Have you noticed that your scalp turns itchy and flaky when winter comes? Does that make you wonder why I get dandruff in the winter? More importantly, what are some practical ways to keep your scalp dandruff-free?
From the reasons that trigger your dandruff problems to the best natural remedies, here you’ll find all the information you need to tackle dandruff.
Table of Contents
Why do I get dandruff in winter?
Foggy mornings, New Year celebrations, cozy sweaters, and snowy adventures make winter everyone’s favorite season. However, with the arrival of the winter season, our skin becomes dry, and our dandruff problems worsen.
But why do I suddenly have dandruff when my scalp was perfectly healthy in Autumn?
Extreme weather conditions
Studies have revealed that drastic weather changes weaken our bodies’ natural defenses.
Both seborrheic dermatitis and dandruff can come from seasonal changes, stress, excess growth of yeast on the scalp, and fluctuating hormones.
Naturally dry scalp
While some people are born with oily skin, others have dry skin. If your skin type is dry, consider following moisturization techniques in winter. Many excellent shampoos can replenish moisture and alleviate dandruff. But warm and pure coconut oil will do wonders for you during this time.
Not shampooing enough
Another reason behind dandruff formation is that most people don’t wash their hair frequently when the weather’s cold.
This matures the follicle, trapping germs, oil, and dirt.
You might also find tiny boils on your head if you don’t wash it enough.
But evidently, winter makes us stay away from water and it is understandable.
Using hot water to wash hair
Showering in hot water can be equally damaging as when you step out of the hot water, your scalp can’t handle the sudden temperature alterations.
It harms the scalp ecosystem and causes more oil secretion. Then, you are left with no alternative but to hunt for cost-effective ways to bid farewell to dandruff.
Don’t let your scalp get to this position as it might ruin your hair health and make it irreparable.
Lukewarm water works fine during colder climates, and you can use it in moderation.
Allergies
From peanuts to grass, people have different kinds of allergies. Have you thought you could be allergic to a particular ingredient in your hair product?
If you notice scalp irritation, your shampoo or conditioner will be blamed for the flakes. Try to identify the culprit and stop using it immediately to reduce the sensitivity.
If your scalp is extremely sensitive, you might turn to medicated products recommended by dermatologists.
Yeast overgrowth
A fungus named Malassezia lives and thrives on the skin and scalp of humans. Some people can be sensitive to this and also to dandruff as it triggers flake buildup.
Malassezia can aggravate skin conditions such as seborrheic dermatitis. To address this condition, consuming medicines prescribed by a certified dermatologist is the only way forward. There are medicated shampoos that can give a tough fight to the fungus.
Medical reasons
Many of us don’t realize that they don’t have dandruff but seborrheic dermatitis. It is a chronic condition that affects several body parts, including the scalp.
Wherever there are oil glands, you will have redness and dandruff. Based on its looks, it has similarities with psoriasis and eczema.
If you have the symptoms mentioned above, find a tar-based shampoo to get some relief.
If you follow a good hair care routine, the problem will subside. Taking medications might also be necessary and so visit a hair expert for optimal care.
Why you should not ignore dandruff?
According to trichologists, the scalp forms the bedrock for hair follicles. When the scalp is in bad condition, you will likely experience several hair problems.
Dandruff, one of the most significant side effects of dry and cold weather, does more than make your hair look unappealing.
If you allow dandruff to develop, your hair will weaken over time. It won’t grow properly, and you’ll notice a lot of hair fall. So, if you want voluminous hair, you must not take dandruff lightly.
Are you trying to figure out how to avoid dandruff in winter naturally?
Scroll down as we’ve shared some excellent home remedies.
Dandruff in winter remedies
So, now that you know why we get dandruff in the winter let’s find out how you can deal with a flaky scalp.
Here are some tried-and-tested tips to give you the confidence to wear your favorite black sweater.
Apply essential oils
Like your skin, your hair requires extra pampering in winter, and applying essential oils is a good idea.
They won’t just provide moisture but also treat various hair problems.
