One of the most common and irritating problem scalp is dandruff. Dandruff is excessive flaking scalp, a common cause of peeling of the scalp irritation associated with the occurrence of microorganisms known as Pityrosporum ovale. In symptomatic point of view, we distinguish dry and oily dandruff.

Dry dandruff usually falls on the shoulders of clothing. Scales are small, light, white to grayish-white in color and often cause itching. Oily dandruff is associated with increased peeling scalp and increased production of sebum. Scalp is oily, heavy hair and it looks bold. Dandruff scales are larger, yellowish, and adhering to the scalp. With the scales of dandruff  often there is uncomfortable itching feeling  and sometimes redness.

Shampoo with selenium sulfide or zinc pyrithioneom has fastest acting, hindering the pace of new scalp cells. Those with salicylic acid and sulfur loosen flakes so it is easier to rinse. Those with antibacterial agents kill bacteria on the scalp and reduce the chance of infection, while those with the tar slow down cell growth.

Best dry dandruff treatment products on market are…

• Sebulex Medicated Dandruff Shampoo
• Ionil-T Therapeutic 1% Coal Tar Shampoo
• Nizoral 2% Dandruff Shampoo
• Goldwell Inner Effect Regulates Anti-Dandruff Lotion
• Keracare Dry & Itchy Scalp Anti-Dandruff Lotion

Best oily dandruff treatment products on market are…

• Nuetrogena T/Gel
• DHS systems Zinc Shampoo
• Z Care Lotion Spray
• Salicylic Acid Lotion

DRY DANDRUFF TREATMENT

ANTI-DANDRUFF SHAMPOOS

Medical shampoos containing sulfur

This medication is used to treat dandruff and other scalp conditions (e.g., itching, scaling, flaking). Salicylic acid and sulfur are known as keratolytic agents. This type of drug causes the skin to shed dead cells from its top layer by increasing the amount of moisture in the skin and dissolving the substance that makes the cells clump together. This effect makes it easier to shed the skin cells, softens the top layer of skin, and decreases scaling and dryness. Salicylic acid belong with the same class of drugs as aspirin (salicylates).

Sebulex Medicated Dandruff Shampoo

Sebulex Medicated Dandruff Shampoo cleans hair and relieves itching, scaling and flaking with Sulfur and Salicylic Acid. Relieving itching, flaking, irritation, redness, and scaling due to dandruff. It may also be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor. Sebulex Shampoo is a topical salicylic. It works by causing the skin to swell, soften, and then slough or peel in areas where it is applied.

General features

• Sebulex Shampoo Liquid cleans hair and relieves itching, scaling and flaking.
• It is helps control dandruff, provides fast relief of itching, leaves hair manageable.

Warnings

Do not use Sebulex Shampoo if you are allergic to any ingredient in Sebulex Shampoo. Contact your doctor or health care provider right away if any of these apply to you.Some medical conditions may interact with Sebulex Shampoo. Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you have any medical conditions, especially if any of the following applies to you:

• If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding
• If you are taking any prescription or nonprescription medicine, herbal preparation, or dietary supplement
• If you have allergies to medicines, foods, or other substances
• If you have had a severe allergic reaction (eg, severe rash, hives, difficulty breathing, dizziness) to aspirin or a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) (eg, ibuprofen, naproxen, celecoxib)
• If you have the liver or kidney problems, a skin infection, skin irritation, eczema, diabetes, or poor blood circulation
• Some MEDICINES MAY INTERACT with Sebulex Shampoo. Tell your health care provider if you are taking any other medicines, especially any of the following:
• Anticoagulants, (eg, heparin, warfarin), aspirin, methotrexate, or sulfonylureas (eg, glipizide) because the risk of side effects may be increased by Sebulex Shampoo

Products

• Sebulex Medicated Dandruff Shampoo, 7oz (200ml)

Directions of usage

Use Sebulex Shampoo as directed by your doctor. Check the label on the medicine for exact dosing instructions.

