Conventional Dandruff Treatments

Dandruff is more common than some may realize.  Studies have shown that up to 50 percent of the global populace will suffer or has suffered from scalp flaking sometime in their lives.  As common as this is, though, a permanent cure is not available.  Still, there are some existing medical treatments to help you manage your dandruff situation.  Let’s go through the options available.

First off, the most common suggestion for someone just starting to suffer from dandruff is buying an anti-dandruff shampoo.  Some of these shampoos used to be available only through prescription, like Nizoral; but many are already available on store shelves.  Nizoral is one of the most popular products, and it contains an effective ingredient called ketoconazole.  It is an effective synthetic anti fungal which is quite strong, so it’s important to stick to the directions and not put too much.  Other effective shampoos include Neutrogena with salicylic acid and Head and Shoulders with selenium sulfide.  Common usage of these products indicates 2 applications, one for cleaning the scalp and the second for treatment of dandruff.  This should be done only three to four times in a week though, as overuse can cause adverse effects.  Also, not all products will work with just anybody and some might even cause dandruff to worsen.  A little trial and error will be needed to see what works for you.  If after a few weeks these shampoos do not work, then a trip to the dermatologist or trichologist is the next step.

If you’re dandruff is considered severe, a 2% ketoconazole shampoo may be prescribed, as the regular Nizoral is only a 1% solution.  Even if the 2% solution is available over the counter in some countries, it’s best to check with a doctor when using the stronger concentration.  It has been studied that this stronger dose also helps with hair loss, but that’s another matter altogether.  For stronger cases, it is possible for the dandruff to occur in other areas with high sebum production, like the eyebrows and the chest.  In these situations, the doctor may prescribe certain creams and cleansers that can help.  These topical products also contain ingredients like selenium sulfide, ketoconazole and zinc pyrithione like the shampoos.  If this dandruff is caused by seborrheic dermatitis, then creams that contain hydrocortisone may be suggested.  Selenium sulfide and zinc pyrithione are also effective in this instance.  As dandruff may come with inflammation on the skin, immunomodulators can be used to combat this ill effect.  This new generation of treatments has been proven to be effective. 

Anti-fungal pills have also been prescribed for very severe cases, but one must be careful with these.  Side effects like liver damage and anaphylaxis can occur.  As mentioned, certain products may also make your dandruff situation worse.  Some itching and redness may be normal, but one should watch out for allergic reactions such as hives, rashes, swelling and difficulty in breathing.  Consult a physician if you feel you are experiencing effects out of the ordinary.

Return to Dandruff Guide Main Page

Text copyright 2010 DandruffGuide.com and may not be reproduced without consent. This is not the official web page of any of the products or places listed on this site, this is a review page created by an individual. If you have any medical questions or issues, be sure to see a doctor.