Dandruff

Dandruff a common problem caused by the shedding of dead skin from your scalp.

It can be annoying but can be easily managed if you know how. Knowledge of this condition has improved massively in recent years and the products available today are extremely effective. 

Dandruff signs and symptoms:
Dandruff is a consequence of a dry scalp. Your scalp may be itchy or feel a bit sensitive and look red. Small white flakes of skin will collect on your shoulders and may be visible in your hair.

Having a dry scalp does not mean you have poor hygiene or dirty hair, it can be due to something as simple as using a new shampoo that reacts badly with your skin.

It can be hard to notice dandruff initially, as you might not notice the small white flakes and not have any pain or discomfort. But, left unchecked it will slowly worsen, taking longer to recover.

Lifestyle tips:
Dandruff can be easily managed, but does require some discipline with your hair care routine.

If you have already developed dandruff you should wash your hair everyday with an anti-dandruff shampoo until the flakes subside. It is important to let the shampoo do it’s job, leaving the shampoo in for 5 minutes before rinsing it out will hasten recovery.

If your dandruff is particularly bad and hard to manage it may be possible to get specialist anti-dandruff shampoos prescribed by your GP. It is also asking your local pharmacist for recommended and effective shampoos.

To prevent dandruff, or stop it coming back you should use an anti-dandruff shampoo 2-3 times a week. Obsessive washing of your hair will dry out your scalp and make things worse. Dandruff is worse during the winter and dry months, so take extra care to prevent a flakey scalp.

Avoiding harsh hair products will help avoid invitation to your head. But even excessive use of milder products can cause problems for people with sensitive skin. 

Diet tips:
There a few things you can do to help suppress dandruff other than careful management of your hair care routine.

Drinking plenty of water will help keep all your skin hydrated and a key factor in health skin, as well as being important for generally good health.

Trying to get as much natural sunlight helps with dry skin. Not only does it help your body in creating important vitamins and proteins, it stops fungus that can grow in your hair and irritate your scalp.

Akoma recommends:

For a dry and irritated scalp it’s recommended to use natural products which contain no harsh chemicals or preservatives.

Akoma Coconut Oil is rich in antioxidants, minerals, protein, vitamin E and fiber which makes it an intense moisturiser for your hair and scalp. Massage the oil into your scalp after washing. Leave it in as an intensive conditioner to soften your scalp and stop it from flaking.

Natural antibacterial soaps also help reduce dandruff without drying your scalp further. Akoma Black Soap is made from raw shea butter, organic virgin coconut oil and cocoa pods that gently treat infections.

Black soap is also packed with antioxidants to improve the general health of your skin.