• Shake well before each use.
• Wet hair and shampoo for a full 5 minutes. Rinse and repeat. Be sure to wash your hands after each use.
• If you miss a dose of Sebulex Shampoo, use it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not use 2 doses at once.
• Ask your health care provider any questions you may have about how to use Sebulex Shampoo.

Side effects

All medicines may cause side effects, but many people have no, or minor, side effects. Check with your doctor if any of these most COMMON side effects persist or become bothersome:Dry, peeling, red, or scaling skin.Seek medical attention right away if any of these SEVERE side effects occur: Severe allergic reactions (rash; hives; itching; difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue); severe irritation.

Ingredients

Active Ingredients: Sulfur 2%, Salicylic Acid 2%.

Also contains: D&C Yellow #10, Docusate Sodium, EDTA, FD&C Blue #1, Fragrance, PEG-6 Lauramide, PEG-14M, Sodium Dodecyl Benzene Sulfonate, Sodium Octoxynol-2-Ethane Sulfonate and Water.

Coal tar shampoos

Coal tar shampoo is a kind of shampoo that is formulated to treat specific skin conditions that affect the scalp. It is used to alleviate the symptoms of psoriasis and seborrhea. The most common symptoms of these ailments are dryness and flaking of the scalp which can also lead to itching and irritation.

The effectiveness of coal tar shampoo has to do with the fact that it is a keratolytic. This means that it thins the skin and allows excess skin to loosen and shed. Keratolytics help to slow the growth of bacteria which also helps to alleviate the symptoms of psoriasis and seborrhea.

There are some ingredients in coal tar shampoo that can lead to allergic reactions. If you have any allergies, be sure to check the ingredients list on the label before using the shampoo. It is not recommended to use this type of shampoo if you have any condition that makes you sensitive to sunlight

Ionil-T Therapeutic 1% Coal Tar Shampoo

Helps eliminate dandruff problems due to seborrhea and psoriasis. Tar helps reduce the production of skin cells, giving you a healthier looking scalp. Reduces itching and flaking. Contains the equivalent of 1% Coal Tar. Controls the symptoms of dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis, and psoriasis.

 

General features

• Controls the symptoms of dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis, and psoriasis

Warnings!

• For external use only.
• Avoid contact with eyes.
• If contact occurs, rinse eyes thoroughly with water.
• If condition worsens or does not improve after regular use of this product as directed, consult a physician.
• If condition covers a large area of the body, consult your physician before using this product. Use caution in exposing skin to sunlight after applying this product. It may increase your tendency to sunburn for up to 24 hours after application.
• Do not use this product with other forms of psoriasis therapy such as ultraviolet radiation or preion drugs unless directed to do so by a physician.
• Do not use for prolonged periods without consulting a physician.
• Keep this and all drugs out of the reach of children.
• If of accidental ingestion, seek professional assistance, or contact a poison control center immediately.

Products

• Ionil-T Therapeutic 1% Coal Tar Shampoo , 16oz (500ml)

Directions of usage

Wet hair, apply and massage into scalp. Let lather stand 5 minutes then rinse. Repeat. For best results, use at least twice a week or as directed by a physician. Do not use soap, detergent or other shampoo on hair before or after using Ionil T.

Side effects

All medicines may cause side effects, but many people have no, or minor, side effects. Check with your doctor if any of these most COMMON side effects persist or become bothersome when using Ionil T Shampoo: Itching, burning, tenderness, or redness; sensitivity to sunlight. Seek medical attention right away if any of these SEVERE side effects occur when using Ionil T Shampoo:  Severe allergic reactions (rash; hives; difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue); irritation.

