Dandruff is also known as seborrheic dermatitis. In infants, dandruff is referred to as cradle cap. Not only is it embarrassing and annoying, but also can cause a lot of damage to your scalp if left untreated. Permanent hair loss can occur when dandruff injures or destroys hair follicles. If over-the-counter dandruff shampoos do not yield desirable results, consult with your health care provider about prescription-strength medications.
Zinc Pyrithione
Zinc pyrithione shampoos contain antifungal and antibacterial properties, which helps treat dandruff, according to the Mayo Clinic. Fungus and bacteria can invade your scalp, causing dandruff. Zinc pyrithione helps destroy these infections, which is why it works. Zinc pyrithione is an active ingredient found in certain over-the-counter shampoos used to treat dandruff. The American Academy of Family Physicians recommends shampooing with a zinc pyrithione shampoo daily until you begin to notice improvement, then twice weekly until the shampoo is no longer needed. You can safely use zinc pyrithione on your scalp, facial areas such as beard and on your body, according to the American Academy of Family Physicians. Do not use this shampoo if you are allergic to zinc. Discontinue use should an allergic reaction occur.
Coal Tar
Coal-based shampoos are formulated from coal tar byproduct. The tar in the shampoo helps remove scale buildup caused by dandruff, according to the Mayo Clinic. The coal tar also helps decrease the rate of which skin cells die and flake off, slowing down the overall skin shedding process. This helps improve dandruff by allowing the skin to shed slowly, instead of shedding all at once. The AAFP recommends using a coal tar shampoo daily initially, until improvement is noticed, then only as needed. The shampoo is sold over-the-counter and does not require a prescription. You may find the shampoo irritating upon the first few applications, according to the AAFP, as this is a common reaction. Discontinue use should an allergic reaction occur or if irritation continues.
Selenium Sulfide
Selenium sulfide shampoos also work by slowing down the rate at which skin sheds, and it treats malassezia, which is a yeast infection found on skin, according to the Mayo Clinic. Selenium sulfide shampoo can bond to gray, blond and chemically treated hair. If your hair falls under one of these categories, only use as directed. Make sure you rinse your hair thoroughly after each use. Selenium sulfide shampoo does not require a prescription and you can safely use it on your scalp, face and body, according to the to the AAFP.
