Key Takeaways: Dandruff is a common scalp condition that can be caused by several factors. As a barber, it is essential that you know how to recognize and manage dandruff, giving your clients the clean scalp and confidence they deserve.
Dandruff. The word conjures images of itchy, flaky scalps, plummeting confidence, and medicinal shampoos. It’s a common problem that many people face, and as a barber, you should be prepared to recognize it and help your clients overcome it.
There are numerous causes of dandruff, ranging from the natural shedding of dead skin cells to malassezia globosa, a fungus that lives on the scalp. Barbers need to know how to identify dandruff, as well as manage the underlying causes. We’re here with this guide to help you help your clients.
Read on for your barber’s guide on how to get rid of dandruff.
How Barbers Can Treat Dandruff
How to Identify Dandruff
Because there are numerous causes of dandruff, as well as other scalp conditions that could be mistaken for it, it’s important to perfect your ability to properly identify dandruff. This ensures that the treatment you develop for your client actually works toward solving their underlying factors.
The top things to look for when identifying dandruff are larger flakes that may be white or yellow. This is a distinction from dry scalp flakes, which tend to be small and white. You should also check the oiliness of the scalp, as a greasy scalp is often associated with dandruff.
Offer Specialized Scalp Treatments
Doing what you can for your client’s dandruff while they are in your chair gives them a head start on dealing with their dandruff when they return home. In-shop treatments also take place under your professional supervision, ensuring that they are done correctly and don’t make matters worse.
Some of the best treatments for dandruff you can offer in your barber shop include:
- Scalp massage during shampooing. This helps remove dead skin, maximizes the effect of the medicinal shampoo, and more.
- Deep cleansing and exfoliation. By thoroughly cleansing and exfoliating the scalp, you stimulate blood flow, expose healthy new skin, and prepare the scalp to receive any helpful products you may apply.
Use and Recommend Anti-Dandruff Shampoos
Dandruff shampoos are a medicinal alternative to everyday haircare products, providing those who suffer from the scalp condition a soothing and effective treatment they can enjoy in your barber shop or at home.
As a barber, it is part of your responsibility to know which dandruff shampoos are most effective for your clients. This allows you to not only treat their scalp when they’re in your barbering chair, but also when they head home. In fact, dandruff shampoos are among the best solutions for those wondering how to get rid of dandruff at home.
Don’t Pile on With Styling Products
We get it, you want to look your best at all times, and that often requires hairstyling products. Unfortunately, many of these products can cause build-up on the scalp, leading to clogged pores, increased oils, and worsening dandruff symptoms.
While you can recommend styling products that are more appropriate for someone with dandruff, the best solution is to take a break from such products. At a minimum, they should be used sparingly.
Develop a Dandruff-Free Routine
Neglect is one of the most impactful factors in dandruff returning or worsening. Establishing a healthy routine can work wonders for those with dandruff, making it an essential habit to create and maintain.
As a barber, encourage your clients to follow a consistent washing schedule (with a dandruff shampoo), avoid irritants (like excessive or heavy hair styling products), and improve their overall health with proper hygiene and nutrition.
Keep Your Equipment Clean
Practicing proper safety and hygiene procedures at your barber shop is a must. Not only does it create a welcoming professional environment for your clients to enjoy, but it also protects them from potential infections. For those with preexisting concerns, like dandruff, dirty tools can make matters worse.
Disinfect your equipment after every client with antibacterial solutions to stop the spread of fungi, bacteria, and more.
Protect Your Barber Shop with Barber Insurance
Working with clients is one of the great joys of being a barber. From growing your community to creating lasting relationships, there’s a lot to love about hosting customers in your barber shop.
Whether someone trips over a loose mat or you accidentally clip a client’s ear with your shears, the possibility of injury, damage to personal property, and more is very real. In the blink of an eye, you could be facing a lawsuit, legal fees, medical expenses, and more.
Barber liability insurance, including general and professional liability coverage, protects you, your business, your reputation, and so on when these unfortunate events unfold. Investing in barber insurance is one of the most important things you can do for your career and your future.
No matter what your barbering dreams include, you can chase them with confidence with National Barbers Insurance on your side. Be sure to subscribe to our newsletter and visit our blog for more tips, tricks, and insights.