Ingredients:

Active Ingredients: Contains: Coal Tar (Topical Solution USP, 5%) (Equivalent to 1% w/v Coal Tar)

Inactive Ingredients: Alcohol (12 % (v/v)), Benzalkonium Chloride, Isopropyl Alcohol (4% v/v), Laureth 4, Laureth 23, Water (Purified), Tetrasodium EDTA, May Contain: Citric Acid, Sodium Hydroxide to Adjust pH

Imidazole shampoos

This type of shampoo is effective against fungal and bacterial infections. It also soothes inflammation and heals scalp bumps. It mostly comes with a strong formulation with medicinal properties. Due to the medicinal ingredients, it clears the fungus, fights bacteria and cleans oil and dirt from the scalp. Some of these shampoos are natural antifungal shampoos, with botanical extracts that effectively kills fungus and bacteria. Panthenol is an ingredient which is used to heal and soothe the inflammation. Emu oil is often used to penetrate the layers of the dermis and clean the scalp from underneath

Nizoral 2% Dandruff Shampoo

Nizoral is an antifungal used to reduce scaling associated with dandruff.

 

 

General features

• Anti-dandruff shampoo; contains most-prescribed ingredient for dandruff
• Controls the flaking, scaling, and itching associated with dandruff
• Use twice a week to control a leading cause of dandruff and be dandruff-free
• For adults and children over 12 years of age
• Please read all label information on delivery

Warnings!

If your symptoms do not astemizole) while using this medicine. FOR WOMEN: IF YOU PLAN ON BECOMING PREGNANT, discuss with your doctor the benefits and risks of using this medicine during pregnancy. IT IS UNKNOWN IF THIS MEDICINE IS EXCRETED in breast milk. IF YOU ARE OR WILL BE BREAST-FEEDING while you are using this medicine, check with your doctor or pharmacist to discuss the risks to your baby.

Products

• Nizoral Anti-Dandruff Shampoo, 7.0oz (200ml)

Directions of usage

Use this medicine exactly as directed by your doctor. MOISTEN HAIR AND SCALP with water. Apply enough shampoo to wash your scalp and hair. Gently massage the entire scalp, leaving the shampoo on for about 5 minutes. Rinse thoroughly, then dry your hair as you normally do. STORE THIS MEDICINE at room temperature, away from heat and light.

Side effects

Mild stinging.

Ingredients

2% ketonazole

ANTI-DANDRUFF LOTIONS

Goldwell Inner Effect Regulates Anti-Dandruff Lotion

This highly effective combination of anti-dandruff and conditioning agent regulates the natural function of the scalp and prevents the formation of dandruff, while providing effective care for the scalp. A leave-in treatment to take care of the scalp Contains a highly effective blend of active ingredients. Regulates scalp & prevent recurring dandruff Offers soothing benefit for the scalp.

General features

• Supports scalp balance.
• Regulate the natural function of the scalp and prevents the formation of dandruff,   while providing effective care for the scalp.

Products

• Goldwell Inner Effect Regulate Anti-dandruff Lotion, 5oz (150ml)

Directions of usage

Gently massage into the scalp, do not rinse. Use on towel-dried hair.

Ingredients:

Water, denatured alcohol, acrylates, C10-30, alkyl acrylate crosspolymer, PEG-60, hydrogenated castor oil, styrene/VP copolymer, panthenol, PPG-9, allantoin, sodium hydroxide, DMDM hydantoin, biotin, fragrance.

 Keracare Dry & Itchy Scalp Anti-Dandruff Lotion

The latest addition to the KeraCare® Dry & Itchy Scalp family is a light, leave-in lotion that is specifically designed to relieve particular itching areas of the scalp. Packaged in a small portable bottle, it is a companion that you can conveniently carry with you to use throughout the day as needed. Using the smooth nozzle applicator cap or a fingertip, a small amount of product can easily be applied directly on the spot that is itching.

Products

• Keracare Dry & Itchy Scalp Anti-Dandruff Lotion, 20oz (60ml)

Directions of usage

Apply a small amount directly on the spot that is itching using the nozzle applicator cap or a fingertip. Do not rinse out. Use daily or several times a day as needed. Best dandruff defense when used in conjunction with weekly cleansing and conditioning services using KeraCare® Dry & Itchy Scalp Moisturizing Shampoo and KeraCare® Dry & Itchy Scalp Moisturizing Conditioner.

