Beauty Q&A.

scaly-scalp Rx

My dandruff flakes are so huge, and they sometimes fall on my shoulders while I'm talking to people. How can I get rid of them?

"Dandruff can stem from stress, weather changes, hormonal fluctuations, or buildup from hair products," says Jeanine Downie, M.D., of Image Dermatology in Montclair, New Jersey. If you scratch your itchy scalp, you'll make matters worse and cause large flakes to slough off. To reduce the flaking and itching, use an OTC medicated dandruff shampoo. We like Nizoral A-D Shampoo, $10.49, and Neutrogena T/Gel Shampoo, $4.99. Warning: Since products like these might dry out your hair, use a deep conditioner afterward. Try Aveda Deep Penetrating Hair Revitalizer, $21. If the problem persists for more than two weeks, see your dermatologist to get a prescription shampoo and to rule out more serious culprits like scalp psoriasis.

sweat-stain solutions

My armpits stain my tee shirts yellow. How can I stop this?

Perspiration is no small problem when it wreaks havoc on your wardrobe. The bacteria that accumulate in your underarms when you sweat can interact with fabric, particularly cotton, and create unsightly stains. Prevent discoloration by reducing the amount of sweat you produce and eliminating some of the bacteria. "In addition to using antiperspirant, you should wash your underarms with antibacterial soap every day," says Debra Wattenberg, M.D., associate professor of dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City. A good one: Lever 2000 Moisture Response, $1.99 for two bars. For a more extreme solution, dermatologists have started to inject patients' underarms with Botox, which inhibits sweat production. Although the treatment costs at least $1,000, you'll be perspiration-free for 12 to 16 weeks.

sweet-cheeks s.o.s.