From the FDA Drug Label
The preferable method of use is to apply Salicylic Acid 6% thoroughly to the affected area and to cover the treated area at night after washing and before retiring. The recommended treatment for dandruff is to apply Salicylic Acid 6% to the affected area, preferably at night, and wash it off in the morning.
- Apply the medication after washing and hydrating the skin for at least five minutes
- Cover the treated area at night
- Wash off the medication in the morning
- If necessary, apply a bland cream or lotion to reduce drying and irritation 1
From the Research
The recommended treatment for dandruff is using anti-dandruff shampoos containing active ingredients such as zinc pyrithione, selenium sulfide, ketoconazole, coal tar, or salicylic acid, with ketoconazole shampoos being particularly effective for moderate to severe cases 2.
Treatment Approach
To manage dandruff effectively, it's essential to understand that the condition is caused by an overgrowth of Malassezia yeast on the scalp, leading to increased skin cell turnover and flaking. The treatments work by controlling the yeast population, reducing inflammation, or helping remove dead skin cells.
- Apply the shampoo to wet hair, massage into the scalp, and leave on for 5-10 minutes before rinsing.
- Use the shampoo 2-3 times per week.
- For moderate to severe cases, ketoconazole shampoos (like Nizoral) at 1-2% strength are recommended, used twice weekly for at least 4 weeks 2.
- If one product doesn't work after several weeks, try rotating between different active ingredients.
- For severe cases that don't respond to over-the-counter treatments, prescription-strength shampoos or topical steroids may be necessary.
Additional Management Strategies
Besides using anti-dandruff shampoos, managing dandruff long-term involves:
- Reducing stress
- Maintaining proper scalp hygiene
- Avoiding hair products that may irritate the scalp These strategies can help in controlling the symptoms of dandruff and improving the overall quality of life for individuals suffering from this condition. The most recent and highest quality study 3 supports the use of a combination of antidandruff actives and silicones for superior efficacy and sensory properties, further enhancing the management of dandruff.