Dandruff Shampoo That Works: What Actually Clears Flakes

Dandruff might not be a serious scalp condition, but that doesn't make it any less annoying. The fact that you can have the best shampoo in your collection and still battle dandruff makes it even worse. Let's choose the best dandruff shampoo for you. 

Causes of Dandruff

For one, dandruff is not the same as dry scalp. When your scalp is dry, oil and moisturising products can come to the rescue. However, for dandruff, it's not always the case. Some people with oily scalp battle dandruff too from time to time. Dandruff is caused by overgrowth of a yeast fungus called Malassezia. This overgrowth results in irritation, inflammation, clogs and later causes flake. This proves that sometimes the cause of dandruff is not from you—it could be your genes and natural. However, dandruff could also be from one or more of the following:

  • Product build-up 

  • Poor shampooing 

  • Overwashing and stripping hair of oil and moisture 

  • Poor diet

 

How to Choose the Right Dandruff Shampoo 

In choosing the right dandruff shampoo, it's more about the active ingredients in the shampoo bottle and if they actually work. Selecting the right one helps you clear off flakes and manage dandruff without fail.

What's Your Dandruff Type? 

You can easily know this by symptoms. If your scalp feels itchy with white flakes, then it is most likely of the Dry Dandruff type. If you notice oily, yellow flakes, then that is a Wet Dandruff type. It could even be as severe as Seborrheic dermatitis where you start to notice symptoms like scales, redness, and severe itching. The type of dandruff you have tells you the cause and what products to go with for the best results. Whichever one, the best anti-dandruff shampoo in your routine is the rare gem in a glass. 

Look Out for Effective Active Ingredients 

The best dandruff shampoo deals with the symptoms and not only with the cause. Just be sure you are using a dandruff shampoo that is tested and proven to relieve scalp irritation. The best dandruff should contain these ingredients, but not necessarily all:

Zinc Pyrithione: Zinc, even in minimal levels, has antifungal action that fights the yeast that cause dandruff majorly. GK Hair's Anti-Dandruff Shampoo contains zinc and fights dandruff actively. Actually, if the dandruff shampoo lacks this ingredient, it is likely not an effective one.

GK Hair Anti-Dandruff Shampoo

Ketoconazole: It is great for dandruff that won't go away. It also helps to stop irritation on the scalp. 

Salicylic Acid: This has an exfoliating property and helps to remove build-up of oily dandruff. It also removes dead skin cells that may have clogged together. It is one of the most effective ingredients in any dandruff shampoo.

Tea Tree Oil: Tea tree oil is a natural ingredient that hydrates, nourishes, and relieves the scalp. It also has antibacterial and antifungal properties that help to ease irritation and itchiness caused by dandruff.

Select Based on Your Scalp Type

When we talk of scalp, it's either of these four: dry, oily, sensitive or normal. Dandruff shampoos that are also great moisturisers are best suited for oily scalps. That way, you achieve two things in one. Oily hair should go for shampoos that balance moisture and oil. A normal scalp can use products that stay in between and remove flakes with just a few consistent, simple washes. Those with sensitive scalps must be wary of using sulphate-containing shampoos and be particular about sulphate-free dandruff shampoos like GK Hair's Dandruff Shampoo

Using the Dandruff Shampoo the Right Way

As with other regular shampoos and conditioners, there's a right way to use the dandruff shampoo. One key thing to note is that the dandruff shampoo should not be for everyday use. You should use it sparingly, say 2-3 times a week. As it gets better, reduce usage and alternate it with a sulphate-free shampoo like GK Hair's Moisturising Shampoo and Conditioner duo. You've got to be careful not to dry out your hair in the process. 

GK Hair Moisturising Shampoo and Conditioner

Still not switched to a sulphate-free shampoo yet? Read: Why Sulphate Free Shampoo Is a Must - Especially This One.

How to Use GK Hair's Anti-Dandruff Shampoo 

Well, no more guessing games—this dandruff shampoo actually works.

  • First things first, wet your hair.

  • Apply the shampoo to your scalp and massage with your finger tips. Avoid using a brush or comb to scrub your hair in an attempt to ward off flakes.

  • Leave the product in for about 3-5 minutes. 

  • Rinse out and do it thoroughly.

  • Apply a conditioner—the one that works for you.

  • Wrap your hair in a towel and let it air dry. Avoid heat as it can trigger sensitivity on your scalp again.

Scalp Treatments That Works for Dandruff 

You may already know of Keratin, Deep Conditioning, Nanoplastia, and Botox Treatments. However, even the scalp can get deep treatments too. This treatment includes scalp scrub, scalp serum and using medicated shampoos. Scalp care is indeed science and not guess work. Since dandruff usually starts when the scalp is unbalanced, this sets it right. Apply the serum after a clean wash with a clarifying shampoo from GK Hair. Ensure to pair this with a gentle conditioner to prevent dryness. Massage the oil gently on the scalp and rub a little on your length too for shine.

Hair Care Practices That Prevent Dandruff

Use the Right Shampoo in the Right Balance: Dandruff won't show up unless something is wrong. This shampoo works better when buildup is cleared first. Don't layer on too many products and complicate things. 

Avoid Stress: Stress could be a ground for dandruff to aggravate. Reduce stressful conditions and take care of your health so as not to trigger growth of yeast. 

Protect Your Scalp From the Sun: You should wear a hat or scarf to protect your scalp from UV rays. GK Hair's Shield Conditioner offers this level of protection.

GK Hair Shield Conditioner

Avoid Using Hot Water: We know a hot water bath is relaxing, but that's not your scalp’s best friend. If you bath with hot water, do not expose your scalp to high heat because that can affect your hair’s follicles.

Final Thoughts

If you've been dealing with flakes for what feels like forever, you're not alone—and it doesn't have to stay that way. Once you find a shampoo that works for your scalp, stay consistent, be patient and give your hair time to adjust to the change. With the right shampoo and other products from GK Hair, you can stay away from flakes for a long while.