Dandruff is one of the most bothersome skin problems that affect men. As such, there are many myths out there about how to get rid of the issue. That’s why it’s important to separate fact from fiction to finally find dandruff relief.

What is Dandruff?

Dandruff is a skin condition where skin on the scalp begins to flake. While it isn’t a symptom of larger health issues, it can be embarrassing, particularly when flakes appear on dark clothing.

What Causes Dandruff

Dandruff is most often a result of a fungus called Malassezia. This is a fungus that lives on the scalp and feeds on oils. 

It’s not typically a problem, but some people’s immune systems overreact to it. The following can aid in the development of Malassezia. 

Not Washing Your Hair Enough

When you fail to wash your hair frequently enough, oils begin to build up. There’s more food for Malassezia to consume, and you put yourself at greater risk of dandruff. That includes your beard, which is also susceptible to dandruff.

Dry Weather

During cold weather, the skin tends to dry out, which is why people tend to notice dandruff more in the winter. It’s why it’s important to moisturize your body consistently, including your scalp.

Wet Weather

The rainy season creates an ideal environment for Malassezia to thrive. Make sure to wear ample protection when going outside in the elements. 

The Wrong Hair Products

Your body may have a bad reaction to certain haircare products. If you notice a difference upon using a new product, you should discontinue usage and speak to a dermatologist to determine what you’re allergic to.

A dermatologist can also recommend better products to use for your specific hair type. 

7 Ways to Get Rid of Dandruff for Men

Fortunately, there are ways to combat dandruff. Try each of the following one at a time to see if you find any relief with your skin problems. 

1. Use Anti-Dandruff Shampoo

Some shampoo is specifically designed to reduce the oils the Malassezia feeds off of. It eliminates the conditions for dandruff to thrive, so you finally get a clear scalp. 

2. Clean Your Hair Weekly

You don’t need to wash your hair every day. In fact, it can be actively harmful to wash that often.

However, you should wash your hair once or twice a week. That will be enough to ensure oil doesn’t build up. If you still notice dandruff forming, then you can go to three times weekly.

3. Use More Aloe Vera

Aloe vera is a wonderful product for your skin. Consider applying a small amount to your scalp after showering to soothe your skin before going about your day. 

4. Avoid Certain Foods

Some foods can actually produce more oil on your skin, so you should avoid the following to see if any have an impact on your body’s dandruff production.

• Sugary foods and drinks
• Fried and processed foods
• Red meat
• Refined carbs, such as crackers, tortillas, and white pasta

5. Alternate Hydrating Shampoos

Your scalp actually becomes accustomed to certain shampoos over time. Try going back and forth between a couple that offer hydrating properties to adequately combat dandruff.

6. Consume More Omega-3 Fatty Acids

While there are foods you need to avoid, you also need to make sure you’re getting the right nutrients in your body. That includes omega-3 fatty acids.

You find this substance in fish and walnuts. You may want to take a supplement if you’re concerned you’re not getting enough in your diet naturally.

7. Use Non-Irritating Hair Products

If you use mousse or gel, you may want to stop for a while. It’s possible your hair products are aggravating dandruff and resulting in more flakes. 

Get Rid of Your Dandruff Today

The above steps not only help with dandruff. They can also make it easier to grow out your hair if you’re concerned about that as a man. 

For extreme circumstances, you may need to talk to a professional for extra help. Dermatologists can prescribe powerful shampoos that are even better than over-the-counter materials for targeting oils. 

References:

Henry Ford Health System Staff. “5 Causes Of Dandruff (And How To Treat Them).” Henry Ford LiveWell, 29 Nov. 2016. https://www.henryford.com/blog/2016/11/5-causes-dandruff-treat

Link, Rachael. “10 Home Remedies to Get Rid of Dandruff Naturally.” Healthline, 17 Jan. 2022. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/ways-to-treat-dandruff