Hey fardreamer,
Am sorry you suffer so with dandruff.
Fortunately, most dandruff could be avoided. Not what you wanted to hear, I know. When we shampoo and neglect to rinse ALL the product out of our hair, (which is what a lot of older kids definitely do, thus explains it starting at onset of puberty) the soap residue is left on the scalp to sit there and dry it out. When we first discover this problem, the flakes are usually large from ***ling skin. (think of a bad sunburn where the top layers start flaking off from damage and dryness) The first thing everyone thinks is, '
oh no, dandruff. This is embarrassing, must use dandruff shampoo.' Should it only be from dryness (dry scalp), we should use moisturizing shampoo and conditioner and most importantly, RINSE WELL. When I think I have rinsed my hair out enough, I rinse some more anyway. What the heck, you're in shower anyway, take a few extra seconds.
Unfortunately, when we start using dandruff shampoo, that's it. We have to keep using it to deal with our dandruff. For if it wasn't actually dandruff in the first place, (i.e. dry scalp or other temporary condition such as a shampoo allergy), dandruff shampoo actually can cause or encourage more dandruff. I'm afraid you are a classic victim. Talking to your doctor about it all can be quite helpful and if you feel that putting the bucks out for presecription shampoo is worse than the Nizoral, ask the doc about the
chances of you licking the dandruff problem forever if you do this. You need to understand that Nizoral has a drug included that is used to treat fungal infections. Sorry, I know you don't want to hear this either but it's something you may want to seriously look into. Getting the best possible anti-fungal and possibly needed antibiotics could lead to getting away from this problem.
I don't suggest VO 5 or any conditioners on the scalp as anything that doesn't allow the scalp to "breathe" will cause a build up of fungus as it will retain moisture. This too, I would double check with the doc about.
Nizoral is a good shampoo btw, for what it does. And you only need to use it once or twice a week so that's the upside of it. Just keep the above in mind for you may need more serious help from a physician to rid yourself of
a possible fungal infection. They can get really nasty if left untreated and lead to hair loss and other nasty problems. I know you don't want that.
With that said, I hope everyone who reads this will RINSE their Shampoos out WELL!!!! And if dandruff becomes more than just a little nuisance, seek a doctor's advice. We're beauticians, not physicians.
And one more thing you won't want to hear, but should know. (Sorry) Dandruff shampoos are treating the scalp (skin) and are really bad for your hair which is why most clients who use dandruff shampoo complain about lack of shine, body, or life in general. That's why Head and Shoulders is always trying to improve their formula.
Good luck fardreamer. And bless your heart (scalp too!)