Fact Checked & Reviewed By Celestine Gitau, IAT
Celestine is a trichologist certified by the International Association of Trichologists, with over 7 years of specialized experience in diagnosing and managing hair and scalp conditions…
Over fifty percent of the population experience dandruff at least once in their lifetime.1 If you have curly hair, you’re likely aware of the unique challenges it presents, especially when it comes to managing dandruff. Unlike straight hair, curly hair requires specialized products that maintain its natural oils while effectively treating scalp conditions.
The best dandruff shampoo for curly hair should contain the following key active ingredients: zinc pyrithione, selenium sulfide, ketoconazole, or coal tar to combat dandruff. Additional active ingredients in dandruff-combating shampoo are sulfur and salicylic acid.2,3
While some dandruff shampoos effectively treat the scalp, they may leave your curly hair feeling dry, it’s crucial to follow up with a moisturizing conditioner to maintain the hair’s natural moisture, pH, and softness. This balanced approach ensures both your scalp and curls get the care they need.
How to Choose the Best Dandruff Shampoo for Curly Hair
Dandruff is essentially shed skin cells from the scalp. If you’re dealing with mild to moderate dandruff, over-the-counter shampoos can often alleviate symptoms like flaking and itching while also exfoliating and reducing inflammation on the scalp.
What Causes Dandruff?
Dandruff is a widespread scalp condition that manifests as white flakes, itchiness, and sometimes redness.3 Various factors contribute to dandruff, including:
- Dry skin
- A yeast-like fungus called Malassezia
- Sensitivity and allergic reaction to hair care products (contact dermatitis)
- Oily, irritated skin
- Other skin conditions like psoriasis and eczema
Key Ingredients to Look For
When dealing with dandruff, it’s crucial to select a shampoo containing effective ingredients such as:
- Zinc pyrithione
- Selenium sulfide
- Ketoconazole
- Coal tar
- Tea tree oil
- Sulfur
- Salicylic acid
These ingredients possess anti-fungal, antimitotic,4 and anti-bacterial properties crucial for combating dandruff.
Consider Your Hair and Scalp Type
Curly hair is often more fragile and prone to dryness, so it’s essential to choose a dandruff shampoo that’s not overly harsh or drying.
Look for options labeled “gentle” or “for sensitive skin” if your scalp is easily irritated. If you have color-treated hair, opt for a shampoo labeled as “color-safe” to avoid stripping the color.
If you have oily hair, you want to choose a shampoo that is designed for oily hair. However, some selenium sulfide-containing dandruff shampoos may make oily hair seem even oilier. Additionally, coal tar shampoos can discolor light hair, so exercise caution with these products.
Moisture is Essential
Because curly hair is more susceptible to dryness, make sure to select a shampoo that offers adequate hydration. This will help keep your curls intact and reduce frizz.
Application and Use
Most dandruff shampoos need to sit on the scalp for several minutes to be effective. Make sure you follow the directions on the packaging to maximize benefits.
Don’t Forget the Conditioner
Dandruff shampoos can be drying due to their active ingredients. Therefore, pairing your shampoo with a moisturizing conditioner is essential, especially for curly hair that’s already prone to dryness.
Best Dandruff Shampoo for Curly Hair: Our Top 14 Picks
Here are the shampoos that my daughter (with 3A curls) and I (with 3C curls) have personally found effective in treating our severe dandruff:
#1 Maple Holistics Tea Tree Oil Shampoo
This is my go-to dandruff shampoo, and it’s the only one that effectively cleared my severe dandruff after trying numerous other options. It has also helped maintain my scalp health since then.
If you’re struggling with an itchy scalp and haven’t found relief, I highly recommend this product. It contains 100% pure tea tree oil, renowned for its anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, and antimicrobial benefits.
I used this shampoo weekly until my dandruff was gone, and it didn’t dry out my hair or affect my curls. It’s truly a lifesaver!
I also strongly recommend pairing it with the matching conditioner; your dry, itchy scalp will definitely benefit.
