To get rid of dandruff, you can follow these effective steps:

1. Use Anti-Dandruff Shampoo

• Start with regular cleansing using a gentle shampoo to reduce oil and skin cell buildup

• If mild shampoos don’t work, switch to a medicated anti-dandruff shampoo containing active ingredients such as:
  • Zinc pyrithione (antibacterial, antifungal)
  • Salicylic acid (helps remove flakes but can be drying)
  • Selenium sulfide (slows skin cell buildup and fights fungus)
  • Ketoconazole (antifungal)
  • Coal tar (slows dead skin buildup but may discolor hair)

• Use the medicated shampoo 2-3 times a week, and regular shampoo on other days if needed

• Follow instructions on the shampoo for best results and try different brands if one does not work

2. Home Remedies and Natural Treatments

• Tea tree oil: Has antimicrobial and antifungal properties; dilute with a carrier oil before applying to avoid irritation

• Coconut oil: May improve scalp hydration and reduce inflammation

• Aloe vera: May reduce fungal infections and soothe inflammation

• Apple cider vinegar: Anecdotally helps balance scalp pH and reduce dryness, but it may cause irritation for some

• Aspirin: Contains salicylic acid; crushing aspirin tablets and mixing with shampoo can help exfoliate flakes

• Baking soda: Acts as an exfoliant to remove excess skin cells and oil but should be used sparingly to avoid dryness

3. Additional Tips

• Manage stress, as it can worsen dandruff symptoms

• Avoid vigorous towel drying and excessive heat from hairdryers to prevent scalp dryness and hair damage

• Use anti-dandruff conditioners that complement your shampoo without washing away the active ingredients

4. When to See a Doctor

• If dandruff persists after a month of treatment
• If scalp is very itchy, swollen, or red
• If you have flaky, itchy patches on other parts of the body

By combining regular use of appropriate anti-dandruff shampoos with natural remedies and good scalp care, dandruff can be effectively managed and reduced.