Dandruff is a common scalp condition that causes itchiness and dryness. It can be a nuisance to a few with other skin conditions like eczema. It can make the scalp extremely flaky and irritable. There are many causes of dandruff. These include dry scalp due to a lack of external and internal nourishment. By following some proactive and preventive measures, one can treat dandruff on the scalp. Follow these five tips to ward off and prevent dandruff.

• Get some sun exposure

Sunlight is good for the scalp as it suppresses bacteria and fungus that thrives on the scalp, causing dandruff. Therefore, spending time outdoors can be beneficial to your scalp; however, ensure that you are not in the sun for too long. As in, don’t sunbathe without sun protection as it can damage your skin. Always wear a high SPF sunscreen and protective gear to ensure both scalp and skin health.

• Manage Stress

Stress can trigger dandruff and can create an ideal condition for Malassezia Globosa, a microbe that causes dandruff, to thrive. However, stress is not easy to deal with, and a few tips, such as deep breathing and meditation, can help you relax your mind. Furthermore, incorporate exercise in your lifestyle, and try getting enough sleep, i.e., at least eight hours a day. These can help reduce or manage stress, thereby preventing dandruff.

• Eat healthy

Diet is an important consideration in the treatment of dandruff. Foods rich in vitamin B, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids can cure symptoms of dandruff. Foods rich in vitamin B include eggs, milk, broccoli, sweet potatoes, and cabbage. Those that are replete with zinc include poultry, seafood, beans, and whole grains. And lastly, foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids are fatty fish like sardines, tuna and salmon, nuts like walnuts, and veggies like spinach and cauliflower.

• Avoid hairstyling products

Hairstyling products may make your hair look great, but your scalp suffers. Curl creams, hair spray, hair wax, and hair gel have chemicals that can harm the scalp. These products can make the scalp greasy and increase flakes on the scalp. This can be a breeding ground for a fungal infection that causes dandruff. This also includes hair straighteners and blow dryers that can increase the dryness of the scalp and worsen symptoms of dandruff.

• Drink water

This tip may seem simple, but it is essential to follow. Dry-scalp flaking can also be caused due to dehydration. All the cells of the body require water to function optimally, including the scalp. Without enough water, the scalp can turn dry and begin to flake. To prevent this, have at least eight glasses of water a day. It will not only help manage dandruff and dry scalp, but also maintain overall health.