Ingredients

Water, Mineral Oil, Petrolatum, Beeswax, Cetyl Alcohol, Lanolin, Sodium Borate, Polysorbate 80, Carthamus Tinctorius (Safflower) Seed Oil, Eugenia Caryophyllus (Clove) Flower Extract, Glyceryl Stearate, Menthol, Sulfur, Perfume, BHT, Methylisothiazolinone, A-lsomenthyl lonone, Benzyl Alcohol, Benzyl Benzoated, Benzyl Cinnamate, Benzyl Salicylate, Butyphenyl Methylpropional, Cinnamal Alcohol, Citronellol, Geraniol, Hexyl Cinnamal, Hydroxycitronellal, Hydroxyisohexyl 3-cyclohexane Carboxaldehyde, d-Limonene, Linalool.

 

OILY DADRUFF (itchy scalp)

Therapeutic shampoos

Nuetrogena T/Gel

Nuetrogena T/Gel is a tar-based shampoo that is an offshoot of the coal manufacturing process. Nuetrogena T/Gel therapeutic shampoo for fine or oily hair also will concurrently treat dry scalp problems such as dandruff, psoriasis and seborrhea dermatitis.T/Gel® Therapeutic Shampoo Original starts to work on contact, to help control itching and flaking from the first use.

Recommended by dermatologists for chronic Scalp Psoriasis, Seborrhea Dermatitis and even common Dandruff.Clinical tests prove that the active ingredients in T/Gel® Shampoo Original continues to work for hours even after the shampoo is rinsed off.Gentle and pleasant to use, T/Gel leaves hair looking healthy and manageable.

General features

• 1% Coal Tar
• Available in Original, Stubborn Itch Control and Extra Strength formulas
• Starts working after just one use
• Controls redness
• New scent

Warnings!

Do not use this medication if you:

• Are allergic to coal tar or any ingredients of the medication
• Have an inflamed scalp
• Have open or infected sores on the scalp
• Check with your doctor as soon as possible if any of the following side effects occur:
• Skin irritation not present before using this medication
• Skin rash with or without pimples containing pus

Products

• Neutrogena T-Gel Therapeutic Shampoo, Original Formula, 16oz (473ml)

Directions of usage

For best results, use at least twice a week or as directed by a doctor. Wet hair thoroughly. Massage shampoo into your scalp. Lather, leaving on your hair and scalp for several minutes. Rinse and repeat. Store away from direct sunlight. In rare instances, discoloration of gray, blonde, bleached, or tinted hair may occur.

Ingredients

Active Ingredient: Neutar Solubilized Coal Tar Extract (4%) (Coal Tar 1%). Inactive Ingredients: Water, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Cocamide MEA, Laureth-4, Polysorbate-20, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Bishydroxyethyl Dihydroxypropyl Stearammonium Chloride, PEG-120 Methyl Glucose Dioleate, Tetrasodium EDTA, Citric Acid, DMDM Hydantoin, Methylparaben, Propylparaben, Fragrance.

Zinc pyuthiose shampoos

DHS systems Zinc Shampoo

Treating and preventing itching, flaking, and scaling of the scalp caused by dandruff or seborrhea (oily, crusting, or scaling skin).Pyrithione Zinc Shampoo is an antiseborrheic. It works by slowing the production of skin cells, which helps to reduce flakiness.

Warnings!

Do not use Pyrithione Zinc Shampoo if you are allergic to any ingredient in Pyrithione Zinc Shampoo Contact your doctor or health care provider right away if any of these apply to you.Some medical conditions may interact with Pyrithione Zinc Shampoo. Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you have any medical conditions, especially if any of the following applies to you:

• If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding.
• If you are taking any prescription or nonprescription medicine, herbal preparation, or dietary supplement
• If you have allergies to medicines, foods, or other substances
• If you have a condition that covers a large area of the body

Products

• Zinc Shampoo, Dhs, 16oz (500ml)

Directions for use

Use Pyrithione Zinc Shampoo as directed by your doctor. Check the label on the medicine for exact dosing instructions.

