In our previous article, we saw that drying and flaking off
of skin cells from the scalp is normal. However, if the shedding and build up
is excessive due to internal or environmental causes, it tends to give the
scalp a scaly appearance leading to irritation. It can be identified by dry,
fine flaky skin on the scalp. Most people will simply complain of white/grayish
flakes on their shoulders which are mostly noticeable on dark clothing.
The common causes of dandruff are; infrequent shampooing, emotional
and mental stress, compromised or poor immune system, hormones as well as hair
styling and use of harsh treatments/chemicals on the scalp.
Dandruff Treatment
Dandruff is a mild and easy to treat skin/scalp problem. It will
mostly resolve in a few weeks of treatment with therapeutic dandruff shampoos. All
affected areas should be shampooed. The shampoos help by slowing down over
production of skin cells, removing the affected cells as well as controlling the
fungi that promotes dandruff. It is also important to learn to manage your
stress levels, eating well, treating underlying medical conditions as well as
cutting back on harsh hair styling products and heat treatment.
We, at SliceOfNature recommend
a natural, non toxic, non irritant, easy to use remedy for the treatment of dandruff;
African wild sage, commonly known as leleshwa. It is great for this
purpose when used in shampoos, treatments, hair conditioners and gels. Treatment
is easy; just dilute a few drops of leleshwa (3 to 5 drops) with your preferred
shampoo, treatment, conditioner or gel and apply as usual. Repeat treatment 2-3
times a week.
It is good to note that application of leleshwa is only safe
in small quantities and only if diluted with a carrier oil or a solubilized
solution. For external use only, avoid contact with eyes. Treatment is not
recommended on pregnant women during the first three months. Whatever treatment
regime you choose or works for you, follow through with recommendations and persistence
because all methods of treatment take time.
This blog is aimed at providing suggestions for the
management of mild cases of dandruff and is not a replacement to physician
advice. If symptoms persist or worsen, it is important to contact a physician. Most
often, a doctor will diagnose simply by looking at your hair and scalp.
