What Can I Do for My Very Dry Scalp? #AskDrSandy

Question

I have a very dry scalp – it is (and has been for many years) like a layer of dead skin, especially around my hairline. It creates a lot of dandruff, especially when I inevitably touch it. Is there anything I can do to fix this? I have had it for years, although sometimes it is very bad vs. just sort of bad (although basically always there). I should maybe switch my shampoo. I wash my hair every third day.

Answer

Avoid heavily scented shampoos and for your dandruff which is called Seborrheic Dermatitis, I recommend over the counter shampoos initially. Try alternating Nizoral shampoo with a tar based shampoo. I like DHS fragrance free tar shampoo which is on my Product Elimination Diet list.   Washing every 3 days is fine. Hope this helps. If it does not there are some prescription shampoos and lotions your family doctor can prescribe for this very common condition.