Hair routine
Hair care routine for a dry, flaky scalp and dandruff
Flakes can come from a dry scalp or from dandruff, which is actually linked to oil and yeast on the scalp. Dandruff shampoo, used regularly and correctly, controls most cases.
Signs this is you
- White or yellowish flakes on hair and shoulders
- An itchy scalp
- Small, dry flakes and tight skin (dry scalp), or larger, oily flakes (dandruff)
Why it happens
Dandruff is linked to a yeast that lives on everyone's scalp, plus oil and sensitivity. Dry scalp is more common in cold, dry weather and with harsh shampoos.
The routine
For dandruff
- 1
Dandruff shampoo
Massage into the scalp and leave on for about 5 minutes before rinsing. Use 2–3 times a week, or as the label says.
Pregnancy-safe picks → - 2
- 3
Switch active ingredients if needed
If one stops working, try one with a different active ingredient.
For a dry scalp
- 1
- 2
What to look for
- Zinc pyrithione
A common dandruff shampoo active.
- Ketoconazole
An antifungal dandruff shampoo active.
- Selenium sulfide
Slows flaking.
- Piroctone olamine
An antifungal often in K-beauty and European shampoos.
What to go easy on
- Scratching
Damages the scalp and can lead to infection.
- Heavily fragranced products
Can irritate an itchy scalp.
- Hot water
Dries the scalp.
Tips
- Leave dandruff shampoo on long enough to work.
- Dandruff often returns, so a maintenance wash once a week helps.
Pregnant or trying to conceive?
Some dandruff shampoos contain salicylic acid (rated Use caution) or coal tar. Ask your doctor or pharmacist which medicated shampoo is right for you during pregnancy.
How Jouaxia rates ingredients →When to see a doctor
See a doctor if flakes don't improve after a month of dandruff shampoo, or if the scalp is red, swollen, very itchy, weeping, or spreading to the face, which can be seborrheic dermatitis or psoriasis.
Common questions
- Is dandruff caused by not washing enough?
- Not exactly. It's linked to scalp yeast and oil. Washing more often with a dandruff shampoo usually helps.
More hair routines
Sources
- American Academy of Dermatology — How to treat dandruff
- NHS — Dandruff
- American Academy of Dermatology — Seborrheic dermatitis self-care
This guide is general information, not medical advice. If you're pregnant, trying to conceive, or have a skin, scalp, or vaginal health condition, check your routine with your doctor.