Ingredients: Water, Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Sodium Lauroamphoacetate, Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate, Sodium Lauryl Glucoside Carboxylate, Lauryl Glucoside, Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate, Acrylates Copolymer, Coco-Glucoside, Glyceryl Oleate, Caprylhydroxamic Acid, Glyceryl Caprylate, Glycerin, Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Oil, Glycol Distearate, Laureth-4, Sodium PCA, D-Panthenol, Hydrolyzed Corn Protein, Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein, Hydrolyzed Soy Protein, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Lavandula Officinalis (Lavender) Flower Oil, Argania Spinosa (Argan) Kernel Oil.
#2 Nizoral AD Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
The Nizoral shampoo is the best-rated dandruff shampoo on the market. It is distinct since it targets the underlying cause of dandruff rather than just treating its symptoms.
The ketoconazole in Nizoral eliminates dandruff by normalizing the activity of scalp cells. It’s also effective against a yeast called Malassezia, which plays a role in dandruff.5 Gentle enough to use on color-treated hair.
Active Ingredient: Ketoconazole 1% Inactive Ingredients: Benzyl Alcohol, BHT, Blue 1, Citric Acid, Cocamide MEA, Fragrance, Glycol Distearate, Hydrochloric Acid, Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose, Polyquaternium-7, Sodium Chloride, Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate, Sodium Hydroxide, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Tetrasodium EDTA, Water.
#3 Neutrogena T/Sal Therapeutic Shampoo
The dermatologist recommended this particular shampoo to my daughter, even though she has curly hair. The key is to follow up with a moisturizing conditioner.
If you struggle with crusty scalp build-up or psoriasis, then this is for you. It will also help to relieve itching and flaking.6
The shampoo contains salicylic acid to help control dandruff and scalp build-up, and it also has a mentholated cooling effect that leaves the scalp feeling refreshed and invigorated.
Inactive Ingredients: Water; Cocamidopropyl Betaine; Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate; Linoleamidopropyl PG-Dimonium Chloride Phosphate; Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate; Polyquaternium-22; Hexylene Glycol; Sodium Citrate. Active Ingredients: Salicylic Acid 3% (anti-dandruff, anti-seborrheic dermatitis, anti-psoriasis) Inactive Ingredients Water, sodium C14-16 olefin sulfonate, cocamidopropyl betaine, polyquaternium-22, sodium citrate, sodium lauroyl sarcosinate, hexylene glycol, linoleamidopropyl PG-dimonium chloride phosphate.
#4 Dove Dermacare Scalp Anti-Dandruff Shampoo & Conditioner
Dove DermaCare Scalp Anti-Dandruff Shampoo is designed to soothe the scalp and relieve dryness, itchiness, and flakiness. The shampoo contains a blend of zinc pyrithione and salicylic acid to help control dandruff, and it also contains Dove’s patented moisture lock technology to help keep the scalp hydrated.
When my daughter had severe dandruff, this was another product recommended to her by the dermatologist.
Ingredients: Pyrithione Zinc (1.0%); Inactive Ingredients: Water (Aqua), Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Sodium Chloride, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Tocopheryl Acetate, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Dimethiconol, Fragrance (Parfum), Carbomer, Dimethicone, Dmdm Hydantoin, Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride, Citric Acid, Glycerin, Zinc Sulfate, Tea-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate, Poloxamer 407, Laureth-23, Laureth-4, Ppg-9, Butylene Glycol, Iodopropynyl Butylcarbamate, Peg-4, Xanthan Gum, Methylchloroisothiazolinone, Methylisothiazolinone, Disodium Edta.
#5 Shea Moisture African Black Soap Bamboo Charcoal Deep Cleansing Shampoo
This shampoo is great if your scalp feels oily and flaky. It does a great job at cleansing and will not strip your hair of its natural oils.
The shampoo contains African black soap, which is known for its ability to absorb excess oil, bamboo charcoal, which helps to deep cleanse the scalp, and shea butter, which helps to moisturize and nourish curly hair.
