Flaky scalp

Hi,  I always suffered from dry skin on my scalp during the winter months, but come summer once I start swimming in the sea it tends to go.  I have been going to a different hairdresser for the past 8 months or so to color my hair and since I started with her I tend to have more dry skin round the scalp.  The last time I dyed my hair I felt like my head was on fire.  I must be allergic to the products she uses.  I started using medicated shampoo and a treatment that I leave on for 5 mins before rinsing but I am still not seeing any results.  I really want to cure my scalp as it is embarassing.  Do you think I have a condition?

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
It can be due to dandruff which can be due to internal or external causes.

Dandruff can cause either an overly dry scalp with white flakes that may be waxy or greasy, or it can manifest as an oily scalp with scales.
Internal causes include hormonal imbalance, poor health, poor hygiene, allergic hypersensitivity, lack of rest, emotional stress, excessive consumption of sugar, fat or starch and heredity predisposition.
External causes include excessive use of hair sprays and gels, improper use of hair-coloring products, cold weather and dry indoor heating, infrequent shampooing of the hair or inadequate rinsing of the scalp and hair.

Eat a healthy diet. You can also take vit B6 and vit A and E which are good for hair and skin. Try medicated shampoos for dandruff. There are a number of over-the-counter shampoos available that can help. The most effective ingredients -- antimicrobials -- to look for are zinc pyridinethione, selenium sulfide, sulfur and ketoconazole (also available by prescription).If your hair is colored, don't use products with selenium sulfide or sulfur.

If the symptoms persist please consult a trichologist for the confirmatory diagnosis and treatment.

Hope it helps.Take care and pls do keep me posted on how you are doing or if you have any additional doubts.Kind regards.