Dandruff and Scalp Infection Treatment – Causes & Prevention
Dandruff and scalp infections cause itching and flakes for many in Chennai. Simple treatments and prevention steps bring quick relief and a healthy scalp.
What causes dandruff
Dandruff comes from dry skin, oil build-up, or yeast called Malassezia on the scalp. It leads to white or yellow flakes and a mild itch.
In Chennai, humidity and sweat mix with oil to feed yeast growth. Stress or cold showers worsen flaking without regular care.
Scalp infection signs
Infections show red patches, pus bumps, soreness, or hair loss spots. Fungal types like ringworm spread fast in warm weather.
Bacterial ones cause crusts or boils from scratches. Early signs prevent spread to the neck or ears.
Related: Chronic Itchy Scalp Condition Treatment
When to see a dermatologist
Visit if flakes cover clothes, itch disrupts sleep, or bald patches appear. Home shampoos failing after two weeks need professional help.
Quick checks stop hair damage and clear infections in days.
Diagnosis process
Doctors examine the scalp for flakes, redness, or glow under a Wood’s lamp. Scraping tests confirm fungus or bacteria in the lab.
The history of shampoos and diet guides the plan fast.
Anti-dandruff shampoo
Use ketoconazole or zinc pyrithione shampoos twice weekly. Leave on for 5 minutes before rinsing to kill yeast.
Alternate with mild cleansers to avoid dryness. Most see fewer flakes in one week.
Treating fungal scalp infections
Oral antifungals like fluconazole clear ringworm in 4 weeks with shampoo support. Topical lotions cover spots daily.
The full course prevents return, especially in Chennai rains.
Bacterial infection care
Antibiotic creams or short oral doses treat boils. Clean the scalp daily to drain pus safely.
Sterile tools avoid scars on healing skin.
Psoriasis or eczema on the scalp
Steroid gels reduce thick scales overnight. Coal tar shampoos control flares weekly.
Moisturising lotions lock in relief between washes.
Home remedies that help
Coconut oil with tea tree oil soothes mild dandruff twice weekly. Aloe vera gel calms red itchy spots.
Apple cider vinegar rinse balances pH once a week. Test small areas first.
Prevention daily routine
Wash hair 2 to 3 times weekly with lukewarm water. Dry fully before bed to cut moisture.
Trim nails to stop scratch damage. Silk pillowcases reduce friction.
Diet and lifestyle tips
Eat zinc-rich foods like nuts and eggs. Probiotic curd cuts yeast overgrowth.
Manage stress with walks to lower flare triggers.
Expected recovery time
Dandruff eases in 2 weeks with shampoo. Infections clear fully in 4 to 6 weeks.
Follow-ups tweak if flakes linger.
Safety and side effects
Medicated shampoos rarely dry hair, which is eased by conditioners. Oral drugs need liver checks for long-term use.
Patch tests prevent allergies.
Cost of treatment in Chennai
Shampoos and creams cost a low monthly fee. Oral courses add mid-range for infections.
Clinic packs save on repeats.
Choosing the right products
Pick paraben-free for sensitive scalps. FDA-approved actives work best long-term.
Read labels for yeast fighters.
FAQs on dandruff and scalp infections
Does oily hair cause more dandruff?
Yes, oil feeds yeast, so washing twice weekly prevents buildup.
Can ringworm spread from combs?
Yes, clean tools weekly and avoid sharing to stop it.
How long for shampoo to stop flakes?
Twice-weekly use cuts flakes by 50 per cent in 7 days.
Does diet fix scalp infections?
Zinc foods help, but meds clear the fungus faster.
Does Chennai’s humidity worsen dandruff?
Sweat grows yeast, so fans and light shampoos control it.