Ingredients: Aqua, Sodium Lauroyl Methyl Isethionate, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Glycol Distearate, Parfum (Essential Oil Blend / Mélange d’huiles essentielles), Panthenol, Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Sodium Benzoate, Tocopheryl Acetate, Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil, Salix Nigra (Willow) Bark Extract, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter***, Argania Spinosa (Argan) Kernel Oil, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Charcoal Powder, Macadamia Ternifolia Seed Oil, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Elaeis Guineensis (Palm) Kernel Oil, Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa Pod) Potash, Glycerin, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Triethyl Citrate, Caprylyl Glycol, Benzoic Acid.
#6 Design Essentials Therapeutics
This shampoo contains salicylic acid to help provide relief from dandruff and soothe the scalp. Can be used daily or several times a week without causing product build-up, thanks to rich emollients that condition and give the hair a natural sheen.
Ingredients: Salicylic Acid (1.8%), Isopropyl Myristate, Petrolatum, Paraffinum Liquidum/Mineral Oil/Huile Minérale, Paraffin, Menthol, Polyethylene, PEG-40 Sorbitan Peroleate, BHT, Propylparaben, Tocopheryl Acetate.
#7 WOW Skin Science Apple Cider Vinegar Shampoo
This dandruff shampoo is formulated with natural, plant-based ingredients. It includes organic apple cider vinegar to eliminate scalp build-up and restore pH balance, as well as aloe vera to soothe and condition the scalp. Additionally, the shampoo is both vegan and cruelty-free.
Ingredients: Purified Water, Caprylyl / Capryl Glucoside, Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate, Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate, Decyl Glucoside, Cocoamidopropyl Betaine, Disodium Cocoamphodiacetate, Polyquaternium -10, Polyquaternium 73, D-Panthenol (Vitamin B5), PEG-12 Dimethicone, Natural Apple Cider Vinegar, Nettle Leaf Extract, Saw Palmetto Extract, Almond Oil, Argan Oil, Sodium Benzoate, Potassium Sorbate, PEG-150 Distearate, Fragrance & Color C.I 15985.
#8 As I Am Dry & Itchy Hair Care (Shampoo & Co-Wash)
After successfully treating my severe dandruff (using the Maple HolisticsTea Tree Shampoo & Conditioner), I transitioned to using these products.
This particular shampoo is gentle due to its low pH, making it suitable for daily use. It includes peppermint and tea tree oils, both known for their anti-fungal and antibacterial benefits. These products are also great for low-porosity hair.
I love that the co-wash is both highly moisturizing and effective. It also features a pleasant, clean fragrance.
Active Ingredient: 1.00% Zinc Pyrithione. Inactive Ingredients: Aqua/Water/Eau, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Betaine, Disodium Laureth Sulfosuccinate, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Cocamide MIPA, Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, Cetyl Alcohol, Glycerin, Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil, Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil, Linum Usitatissimum (Linseed) Seed Extract, Origanum Vulgare Leaf Extract, Glycol Stearate, Mentha Piperita (Peppermint) Oil, Piroctone Olamine, Polyquaternium-10, Quaternium-80, Propanediol, Caprylyl Glycol, Phenoxyethanol, Menthol, Caprylic Acid, Ceteareth-60 Myristyl Glycol, Tetrasodium EDTA.
Dry & Itchy Scalp Care Dandruff Co-Wash Ingredients:
Active Ingredient: 1.00% Zinc Pyrithione
Ingredients: Aqua/Water/Eau, Betaine, Cetearyl Alcohol, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Cetrimonium Chloride, Glycerin, Quaternium-18, Polysorbate 60, Olea Europaea [Olive] Fruit Oil, Melaleuca Alternifolia [Tea Tree] Leaf Oil, Phytosterols, Mentha Piperita [Peppermint] Oil, Stearamidopropyl Dimethylamine, Caprylic Acid, Quaternium-80, Propanediol, Cocos Nucifera [Coconut] Oil, Fragrance/Parfum, Phenoxyethanol, Potassium Chloride, Linum Usitatissimum [Linseed] Seed Extract, Ceramide NG, Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate, Caprylyl Glycol, Piroctone Olamine, Menthol, Polyacrylamide, Origanum Vulgare Leaf Extract, Propylene Glycol Dicaprylate/Dicaprate, Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, Coconut Fatty Acids, Sodium Lauroyl Glutamate, PEG-3 Distearate, Laureth-9, PEG-8, Ceteareth-25, Disodium Ethylene Dicocamide PEG-15 Disulfate, Citric Acid, Polyquaternium-37, PPG-1 Trideceth-6, Citronellol, Geraniol, Hexyl Cinnamal, Lilial, Linalool.
