Why Isn’t Your Dandruff Shampoo Working?

by Anjelina Tongco

You switched to a dandruff shampoo the moment you noticed white flakes on your scalp and on your clothes. It’s been a while and you’ve gone through a full bottle, maybe even two. And, yet, still, the problem persists. The flakes are still there, the itching hasn’t gone away, nor has it gotten better. What’s the problem? 


It’s annoying to have to keep dealing with dandruff. Even though it’s not contagious, it can definitely be embarrassing and could take a toll on your self-confidence. Luckily, there are tons of products out on the market that are especially formulated to target this issue. The thing about these products is that they’re not for everyone. You need to find one that works for you and one that works with your hair and your scalp. 


Wondering why you still have dandruff despite using a shampoo that’s made to help you get rid of it? Read this. 


Reason #1: You may not be using the best dandruff shampoo. 

The best dandruff shampoo isn’t the most expensive one you can get, nor the one that every influencer on the internet has raved about. Instead, it’s the one that works for you, your hair, and your scalp. 


Unfortunately, the only way to really find the best dandruff shampoo for you is to keep trying until you find one that works wonders for your hair and your scalp. Of course, it helps to look at ones that have a good reputation among other people with the same problem so ask around if you know anyone who suffers from the same condition or seek the help of a professional if you can. 


Sometimes, the best anti-dandruff shampoo won’t even have the words “anti-dandruff” on the bottle. Case in point: tea tree oil shampoo. Tea tree does an amazing job of keeping dandruff at bay. It helps with the itch and grease, too, making it an amazing anti-dandruff shampoo. 


Reason #2: It may not even be dandruff

There are a few other conditions that often get mistaken for dandruff. This results in mistreating the condition and not getting good results. Seborrhic dermatitis is one of the most common scalp conditions that often get mistaken for dandruff. There are plenty of differences between the two that can help you tell them apart so you can get the right treatment for your skin and/or scalp. 


Other conditions that are often mistaken for dandruff include eczema and psoriasis. These are usually more serious so if your dandruff isn’t clearing up and you’re not sure what else to do, it might be time to see a doctor to rule out these other conditions. You may be prescribed to use something stronger, like a medicated shampoo instead of just regular anti-dandruff shampoo


Reason #3: It might be time for a detox 

When was the last time you did a detox for your hair and scalp? If you’re shocked by the fact that you need to do one, then you’re most probably due for it. A clarifying shampoo should help clear the product buildup on your scalp, which may be the biggest culprit for your dandruff. 


Treating dandruff isn’t as easy as those TV commercials make it out to be. Sometimes, you have to dig deep to find out what’s causing it and start your treatment there. Find the best anti-dandruff shampoo and other hair care products to help you achieve your hair goals at Hairsense today!