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The Best Dandruff Shampoos to Ditch Your Itchy Scalp

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No one likes to talk about their dandruff, but while it can be embarrassing, it’s actually a super common scalp condition. Characterized by itchiness and those infamous flakes — which become particularly noticeable if you’re wearing a dark blouse — dandruff can often make us feel self-conscious, to say the least. Luckily, all it takes is a good dandruff shampoo to relieve the flakiness, scaling, and itchiness!

What is dandruff? 

Dandruff refers to the scaly white or gray flakes of dead skin cells that come off our scalps or the condition marked by these flakes. As Philip Kinglsey Trichological Clinic trichologist Anabel Kingsley told SELF in 2017, “Skin cells on our scalp, just like those on the rest of our body, are constantly replaced and shed. If skin cells begin to divide too rapidly — faster than they are shed — this is what causes flakes.” 

What causes dandruff? 

Experts say it’s difficult to pinpoint one underlying cause of the overgrowth of dandruff cells, as there are several contributing factors that may cause your itchy flakes to develop — or worsen. 

According to Medical News Today, some theorize that dandruff may be caused by the hormone production that begins around puberty. Other causes may include seborrheic dermatitis (a superficial fungal disease of the skin), oily skin, yeast sensitivity, and a lack of hair-brushing, to name a few. 

The Best Dandruff Shampoo 

There are plenty of options that can help give you relief from the most aggravating symptoms of dandruff. Some are so effective, they only need to be used twice per week, while others utilize a blend of essential oils and botanicals that can help your scalp heal in a totally natural way. Be sure to talk to your doctor or a trusted professional hair expert for recommendations for your specific needs, especially if you have any allergies to ingredients. 

No matter which dandruff shampoo turns out to be the best one for you, it’s worth remembering to be patient with your treatment. Dandruff rarely goes away instantly, so it may take some time before you see true results. But if you ask us, it’s totally worth the wait! Keep scrolling to shop FIRST for Women’s picks for the best dandruff shampoos.

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