Medicated shampoos are very drying. For that reason, it is best not to use them more often than necessary.

Shampoos containing coal tar are effective against dandruff. Be aware, however, that they can leave a dulling residue behind that darkens light-colored hair.

If you do not get satisfactory results with over-the-counter remedies, consult your doctor or dermatologist for a diagnosis. If the condition is complicated by a yeast infection, for example, he or she may prescribe a shampoo containing an antifungal such as miconazole (in Micatin-Derm and Monistat-Derm) or clotimazole (Lotrimin, Mycelex, and others).

Selenium sulfide suspension can be applied directly to the scalp once a week. It is nontoxic, but it can irritate the scalp in some cases, and there have been reports of oiliness, dryness, darkening of very light hair, and changes in the rate of hair loss. Its safety for use by pregnant women has not been tested.

In severe, difficult cases, the intermittent use of topical Corticosteroids may be recommended. However, it is best to avoid these agents unless they are absolutely necessary, as they may be absorbed into the body through the scalp. In addition, the body gets used to their effects quickly, so that increased doses can become necessary to achieve the same effect.

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