{"id":1247877,"date":"2025-12-26T17:42:01","date_gmt":"2025-12-26T14:42:01","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/?p=1247877"},"modified":"2025-12-26T17:42:01","modified_gmt":"2025-12-26T14:42:01","slug":"12-ways-to-get-rid-of-dandruff-asap-according-to-experts","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/?p=1247877","title":{"rendered":"12 Ways to Get Rid of Dandruff ASAP, According to Experts"},"content":{"rendered":"
\n
\n
\n

12 Ways to Get Rid of Dandruff ASAP, According to Experts<\/h1>\n

We talked to experts to get the low down on dandruff solutions.<\/p>\n

\n
\n
\n
By<\/span><\/p>\n
Sarah Y. Wu<\/p>\n
\n
\n
\n
\"byrdie\"byrdie<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
\nSarah Y. Wu\n<\/div>\n
\n
    \n
  • <\/ul>\n<\/div>\n
    \nSarah Wu is a contributing writer for Byrdie. Previously, she was the beauty features editor at Teen Vogue. Her writing has appeared in Refinery29 and more.\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
    \nByrdie’s Editorial Guidelines\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
    Updated on February 27, 2025 08:55PM<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
    \n
    Reviewed by<\/span><\/p>\n
    Sophia Emmanuel<\/p>\n
    \n
    \n
    \n
    \"Sophia\"Sophia<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
    Reviewed by<\/span>
    \nSophia Emmanuel\n<\/div>\n
    \nSophia Emmanuel is an IAT-certified trichologist and licensed cosmetologist based in New York.\u00a0She owns and operates the Crown Worthy beauty salon in New York City.\u00a0\u00a0\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
    \nAbout Byrdie’s Beauty & Wellness Board\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
    Trichologist<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
    \n
    \n
    \n
    \n
    \n
    \"A\"A<\/div>\n<\/div>
    <\/p>\n

    Getty Images<\/p>\n

    <\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

    \n

    When an itchy, flaky scalp threatens to ruin our favorite all-black outfit, we know exactly what name to give it: dandruff.<\/em> Sure, we can blame it on the dry shampoo or the longer-than-usual stretch between hair wash days, but the source of the problem tends to be much deeper than we care to admit. \u201cWhile we don\u2019t know exactly why dandruff occurs, in many people it is thought to be due to a mixture of genetics, allergies and sensitivities, and an imbalance of skin microbes,\u201d says trichologist Dominic Burg. According to Burg, experts believe that the common condition is driven by an overgrowth of microorganisms\u2014like bacteria, yeasts, and fungi\u2014that live on the surface of the scalp. When these microbes consume the natural oils on your skin, they can produce byproducts that the body reacts to, leading to shedding and inflammation. At least, that\u2019s the hypothesis.\n<\/p>\n

    \u201cWe do know it has nothing to do with hygiene,\u201d says dermatologist\u00a0Ava Shamban, MD. In other words, dandruff has nothing to do with how often you shower or shampoo. Our skin follows its own shedding cycle, gradually sloughing away excess cells. Dandruff is what happens when you experience increased turnover of cells, and this exfoliation happens unevenly, causing both excessive shedding and buildup. While the itching and irritation that follow are often associated with dryness, they can also occur on any hair or skin type.<\/p>\n

    Whatever the case, most of us just want instant and permanent relief from the telltale flakes. While it may not be as simple as prescribing a single treatment (most things never are), we asked the experts to share their best tips on how to get rid of dandruff.\n<\/p>\n

    \n

    Meet the Experts<\/p>\n

    \n
      \n
    • Dominic Burg is a trichologist, hair biologist, microbiologist, and the chief scientist at\u00a0\u00c9volis Professional.<\/li>\n
    • Ava Shamban, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist in Los Angeles and the founder of\u00a0Ava M,\u00a0Skin Five, and\u00a0The Box by Dr. Ava.<\/li>\n
    • Orit Markowitz, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist in New York City and the founder of OptiSkin.<\/li>\n
    • Sophia Emmanuel\u00a0is an IAT-Certified Trichologist and licensed cosmetologist based in New York.\u00a0She owns and operates the\u00a0Crown Worthy beauty salon\u00a0in New York City.\u00a0\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
      \n
      \n
      01<\/span>of 12<\/span><\/div>\n
      \n