#9 Jason Dandruff Relief Treatment Shampoo
This is a shampoo that contains sulfur and salicylic acid. When used together in an acceptable dosage, it can help to relieve itching and flaking associated with mild psoriasis and dermatitis. It contains botanicals and oils to help soothe the scalp.
It also contains rosemary, olive, and jojoba oils to soothe, heal, and moisturize the scalp.
Made with gentle and effective ingredients.
Ingredients: Aqua (Water), Potassium Cocoyl Glutamate, Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, Cetyl Alcohol, Disodium Cocoamphodiacetate, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Stearic Acid, Glycerin, Glyceryl Stearate SE, Sodium Laurylglucosides Hydroxypropylsulfonate, Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil (Certified Organic Ingredients), Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Oil, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil (Certified Organic Ingredient), Chenopodium Quinoa Seed (Certified Organic Ingredient), Alcohol (Certified Organic Ingredient), Camphor, Capryloyl Glycine, Disodium Cocoyl Glutamate, Menthol, Methyl Salicylate, Potassium Hydroxide, Sodium Chloride, Sodium PCA, Triethyl Citrate, Undecylenoyl Glycine, Xanthan Gum, Benzyl Alcohol, Linalool. Salicylic Acid (2.2 %), Controls Seborrheic Dermatitis; Sulfur (2.4 %), Controls Dandruff.
#10 Zinc Shampoo, DHS
Gentle on the hair and scalp. Has a clean scent, no medicinal-type scent. Gentle properties reduce inflammation and irritation. Some say it works better than Head and Shoulders or Selsun Blue.
Ingredients: Purified Water, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine, PEG-8 Distearate, Sodium Chloride, Hydroxylpropyl Methylcellulose, Magnesium Aluminum Silicate, Fragrance, Citric Acid, FD&C Yellow #6.
#11 Head & Shoulders Supreme Nourish & Smooth
This Head & Shoulders shampoo is different than the original formula in that it’s designed for people with dry scalp.
It’s a sulfate-free shampoo, but it does contain silicone (for those following the CG method). It contains a unique blend of hydrating ingredients, including aloe vera and avocado oil, that help to soothe and soothe dry scalp.
Active Ingredients: Pyrithione Zinc (1 %), Anti-Dandruff. Inactive Ingredients: Water, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Zinc Carbonate, Glycol Distearate, Cocamide MEA, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Sodium Xylenesulfonate, Sodium Chloride, Dimethicone, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil, Fragrance, Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride, Sodium Benzoate, Polyquaternium-10, Stearyl Alcohol, Magnesium Carbonate Hydroxide, Cetyl Alcohol, Methylchloroisothiazolinone, Methylisothiazolinone.
#12 JĀSÖN Men’s Calming 2-in-1 Shampoo + Conditioner
This product is a powerful, yet gentle medicated dandruff shampoo formula that soothes and treats dry, flaky scalp conditions.
It is free of gluten, petrolatum, phthalates, and harsh sulfates, making it a great choice for anyone looking for a high-quality shampoo that won’t irritate or aggravate sensitive scalps.
With its blend of zinc pyrithione nourishing hemp seed oil and aloe vera, this shampoo effectively calms and soothes irritated scalps while deeply moisturizing hair and leaving it soft, smooth, and silky.
I would definitely recommend this product to anyone seeking an effective solution for controlling scalp dermatitis or mild psoriasis.
So, if you’re looking for the best dandruff shampoo for men, give this a try!
