Is it dandruff or a dry scalp?

Dandruff flakes are larger, oilier and yellow-tinged with itch; dry-scalp flakes are small and white and improve with moisture rather than antifungals.

When should I see a pharmacist or GP?

If flaking spreads to your face or eyebrows, or nothing improves after six weeks of antifungal shampoo.

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Best products for dandruff & flaky scalp

Calm flaking and itch without stripping the scalp. Selenssa has done the research — here are the only three products we recommend, ranked by the Selenssa Score.

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The Selenssa 3

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How to choose products for dandruff & flaky scalp

Classic dandruff is driven by Malassezia yeast and an inflamed scalp, not poor hygiene. Antifungal actives work, but they need contact time and consistency, and a dry flaky scalp needs almost the opposite approach.

What to look for

Piroctone olamine or ketoconazole 1-2% — Directly targets the yeast behind dandruff.
Zinc pyrithione — A well-established, generally well-tolerated alternative.
Salicylic acid — Lifts built-up scale so the antifungal can reach the skin.
Colloidal oatmeal or panthenol — Calms the itch that makes people scratch and flake more.

What to be wary of

Heavy fragrance and drying alcohol — Irritate a scalp that's already inflamed.
Daily harsh clarifying shampoo — Strips the scalp and worsens flaking.
Coconut oil scalp masks — Malassezia feeds on certain oils, so this can flare dandruff.

A simple routine for dandruff & flaky scalp

Massage the shampoo into the scalp, leave for three to five minutes, then rinse.
Use the medicated shampoo two or three times a week and a gentle one between.
Alternate actives if it stops working after a few months.

Common questions

Is it dandruff or a dry scalp?: Dandruff flakes are larger, oilier and yellow-tinged with itch; dry-scalp flakes are small and white and improve with moisture rather than antifungals.
When should I see a pharmacist or GP?: If flaking spreads to your face or eyebrows, or nothing improves after six weeks of antifungal shampoo.

Selenssa is informational and not medical advice. Persistent or painful skin and scalp problems should be assessed by a GP, pharmacist or dermatologist.

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