Do you love having colored hair, but struggle with the pesky problem of dandruff? If you’ve invested time and money into coloring your hair, the last thing you want is to deal with an itchy, flaky scalp. But don’t worry – there are steps you can take to care for your colored hair while also addressing dandruff. By choosing the right hair care products, adopting healthy hair habits, and being patient, you can keep your colored hair looking beautiful and dandruff-free. In this article and in collaboration with the dermatologist Dr. Burcu Hurbas, we’ll explore eight steps to take care of colored hair with dandruff, so you can rock your vibrant locks with confidence.
Step 1: Choose the Right Shampoo
Dr. Burcu Hurbas indicates that there is no different dandruff treatment protocol for colored hair. She stresses that if the dye is of good quality and does not contain chemicals, there should be no concern.
The first step in caring for colored hair with dandruff is choosing the right shampoo. Look for a shampoo that is designed specifically for colored hair and also contains ingredients to combat dandruff. You can find sulfate-free shampoos, which can help prevent color from fading. Dr. Burcu Hurbas recommends the use of zinc pyrithione and keluamid in an anti-dandruff shampoo as it will not damage colored hair.
When washing your hair, make sure to massage the shampoo into your scalp for at least 2-3 minutes. This will help to remove any buildup of oils or dead skin cells that can contribute to dandruff. Rinse your hair thoroughly with lukewarm water, and avoid using hot water, as this can strip the hair of its natural oils.
Our choices:
For oily dandruff:
Ducray Squanorm Anti-Dandruff Treatment Shampoo – Oily Dandruff
For dry dandruff:
Ducray Squanorm Anti-Dandruff Treatment Shampoo – Dry Dandruff
For dandruff caused by seborrheic dermatitis:
Ducray Kelual DS Treatment Shampoo
Step 2: Condition Your Hair
Colored hair can be more prone to breakage and damage, so it’s important to use a conditioner after shampooing. Look for a conditioner that is specifically designed for colored hair and also contains moisturizing ingredients like jojoba oil, shea butter, or argan oil. These ingredients can help to nourish and protect your hair while also keeping it soft and shiny.
When applying conditioner, focus on the ends of your hair, which are typically more prone to damage. Avoid applying conditioner directly to your scalp, as this can weigh down your hair and make it look greasy. Leave the conditioner on your hair for at least 2-3 minutes before rinsing thoroughly with lukewarm water.
Step 3: Use a Hair Mask
In addition to regular shampooing and conditioning, using a hair mask once a week can help keep your colored hair healthy and free of dandruff. Look for a hair mask that contains moisturizing ingredients like coconut oil, avocado oil, or honey, which can help nourish and protect your hair. You can also look for hair masks that contain ingredients like tea tree oil or peppermint oil, which are known for their dandruff-fighting properties.
When using a hair mask, apply it to damp hair and leave it on for at least 10-15 minutes. You can also wrap your hair in a towel or shower cap to help the mask penetrate your hair more deeply. Rinse the mask out thoroughly with lukewarm water, and follow up with your regular conditioner.
Step 4: Avoid Heat Styling
Heat styling tools like flat irons, curling irons, and blow dryers can be damaging to colored hair, especially if you use them frequently. Heat can strip the hair of its natural oils, which can make it more prone to breakage and damage. If you must use heat styling tools, make sure to use a heat protectant spray or serum first, and avoid using high heat settings.
To help prevent dandruff, it’s also important to avoid wearing hats or other tight-fitting headwear for long periods. This can create a warm, humid environment on your scalp, which can encourage the growth of dandruff-causing fungi.
Step 5: Maintain a Healthy Scalp
A healthy scalp is key to keeping dandruff at bay, so it’s important to take steps to maintain a healthy scalp. You can do this by using a scalp scrub or exfoliant once a week to remove dead skin cells and build-up. You can also try massaging your scalp regularly, as this can help improve circulation and promote healthy hair growth.
Step 6: Be Mindful of Your Diet
Your diet can have a big impact on the health of your hair and scalp, so it’s important to be mindful of what you’re eating. Foods that are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, like salmon and walnuts, can help nourish your hair and scalp, while foods that are high in sugar and processed carbohydrates can exacerbate dandruff. Try to eat a balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats.
Step 7: Protect Your Hair from the Sun
UV rays from the sun can be damaging to colored hair, causing it to become dry, brittle, and faded. To protect your hair from the sun, wear a hat or use a UV-protectant hair spray when you’re outside for extended periods. You can also use a hair oil or leave-in conditioner that contains UV filters to help protect your hair from the sun’s harmful rays.
Step 8: Consider Professional Treatments
If you’re struggling to manage dandruff on your colored hair, it may be worth considering professional treatments like scalp treatments or salon-quality hair products. Your hairstylist can recommend products or treatments that are specifically designed for colored hair with dandruff.
Step 9: Be Patient
Managing dandruff on colored hair can be a challenging process, and it may take some time before you start seeing results. Be patient and consistent with your hair care routine, and don’t be afraid to switch up your products or treatments if you’re not seeing the results you want.
Dr. Burcu Hurbas adds that if you suffer from severe dandruff and want to dye your hair, you should not do so until you have completed anti-dandruff treatment or regained control, as dyeing can worsen dandruff and increase irritation.
In conclusion, caring for colored hair with dandruff requires a combination of the right hair care products, healthy hair habits, and a little bit of patience. By choosing the right shampoo and conditioner, using hair masks, avoiding heat styling, maintaining a healthy scalp, and protecting your hair from the sun, you can keep your colored hair looking beautiful and dandruff-free. Don’t be afraid to seek professional help if you need it, and remember to be patient as you work to manage dandruff on your colored hair.
Don’t give up on your dream of having beautiful, vibrant hair – with a little patience and perseverance, you can keep your colored hair looking flake-free and fabulous.
Last Updated on April 16, 2024