Active Ingredients: Zinc Pyrithione 1.1% Inactive Ingredients: Water (Aqua), Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, Glycerin, Cetyl Alcohol, Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine, Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate, Sodium Laurylglucosides Hydroxypropylsulfonate, Sodium Chloride, Glyceryl Stearate SE, Coco-Glucoside, Glyceryl Oleate, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter Unsaponifiables, Cannabis Sativa Seed Oil, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Peel Oil, Citrus Limon (Lemon) Peel Oil, Citrus Nobilis (Mandarin Orange) Peel Oil, Eugenia Caryophyllus (Clove) Leaf Oil, Juniperus Mexicana Oil, Myristica Fragrans (Nutmeg) Kernel Oil, Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil (1), Pelargonium Graveolens Flower Oil, Pimpinella Anisum (Anise) Seed Oil, Pogostemon Cablin Oil, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil (1), Soybean Glycerides, Zingiber Officinale (Ginger) Root Oil, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice(1), Cannabis Sativa Seed Extract, Chenopodium Quinoa Seed(1), Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate, Ascorbyl Palmitate, Babassu Oil Polyglyceryl-4 Esters, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Capryloyl Glycerin/Sebacic Acid Copolymer, Cellulose Gum, Citric Acid, Diheptyl Succinate, Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride, Sodium Hydroxide, Sodium PCA, Xanthan Gum, Zinc Carbonate, Alcohol(1), Ethylhexylglycerin, Phenoxyethanol, Potassium Sorbate, Benzyl Salicylate, Fragrance (Natural), Limonene, Linalool. (1)Certified Organic Ingredient.
#13 Nioxin Scalp Recovery Anti-Dandruff Medicating Cleanser Shampoo
This powerful medicated shampoo uses pyrithione zinc to help relieve the symptoms of dandruff such as itching and flaking, restoring your scalp’s natural balance. It also contains green tea extracts for extra soothing and hydrating effects, making this shampoo a must-have in any anti-dandruff regimen.
So if you’re looking for the best anti-dandruff shampoo for men to provide relief from dandruff symptoms, then give this a try!
Ingredients: Active Ingredients: Pyrithione Zinc. Inactive Ingredients: Water, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, Cocamide MEA, Zinc Carbonate, Glycol Distearate, Dimethicone, Cetyl Alcohol, Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride, Sodium Xylenesulfonate, Hydrochloric Acid, Magnesium Sulfate, Sodium Chloride, Sodium Benzoate, Fragrance, DMDM Hydantoin, Mentha Piperita (Peppermint) Oil, Menthol, Mentha Arvensis Leaf Oil, Magnesium Carbonate Hydroxide, Benzyl Alcohol, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Yeast Extract, Lecithin, Saccharomyces/Magnesium Ferment, Biotin/Folic Acid/Cyanocobalamin/Niacinamide/Pantothenic Acid/Pyridoxine/Riboflavin/Thiamine/Yeast Polypeptides, Saccharomyces/Iron Ferment, Saccharomyces/Copper Ferment, Saccharomyces/Silicon Ferment, Saccharomyces/Zinc Ferment.
#14 Paul Mitchell Tea Tree Special Color Shampoo
The Paul Mitchell Tea Tree Special Color Shampoo is a must-have for anyone who wants to keep their hair looking vibrant and full of life.
This shampoo contains the invigorating Tingle Complex, featuring tea tree, peppermint, and lavender oils, that leave your scalp feeling cool and refreshed.
It’s also ideal for color-treated hair, thanks to its blend of rooibos tea botanicals that help protect hair color from fading due to environmental exposure.
Furthermore, this shampoo is gluten-free and features UV protection to keep your hair healthy and strong.
So if you’re looking for the best shampoo for colored hair, look no further than the Paul Mitchell Tea Tree Special Color Shampoo.
Ingredients: Aqua (Water, Eau), Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Cocamide MIPA, Parfum (Fragrance), Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil, Aspalathus Linearis Leaf Extract, Panthenol, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Oleamidopropyl Betaine, Maltodextrin, Propylene Glycol, Glycol Stearate, PEG-150 Distearate, Menthyl Lactate, Glycerin, Polyquaternium-7, Citric Acid, Tetrasodium EDTA, Sodium Chloride, Sodium Sulfate, Methylchloroisothiazolinone, Methylisothiazolinone, Magnesium Nitrate, Magnesium Chloride, Sodium Benzoate, Linalool, Limonene, Citronellol, Hydroxycitronellal, CI 16035 (Red 40).
