Flaky, Dry, Itchy Scalp (#2 of 3)

This is the second of three parts on causes, natural remedies, and prescription fixes!

Since seb derm is caused by a yeast (not candida) overgrowth, there are several dietary changes you can make which will help. Eating yogurt (buy the kind with 4-5 in the active culture), even a tablespoon or two daily, will help. If you hate yoghurt, get the acidophilus capsules. Avoid sugar and even large amounts of white flour that is mostly in baked goods. And, if you’re diabetic, keep your blood sugars under the best control you can.

Wash your hair at least every 2-3 days. More is better. As the oils build up on the scalp, the yeasts grow more. Really scrub the scalp well with your fingertips to get well into the roots where the glands are. Use the drugstore nonprescription shampoos like Selsun, Sebulex and Nizoral. They inhibit the yeasts. You can leave these on for a few minutes, rinse out and then use your own shampoo and conditioner if you want.

Dr. Irwin’s September Product of the Month is an organic moisturizer.  A blueberry soy hydrator great for dry skin.

Dr. Brandith Irwin, MD

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Hi, I’m Dr. Irwin. I believe that consumers deserve a medically trained and unbiased skin care advocate.

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