If your scalp is full of embarrassing flakes, you might not need an expensive treatment to make them disappear. Over-the-counter dandruff shampoos that contain effective active ingredients can be very helpful in reducing dandruff. Consult your doctor to be sure that the treatment you choose is right for your particular condition.
Significance
There can be several causes of dandruff, including dry skin, an oily skin condition called seborrheic dermatitis, an allergy to hair products, a type of fungus known as malassezia, eczema, psoriasis or shampooing infrequently, according to the Mayo Clinic website. Not all dandruff shampoos treat every cause of dandruff, so finding the underlying cause of your condition may help you find an effective treatment.
Types
An over-the-counter medicated dandruff shampoo contains one active ingredient that can help reduce dandruff, like ketoconazole, tar, zinc pyrithione, salicylic acid or selenium sulfide. Ketoconazole is also available in prescription shampoos and is an anti-fungal medication that might reduce dandruff due to any cause, including malassezia. Selenium sulfide reduces flakes due to seborrheic dermatitis. Tar-based shampoos reduce flakes due to psoriasis. Zinc pyrithione reduces dandruff due to seborrheic dermatitis. Salicylic acid can reduce scales due to seborrheic dermatitis.
Usage
Shampoo your hair with an over-the-counter dandruff shampoo once a day until dandruff subsides. Leave the shampoo in your hair for at least five minutes to allow the medication to absorb into the scalp and become effective. Once your dandruff is under control, you might be able to use the shampoo once or twice a week. Continue to shampoo your hair daily with a mild, non-medicated shampoo on the other days.
Effects
Salicylic acid can reduce dandruff, but it also can dry the scalp out and cause more flakes. According to the Mayo Clinic website, you should condition your hair immediately after shampooing with salicylic acid treatments to restore moisture in the scalp. Selenium sulfide is blue and might cause hair discoloration, particularly if you have light blond, white or gray hair, according to MedlinePlus. In some cases, dandruff shampoos can lose their effectiveness and you might need to switch to a different active ingredient.
Expert Insight
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, severe cases of seoborrhic dermatitis might respond more effectively to shampoos or treatments that contain selenium, ketoconazole or corticosteroids. Corticosteroid treatments are prescribed by a doctor. Work the shampoo into your hair once a day, then massage your scalp with your fingertips to loosen scales from the scalp before rinsing your hair.
