Guide
Dandruff — shampoos and scalp care
Prepared by the LekCheck team · Last reviewed: 2026-07-25 · How we create our content
Dandruff is a common and usually harmless problem — flakes on the scalp and in the hair, often with itching. In most cases it is well controlled with suitable anti-dandruff shampoos and regular care. Below we describe the commonly used ingredients and approaches; choose an ingredient to see available products and prices. For severe redness, inflammation or an unsatisfactory result, consult a dermatologist.
This guide was prepared by the LekCheck team and has not been reviewed by a doctor or pharmacist. This article is for general information only and is not medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Do not start, stop, or change any treatment without consulting a doctor or pharmacist.
What causes dandruff
Dandruff is often linked to the usual yeast microflora on the scalp, dry or oily skin and irritation. It is not due to poor hygiene in itself. Stress and cold weather can make it worse. The flaking and itching are usually mild, but persistent cases deserve attention.
Anti-dandruff shampoos
Anti-dandruff shampoos contain active ingredients that reduce flaking and yeast — for example selenium (selenium sulfide), zinc pyrithione, ketoconazole or salicylic acid. Use them as directed (often left on the scalp for a few minutes) and often enough. Different ingredients work in different ways — if needed, switch the product.
Scalp care
Regular but gentle washing, avoiding very hot drying and irritating products, and alternating shampoos if needed all help. Do not scratch the scalp. For dry skin choose a milder product; for oily skin wash more often. Consistency matters more than a single 'miracle' product.
When to see a doctor
See a dermatologist for severe redness, thick crusts, weeping, spread to the face or body, hair loss in the affected areas, or if the dandruff does not respond to anti-dandruff shampoos. These signs may point to a condition (e.g. seborrhoeic dermatitis or psoriasis) that needs assessment.
Commonly used active ingredients
Pick an ingredient to see products and prices.
Related categories
Products with current prices
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Frequently asked questions
Is dandruff due to poor hygiene?
Not necessarily. Dandruff is linked to the usual scalp microflora, skin type and irritation, not simply to infrequent washing. In fact, both washing too rarely and aggressive washing can contribute. It is more important to use a suitable anti-dandruff shampoo at the right frequency.
Which anti-dandruff shampoo should I choose?
The choice depends on the ingredient and tolerability — products with selenium, zinc pyrithione, ketoconazole or salicylic acid work in different ways. If one does not help, switching the ingredient often helps. Use the product as directed and for long enough to judge the effect.
How often should I wash my hair with dandruff?
It depends on the skin type and the product — with oily skin more frequent washing helps, and with dry skin milder products and less frequent washing. Anti-dandruff shampoos are often left on the scalp for a few minutes. Follow the specific product's instructions for the best result.
Is dandruff contagious?
No. Dandruff is not contagious and does not spread to other people. It is linked to individual factors — microflora, skin type and irritation. If the flaking is unusual, with marked inflammation or hair loss, it is good to see a dermatologist.
When does dandruff need a doctor?
See a dermatologist for severe redness, thick greasy crusts, weeping, involvement of the face/eyebrows/body, hair loss or no improvement from anti-dandruff shampoos. These signs may point to seborrhoeic dermatitis, psoriasis or another condition assessed by a specialist.