Wash hair regularly with a dandruff shampoo
Use an anti-dandruff shampoo containing one of: ketoconazole, selenium sulfide, zinc pyrithione, or salicylic acid
Leave shampoo on the scalp for 5–10 minutes before rinsing
Use the medicated shampoo at least 2–3 times per week, then reduce to once weekly for maintenance
Alternate between different active-ingredient shampoos if one option stops working
Keep the scalp clean and dry; rinse thoroughly after conditioning
Avoid heavy oils and thick hair products on the scalp
Limit scratching and aggressive brushing of the scalp
Wash out styling products completely
Consider reducing hair products that irritate your scalp (fragrances, alcohol-heavy products, dyes)
If irritation occurs, switch to a gentler, fragrance-free shampoo on non-medicated wash days
Manage stress and sleep, as flare-ups can be triggered by stress
Ensure adequate treatment adherence for several weeks (dandruff often improves gradually)
If dandruff is severe, persistent, or causes redness, pain, thick scales, or hair loss, see a dermatologist
Ask a dermatologist about prescription options (e.g., stronger antifungal or topical anti-inflammatory treatments)