      Make Sure You Actually Have Dandruff <\/span><\/h2>\n

      Before you begin treating dandruff, make sure it\u2019s not one of two other possibilities. Burg notes that a dry scalp that has mild dryness, flakiness, and minor shedding shouldn\u2019t be confused with \u201ctrue\u201d dandruff. \u201cYour scalp condition will change over time, and many of us will notice a change with the seasons or with other factors in our environment,\u201d he says. Often, you\u2019ll notice this type of mild reaction occurs during seasonal changes or when you\u2019re exposed to excess heat styling\u2014and you can soothe it simply by dialing back the heat or switching to more hydrating formulas. Dandruff, on the other hand, has a much stronger effect. \u201cThe scenario of true dandruff can usually be recognized by skin cells falling off in medium to large clumps that are usually a little oily,\u201d explains Burg.\n<\/p>\n

      On the other side of the spectrum, you might have more extreme symptoms that point to an inflammatory skin condition known as seborrheic dermatitis. Burg describes this as \u201ccharacterized by flaking, skin irritation, redness, and sometimes sores\u2014whereas dandruff is usually painless.\u201d Both Burg and Dr. Shamban agree that if you\u2019re experiencing redness, sores, pain, or excessive itching, you need to book a dermatologist appointment. Unlike most cases of dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis cannot be treated using over-the-counter remedies and requires dermatologist care and prescriptions.\n<\/p>\n

      \n

      What is Seborrheic Dermatitis?<\/h3>\n
      \n

      Seborrheic dermatitis is a skin condition that causes patches of dry flakes or greasy scales along with redness. It is most commonly found on the scalp, but can also appear on other oily areas of the body like the nose and ears.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

      \n
      02<\/span>of 12<\/span><\/div>\n
      \n

      Use Antifungal Ingredients <\/span><\/h2>\n

      Once you\u2019ve verified that you actually have dandruff, head to your nearest drugstore and start reading those ingredient labels. \u201cCommon ingredients like pyrithione zinc, ketoconazole, and selenium disulfide are antifungal and have shown some good results in reducing dandruff,\u201d says Burg.\n<\/p>\n

      Some of these ingredients are available in prescription versions, says dermatologist, Orit Markowitz, MD. “The difference between prescription and OTC shampoos is the percentage of the active ingredient.”\n<\/p>\n

      Coal tar and its derivatives have also been typically used to treat dandruff, but Burg cautions against using these ingredients, which he says can be too harsh. \u201cThey\u2019re not great for the scalp and hair follicles,\u201d he notes.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

      \n
      03<\/span>of 12<\/span><\/div>\n
      \n

      Wash Your Hair Often <\/span><\/h2>\n

      While your hygiene habits have no bearing on whether you develop dandruff or not, it’s important not to avoid washing your hair for fear of making the problem worse. “People often think that over washing or too much heat from drying your hair causes dandruff, but that is not true,” says Dr. Markowitz. “Product buildup can often lead to\u00a0dandruff, so it\u2019s important to wash your hair regularly, especially if you use hair styling products, leave-in conditioners, or dry shampoos.”\n<\/p>\n

      IAT-certified trichologist\u00a0Sophia Emmanuel also points out dandruff can occur with protective styles that make it tricky to shampoo. “Dandruff can show up or worsen if you wait long periods to shampoo your hair,” she says. “Specifically, if you wear hair extensions, braids, or other protective hairstyles that do not allow you to shampoo on a regular basis.”\n<\/p>\n

      So, how often is often enough? Well, that depends on your hair and scalp. “If you have mild\u00a0dandruff, I recommend you wash your hair daily until you have\u00a0the dandruff\u00a0under control,” says Dr. Markowitz. “If you don’t use a lot of styling products, you can wash your hair less frequently.” Either way, she suggests reaching for a specially formulated dandruff shampoo (such as Head & Shoulders Classic Clean) whenever you do cleanse.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

      \n
      04<\/span>of 12<\/span><\/div>\n
      \n

      Turn to Essential Oils <\/span><\/h2>\n

      Aside from smelling good, your favorite essential oils and botanical extracts can go a long way in soothing dandruff symptoms. \u201cRosemary oil, lavender oil, green tea extract, and mangosteen all have great antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antiseptic properties,\u201d says Burg. He particularly likes the \u00e9volis Professional Promote, Prevent, and Reverse ranges, which utilize essential oils to target scalp buildup and encourage overall hair health. “The great thing about these ingredients is that they can be used long term, are gentle, and can keep dandruff at bay,” says Burg\u2014noting that since they have a more mild effect, they also may take slightly longer to work than ingredients like selenium disulfide.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

      \n
      05<\/span>of 12<\/span><\/div>\n
      \n

      Avoid Sulfates <\/span><\/h2>\n

      Burg notes the main thing you want to avoid are\u00a0sulfates, which can be too harsh and stripping for those with sensitive scalps. For a gentler wash, Dr. Shamban also suggests swapping your usual shampoos for formulas that rely on an essential oil base.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

