Clinical Reference Systems: Pediatric Advisor 10.0
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DESCRIPTION

Dandruff is normal shedding of skin. On most of the body surface, the flakes of dead skin fall to the ground without notice, but they can accumulate in the hair. This is a normal process that occurs throughout life on the entire body surface. It is not contagious.

HOME CARE

1. Daily shampooing

   The key to fighting dandruff is removing the flakes as fast as they form by washing the hair daily. A regular shampoo usually works very well. Brush your child's hair before each washing. Eventually, you may be able to wash your child's hair every other day without seeing dandruff, but you probably won't ever be able to wash it less often than that.

2. Antidandruff shampoos

   If the scalp is red and irritated or the scales are quite greasy, use a medicated shampoo (one containing selenium sulfide). These medicated shampoos not only remove the dandruff but also cut down on the rate of shedding.

   Your pharmacist can help you select an antidandruff shampoo. This type of shampoo is used in a special way: lather the hair, wait 3 minutes, then rinse thoroughly. Do this 3 days in a row and then once a week. Use a regular nonmedicated shampoo on other days.

CALL YOUR CHILD'S PHYSICIAN DURING OFFICE HOURS IF:

• The dandruff is not improved after 2 weeks.
• You have other questions or concerns.