How to get rid of dandruff, according to 2 hair experts

Growing up, many of us may have believed that an itchy, flaky scalp meant we were unclean. Now that we’re older, we’ve realized that this notion isn’t true, and we’re not alone in our problem either. Dandruff is very common and affects countless people. In fact, the International Journal of Trichology reports that many studies have found that about 50 percent of the world’s population struggles with unwanted dandruff.

Dandruff, also known as seborrheic dermatitis, can be caused by a variety of factors, including dry skin, sensitivity to hair products, and even certain skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis. It’s important to understand that it’s a condition that can be treated, and there are many effective treatments available, both over the counter and through a skin care provider. For example, anti-dandruff shampoos often contain active ingredients like zinc pyrithione or ketoconazole, which can help reduce flaking and itching when washing. Additionally, regular washing and using gentle, moisturizing hair care products can make a significant difference to the overall health of your scalp.

Next, we’ll bring you Dandruff Training 101 with some extremely effective tips on how to get rid of those pesky flakes immediately. We’ll also show you some of the tried and tested products that the experts swear by to help you on your way to a soothed, flake-free scalp.

Experts featured in this article

Kari Williams, PhD, is a trichologist, stylist and education director at Cécred.

Helen Reavey is a celebrity hairdresser and founder of Act+Acre.

How to get rid of dandruff immediately

If you’re looking for tips on how to get rid of dandruff in one wash, Kari Williams, PhD, trichologist, stylist, and director of education at Cécred, recommends incorporating an anti-dandruff shampoo into your daily hair wash. “Use an anti-dandruff shampoo with active ingredients like zinc pyrithione, ketoconazole, or salicylic acid,” Dr. Williams tells PS. “Medicated shampoos can dry out hair, so it’s important to follow up with a moisturizing shampoo like Cécred Hydrating Shampoo ($30) to restore moisture and keep hair healthy.”

Celebrity hairdresser and founder of Act+Acre Helen Reavey says the key to (almost) instantly fighting dandruff is daily and weekly maintenance. “Use a weekly scalp treatment, especially a chemical exfoliator like our Salicylic Acid Scalp Exfoliator ($48), as a weekly anti-dandruff regimen,” says Reavey. “It contains salicylic acid, which exfoliates the scalp to remove flakes and balance oil production. It also has antifungal properties to treat dandruff.”

How to get rid of dandruff permanently

There is no one-size-fits-all solution to getting rid of dandruff forever, but there are some simple steps you can take to maintain a healthy scalp, such as consistent scalp care, a healthy diet, and stress reduction (according to the Saudi Medical Journal, high cortisol levels can worsen dandruff, although they are not the direct cause). However, in more advanced cases, you may need to see a dermatologist for specific treatments for seborrheic dermatitis.

Maybe a visit to the dermatologist isn’t in your budget? No problem. Reavey recommends Jupiter Balancing Anti-Dandruff Shampoo ($30), which contains zinc pyrithione. “This clinically proven and FDA-approved over-the-counter ingredient has fungistatic and bacteriostatic properties that help treat dandruff,” says the hairstylist.

How to get rid of dandruff naturally

Natural remedies for dandruff include diluted apple cider vinegar, tea tree oil or aloe vera gel on the scalp. However, Reavey cautions against using products with heavy, pore-clogging ingredients. “I recommend avoiding topical products with sulfates and silicones, which are often used to smooth hair and lock in moisture,” says Reavey. “Over time, they can build up on the scalp, increasing the likelihood of dandruff.”

If you want to know how to get rid of dandruff without shampoo, Dr. Williams has some suggestions. In addition to apple cider vinegar, tea tree oil, or aloe vera gel, use a splash of omega-3 fatty acids. “Boost your scalp health from the inside out by getting omega-3 fatty acids through your diet or supplements,” says Dr. Williams.

From a holistic perspective, Reavey recommends that reducing stress through practices such as meditation, yoga or therapy can also help relieve dandruff symptoms.

Stixx Mathews is a freelance beauty writer with 11 years of experience based in New York City who is passionate about telling stories that connect beauty and pop culture. He loves sharing his expert knowledge on the latest trends and must-have products, with a special focus on lipstick and perfume.