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Mild cases of dandruff may need nothing more than shampooing more frequently. Daily cleansing with a mild shampoo to decrease oil and cell build up can keep moderate dandruff in check, but consult your doctor about more stubborn forms such as seborrheic dermatitis. Some herbal remedies may relieve the itching and dryness, but it usually takes a medicated product to subdue the greasy scales.

Not all dandruff shampoos are alike so you may need to experiment with them to find the one that works best for you. Here are some examples of some effective over the counter shampoos you can try:

• Coal-tar preparations (Neutrogena T/Gel, Tegrin)
• Pyrithione zinc (Suave Dandruff Control, Pert Plus Dandruff Control, Head & Shoulders)
• Salicylic acid and sulfur (T-sal, lonil T, Sebulex)
• Selenium sulfide (Selsen, Exsel)
• Ketoconazole (Nizoral A-D) available as a 1% over the counter shampoo and a 2% prescription strength shampoo.

You may need to alternate between types of shampoos if one type initially controls the dandruff but later loses its effectiveness. If you find that you are still scratching and shedding after trying over-the-counter preparations, see your doctor. You may be using the wrong shampoo for your condition. For really stubborn dandruff cases you may need to use a prescription lotion or shampoo.

Most doctors recommend that dandruff sufferers use a medicated shampoo daily, rubbing your scalp well and leaving the lather on for at least 10 minutes. Be sure to rinse thoroughly; shampoo and soap residue can actually aggravate skin problems. After your dandruff has cleared up, use the medicated shampoo no more than once or twice a week, because it is too harsh for daily use. When possible, let your hair dry naturally instead of blowing it dry.

Brushing your hair with a natural-bristle brush can also prove beneficial. Brush your hair from your scalp outward with steady, firm strokes. This will carry oil from your scalp, where it can cause dandruff, along the hair strands, which need the oil to stay shiny and healthy.

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