      \n
      06<\/span>of 12<\/span><\/div>\n
      \n

      Make Time for Deep Treatments <\/span><\/h2>\n

      We\u2019d suggest regular deep treatments whether or not you have dandruff\u2014for the simple reason that they\u2019re relaxing and always leave your hair looking and feeling better. But for those who have extra flaking and shedding, scalp oil treatments are a must. Burg recommends treatments with added moisturizers like baobab oil to maintain hydration.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

      \n
      07<\/span>of 12<\/span><\/div>\n
      \n

      Brush It Out <\/span><\/h2>\n

      While you\u2019re at it, make some time to brush your hair, too. “It\u2019s old-school, but it works to get rid of the scale,” says Dr. Shamban. Brushing helps stimulate the scalp and brings more circulation to the area while also gently exfoliating cell buildup. In a pinch, brushing your hair can make a world of difference.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

      \n
      08<\/span>of 12<\/span><\/div>\n
      \n

      Refrain From Sleeping With Wet Hair <\/span><\/h2>\n

      From waking up with cowlicks and unruly texture to inviting a head cold, we’ve heard a plethora of reasons to dry our strands before hitting the hay. And while most may be ignored with a mere shrug, here’s one we won’t be forgetting any time soon: Sleeping with damp hair may increase the growth of fungus and bacteria on your skin, scalp, and pillows. Malassezia folliculitis<\/em>, a fungal infection that can both trigger and exacerbate dandruff, is one such fungus.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

      \n
      09<\/span>of 12<\/span><\/div>\n
      \n

      Try At-Home Treatments <\/span><\/h2>\n

      Don’t be afraid to DIY it! Dr. Markowitz recommends homeopathic remedies like applying coconut oil and mixing yogurt and thyme or lemon juice and oil, which are “effective in treating dandruff but may not work as quickly as conventional methods.” If you want to try the natural route and see if your pantry holds the answer, try the below to reduce your dandruff.\n<\/p>\n

        \n
      • Coconut oil:<\/strong> This ingredient seems to be the answer to all of life’s problems. It’s also great for keeping your hair and scalp moisturized. Massage into your hair and cover with a shower cap for about 30 minutes. Shampoo and rinse well. If your hair is fine, using coconut oil may weigh your strands down.<\/li>\n
      • Aloe vera: <\/strong>Aloe’s anti-inflammatory properties are ideal for soothing those with itchy scalps and dandruff. Add a tablespoon of aloe to your favorite conditioner to coat your strands. Only use aloe vera as needed. Due to its high water content, it is possible to make your strands too moisturized.<\/li>\n
      • Apple cider vinegar:<\/strong> Using ACV as a rinse can help balance the pH level of the scalp and remove buildup. Add one part of vinegar to one part of warm water and massage into your hair and scalp for three to five minutes, rinsing well. This can be done twice a week.<\/li>\n
      • Aspirin:<\/strong> It’s not just for headaches. Some people credit aspirin’s salicylic acid properties to helping combat dandruff when crushed and mixed with shampoo.<\/li>\n
      • Baking soda: <\/strong>The gritty texture of baking soda is ace for grabbing oil and excess dirt from your hair and scalp. Combine one tablespoon of baking soda for every cup of water and mix well. Massage into your scalp and rinse thoroughly. Take care not to use this method more than once a week, as baking soda is very abrasive.<\/li>\n
      • Lemon juice:<\/strong> The citric acid in lemons is also thought to help cleanse the scalp of excess oil. However, because of its high alkaline levels, derms recommend diluting it or using a lemon essential oil instead.<\/li>\n
      • Olive oil:<\/strong> A natural emollient that helps to maintain hydration in the hair, olive oil also contributes to that glossy, soft, and shiny mane we all dream of. Use as a mask and leave on for 15 minutes to a half hour under a shower cap before rinsing off in the shower.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
        \n
        10<\/span>of 12<\/span><\/div>\n
        \n

        Know When to See a Specialist <\/span><\/h2>\n

        According to Burg, the length of any of these treatments will vary based on the individual, but if you don\u2019t see any change\u00a0after several weeks of use, it\u2019s time to book that derm appointment. It\u2019s important to remember that even if you do see improvement, you could experience more flare-ups down the line. \u201cSome people may require continual treatment,\u201d he says. In this case, it’s best to see a specialist for a proper diagnosis and personalized treatment plan.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

        \n
        11<\/span>of 12<\/span><\/div>\n
        \n

        Look Into Supplements <\/span><\/h2>\n

        According to research studies, there are two notable supplements that could prevent dandruff. Increasing omega-3 consumption can minimize the amount of fungal growth on the scalp by regulating oil production. Vitamin D, a nutrient with the largest deficiency prevalence worldwide, may also help prevent dandruff by decreasing the rate of rapid skin cell growth that results in shedding and buildup. As always, we advise consulting with a medical professional before adding supplements to your diet.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

