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Dry rough hair dandruff
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Cosmetology
Question #2411
320 days ago
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Dry rough hair dandruff - #2411

Mrunal

I have very dry rough hair with lots of dandruff… it’s usually round the year but increases during winter. And because of that there’s hairfall. I’m 47 yrs. I’ve dry skin also. And sensitive skin.

Age: 47
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Doctors’ responses

In Ayurveda, dry hair, dandruff, and hair fall are often linked to an imbalance in the Vata dosha, which governs dryness, roughness, and coldness. Your dry skin and sensitivity also indicate a Vata imbalance, especially in colder months. To address these concerns holistically, you can follow these Ayurvedic guidelines:

Diet: Incorporate healthy fats: Consume foods that nourish the skin and hair, such as ghee, avocado, nuts, and seeds. These help to hydrate and lubricate the body, balancing Vata. Warm, moist foods: Choose warm, cooked foods over raw, dry, or cold foods to soothe dryness and improve digestion. Include soups, stews, and herbal teas. Hydration: Drink plenty of water and herbal teas like ginger or licorice root to hydrate both the skin and hair. Hair Care: Oiling: Regularly massage your scalp with warm sesame oil or coconut oil, both of which are highly nourishing and hydrating. You can add bhringraj or amla oil for strengthening hair and reducing dandruff. Herbal treatments: Use Ayurvedic herbs such as neem, aloe vera, and bhringraj to help treat dandruff and soothe the scalp. A paste made from neem leaves and turmeric can be used to fight dandruff. Gentle cleansing: Avoid harsh shampoos, and instead use shikakai or reetha (soapnut) as a natural cleanser for your hair. These are gentle yet effective in cleansing without stripping natural oils. Skin Care: Moisturizing: Use rich, hydrating oils like almond oil or sandalwood oil to keep your skin moisturized. You can also apply ghee for a deep, nourishing effect on dry skin. Avoid harsh chemicals: Choose gentle, natural products for sensitive skin. Avoid long, hot showers as they can exacerbate dryness. Daily oil massage: Regular abhyanga (self-oil massage) with sesame or almond oil can improve skin texture and circulation. General Tips: Stay warm: Keep your body warm, especially in winter, as cold weather aggravates Vata imbalances. Stress management: Practice calming techniques like yoga, pranayama (breathing exercises), or meditation, as stress can exacerbate both skin and hair issues. Adequate sleep: Ensure you are getting enough rest to allow your body to rejuvenate. For best results, consider consulting an Ayurvedic practitioner who can tailor a treatment plan to your unique constitution and imbalances.

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Dealing with dry, rough hair and dandruff can be a bit tricky, especially when it flares up in winter. Ayurveda tells us that these symptoms might be linked to an imbalance in the Vata dosha, which tends to increase in cold, dry climates.

First things first, nourishing your scalp is key. Try a warm oil massage two to three times a week. You can use sesame or coconut oil infused with herbs like amla or bhringraj. Heat the oil slightly and massage it into the scalp gently with your fingertips for about 10-15 mins. Leave it on for an hour or overnight if possible before washing your hair. This helps in moisturizing the scalp and reducing dryness.

When it comes to washing your hair, stick with a mild, sulfate-free shampoo. Harsh chemicals can strip your scalp and hair further of its natural oils. To treat dandruff specifically, you can rinse your hair with apple cider vinegar solution (mix a teaspoon of vinegar with a cup of water) once a week. It’s antifungal and helps restore the scalp’s pH balance.

Diet also plays a big role here. Eat warm, moist, and slightly oily foods; things like ghee, whole grains, nuts (almonds, walnuts), and seeds (like flaxseeds) can nourish your skin and hair from the inside. Also, stay hydrated. Drink warm water or herbal teas throughout the day to keep the dryness at bay.

In terms of lifestyle, try incorporating some meditation or gentle yoga into your daily routine. Stress can worsen both skin and hair conditions, and calming practices can support balance.

Don’t forget that everyone’s unique, so these suggestions can vary in effectiveness. But, start slowly integrating them into your routine. If things don’t improve, consulting with an Ayurvedic practitioner directly might be a good step. And hey, if there’s any sudden, excessive hair loss or if you’re worried about your condition worsening, it’s always safe to catch up with a healthcare professional promptly.

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