These include: Ketoconazole (Nizoral Anti-Dandruff). Pyrithione zinc (Head & Shoulders, Jason Anti-Dandruff, others). Selenium sulfide (Selsun Blue, Head & Shoulders, others).
The best anti-dandruff shampoos often contain active ingredients like Ketoconazole (Nizoral), Pyrithione Zinc (Head & Shoulders, Dove), or Selenium Sulfide (Selsun Blue) to target fungus or reduce cell production, with Nizoral frequently cited as an overall strong performer for its powerful antifungal action. Other popular choices include Neutrogena T/Sal for oily scalps (Salicylic Acid), luxurious options like Kérastase Symbiose, or gentler formulas like CeraVe for dryness, with results varying by individual scalp needs.
How Is Dandruff Treated?
Dandruff may have several causes, including: Irritated, oily skin. Dry skin. A type of fungus called malassezia that lives on the scalps of most adults and feeds on natural oils.
Foods That Might Worsen Dandruff
Home Treatments for Dandruff
When your dandruff improves, it's OK to use dandruff shampoo less often. Once a week might be enough to keep flakes off your shoulders. If dandruff doesn't get better after 4–6 weeks, try another shampoo with a different active ingredient. Talk to the pharmacist if you have any questions about dandruff shampoos.
Apple Cider Vinegar: Apple cider vinegar helps restore the pH balance of your scalp and reduces the growth of yeast, which can cause dandruff. Mix equal parts apple cider vinegar and water and apply to your scalp. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes before rinsing with cool water.
Dermatologists most commonly recommend ketoconazole-based shampoos like Nizoral for their proven antifungal effectiveness. For daily use, zinc pyrithione formulas get the thumbs up.
Washing Hair 3 Times A Week Can Treat Dandruff
That's because other shampoos and conditioners can remove the anti-dandruff actives left on your scalp, reducing their effectiveness. So keep using our anti-dandruff shampoo.
Dandruff itself is not a fungus, although it is caused by the presence of a naturally occurring fungus, Malassezia globosa. Dandruff is caused as this fungus breaks down oils on your scalp called sebum.
A dry scalp is literally when the skin on your head is dry, and does not produce (or retain) enough natural oils to keep it moisturised, whereas dandruff (described medically as pityriasis capitis or pityriasis sicca) is usually linked to an imbalance in scalp conditions, leading to an overactive production of skin ...
Rosemary or Peppermint oil –
Both are said to get rid of the dirt and excess oil that is found on your scalp, which is the cause of your dandruff. You can combine each with a carrier oil before applying it to your head or you can add a few drops to your shampoo.
Here are the eight most common causes of a dry, flaky scalp.
Using superfoods for dandruff
A vitamin deficiency of certain vitamins can make this situation much worse. Vitamins D, B2, B3, B6, B7 are usually associated with a flaky scalp.
Dandruff is a common skin condition. It's not harmful and you cannot catch it.
When I scratch my scalp, I get white stuff in my nails. That white residue is usually a combination of excess oils, dead skin cells, and leftover product buildup. It's a sign your scalp needs a proper cleanse rather than scratching.
In Chinese medicine, the most common cause of dandruff is 'liver blood deficiency'. Blood, amongst other things, moistens the body, so 'blood deficiency' doesn't mean you are anaemic but that your blood isn't moistening your scalp sufficiently (the blood deficiency also causes psoriasis).