A potent dandruff remedy that is easy to use at home

Dandruff is a common scalp problem for anyone. Although not severe, these white flakes that fall around the shoulders can reduce one's self-confidence. That is why it is necessary to treat it with drugs to treat dandruff.

What are the drugs to treat dandruff?

Most people believe that the cause of dandruff is related to how to treat hair and scalp. In fact, this is not the case.

Although rarely shampooing can cause dandruff to get worse, the main cause of dandruff is not known with certainty. However, that doesn't mean you can't get over these annoying white flakes.

You can use dandruff medications that are available in various types, from shampoo to creams or ointments that are applied to the scalp. Come on, find out what are the options for how to get rid of stubborn dandruff.

1. Use an anti-dandruff shampoo

One of the most common ways to get rid of dandruff is to use an anti-dandruff shampoo. Shampooing is an effort to maintain good hair hygiene, but must be accompanied by a shampoo that is suitable for the condition of the hair.

For people who experience dandruff problems, of course, need to use a medicated shampoo that contains the active ingredients below to get rid of these flakes.

Ketoconazole

Ketoconazole is a drug that is often used to treat seborrheic dermatitis or a skin disease that causes skin to peel and turn red. You can also find this active compound in medicinal shampoos to get rid of dandruff.

The way ketoconazole works is to inhibit fungal growth and reduce scalp inflammation. The compounds in ketoconazole shampoo are antifungal and antibacterial, so they can be used to fight fungal infections that cause dandruff.

If you want to treat dandruff, you can use a shampoo that contains 1% ketoconazole at a pharmacy. Meanwhile, shampoo with a content of more than 1% ketoconazole can be obtained by prescription.

Although it is considered effective, this anti-dandruff shampoo can cause various side effects, such as:

• skin irritation,
• dry scalp and hair, as well
• change in hair color.

Always read the rules of use before using this dandruff medicinal product.

Selenium sulfide

Apart from ketoconazole, another active compound in medicinal shampoos to get rid of dandruff is selenium sulfide. This compound is often used to treat scalp problems by eradicating fungal growth.

That way, the itching sensation on the scalp is reduced. In fact, this shampoo also reduces flaking and redness of the scalp. How to use it is the same as how to wash it as usual, namely:

• apply shampoo on the scalp,
• scalp massage,
• let stand for 2-3 minutes, and
• rinse thoroughly.

Unlike regular shampoos, selenium sulfide shampoo can only be obtained by prescription. Also, this shampoo should only be used once or twice a week. The reason is, overuse of it can cause dry scalp, irritation, and hair loss.

Zinc pyrithione

Zinc pyrithione is one of the active compounds in dandruff shampoos on the market. This active compound is responsible for reducing dandruff, as well as overcoming itchy scalp and keeping it healthy.

This is probably because zinc pyrithione has cytotoxic activity against malassezia (dandruff-inducing fungus). This means that this active substance can damage the fungus and is considered effective in reducing skin peeling, itching, and irritation.

Sulfur

Not only used to treat acne, but sulfur can actually be used as an active ingredient in shampoo to get rid of dandruff.

You see, sulfur is a non-metallic compound with keratolytic properties, that is, it can remove excess dead skin cells produced by the epidermis. Apart from that, sulfur also exhibits antimicrobial activity.

Even so, this effect of sulfur on dandruff only appears to be effective when used together with salicylic acid.

Coal tar (coal tar)

The properties of coal tar which can release dead skin cells and slow down the growth of skin cells are claimed to be effective in treating dandruff. Well, this shampoo that contains coal tar can only be applied to the hair or scalp.

Its use is the same as any other shampoo. It's just that shampoo with coal tar content needs to be left on for 15 minutes and rinsed with cold water. Keep in mind that this medication should not be used in large or long-term doses.

That is why shampoo containing coal tar is only used as a last resort for dandruff medicine. The reason is, coal tar can increase skin sensitivity to the sun and leave blemishes on the skin and can be a problem with the nails.

Usually, you will need to use a dandruff shampoo every day, but this also depends on the type of shampoo and the scalp. Once the dandruff gets better, you may be able to use anti-dandruff shampoo less frequently.

If you have further questions about anti-dandruff shampoo, discuss it with a dermatologist to find the right solution.

2. Topical steroid drugs

If the anti-dandruff shampoo does not produce satisfactory results, please consult a dermatologist. Especially if the scalp feels very itchy and causes a rash.

The doctor will usually prescribe a topical corticosteroid, such as fluocinolone, to be used for two weeks. This aims to reduce the rash on the scalp.

In addition, you will also be given drugs that help suppress the immune response, such as tacrolimus and pimecrolimus. It is important to use these medicines according to the doctor's instructions to reduce the risk of side effects.

Can dandruff be overcome with natural ingredients?

Apart from medicinal shampoo to treat dandruff, there are actually natural ways to get rid of this scalp disease.

Dandruff can actually be controlled by following a variety of healthy hair care routines. You can also try some simple and natural home remedies.

You may need a lot of patience and caution, especially if you have sensitive skin. Here are some natural ingredients to get rid of dandruff.

• Tea tree oil because it is antiseptic and antifungal.
• Baking soda acts as a mild exfoliator which removes dead skin.
• Olive oil to moisturize dry scalp.
• Salt because it is an abrasive that can rub off dandruff flakes.
• Aloe vera to relieve itching on the scalp.
• Apple cider vinegar because it contains high acids to fight fungi and bacteria.

Even though natural ingredients are easy to obtain, you must still be careful because it is very possible that the ingredients above can cause various side effects. Always discuss with a dermatologist before trying natural dandruff remedies.