Tips to Wash Away Dandruff

ROCHESER, MINN. -- Itchy scalp? Is your hair dotted with little white flakes? The cause may be dandruff, another name for a common skin disorder called seborrheic (seb-o-REE-ik) dermatitis, according to the April issue of Mayo Clinic Health Letter.

Try these steps to treat it:

* Use medicated shampoo. Several over-the-counter brands are available. You may need to try several to find the one that works best for you. Since they may lose their effectiveness, you may need to switch brands periodically.

* Wash every day or two. Make sure the shampoo comes in contact with your scalp. Wait a few minutes for it to work before rinsing thoroughly.

* Alternate medicated shampoo with regular shampoo. Use a conditioner. Dandruff shampoos can be harsh.

* See your doctor if the condition lasts more than six weeks. You may need a prescription shampoo or topical medication.

Shelly Plutowski507-284-5005 (days)507-284-2511 (evenings)e-mail: [email protected]

Mayo Clinic Health Letter is an eight-page, monthly newsletter of reliable, accurate and practical information on today's health and medical news. To subscribe, please call toll-free 800-333-9037 and mention extension 9PR1.

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