Had enough of consistent dandruff that won’t go away? Keep reading to find some ingredients that can help on your journey to finally get rid of it.
Dandruff is one of the most common, yet inconvenient, skin conditions to live with. While it’s tricky to deal with, it’s not entirely impossible.
Luckily, whether it’s over-the-counter buys, prescriptions from a doctor, or natural remedies, there are quite a few treatments to choose from nowadays. Below, we’re breaking down the ingredients that stop dandruff if you’re dealing with flaky, dry patches on your scalp and want them gone once and for all!
RELATED: I Got a Scalp Facial and It Totally Rejuvenated My Hair
Over-the-counter and Prescription Remedies
Salicylic Acid
When we think of salicylic acid, we typically think of it as an acne treatment. However, salicylic acid is a common ingredient for treating dandruff as well. It causes the skin to shed any dry or dead particles that are lingering on the top layer of skin, and in this case, that would be dandruff. It works by increasing the amount of moisture present and loosening up those clumps of dryness that tend to stick together. You’ll find it in the AMH Shampoo, which has salicylic acid and zinc pyrithione to cleanse and exfoliate the scalp, making your hair softer and healthier.
Coal Tar
The thick, dark liquid is a medication that is mostly used to target psoriasis and dermatitis. However, it can treat the itching and scaling that comes along with dandruff as well, and it’s known to be very effective. Coal tar is great for reducing inflammation and redness, which are both common if you’re scratching the affected areas a lot.
Selenium Sulfide
This is a common ingredient found in many dandruff shampoos and is sometimes prescribed. These shampoos target the yeast and fungal infections that cause dandruff. Consult a doctor to determine which strength is right for you, as this can be purchased over the counter as well.
Ketoconazole
As another anti-fungal medication, ketoconazole is a lot stronger when compared to selenium sulfide; it’s used to treat more extreme cases of dandruff. It’s recommended that it is only used once or twice a week for up to eight weeks.
RELATED: Why You’re Losing Hair and What to Do About it
Zinc Pyrithione
A lot gentler than ketoconazole and selenium sulfide, zinc pyrithione is the anti-fungal option that is safe for everyday use. However, that does mean that it takes a lot more shampoo sessions in order for it to fully treat your dandruff. On the other hand, if you have a very sensitive scalp then this is a very great option to consider because it won’t irritate the skin or cause inflammation.
Natural and Home Remedies
Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil has natural antimicrobial and anti-fungal properties. It’s a great natural ingredient for fighting the fungus that causes dandruff and prevents future bacteria from building on the scalp. Tea tree oil is also soothing and hydrating, which helps the dryness that comes along with dandruff.
While not exactly a DIY remedy, the La’dor Tea Tree Scalp Clinic Hair Pack is a great product that contains tea tree oil extract and snail secretion filtrate to treat a flaky scalp while strengthening your hair.
Apple Cider Vinegar
The acidity of ACV helps remove any dandruff and product build-up that leads to dandruff later on. It can also help temporarily balance the pH levels of the scalp, which is also another common cause of dandruff. Overall, ACV is a great way to give your scalp a deep cleanse. Just mix it with a bit of lukewarm water prior to your shampoo.
Aloe Vera
While aloe vera may not be effective for more severe cases of dandruff, it can help alleviate it in some. Aloe vera is very moisturizing on dry skin and has anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce irritation on the scalp. To try this as a dandruff treatment, apply aloe gel directly onto the scalp for approximately 30 minutes and rinse off with a gentle shampoo. You can do this up to once or twice a week.
Aspirin
Aspirin is a source of salicylic acid, making it an effective treatment for dandruff. The use of aspirin can physically exfoliate dandruff flakes from the scalp and remove excess oil and buildup. Crush two uncoated aspirin pills and mix them into your shampoo. Leave it on your scalp for at least five minutes for the most exfoliation.
Baking Soda
Yes, baking soda has yet another miracle property. Baking soda is a natural antiseptic and helps remove excess oils, product buildup, and dead skin particles on the scalp. It also helps treat the fungal infection that causes dandruff and prevents it from producing in the future. Mix in two to three tablespoons of baking soda with lukewarm water to create a paste and massage it into your scalp. Leave it on for a few minutes for exfoliation and rinse off, then shampoo as usual.
+How do you treat dandruff? Let us into your beauty secrets below!