Dandruff is a chronic condition affecting the scalp. It results in itching and flaking of the skin. Many different ingredients that treat dandruff come in shampoos, such as ketoconazole, zinc pyrithione, ciclopirox olamine, selenium sulfide, and others.

Any shampoo used for dandruff has to be used regularly for at least four to six weeks to see its effect. Initially, it can be used twice a week. After the shampoo is applied, it should preferably be kept on for about five minutes. The shampoo should not be washed off immediately.

The same shampoo may not be effective if used continuously for long. After a few months, it is okay to use a different shampoo if you feel the one you are using is ineffective. However, there is no single best treatment or permanent solution. Even after the infection is cleared, you should use the shampoo for maintenance. This is to make sure that the infection does not reoccur.

Dandruff is an infection that takes a long time to clear. It can sometimes take about three to six months. The exact time depends on severity of the disease and what treatment has been prescribed.

It is also important to note that not all cases of dry and itchy scalp are of dandruff. Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition that can cause similar complaints to the scalp. A dermatologist is the best person to understand the exact problem and guide further treatment.

Sometimes you may need a change of products. Additionally, you may need some oral tablets such as Itraconazole or Fluconazole to help combat fungal infection. In case of continued use of products, such as hair gels and other styling products, there can be buildup in the hair. You may need a deep cleansing shampoo to overcome this.

Dandruff is a condition that commonly affects the scalp. It is seen more commonly in people who have an oily scalp.

Regular shampoos do not clear dandruff. Medicated shampoos are preferred. These can be used on a regular basis to keep the scalp healthy and clean.

Sometimes, dandruff can be seen with small white patches over the face. Similar patches may be seen on the face or back. These are called seborrheic dermatitis.

When this happens, it is recommended to consult a dermatologist.

The patches can be treated using lotions or creams containing antifungals and steroids.

However, both these conditions remain chronic. This means that the infection can repeatedly happen after some time. This is normal and manageable.

Washing the hair regularly and preventing oil accumulation helps in treatment. It is also advisable to avoid the use of hair oils.

A dermatologist can be consulted for further guidance.

Dandruff over the eyelashes is observed in two conditions. These are seborrheic dermatitis and blepharitis.

Seborrheic dermatitis is a type of eczema that affects the oily areas of the face. It is usually seen along with dandruff of the hair. It is best to use an anti-dandruff shampoo to wash the hair.

In both cases, gentle treatment around the eyes is required. You can use baby shampoo to wash the eyelids and eyelashes carefully. After this, gently remove the crusts and flakes of dandruff. Warm compresses can be applied every day for about ten minutes to soften the flakes. This process needs to be repeated multiple times.

This process should be done very carefully without pulling the eyelashes. It can take a few weeks to clear. In some cases, antibiotic eye drops are also required.

To get an exact diagnosis, the opinion of a dermatologist and ophthalmologist is both required. An eye examination is necessary to make sure that the disease has only affected eyelids and eyelashes. The area around the eye is sensitive, and you should only use products under expert guidance.