Dandruff is a condition of the scalp disorder

It can be difficult to prevent dandruff completely, but it can be controlled with the proper treatment. Dandruff treatment may take a little patience and persistence. Instead all you need to do is start following a few easy tips.

Here are some tips to getting rid of dandruff:

1. Regular Shampooing

If you tend to have an oily scalp, daily shampooing may help prevent dandruff. First, try shampooing with a non-medicated shampoo, massaging the scalp firmly, and then rinsing well. If this fails to help, special anti-dandruff shampoos are usually helpful. The most common anti-dandruff shampoos contain one or more of the following ingredients:

* Tar - shampoos containing tar have been used for years, usually helps conditions such as dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis and psoriasis by slowing how quickly skin cell on your scalp die and flake off.

* Selenium sulphide. These shampoos help prevent cell turnover and may also reduce the number of malassezia. Because they can discolor blonde, gray or chemically colored hair, be sure to use them only as directed and to rinse well after shampooing.

* Zinc pyrithione or zinc omadine. These contain the antibacterial and antifungal agent zinc pyrithione, which can reduce the fungus on your scalp that can cause dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis.

* Piroctone olamine - this is the most recent addition to the medicated shampoos. It is known as a 'second generation' anti-dandruff agent. It is less toxic than zinc pyrithione and is therefore safer for family use.

* Shampoos containing salicylic acid . These 'scalp scrubs' help eliminate scale, but they may leave your scalp dry, leading to more flaking. Using a conditioner after shampooing can help counter dryness

Antifungal agents (ketoconazole)

2. Learn to manage stress. Stress affects your overall health, making you susceptible to a number of conditions and diseases. It can even help trigger dandruff or worsen existing symptoms.

3. Cut back on styling products. Hair sprays, styling gels, mousses and hair waxes can all build up on your hair and scalp, making them oilier.

4. Eat a healthy diet. A diet that provides enough zinc, B vitamins and certain types of fats may help prevent dandruff.

5. Get a little sun. Sunlight may be good for dandruff. But because exposure to ultraviolet light damages your skin and increases your risk of skin cancer, don't sunbathe. Instead, just spend a little time outdoors. And be sure to wear sunscreen on your face and body.

6. Do not scratch your scalp. When you shampoo, massage your scalp without scratching. Scientists have looked at hair from dandruff sufferers who scratch, using an electron microscope that magnifies 400 times. They could see fingernail marks, damaging the hair at its root.

You should also see your doctor if the dandruff is very lumpy or patchy, or if you have scaly skin elsewhere, because it could be a skin disorder. You may need a prescription-strength shampoo or more aggressive treatment.