How to Remove Dandruff Quickly at Home

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Hide or get rid of flaking easily with these tips and tricks
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Dandruff isn't usually as visible as you might think it is, but with a few quick steps, you can make it disappear almost completely. While some people might have small white flakes from hair product overuse, others might have more severe cases or conditions like seborrheic dermatitis that require medicated anti-fungal shampoo to treat. Whatever the case, we have the complete guide to getting rid of dandruff as quickly as possible—from fast visual fixes that take less than 5 minutes (no washing required!) to home remedies and shampoo treatments that can reduce flaking and itching altogether.

This article is based on an interview with our professional hair stylist, Noël Reid-Killings, owner of Noël New York Salon & Boutique. Check out the full interview here.

Things You Should Know

  • For a 5-minute dandruff fix, spray your hair with dry shampoo and comb out the flakes. Part and comb your hair to hide the worst spots or put on a scarf or hat.
  • Combine 1 US tbsp (15 mL) of coconut oil, 1  tsp (4.9 mL) of lemon juice, and 2-3 drops of tea tree oil. Massage it into your scalp, leave it in overnight, then wash it out.
  • Use a medicated dandruff shampoo like Head & Shoulders , Selsun Blue , Neutrogena T/Sal 2-3 times per week.
Method 1
Method 1 of 4:

Hiding Dandruff without Washing

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  1. Dry shampoo can reduce oil or grease and make your hair look fresh and clean. Spray dry hair shampoo on the parts of your hair with the most dandruff. Hold the canister at least 6 inches (15.24 cm) away from your scalp as you spray. Massage your scalp down to the roots to evenly distribute the product, then use a comb to brush out flakes. Rinse your comb after each stroke. [1]
    • Although dry shampoo can help hide dandruff in a pinch, try to only use it as a temporary fix. If it’s used regularly it can irritate your scalp and cause even more scaling and flaking. [2]
  2. While covering up your dandruff won’t solve the issue, it can be an easy visual fix. If your hair is shorter, apply a hairstyling product like a gel and tousle your hair with your fingers to fluff it up and make any dandruff less noticeable. If you have longer hair, here are some easy styles to quickly cover up flaking: [3]
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  3. White and yellow skin flakes might be noticed more on darker colors, like black or navy clothing. Instead, try to wear white or pastel-colored shirts to help conceal dandruff. You can also wear an off-the-shoulder shirt since flakes usually aren’t visible when they’re directly on skin. [4]
    • You can also wear textured or pattered clothing to help hide dandruff.
  4. Before you head outside, grab a pocket-sized lint roller to take with you. Whenever you notice dandruff on your clothes, slip away to the bathroom and use the lint roller to pick up any stray flaking. [5]
    • You can also carry a small comb with you to gently brush out any noticeable flakes in your hair.
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Method 2
Method 2 of 4:

