We recommend opting for a sulfate-free formula that leaves hair feeling healthier. CeraVe Anti-Dandruff Hydrating Conditioner is a clinically-tested conditioner designed as part of a dandruff care system that eliminates up to 100% of visible flakes and also relieves itch and irritation.
If you'd prefer a single product, CeraVe also offers a 2-in-1 Anti-Dandruff Hydrating Shampoo and Conditioner, which helps remove up to 100% of visible flakes, plus helps control itching and irritation, without disrupting the scalp's natural moisture barrier.
While not all shampoos for dandruff are intended for daily use, the CeraVe Anti-Dandruff Hydrating Shampoo can be used every day. The formula is formulated to be gentle on your hair and scalp, and when paired with the Anti-Dandruff Hydrating Conditioner, it leaves hair feeling soft and nourished.
Dandruff is not caused by poor hygiene, although it may be more obvious if you do not wash your hair regularly. Stress and cold weather may also make dandruff worse.
Excessive use of beauty products such as heavily perfumed shampoos or conditioners, hair sprays and mousses can cause our scalps to become irritated. Stress can contribute to dandruff flare-ups and make dandruff worse.
Rooted in the science of dermatology, CeraVe products are formulated with a blend of three essential ceramides (ceramides 1, 3, and 6-II), fatty acids, and other lipids to help support the skin moisture barrier.
Shampoos containing salicylic acid (Jason Dandruff Relief Treatment Shampoo, Baker P&S, others). These products help eliminate scaling. Selenium sulfide shampoos (Head & Shoulders Intensive, Selsun Blue, others). These contain an antifungal agent.
The simple answer to this is - No, dandruff is not a fungus by itself. However, dandruff is caused by the presence of a naturally occurring fungus. It's important to understand the role this fungus plays in your body's ecosystem before you try to use a dandruff remedy on your head.
People with a dry scalp may notice flakes shedding from their scalp. Unlike true dandruff flakes, however, the flakes associated with dry scalp tend to be smaller and whiter. Dandruff flakes are larger and may be yellow-tinged or look oily.
It also has emollient properties that can help to soften and smooth your skin. CeraVe Healing Ointment is formulated with 46.5% petrolatum, in addition to other beneficial ingredients for dry, flaky skin in need of special care. For example, you'll also find hyaluronic acid in our Healing Ointment.
To use this non-comedogenic formula, simply wet your skin with lukewarm water and massage it into your skin in a gentle, circular motion. Remember to limit shower time and try to keep temperatures warm, rather than hot, to help minimize the drying effects of bathing.
Mix a quarter cup of apple cider vinegar with a quarter cup of water, then pour it over your scalp. Leave it in for at least 15 minutes, then rinse your scalp well. Some studies have shown apple cider vinegar can have antimicrobial effects.
Moisturizing your scalp can help keep your hair looking full, smooth, and shiny—and even help fend off unwanted concerns like dandruff. So if you want great-looking hair, it's probably a good idea to include a scalp moisturizer in your regular haircare routine.
When you scrap away the skin on your scalp, you risk exposing it to infection and making your dandruff worse. If you feel the urge to scratch, use your time to the shower to gently massage your scalp instead. This will give you some relief and not disturb your scalp as much.
The best way to control dandruff is to use a shampoo that contains a medication, such as selenium sulfide (Selsun Blue), zinc pyrithione (Head & Shoulders, ZNP), or Nizoral AD. For more severe cases try tar (Ionil T, T/gel, Pentrax) or sulfur (Meted or Sebulex). For best results, buy 2 or 3 and alternate them.
Our top pick is Briogeo, a clarifying shampoo and scalp-scrub combo treatment that our testers said banished itchy symptoms and flakes for days on end.
Applying conditioner close to or onto your scalp will not cause any harm, but it will not help with dandruff either and may weigh down your roots, creating a limp style.
Dandruff triggers include dry weather, stress, and hair products. But by far the most common trigger for dandruff is Malassezia overgrowth on the scalp. Most of the time, you can prevent dandruff with regular use of medicated shampoos and by avoiding triggers. Medicated shampoos can treat established dandruff too.