        \n
        12<\/span>of 12<\/span><\/div>\n
        \n

        Consider a Prescription <\/span><\/h2>\n

        In some cases, dandruff may be extreme and persistent enough to warrant a derm prescription (without classifying it as seborrheic dermatitis). If nothing OTC seems to work for you, you\u2019ll want to visit a doctor\u2019s office anyway. Burg says that most prescriptions for dandruff are stronger versions of over-the-counter medicated shampoos. \u201cWith medicated solutions, results can be seen relatively quickly\u2014within a week or two,\u201d he says. Once the symptoms improve, ask your doctor how to proceed. Some patients with more long-lasting dandruff use a medicated treatment once weekly to keep sebum levels down, alternating it with regular use of a dandruff-friendly shampoo.\n<\/p>\n

        Your dermatologist or trichologist may also choose to prescribe steroids, which are typically used short-term. \u201cIf necessary, there are steroid shampoos or steroid liquid solutions,\u201d says Dr. Shamban. These should work within a week. \u201cEven if there is still some excess after one or two washes, at least the discomfort will subside,\u201d she says. Once the worst of the symptoms have been treated, proceed with the rest of their expert advice: once-weekly medicated washes, anti-inflammatory shampoos, and plenty of nourishing at-home treatments. Your scalp should revert to its pre-flake state in no time.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

        \n
        \n
        FAQ<\/div>\n
          \n
        • \n
          Should I scratch my dandruff out?<\/span><\/div>\n
          \n
          \n
          \n

          While brushing your dandruff out and making use of scalp scrubs are dermatologist-recommended methods for treating dandruff, it’s important to avoid scratching your scalp too vigorously or too often, as it can lead to more irritation\u2014and make your dandruff worse.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n

        • \n
          Can you get rid of dandruff permanently?<\/span><\/div>\n
          \n
          \n
          \n

          Though dandruff is a chronic condition (meaning it cannot be “cured” permanently) it can be easily treated through either at-home remedies or prescriptions.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n

        • \n
          Does wet hair cause dandruff?<\/span><\/div>\n
          \n
          \n
          \n

          While it’s important to wash your hair frequently when you have dandruff, make sure your strands are at least somewhat dry before you hit the hay. Sleeping on wet hair increases your risk of infections, including fungal infections like Malassezia folliculitis<\/em>, which causes dandruff.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

          \n
          \n
          Article Sources<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n
          \n
          Byrdie takes every opportunity to use high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial guidelines to learn more about how we keep our content accurate, reliable and trustworthy.<\/div>\n
          \n
            \n
          1. \n

            Tr\u00fceb, R. M., & Gavazzoni Dias, M. F. R. (2023). Fungal diseases of the hair and scalp. In\u00a0Hair in Infectious Disease: Recognition, Treatment, and Prevention<\/em>\u00a0(pp. 151-195). Cham: Springer International Publishing.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

          2. \n

            Thomsen BJ, Chow EY, Sapijaszko MJ.\u00a0The potential uses of omega-3 fatty acids in dermatology: a review.\u00a0J Cutan Med Surg<\/em>. 2020;24(5):481-494.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

          3. \n
              \n
            1. Rahimi S, Nemati N, Shafaei-Tonekaboni SS. Serum levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin d in patients with seborrheic dermatitis: a case-control study.\u00a0Dermatology Research and Practice<\/em>. 2021;2021:e6623271.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/li>\n
            2. \n

              Nowicki R. [Modern management of dandruff].\u00a0Pol Merkur Lekarski<\/em>. 2006;20(115):121-124.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

            3. \n

              What is the best way to treat severe dandruff? Harvard Health.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

            4. \n

              Can wet hair make you sick? Cleveland Clinic.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

              \n
              \n
              Read more:<\/div>\n
                \n
              • Hair<\/span><\/li>\n
              • Scalp Care<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n

                Source URL: https:\/\/www.byrdie.com\/how-to-get-rid-of-dandruff-fast-4842294<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

                12 Ways to Get Rid of Dandruff ASAP, According to Experts We talked to experts to get the low down on dandruff solutions. By Sarah Y. Wu Sarah Y. Wu Sarah Wu is a contributing writer for Byrdie. Previously, she was the beauty features editor at Teen Vogue. Her writing has appeared in Refinery29 and […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[2],"tags":[83],"class_list":["post-1247877","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-politics","tag-byrdie-com"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1247877","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=1247877"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1247877\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=1247877"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=1247877"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=1247877"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}