Argan oil, for instance, keeps the scalp moisturized, and it won’t dry out quickly. It also has anti-inflammatory properties that will soothe itchy scalp.
Tea tree oil is another beneficial essential oil that deeply nourishes and reduces itchiness.
Essential oils are enriched with the goodness of nature. So, they are better than products that contain artificial ingredients.
Those synthetic and harsh products can harm your hair health and hence, switch to natural hair care.
The only thing that you must remember is always to use essential oils mixed with a carrier oil.
As they are highly concentrated, diluting them with coconut or other carrier oil will prevent allergic reactions.
Buy good anti-dandruff shampoo
If you see a lot of dandruff even after shampooing, it’s a sign that your shampoo is ineffective. So, it would help if you stopped using your regular shampoo, as it won’t be able to treat dandruff.
To choose the right anti-dandruff shampoo, go through reviews and the ingredients list. The shampoo should have an active ingredient to make the dandruff-causing microbe powerless.
Don’t forget your conditioner
During winter, most people skip one essential step: applying conditioner.
Even if the cold forces you to get out of the bathroom as soon as possible, conditioner becomes more crucial this time of the year.
So, after shampooing your hair, you must hydrate the scalp with a conditioner explicitly designed for dandruff-prone heads.
The conditioner will not just treat dryness but also minimize the chances of hair damage.
Exfoliate your scalp
Since you have dandruff, simply washing your hair with shampoo won’t suffice.
You must use a head massager to massage the scalp for a few minutes. This practice will cleanse the scalp and improve circulation.
All the dead skin cells will be gone, and you will feel relaxed after the experience.
Note: You should be gentle when exfoliating your scalp and use a soft silicon brush. Even when you detangle your hair later, don’t be aggressive, your scalp will get sore.
Limit friction
Doctors think that friction in the scalp aggravates itchiness.
Constant conflict is worsening your dandruff, and flakes are everywhere, from your t-shirt to your pillow cover.
So, you will see less dandruff if you don’t wear scarves, hats, and harsh materials.
Instead, take a satin or silk cloth to cover your head, which will be kind to your scalp and hair.
Increase the intake of omega-3s
Your hair health is directly linked to your diet, so eating well is mandatory.
Eggs, for example, are loaded with protein, keeping hair smooth, strong, and silky. Omega-3 fatty acids are equally vital for your skin and hair.
By regulating oil production on your scalp, omega-3s eliminate dandruff symptoms.
So, your diet should include walnuts, chia seeds, plant oils, and salmon.
Spinach, Brussels sprouts, flaxseeds, and mackerel are other incredible sources of omega-3s.
Have sugary foods in moderation
Do you love to savor sweet treats now and then?
You’ll be surprised to learn that sugary food promotes yeast growth on your scalp.
So, an anti-dandruff diet should comprise less sweet delicacies.
Consult a trichologist
Too much dandruff can indicate an underlying condition that demands medical attention.
Also, you cannot differentiate between sensitive scalp, psoriasis, and dandruff as the symptoms are similar.
So, if you’re through with dandruff, consider booking an appointment with a trichologist. You will know with surety if you have dandruff or dermatitis.
Final Thoughts
Winter is the party season, and everyone wants to look their best. The ultimate uninvited guest who can spoil your fun in the sweater weather is dandruff.
We have already shared how we get dandruff in the winter and what to do about it.
So, please set up a hair care routine, and don’t let those stubborn flakes make your scalp their permanent abode.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which shampoo is best for dandruff in winter?
You should read the product features when choosing a shampoo that prevents and eliminates dandruff. The best shampoo will give impressive results from the first wash.
2. Why do I have dandruff all of a sudden in winter?
In winter, your hair gets dehydrated if you don’t moisturize it. The cold weather takes a toll on your scalp if it is dry.
3. How do you treat dandruff in the winter?
Shampooing your hair at least twice a week with a highly-rated anti-dandruff shampoo is an ideal way to treat dandruff. You should also oil properly, massage the scalp while shampooing, and avoid scratching your head.