Your ultimate guide to understanding dandruff—plus how you can help eliminate flakes, itching and irritation with our salon-quality dandruff care.
What is dandruff?
Dandruff is a common scalp condition that causes white or yellow flakes of dead skin to appear on the scalp and throughout the hair. If you experience dandruff, you’re far from alone—an estimated 50% of people worldwide* deal with dandruff symptoms at some point in their lives.
*Source: MEDI HAIR.
From flakes to fabulous: our Artistic Ambassador Mary Cromeans breaks it down.
What causes dandruff?
Dandruff primarily develops when there is an overgrowth of Malassezia, a naturally occurring yeast on the scalp that feeds on scalp oils. Symptoms can become more noticeable due to factors like stress, lifestyle habits and seasonal or environmental changes.
How can I tell the difference between dandruff and dry scalp?
Dandruff is linked to an oily, irritated scalp and usually shows up as larger, yellowish flakes. Dry scalp, on the other hand, is caused by a lack of moisture and tends to produce small, white, powdery flakes. If your scalp feels oily or you notice flakes in other areas like your eyebrows, it’s more likely dandruff. If your skin is dry overall, it’s probably dry scalp.
How do I get rid of dandruff?
Use a medicated anti-dandruff shampoo that contains proven active ingredients like zinc pyrithione, such as Paul Mitchell Dandruff Shampoo. This rich-lathering formula uses 1% zinc pyrithione to target dandruff at the source, helping relieve flakes, itching and irritation while also preventing recurrence.
Unlike some dandruff shampoos that rely on salicylic acid, Paul Mitchell Dandruff Shampoo is formulated with 1% zinc pyrithione. This is a key difference, as zinc pyrithione helps combat the underlying cause of dandruff, whereas salicylic acid mainly addresses visible symptoms without fighting the root cause.
How often should I wash my hair if I have dandruff?
For best results, wash at least twice a week with an anti-dandruff shampoo such as Paul Mitchell Dandruff Shampoo or as directed by a doctor.
For maximum dandruff control, use Paul Mitchell Dandruff Shampoo every time you shampoo.
Apply shampoo to damp hair. Massage onto your scalp and leave it on for 3–5 minutes before rinsing thoroughly.
What is the best conditioner to use after Paul Mitchell Dandruff Shampoo?
While you can follow with any of your favorite Paul Mitchell conditioners, our pros love pairing it with Awapuhi Conditioner or Sheer Hydration Conditioner.
Can I use anti-dandruff shampoo on colored hair?
Yes, many dandruff shampoos are color-safe, but it depends on the formula; harsh, traditional ones can strip color, so look for specifically labeled "color-safe" versions such as Paul Mitchell Dandruff Shampoo to help protect vibrancy while controlling flakes.
How do I choose between a dandruff shampoo, clarifying shampoo or apple cider vinegar rinse?
Paul Mitchell Dandruff Shampoo: Pick this if you’re dealing with flakes, itching, or scalp irritation. Designed specifically for dandruff, it contains 1% zinc pyrithione to target dandruff at its source.
- Clarifying Shampoo (e.g., Paul Mitchell Shampoo Two): Choose this if your hair feels heavy, oily, or coated with styling products. It removes buildup and residue but doesn’t specifically treat dandruff.
- Rinse (e.g., Paul Mitchell Foaming ACV Rinse): Opt for a scalp-refreshing rinse if you want gentle exfoliation, shine and smoothness. It’s great for removing light buildup and balancing your scalp, but it’s not a primary treatment for dandruff.
Tip: You can combine them based on your needs—use dandruff shampoo to fight flakes, clarifying shampoo once in a while to remove buildup and a rinse to refresh and add shine.
How do I choose between Paul Mitchell Dandruff Shampoo and Tea Tree Special Shampoo or Tea Tree Special Detox products?
- Pick Paul Mitchell Dandruff Shampoo if you want to target the root causes of dandruff and control symptoms like flakes, itching and irritation. As an over-the-counter treatment, it’s FDA-registered and formulated specifically for dandruff.
- Choose Tea Tree Special Shampoo or Tea Tree Special Detox products if you’re looking to support overall scalp wellness rather than treat dandruff directly. Tea Tree Special Shampoo gives an invigorating cleanse with a refreshing tingling sensation, while Tea Tree Special Detox Foaming Salt Scrub and Kombucha Rinse gently exfoliate to remove buildup and leave your scalp feeling smooth and refreshed.
You could even use them together—dandruff shampoo for treatment, Tea Tree products for added refreshment and scalp care.
