It’s important to go to the base of the problem when it comes to treating dandruff. By starting with your cleansing routine in the shower, you can meet the problem at its root (no pun intended), and stop it from messing with your hair goals.
The Top Causes of Dandruff
Surprisingly dandruff is caused by several different factors that do not necessarily indicate a lack of clean hair or poor hygiene. “Dandruff is a common scalp condition in which small pieces of dry skin flake off of the scalp. If you have dark hair or are wearing dark colors, you may notice the flakes on your hair or shoulders. Dandruff may also make your scalp itch,” the American Academy of Dermatology reports. Even though the specific cause of dandruff isn’t exactly identified, there are a few common suspects known for causing the condition:
1. Seborrheic Dermatitis:
“For most people, dandruff does not require medical attention,” the American Academy of Dermatology states. However, sometimes “the flaking and itching that appears like dandruff is actually a medical condition, such as seborrheic dermatitis, psoriasis, fungal infections of the scalp, or eczema,” the AAD explains.
2. Stress
Stress sends hormones out of balance, even the ones that produce oils in your scalp. If you’re experiencing dandruff, it may be because you’re making too much sebum that causing fungus to grow in the scamp and flake. Consider this another reason to book that beachside vacation finally!
3. Irritation From Hair Care Products
Believe it or not, the products that you use can also be the source of dandruff. Some products contain irritating and inflaming ingredients that don’t play nicely with your specific skin—even your scalp. Look for sensitive shampoos and products so that it doesn’t further affect your scalp.
4. Dry Scalp
Dandruff can also be a result of a dry scalp. This tends to appear more during the colder months, hello seasonal dandruff, because your scalp is exposed to harsher conditions, and it’s stripped of moisture from extra hot showers and heat. If you find that your scalp is dry, add hair oil to rehydrate your scalp. If you experience any of the above causes, it’s time to find a dandruff shampoo for women that works best for you. Before you add shampoo to your cart, look for ingredients like tea tree oil and salicylic acid. The tea tree oil will reduce itchiness and any growing fungus on your scalp. The salicylic acid banishes dry skin and helps to stop flaking.
The Best Dandruff Shampoos for Women
1. Dove Dermacare Scalp Soothing Moisture Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
Instead of using harsh shampoo, swap your current washout for a gentle option. This Dove Dermacare Scalp Soothing Moisture Anti-Dandruff Shampoo cleanses your scalp and removes flakes without stripping your hair of essential oils. The shampoo contains a pH-balanced formula with a blend of oils that leave the hair hydrated and the scalp soothed. This formula will be a soothing breath of fresh air for your dry and itchy scalp!
2. Dove Dermacare Scalp Invigorating Mint Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
The Dove Dermacare Scalp Invigorating Mint Anti-Dandruff Shampoo stimulates your scalp with a fresh mint scent, a sensation that feels like a cold swimming pool on a hot day for anyone suffering from dandruff. Unlike harsh shampoos that irritate your scalp more, the Dermacare line soothes and adds moisture that your scalp needs. The added Pyrithione Zinc treats dandruff and keeps the scalp’s moisture balanced.
3. Suave Professionals Anti-Dandruff 2-in-1 Dry Scalp Shampoo & Conditioner
Cut your wash time in half with this Suave Professionals Anti-Dandruff 2-in-1 Dry Scalp Shampoo & Conditioner. The shampoo balance your hair’s pH levels to help remove dandruff. It cleanses your hair, moisturizes, and soothes all at once for a truly balanced and rejuvenated scalp. And don’t worry, the shampoo and conditioner combination still clears flakes away without being too harsh on your hair!
4. Love Beauty and Planet Sulfate-Free Turmeric & Tonka Essence Shampoo
If your dandruff results from a dry and itching scalp, grab the Love Beauty and Planet Sulfate-Free Turmeric & Tonka Essence Shampoo for some relief. Not only will this shampoo remove flakes, but it also treats frizz and leaves the hair cleansed and smooth. The added turmeric will soothe inflammation that makes dandruff flare up!
5. Bed Head by TIGI Resurrection Shampoo
The Bed Head by TIGI Resurrection Shampoo is full of cleansing and moisturizing benefits. Even though you’re experiencing dandruff, this shampoo will thoroughly cleanse your hair without adding to your inflamed scalp. The shampoo also heals your hair from the inside out and leaves it with a smooth and clean finish.
6. Suave Professionals Almond & Shea Butter Shampoo
For those that are experiencing dandruff, know that it’s essential to make sure that your scalp and strands stay moisturized. The almond and shea butter in the Suave Professionals Almond & Shea Butter Shampoo, adds vital oils to the scalp to remain balanced and non-irritated.
7. Suave Professionals Coconut Oil Damage Repair Shampoo
The Suave Professionals Coconut Oil Damage Repair Shampoo is infused with pure coconut oil to help deeply moisturize your scalp. It cleanses your hair to remove any dandruff flakes while repairing other signs of hair damage. You will begin to see visible results in three uses, so consistency is key!
8. SheaMoisture Jamaican Black Castor Oil Strengthen & Restore Shampoo
SheaMoisture’s Jamaican Black Castor Oil Strengthen & Restore Shampoo clarifies the hair and removes the build-up in the scalp to prevent dandruff from forming. This shampoo is excellent for those with kinky, curly, or wavy natural hair types. Not only will you prevent dandruff, but you will also moisturize your hair and stop breakage and shedding.
9. Love Beauty and Planet Radical Refresher Tea Tree Oil & Vetiver Shampoo
The Love Beauty and Planet Radical Refresher Tea Tree Oil & Vetiver Shampoo is formulated with tea tree oil to cleanse your scalp and hair from dandruff gently. The tea tree oil will also detox your scalp from any fungus and bacteria that contribute to dandruff.
10. Suave Professionals Anti-Dandruff 2-in-1 Itchy Scalp Shampoo & Conditioner
The Suave Professionals Anti-Dandruff 2-in-1 Itchy Scalp Shampoo & Conditioner is filled with actives that help to keep the scalp and hair clean and also free from dandruff. It’s also gentle enough to use daily, so don’t worry about cousin irritation because it keeps your scalp’s pH balanced. Dandruff is one of those hair issues that no one wants. But, if you find yourself dealing with dandruff, there are solutions. All you need is a good dandruff shampoo for women that helps to soothe your scalp and cleanse all of the flakes and dry skin away.
