scalp question

Ever since I was a kid I've had dandruff, pretty bad. Over the years I've tried products to get rid of it, such as the famous T-Gel shampoo and Head and Shoulders. When I first used T-Gel it seemed to go away, but after I stopped using it, it came back. Recently I've tried using it again and it doesn't seem to help. I'm now using head and shoulders, and that doesn't work either.

What makes things worse, is that I constantly have "dirt" meaning clogged scalp pores, I'm always itching off dirt and dandruff. I wanted to see a dermatologist, but don't have time or money at the moment. Can anyone recommend anything that might help me?? Does having dandruff also affect your hair type and how effectively it grows?

A third tip would be to cut down on heat styling (if you do that), because it dries out your scalp and hair, which then in turn produce excess oil to combat the dryness.

If I were you, I would also continue to use T-Gel, Head and Shoulders or another medicated shampoo specifically for the treatment of dandruff, as they work on the fungus that actually causes it.  Good luck.

If you can help it, try to keep your hands off of your scalp and out of your hair during the day.  Scratching it makes more flakes.  I've heard good things about Nizoral (better than Head and Shoulders), though never personally tried it. 

If this happens because your scalp is too dry, diluting your regular shampoo and using that may help prevent the overdrying effect of regular shampoo (which is often very concentrated).  Try diluting some half and half with water in a small bottle (roll slowly to mix, don't shake - and only make what you need for a day or two, don't let it sit around diluted).  Use that for 2 weeks to see if you notice any improvement, this may be all you need.  It will still make suds and get your hair clean, but won't overdry the scalp by stripping off too much moisture.  If you go to Nizoral instead though, I don't think I would dilute that. 

Some dandruff is also caused by yeast overgrowth on the scalp.  If this is the reason for your condition, some have been helped by an apple cider vinegar rinse after you wash and condition your hair.  This adjust the scalp's Ph slightly.  Use the apple cider vinegar at about 1 tablespoon in 1 cup of water and pour over your head.  It is not necessary to rinse it out, unless the vinegar smell bugs you (that smell will evaporate by the time your hair dries).  It also is very good for hair, especially if you have hard water - will make it super soft!

Dandruff should not effect your hair's rate of growth.