For those battling dandruff, the condition can be a source of embarrassment, especially when in close proximity to others due to concerns about scalp flaking and dead skin dusting their shoulders.
The NHS describes dandruff as causing “white or grey flakes of skin to appear on the scalp and in the hair”, noting that it stands out more in darker hair. They reassure that it’s a “common skin condition” which is not contagious.
Dermatologist Dr Mark, known on TikTok as @dermarkologist, has shared that there are “only two things you need to minimally yet effectively treat your dandruff”. He advises: “First, you need to choose the right anti-dandruff shampoo”, endorsing Head and Shoulders Bare.
He highlights that this shampoo contains just nine ingredients, with zinc pyrithione being “the star of the show” for its ability to “fight off yeast build-up that leads to uncomfortable itching and flaking”. This product is available at Boots and Ocado for a mere £5.
His second piece of advice is to “use it consistently”. He recommends using an anti-dandruff shampoo thrice weekly, “even when your scalp is clear and flake-free” because “the yeast that causes dandruff are always living on your scalp and if you stop using the anti-dandruff treatment the scalp itching, flaking and irritation may just come back”.
These tips are also supported by the NHS, which suggests looking for shampoos containing “zinc pyrithion, selenium sulphide (or selenium sulfide), ketoconazole, or coal tar with salicylic acid”.
Experts advise individuals to “use the shampoo for a month to see if your dandruff gets better. You might need to try more than 1 type to find a shampoo that works for you.”
The NHS suggests seeing a GP if:
- you still have dandruff symptoms after using anti-dandruff shampoo for a month
- your dandruff is bad or your scalp is very itchy
- your scalp is red or swollen
- you have flaky, itchy patches on your face or other parts of your body
They are in the best position to examine your scalp for any underlying skin conditions that might be contributing to your dandruff issue.