Quick Home Remedies

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  1. Mix roughly 1 US tbsp (15 mL) of coconut oil, 1  tsp (4.9 mL) of lemon juice, and a couple of drops of tea tree oil together. Use your fingers to gently massage the mixture into your scalp and roots. Wrap your hair in a plastic, cotton, or silk hair wrap before going to bed. In the morning, wash off the mixture with a normal shampoo. Use this remedy 2 to 3 times a week. [6]
    • If you don’t have tea tree oil on hand, you can swap it out for lime, mangosteen, or rosemary oil. [7]
    • You can also dilute lemon juice or a lemon essential oil with water to cleanse your hair of excess oil.
    • Studies suggest that tea tree oil can fight off Malazessia, a fungus that might cause seborrheic dermatitis and dandruff. [8] Coconut oil and lemon might also have antimicrobial properties that fight off flaking. [9]
  2. One study showed that coconut oil can help hydrate the skin, prevent dryness, and improve the scalp’s microbiome. Apply 1–2 teaspoons (4.9–9.9 mL) of coconut oil to your hands and massage it into your scalp. Cover your head with a shower cap or wrap for about 30 minutes. After it sets, use a normal shampoo and rinse your hair well. Use this deep-conditioning treatment 2 to 3 times a week. [10]
    • If your coconut oil is in a solid form, melt it in a small bowl in the microwave or over the stove in a pan. Wait at least 10 minutes for the oil to cool so it won’t burn your fingers or scalp.
    • If you don’t have coconut oil available, you can also use olive oil. Rub several drops of oil into your hair, cover your hair with a cap or wrap, and leave it in overnight. In the morning, shampoo and rinse your hair thoroughly.
  3. Green tea contains anti-inflammatory catechins that may help soothe an irritated scalp and reduce dandruff. Brew a pot of green tea using 2 tea bags in 2 cups (8.3 oz) of hot water for 2-3 minutes. Let it cool completely, then strain out the tea. Massage the tea water into your scalp and roots after shampooing. Leave it in for a few minutes, then rinse with cool water to lock in the antioxidants and apply conditioner. Repeat this remedy 2 to 3 times a week. [11]
    • You can also combine matcha with coconut or olive oil to help further reduce dandruff symptoms. Mix 1 tablespoon (15 mL) of oil with 2 teaspoons (11.38 g) of matcha green tea powder, apply it to your scalp, leave it in for 30 minutes, then wash your hair with shampoo.
  4. Aloe vera may be able to help treat skin conditions, reduce inflammation, and protect against dandruff. [12] Mix 1 tablespoon (15 mL) of aloe into your favorite conditioner and massage a little bit into your roots. Rinse as normal and repeat once a week or as needed.
  5. Apple cider vinegar is said to help balance your skin’s pH, reduce produce or oil buildup, and relieve itching and dandruff. Add 1–2 tablespoons (15–30 mL) to your shampoo and massage it into your scalp, then rinse as normal. Or, combine 1–2 tablespoons (15–30 mL) of ACV with a few drops of essential oils and warm water and spray it directly onto your hair with a spray bottle. Repeat this process once a week. [13]
    • Apple cider vinegar is incredibly acidic and can irritate or damage your skin if not diluted, so always mix a small amount with shampoo or warm water.
  6. Aspirin contains salicylic acid, which is found in many anti-dandruff shampoos and can help get rid of scaly skin and loosen flakes on your scalp. [14] Use a spoon or butter knife to crush two aspirin tablets into a fine powder and mix it into your shampoo. Wash and rinse your hair as normal, and repeat this process as needed to reduce flaking. [15]
  7. Baking soda is a convenient dandruff remedy that has antifungal and exfoliating properties that may help reduce flaking. Before shampooing, take 1 to 2 tablespoons (14.175 to 28.3 g) of baking soda and massage it into your scalp. Then wash and condition your hair as normal. Repeat this method once a week. [16]
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Method 3
Method 3 of 4:

Using Dandruff Shampoo

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  1. Many dandruff shampoos are classified based on the ingredients they contain. If you have small flakes that don’t go away after regular cleansing with a gentle shampoo, look for a mild dandruff shampoo that contains salicylic acid or fluocinolone. [17]
    • Salicylic acid shampoos: Neutrogena T/Sal , Briogeo Scalp Revival , Jason Dandruff Relief Treatment Shampoo
    • Fluocinolone shampoos (prescription required): Capex, Derma-Smoothe/FS
    • Shampoos with coal tar may slow down how quickly skin cells on your scalp die and flake off. However, many people advise against using it because it can change the color of your hair, make your skin more sensitive to sunlight, and produce allergic or adverse reactions.
    EXPERT TIP

    Yan Kandkhorov

    Hair Stylist
    Yan Kandkhorov is a Hair Stylist and Owner of K&S Salon, a hair salon based in New York City's Meatpacking District. Yan has over 20 years of experience in the hair industry, is best known for paving the way for iconic hair trends in the industry, and has operated his salon since 2017. His hair salon has been voted one of the Best Hair Salons in New York City in 2019 by Expertise. Yan and K&S Salon has collaborated with leading fashion magazines and celebrities such as Marie Clair USA, Lucy Magazine, and Resident Magazine.
    Yan Kandkhorov
    Hair Stylist

    Try to find a sulfate-free anti-dandruff shampoo for a gentle option. A lot of anti-dandruff shampoos contain sulfates, which are harsh cleansers. However, you can find some sulfate-free shampoos that contain chemicals like salicylic acid to treat dandruff, like R+Co Crown .

  2. If your flakes are thick, white, and found primarily near your scalp, your dandruff might be caused by a species of yeast-like fungus called Malassezia. [18] To kill dandruff-causing fungi, look for a dandruff shampoo with ingredients like pyrithione zinc, selenium sulfide, or ketoconazole. [19]
  3. To apply the shampoo, wet your hair, then massage the dandruff shampoo into your scalp. Let it sit in your hair for five to 10 minutes before rinsing it out. Wash with your anti-dandruff shampoo every day until the flaking, itching, and inflammation are less severe. [21]
    • If you have curly, natural hair, daily shampooing might irritate your scalp more. Instead, use dandruff shampoo once a week. You can also ask a dermatologist about which shampoo would work best for your hair or ask them for a steroid preparation in oil that can be applied like pomade. [22]
    • If you notice no improvement after a few days of using anti-dandruff shampoo, try a shampoo with a different ingredient. Since dandruff is often caused by a species of yeast, an antifungal shampoo may attack the problem from a different direction. [23]
    • Some people report success when alternating between two shampoos, using each one every other hair-washing session.
  4. Once you notice a significant improvement, reduce anti-dandruff shampoo use to two to three times per week, or even less if you can keep your dandruff to an acceptable level. Once the severe flaking stops, there is typically no need to continue applying every day. [24]
    • If you are using prescription-strength shampoo or more than one type of treatment, reduce the frequency or stop use after two weeks to prevent harmful side effects from developing. [25]
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Method 4
Method 4 of 4:

