How to treat different types of dandruff =

If your dandruff isn’t going away no matter what you do, it might be time to change treatment. Read on to find out the difference dry and greasy dandruff (also known as adherent dandruff), and how best to treat them.

What’s the difference between dry and oily dandruff?

Dry dandruff -

                                        
Dry dandruff is characterised by its flaky texture and fine, white (or grey) particles. They brush off easily onto the shoulders when the head is scratched or brushed. This type of dandruff can usually be treated with specialist shampoos which aim to relieve and moisturise dry or itchy scalps.

Oily dandruff -Greasy or adherent dandruff is different from dry dandruff in that it is caused by excess sebum production. This excess sebum reacts with a yeast present in the skin known as malassezia, resulting in thick, greasy flakes that stick to the scalp and are difficult to remove, even after shampooing. This type of dandruff is therefore thicker, stickier and more oily, with flakes accumulating on top of each other, forming a greasy covering. What’s more, this type of dandruff is generally recurring since sebum promotes the development of malassezia yeast, creating a vicious circle. As well as specialist dandruff shampoos developed for oily hair, scalp exfoliation can also help alleviate adherent dandruff.

How to treat different types of dandruff

While signs of dry dandruff can usually be alleviated with a targeted shampoo such as Vichy Dercos Anti-Dandruff Advanced Action Shampoo for Itchy Scalp, oily dandruff - also known as adherent dandruff -  tends to stick to the scalp, making removal difficult. Opting for a scrub-based treatment, rather than a traditional shampoo can help remove the trickiest flakes. Meanwhile, look for naturally exfoliating ingredients, such as salicylic acid (present in many anti-acne treatments) to help beat greasy dandruff long-term. Hydrating ingredients such as glycerin can help soothe irritation, so look for a formula that’s both gentle and effective. Vichy Dercos Micropeel Shampoo, which has been specially developed for sensitive oily scalps is enriched with Salicylic acid, LHA and apricot seed and aids exfoliation, soothes the scalp and leaves the hair looking conditioned.