September 10, 2007

Health Tip: Dealing With Dandruff

(HealthDay News) -- Dandruff, also known as seborrheic dermatitis, occurs when flakes of skin develop on the scalp or inside the ear.

The skin condition, which can run in families, may be triggered by stress, fatigue, oily skin, acne or using hair or skin products that contain alcohol, the U.S. National Library of Medicine says. Infrequent showering or shampooing may also trigger dandruff.

To treat the condition, over-the-counter dandruff or medicated shampoos should be used daily. Active ingredients in these shampoos include salicylic acid, coal tar, zinc, resorcin, ketoconazole or selenium.

The hair and other affected areas should be washed for about five minutes before rinsing thoroughly.

-- Diana Kohnle

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