Another type of treatment, which is immensely popular and which has proven itself over the course of many years, is that of oil treatments and oil-based shampoo/gel treatments.

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First of all, it is imperative to understand the difference between the different types of treatment. Oil treatment is the name given to the method in which some type of oil (usually an essential oil) is applied directly to the affected area(s). In the case of dandruff or seborrheic dermatitis, that area is usually the scalp. The oil is applied topically, along with another, more mild kind of oil, and left for a certain amount of time before being rinsed off.

Essential oils are a powerful remedy for many medical conditions. They have been in use since ancient times. They have been used for religious, cosmetic, and medicinal purposes by the Egyptians, Babylonians, Israelites, Romans, Greeks, and many other ancient cultures.

Usually, these kinds of oils are very potent and concentrated. All essential oils have their benefits, and they should be used with great caution, since even a small amount can make a big difference in some cases or individuals.

When it comes to essential oils for dry scalp treatment, it is important to follow proper directions. Using an oil treatment, where an oil is applied directly onto an area, needs to be carried out with care. People who are susceptible to allergies and reactions, or who know themselves to be sensitive in other ways – this includes pregnant and nursing women, and children as well – should be very careful when applying an essential oil topically.

Oil treatments are used to counter the excessive dryness and scaling of the scalp, and they can help stop the flakes, itchiness, and redness which accompanies the conditions of dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis. They help soften the scalp and they lessen the irritation to a considerable degree by adding a measured degree of beneficial moisture.

Shampoo or gel treatments, on the other hand, are treatments which use a carrier (in the form of a shampoo/gel) that contains oil within it. It is a method which is a lot more practical, and it is widely used and accepted by a large percent of the dandruff-battling population.

Unlike topical oil treatments, which need more caution and mindfulness in their application, using shampoo or gel treatments does not require quite as much attention to detail. Obviously, it is still highly recommended and necessary to follow instructions here as well.

However, the instructions that accompany a bottle of shampoo or gel are usually far more simplistic. Because this type of treatment is so much easier to apply and to follow, there is a greater chance that individuals who use shampoo/gel treatments will continue to use them regularly. This is partly why they are so popular with the dandruff-fighting community.

The best possible thing to do is to combine the two methods of oil treatments and shampoo/gel treatments. The shampoos or gels could have the tendency to dry out the scalp over time. This amount of time differs from one person to another, but it is a possibility.

While it is true that fungi live on moisture, and that it is best to keep the scalp and hair dry, it is not recommended to let the scalp and hair dry out completely. Having clean, healthy scalp and hair is all about finding and keeping a certain balance between moisture and dryness.

In order to prevent the scalp from drying out, due to use of gel/shampoo treatments, it is advisable to use oil soaks as well. This will give your scalp the best of both worlds, and allow it to find its way back to its natural state. As with many pharmaceutical/medical solutions having to do with the skin, it is about trial and error. If your situation does not improve, if it worsens, or if you develop any other symptoms, you should discontinue use and pay a visit to a dermatologist.