Preventing dandruff in winter starts with a good seasonal scalp and hair care routine. Don’t know how to get started? We can help.
If you’re worried that those flakes on your shoulders might not be snow, you’re not alone.
Lots of us suffer from dandruff in the winter. It’s nothing to worry about, but can be annoying, especially if you’re wearing a lot of dark wintry clothes and are concerned that people can see the flakes on your shoulders.
Winter is the classic party season when you want to look your best, whether that’s dressed up for an epic office Christmas party or wrapping up warm in a hat and scarf for the perfect snowy insta-shot. Winter dandruff is the ultimate unwelcome party guest, so let us take you through why it turns up and how to get rid of it.
You might be surprised to learn that winter dandruff isn’t caused by the cold. It is caused by a microbe present on all of our scalps and it’s there all year round, whatever the weather.
You can learn all about why you might experience more wintertime flaking in our article about dandruff in winter.
Or, if you just want to cut to the chase and find out how to get it under control, follow our tips to stop your dandruff from flaring up when the temperature drops.
1. Choose a moisturizing anti-dandruff shampoo. You’ll want to look for two things in your winter dandruff shampoo: Firstly, make sure it’s actually effective against dandruff. You’ll be looking for an active ingredient which protects your scalp from the effects of the dandruff-causing microbe.
Aim for a clinically proven shampoo, as you’ll know the active ingredient works against dandruff. Skip shampoos and conditioners that don’t have dandruff actives, as they won’t do anything to treat the issue.
Second, look for shampoos and conditioners that promise moisturization to give your dry scalp a boost.
Your conditioner should also be designed for dandruff, as ordinary conditioners can wash dandruff-preventing ingredients from your shampoo off your scalp, leaving you less protected and more prone to dry scalp and hair damage.
To learn more about how to get the best out of your haircare products, check out our foolproof winter hair care routine.
2. Wash frequently – 3 times a week or more. The more you use your anti-dandruff shampoo, the greater the improvement to the skin on your scalp.
3. Don’t scratch. Scratching can damage your skin even more and make flakes more visible. Instead, press your fingers against your head if it’s really itchy. Prevention is better than a cure, so use dandruff shampoo to help fight itch before it starts.
4. Avoid things that can dry out your scalp like dry indoor air. Use a humidifier to help keep your scalp moisturized.
5. Keep it cool: very hot shower water can strip moisture from your skin, so turn the temperature down. 38 degrees (body temperature) is perfect.
6. Make sure your hats are breathable. While wearing a hat can help keep you warm, it’s important to choose one made of a breathable fabric that allows air to flow.
7. Keep using shampoo to treat your dandruff in winter, even after your flakes subside. Dandruff is a recurring condition, so if you’ve had it before you can get it again.
If dandruff is getting you down this winter, don’t fret. Our top tips will have you dashing through the snow again in no time.