No Poo Method Dandruff
If you’re following a no-poo method for cleansing your hair, but you’re also struggling with dandruff, try adding a few drops of tea tree oil to your cleanser! Tea tree oil has anti-fungal and antibacterial properties that can help treat dandruff.
You can also do a scalp treatment with tea tree oil. Just make sure to use a carrier oil like olive oil, jojoba oil, grapeseed oil, or coconut oil.
- Take a small bottle and fill it halfway with your carrier oil.
- 10-15 drops of tea tree oil should be added to the mix (shaking) thoroughly.
- Massage lightly into your scalp and hair before leaving them in for a few hours, or even overnight.
- Cleanse your hair in the morning and go about your day as usual.
FAQs
How often should you use dandruff shampoo?
The million-dollar question, right? How often should you use dandruff shampoo?
The answer, of course, depends on a number of factors, including the severity of your dandruff, the type of shampoo you’re using, and how well it works for you.
In general, however, most people can get away with using dandruff shampoo once or twice a week.
Of course, if your dandruff is particularly bad, you may need to use it more frequently. And if you find that your dandruff returns quickly after you stop using the shampoo, it’s probably worth using it more often, or your scalp needs more attention be a scalp specialist.
Ultimately, though, it’s up to you to experiment and find what works best for you. So go forth and shampoo away!
Is dandruff more common in curly hair?
Anyone who has ever dealt with dandruff knows that it’s not a fun experience.
Not only is it itchy and embarrassing, but it can also be difficult to get rid of.
While dandruff can occur in any type of hair, it seems to be more common in people with curly hair.
One theory is that the oils from the scalp are more likely to become trapped in curly hair, leading to dandruff.
Another possibility is that dry scalp conditions are more common in people with curly hair.
Whatever the cause, people with curly hair should be extra vigilant about keeping their scalps clean and hydrated to avoid dandruff.
Can dandruff shampoo damage your hair?
If you’re using a dandruff shampoo that contains harsh chemicals, it’s possible that it could damage your hair by making it dry brittle and eventually leading to hair breakage.
However, if you’re using a gentle dandruff shampoo that is designed for your hair type, it should not cause any damage.
When should you see a dermatologist?
If you’ve tried over-the-counter dandruff shampoos and they haven’t worked, or if you’re concerned about the possibility of hair loss, or persistent scalp condition, it’s best to see a dermatologist or trichologist.
Can dandruff clog hair follicles?
Yes, scalp build-up can cause hair loss if it is left untreated. The dead skin, oil, and sweat can clog your hair follicles and lead to an uncomfortable condition called folliculitis.
Is dandruff contagious?
No, dandruff is not contagious. You cannot catch it from someone else nor can you spread it.
Can I continue using dandruff shampoo if I don’t have dandruff anymore?
It is recommended to switch to regular shampoo if the dandruff is under control. Most dandruff shampoos are medicated and work best on a scalp with dandruff to clear away the flakes and stop the causative factors. Used on a normal scalp, they might cause a dry scalp.
References
- Ranganathan, S. (2010, April- June). National Library of Medicine. From Pupmed Central: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2887514/ ↩︎
- Nowicki, R. (2006, January 20). National Library of Medicine. From Pupmed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16617752/#:~:text=Dandruff%20responds%20to%20everyday%20shampooing,shampoos%20and%20may%20be%20alternated. ↩︎
- Nowicki, R. (2006). Modern management of dandruff. PupMed. ↩︎
- Długosz, O. (2022). Antimicrobial and antiviral activity of selenium sulphide nanoparticles synthesised in extracts from spices in natural deep eutectic solvents (NDES). ↩︎
- Ianiri, G. (2018, May). Natiåonal Library of Medicine. From Pupmed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29681390/ ↩︎
- Dermatol. (1993, Jan 11). National Library of Medicine. From Pupmed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8435907/#:~:text=When%20combined%20with%20suberythemogenic%20ultraviolet,is%20not%20enhanced%20with%20tar ↩︎