• Shake well before each use.
• Wet hair thoroughly. Apply Pyrithione Zinc Shampoo and work into a lather. Rinse thoroughly and repeat.
• For best results, use Pyrithione Zinc Shampoo at least 2 times per week or as directed by your doctor. Do not use more often than once daily.
• If you miss a dose of Pyrithione Zinc Shampoo, use the dose when you remember. Continue to use Pyrithione Zinc Shampoo as directed by your doctor or the package labeling.

Ask your health care provider any questions you may have about how to use Pyrithione Zinc Shampoo.

Side effects

All medicines may cause side effects, but many people have no, or minor, side effects. No COMMON side effects have been reported with Pyrithione Zinc Shampoo. Seek medical attention right away if any of these SEVERE side effects occur:

Severe allergic reactions (rash; hives; difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue); skin irritation.

ANTI-DANDRUFF LOTIONS

Z Care Lotion Spray

Z Care Lotion Spray is an effective over-the-counter treatment for the relief of psoriasis, eczema, dermatitis, acne, seborrhea, shingles, rashes of all types (including diaper rash), cuts, scrapes, burns, poison ivy, insect bites, and even head lice.

Z Care is Supplement Spot’s exclusive all-purpose antibacterial and antifungal skin lotion containing 0.25% zinc pyrithione. Zinc pyrithione is the active ingredient in Head & Shoulders® Shampoo and is the safest and most effective dandruff treatment ever discovered.

General features

• Total absence of corticosteroids and cytostatics
• No more itching or irritation
• High moisturizing power, penetrating well into the deepest layers of the dermis
• Absence of side effects, since all products are harmless even when used during long periods of time
• Stabilizes enzymes in your body
• Produces considerable improvement in the cellular membranes

Warnings!

For external use only. Avoid contact with eyes, mouth, or mucous membranes. If condition worsens or if irritation develops, end use and consult a physician.As always, consult your physician before using this cream, especially if you have a medical or psychiatric condition, or are pregnant or lactating.

These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Products

• Z Care Spray 0.25%, 4oz (120ml)

Directions of usage

Spray onto the problem area for about a second, two  times a day until the skin clears. To make sure the problem has been eliminated, continue this process for an additional  week. After the skin condition disappears, it should be used once or twice a week to prevent the problem from returning.

Ingredients

Water, SD Alcohol, Zinc Pyrithione 0.25%

 Salicylic Acid Lotion

Removing excess skin in certain conditions, including calluses, psoriasis, and warts. It may also be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor.Salicylic Acid Lotion is a topical salicylic. It works by causing the skin to swell, soften, and then slough or peel in areas where it is applied.

 

Warnings!

Do not use Salicylic Acid Lotion if you are allergic to any ingredient in Salicylic Acid Lotion. Contact your doctor or health care provider right away if any of these apply to you.

Products and prices

Prescription only.

Directions for use

Use Salicylic Acid Lotion as directed by your doctor. Check the label on the medicine for exact dosing instructions.

• Apply Salicylic Acid Lotion in the evening before bedtime unless otherwise directed by your doctor.
• Wash the affected area with soap and water, then soak.
• Completely dry the affected area. Apply a thin film of medicine to the affected area and gently massage until the medicine is evenly distributed.
• Wash the medicine off in the morning. If excessive drying or irritation occurs, a mild cream or lotion may be applied.
• Talk with your doctor about whether you should cover or bandage the affected area. Follow your doctor’s instructions.
• Use Salicylic Acid Lotion on a regular schedule around the clock, unless your doctor tells you otherwise.
• Be sure to wash your hands after each use unless your hands are part of the treated area.
• If you miss a dose of Salicylic Acid Lotion, use it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not use 2 doses at once.

Side effects

alicylic acid can cause stinging, burning, and skin irritation. You may also experience dryness, peeling, and flaking of the skin. These side effects can usually be effectively controlled with daily use of an oil-free moisturizer. If irritation or dryness is bothersome, try scaling back use to every other day. Using salicylic acid in conjunction with other acne treatment products such as retinoids (Retin A, Differin) or benzoyl peroxide can increase dryness, peeling, or stinging. As always, stop using salicylic acid if you experience undue irritation and tell your doctor.