How to Prevent Dandruff in Winter

If you notice more than snowflakes on your shoulders this winter, you may be suffering from dandruff. Although dandruff can worsen in winter, those frustrating flakes are not actually caused by cold, dry air. The primary culprit is an overabundance of malassezia fungus. Dandruff is not a serious health condition, but sufferers will pull out all the stops to prevent that particular kind of snow from falling 3. Preventing winter dandruff is a challenge that you can win with a proper haircare routine.

Step into a warm shower. Apply a quarter-sized amount of specially formulated dandruff shampoo to your palm. Work the shampoo through your hair, focusing on the scalp area. Let the shampoo sit for five minutes to properly work, and then rinse it out. Wash your hair once per day with the dandruff shampoo, which is formulated to eradicate the malassezia fungus.

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Wet your hair completely once you are in the shower and pour 3 to 4 tablespoons of baking soda into your hand. Rub the baking soda on your scalp using gentle, massaging motions to loosen up dead skin and oily flakes. Rinse your hair thoroughly with warm water.

Pour 2 tablespoons of lemon juice directly onto your scalp and massage it in using your fingers. Rinse your hair completely with warm water. Pour 1 teaspoon of lemon juice into 1 cup of water and pour it over your head. Do not rinse out the final lemon-juice application.

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Pour 1 to 2 tablespoons of table salt in your hand and massage the salt gently into your scalp to help loosen up the dead skin. Rinse your hair with water to remove the salt, then wash your hair using a quarter-sized amount of shampoo. Rinse well with warm water, and apply conditioner if desired.

Walk or sit outside in the sun for 20 to 30 minutes each day. Some people find that the ultra-violet rays from the sun help to reduce dandruff in the winter months. Don't forget to wear sunscreen.

Tips

Reduce dandruff shampoo usage to twice per week in warmer months.

Alternating between two different dandruff shampoos may produce the best results.

If the dandruff persists or gets worse, visit a dermatologist who can prescribe a stronger topical treatment.

Reduce or eliminate the use of styling products such as hairspray, gel or mousse. These products cause dandruff to worsen in some people.

Brush your hair at least twice per day to eliminate the flakes from your scalp. Although many dandruff sufferers avoid brushing, this is an important part of keeping your scalp clear of dead skin cells.

Increase your daily intake of zinc and vitamin B, which can help reduce dandruff.