Winter seasons aren't merely challenging to skin, but it is challenging to the scalp, too. If you have noticed an increase in the amount of white flakes on your dark sweaters, it's not your imagination. The cold, dry air is slowly transforming your hair into flake central and the shampoo you have in your bathroom may not have been designed to cope.

As the weather cools down each year, dermatology offices report a rise in the number of patients who visit complaining of dry, itchy, flaky scalps but who never experienced dandruff the rest of the year. Dandruff does not just happen or exist in the winter months. It's a natural, physiological reaction to the season, and the best way to prevent it from happening is to understand the reasons behind it.

Problem

The cold season quickly drains moisture out of your hair as you are heating up inside your house and there is little humidity. Central heating systems, hot showers and cold outdoor air pull water out of your body your scalp is no exception. When this natural moisture barrier is damaged, it makes the scalp more susceptible to flaking, irritation and dryness. This dryness sets up a vicious cycle that results in a buildup of flakes, and then itching, leading to scratching, which further exacerbates the condition.

That's why you should use an anti dandruff shampoo that is tailored to the season rather than just any shampoo that can be found off the shelf. The problem is that the detergents which work well for regular shampoos and even some so-called "dandruff" shampoos can work too hard, removing the natural oils that help keep skin and hair in good condition as well as the dirt. This over-cleansing effect can take the scalp from mildly flaky to seriously irritated, especially during the winter when an already dry scalp can suffer from this.

Another common misconception is that dandruff is something that is "dirty" and will be taken care of by washing more frequently. In fact, if the formula is not right, and is washed too much, the scalp will dry out more, and cause more flaking. It can become a vicious cycle: more flakes are seen, more washing occurs, more dryness, and more flaking. The way to break the cycle is to change your approach to stripping and moisturizing with a gentler approach.

One more reason why winter dandruff is so difficult to get rid of is a decrease in sebum production. During the cooler seasons, the scalp oils less; it can be beneficial, except that a certain amount of oils is required in order to maintain the protective barrier on the scalp. If that is not the case, the scalp becomes more prone to microbial imbalance, or an overgrowth of a yeast known as Malassezia, directly associated with the formation of dandruff. Add indoor heating, woolen caps and infrequent washing (who wants a cold shower in the winter )to this and you've got a recipe for flaking.

Solution

It's not about how often to wash, it's about how to wash. A soothing anti-itch dandruff shampoo containing calming, anti-itch ingredients can help reduce itchy dandruff, and prevent it from returning after the treatment, by working at the source to keep the flakes from forming. For the best anti dandruff shampoo, you should consider one that doesn't only target the dandruff but also the microbial imbalance and dryness on your scalp.

It's all in the ingredients. For instance, red algae extract is known to be hydrating and soothing; it helps to soothe an irritated scalp and aids the skin's natural barrier function. This is particularly useful during the winter months when the scalp requires strengthening and not over-zealous stripping. The ideal anti dandruff shampoo will also not contain harsh sulfates, but rather will contain shampoos that pick up flakes and build-up that leave the scalp feeling soft and loose afterward.

In addition to the shampoo, a couple of minor adjustments will improve your winter hair. Don't use too hot water when shampooing your hair while hot water may feel fabulous in the cold, it will strip the moisture from the scalp. Massaging the scalp gently with the shampoo, instead of running it through the hair, will help the active ingredients penetrate into the scalp where they are most needed. Don't scratch even if it feels very itchy. Constantly scratching will cause micro-tears in the scalp which will only lead to more irritation and even flaking.

Consistency is key. Anti dandruff shampoos are most effective when applied regularly over the season, instead of merely when dandruff is noticeable and problematic. Consider it as continuous treatment of your scalp throughout a season when it is naturally tougher on your skin, than a quick fix you grab from time to time.

Made specially for that, Cincinnus' Anti-Itch Anti-Dandruff Hair Mask Shampoo with Red Algae Extract works to alleviate any irritation, prevent flaking and rebalance the scalp ideal for the harshest of winter days. It is a combination of the moisturising properties of red algae and anti-itch ingredients - ingredients specifically formulated to stop the cycle of dryness, irritation and flaking of the skin that is characteristic of winter dandruff.

 Shop the Anti-Itch Anti-Dandruff Hair Mask Shampoo in-store.

FAQ

Why is dandruff more troublesome during winter?

 During the colder months of the year, when the air is cold and the house is heated, the humidity level decreases, and people with otherwise normal hair may find that flaking and itching is increased, even if they don't normally experience dandruff in other seasons.

The majority of anti dandruff shampoos are safe and effective for repeated use, though 3-4 times a week should be sufficient to prevent more dandruff from forming without drying out the scalp even more.

So, what are the ingredients of a good anti dandruff shampoo?

Unwind for things to help curb itching and hydrate the scalp, such as red algae extract, and select gentle cleansers that don't leach out the scalp's natural oils, particularly if you're experiencing dry weather in the winter months.

 Will dandruff shampoo also help with itching?

 Yes, the ideal dandruff shampoo soothes the itching and flaking skin that is typically associated with dandruff, and it helps to treat the underlying cause of the problem.

Q: Should I change my haircare routine specifically for winter? 

No, it is not necessary to change your hair care routine during the winter. Yes, during the colder months it is best to switch to a thicker and more soothing anti dandruff shampoo, shave the water temperature down to lukewarm, and moisturize the scalp.