Controlling Dandruff Long-Term

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  1. If the dandruff flakes are thin, translucent, and found only on the hair (not the scalp), they’re likely a reaction to hair styling products. Look to see if your hair products contain Paraphenylenediamine, an ingredient that often causes dandruff issues. If you use multiple hair care products with different ingredients, this can also cause flaking. [26]
    • If you think hair care products may be causing your issue, eliminate or switch your styling products or wash your hair a little more frequently.
    • If you aren't sure which product is specifically causing the issue, stop using one at a time until the problem stops.
  2. Although dandruff isn’t caused by dry or oily scalps, a deep-conditioning treatment might help nourish the scalp and loosen up old flakes. Deep conditioning can also regulate any oil-regulating issues your scalp may have as a result of your dandruff. Here are hair mask deep-conditioning treatments you can use once a month to help control flaking: [27]
  3. Regularly brushing your hair can help evenly distribute oils and pick up pieces of skin or dirt from your hair. You can also exfoliate your scalp in the shower by brushing with a scalp brush or your fingers. Brushing in the shower can help stimulate the scalp and exfoliate cell buildup that causes flaking. [28]
  4. Exposing your scalp to moderate doses of sunlight may help reduce your dandruff. However, increased exposure to sunlight can be harmful to your skin, so try not to lay outside longer than an hour. Apply sunscreen before you go out and spend 30 minutes to an hour to allow your scalp to soak up the sun. [29]
    • Dandruff usually improves during the summer because of the increase in sunlight, unless the weather is unusually hot or humid.
  5. Increased or unmanaged stress might trigger dandruff or worsen your flaking. To help with your dandruff, try to get the recommended amount of sleep, exercise regularly, and avoid excessive alcohol, tobacco, or substance use. You can also help calm your mind by practicing deep breathing exercises or meditating every day. [30]
    • Seeking out a support system of friends and family to talk about your feelings with can also help you release any emotional tension you might be holding.
  6. Zinc, found in meat fish and seafood, and B vitamins, found in meat, eggs, legumes, and leafy greens, can support your immune system which can help fight off fungal infections that cause dandruff. Omega-3 fatty acids also help manage oil production and reduce inflammation, which may reduce dandruff. Eat foods that are rich in Omega-3 fatty acids like salmon, trout, chia seeds, flaxseeds, or nuts such as walnuts. [31]
    • You can also take probiotics to enhance your immune system function. Take a probiotic supplement, or eat fermented foods like kombucha, kimchi, or sauerkraut. [32]
    • Try to avoid or limit foods that harm your gut’s microbiome and immune system, like refined carbs (white bread, pasta, crackers), red meat, or processed, fried, or sugary foods/beverages. [33]
  7. If you are not satisfied with the level of dandruff you have after a few weeks of self-treatment, consult a doctor. Dandruff rarely causes physical problems, but if you would like to get rid of it for personal reasons, a doctor may prescribe stronger medication. They may also recommend additional steroid treatment to reduce inflammation and itching as well. [34]
    • For severe cases, isotretinoin may be prescribed, but as this can have severe side effects, it is only recommended as a last resort.
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Expert Q&A

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  • Question
    I have a considerable amount of dandruff. Is mineral oil is the best way for me to treat it?
    Chris M. Matsko, MD
    Family Medicine Physician
    Dr. Chris M. Matsko is a retired physician based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. With over 25 years of medical research experience, Dr. Matsko was awarded the Pittsburgh Cornell University Leadership Award for Excellence. He holds a BS in Nutritional Science from Cornell University and an MD from the Temple University School of Medicine in 2007. Dr. Matsko earned a Research Writing Certification from the American Medical Writers Association (AMWA) in 2016 and a Medical Writing & Editing Certification from the University of Chicago in 2017.
    Chris M. Matsko, MD
    Family Medicine Physician
    Expert Answer
    Yes, mineral oil can be an effective home remedy for getting rid of dandruff.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
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  • Question
    I have so much dandruff! How can I stop it?
    Chris M. Matsko, MD
    Family Medicine Physician
    Dr. Chris M. Matsko is a retired physician based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. With over 25 years of medical research experience, Dr. Matsko was awarded the Pittsburgh Cornell University Leadership Award for Excellence. He holds a BS in Nutritional Science from Cornell University and an MD from the Temple University School of Medicine in 2007. Dr. Matsko earned a Research Writing Certification from the American Medical Writers Association (AMWA) in 2016 and a Medical Writing & Editing Certification from the University of Chicago in 2017.
    Chris M. Matsko, MD
    Family Medicine Physician
    Expert Answer
    You might want to try a dandruff-reducing shampoo like Selsun Blue or a shampoo with ketoconazole in it.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
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    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
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      Tips

