What to Do When a Teen Starts Getting Dandruff

Blog Title: What to Do When a Teen Starts Getting Dandruff

Introduction:

White flakes on the shoulders, itching scalp, and oily hair — yes, dandruff often begins during the teenage years. Many parents think it’s just a “winter problem,” but for teens, it’s usually linked to changing hormones, scalp oil, and stress. The good news? It’s completely manageable with the right care. Let’s see how.

⸻

1. Why Dandruff Starts in Teenagers

During puberty, oil (sebum) glands become more active — not only on the face but also on the scalp. This excess oil combines with dead skin and a natural yeast on the scalp, leading to dandruff.

Common reasons include:

• Hormonal changes

• Irregular hair washing

• Sweat and dust buildup after sports

• Using harsh hair products or oils

• Stress and lack of sleep

⸻

2. Signs That It’s Dandruff (and Not Something Else)

Dandruff flakes are usually:

• White or yellowish

• Found on the scalp, forehead, or collar

• Often itchy, but not painful

If you see redness, thick scaling, or hair loss, it might be a sign of seborrheic dermatitis or fungal infection — which needs a dermatologist’s check.

⸻

3. Start with the Right Shampoo

Use an anti-dandruff shampoo 2–3 times a week. Look for ingredients like:

• Zinc pyrithione – fights dandruff-causing yeast

• Ketoconazole – controls fungal growth

• Salicylic acid – helps remove flakes

• Tea tree oil – soothes itching

🧴 Leave the shampoo on the scalp for 2–3 minutes before rinsing — this helps the ingredients work better.

⸻

4. Don’t Oil Too Much

Many think applying more oil cures dandruff, but it can actually make it worse. The yeast that causes dandruff feeds on scalp oil!

✅ If oiling is needed, use a few drops and wash it off within 30–45 minutes.

⸻

5. Maintain a Clean Scalp Routine

• Wash hair regularly (every 2–3 days).

• Use lukewarm water — not hot.

• Keep combs clean and don’t share them.

• Dry hair properly after games or sweating.

🧢 Also, avoid wearing tight caps or helmets for long — trapped sweat worsens dandruff.

⸻

6. Focus on Diet & Stress

Lack of sleep, junk food, and exam stress can make dandruff flare up.

Add more:

🍎 Fruits, nuts, milk, curd, and green vegetables

💧 Drink plenty of water

😴 Sleep at least 7 hours a night

⸻

7. When to See a Dermatologist

If dandruff doesn’t improve after 2–3 weeks of using medicated shampoo, or if there’s hair loss, redness, or thick scales — it’s time to get expert help. There might be an underlying scalp condition.

⸻

Final Tip:

Dandruff is not a sign of poor hygiene — it’s a common scalp condition that just needs care and balance. Regular washing, less oiling, and a healthy lifestyle keep it under control.

⸻

At Dr. Rizwan’s Skin Cosmetic and Laser Clinic, we help teens and parents manage scalp problems safely — from dandruff to hair fall — with personalized care and medical-grade solutions.

🧠 Healthy scalp = Healthy hair!

⸻