Try Cooler Water to Reduce Dry Scalp and Dandruff Effectively

- Try showering with cooler water rather than warm or hot to help moisturize your scalp and reduce dry scalp/dandruff.  
- Hot water can dehydrate skin and worsen itching, but it doesn't directly cause dandruff or seborrheic dermatitis.  
- Dandruff is a form of seborrheic dermatitis caused by Malassezia yeast; treatment aims to reduce yeast burden and calm immune response.  
- Use ketoconazole (Nizoral) shampoo or cream (2% prescription, 1% over-the-counter) 2-3 times weekly to effectively treat dandruff.  
- Alternating with selenium sulfide shampoos (like Head & Shoulders) can also help.  
- Mild topical steroids (e.g., hydrocortisone 2.5%) can reduce inflammation short-term, but long-term use may cause side effects.  
- Psoriasis on the scalp may look similar but can require different treatment like tar or salicylic acid compounds.  
- Proper diagnosis between seborrheic dermatitis and psoriasis involves considering symptoms on other parts of the body and possibly using topical steroids.  
- Don't over-shampoo; washing every day can strip oils and worsen dryness—shampooing 2-4 times a month might be enough.  
- Recognize that not all treatments work for everyone; consulting a dermatologist is advisable for persistent or severe cases.  
- Lifestyle measures like taking vacations or avoiding daily shampooing can help with scalp health.  
- Be cautious with hot showers if you have eczema or dry skin, and consider lukewarm or cool water for rinsing your hair.