      • If medical dandruff treatments are not working, investigate folk remedies or treatments that use kitchen ingredients instead. These are unverified by scientific studies, but some people report success using them. If your scalp becomes drier, itchier, or redder, stop the treatment immediately.
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        Helpful 2 Not Helpful 0
      • Always follow the instructions for prescription drugs. Using them too frequently or for too long can cause unpleasant side effects.
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      Tips from our Readers

      The advice in this section is based on the lived experiences of wikiHow readers like you. If you have a helpful tip you’d like to share on wikiHow, please submit it in the field below.
      • Mix shampoo and conditioner together with a few drops of tea tree oil, then rub it into the spots where your dandruff is worst. Comb your hair once a minute, then rinse it out after ten minutes.
      • Massage pure lemon juice onto your scalp, then rinse it off with water after a few minutes. Apply some hair oil to your hair, leave it in overnight, then wash with shampoo in the morning.
      • Rinse your hair with apple cider vinegar and cold water. Generally, using cold water instead of hot water can help your hair health, as well.
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      References

      1. ↑ Noël Reid-Killings. Celebrity Hair Stylist. Expert Interview. 25 November 2020.
      2. ↑ https://health.clevelandclinic.org/does-dry-shampoo-actually-keep-your-hair-clean/
      3. ↑ https://www.cosmo.ph/beauty/hair/hairstyles-cover-dandruff-a983-20171113
      4. ↑ http://youngwomenshealth.org/2013/08/12/dandruff/
      5. ↑ https://experthometips.com/17-things-you-can-clean-with-a-lint-roller
      6. ↑ Ritu Thakur, MA. Natural Health Care Professional. Expert Interview. 25 July 2019.
      7. ↑ https://health.clevelandclinic.org/rosemary-oil-for-hair/
      8. ↑ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15663338/
      9. ↑ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32602684/
      1. ↑ https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-021-86454-1
      2. ↑ https://helloglow.co/green-tea-hair-mask/
      3. ↑ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4452276/
      4. ↑ https://health.unl.edu/apple-cider-vinegar-good-your-skin-and-hair
      5. ↑ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5788265/
      6. ↑ https://www.womansworld.com/posts/beauty/aspirin-for-itchy-scalp
      7. ↑ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22991095/
      8. ↑ https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/dandruff/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20353854
      9. ↑ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3380954/
      10. ↑ https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/dandruff/symptoms-causes/syc-20353850
      11. ↑ https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/14403-seborrheic-dermatitis
      12. ↑ http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/dandruff/basics/treatment/con-20023690
      13. ↑ https://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2000/0501/p2713.html
      14. ↑ http://dermnetnz.org/dermatitis/seborrhoeic-dermatitis.html
      15. ↑ http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/dandruff/basics/treatment/con-20023690
      16. ↑ http://www.aafp.org/afp/2000/0501/p2703.html
      17. ↑ https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/dandruff/symptoms-causes/syc-20353850
      18. ↑ https://naturallclub.com/blogs/the-naturall-club-blog/how-do-i-get-rid-of-dandruff-in-natural-hair
      19. ↑ https://www.dandruffdeconstructed.com/15-ways-to-get-rid-of-dandruff-fast/
      20. ↑ https://uhs.umich.edu/dandruff
      21. ↑ https://www.cdc.gov/mentalhealth/cope-with-stress/index.html
      22. ↑ https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/dandruff/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20353854
      23. ↑ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5031164/
      24. ↑ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5031164/
      25. ↑ https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/dandruff/

      About This Article

      Article Summary X

      If you need to get rid of dandruff fast, spray or sprinkle the roots of your hair with dry shampoo, then comb it through your hair to remove dandruff flakes. You can also warm a small bowl of mineral oil and massage it into your scalp to moisturize your skin and reduce dandruff. Leave the oil in for several hours, then wash it out with shampoo or a mild detergent. Keep reading for tips from our Medical reviewer on how to pick the right dandruff shampoo.

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