This guide lays out a 4-week routine to control an active dandruff flare in the first 2 weeks and consolidate results in the next 2. Alternate ketoconazole, selenium, zinc, and add salicylic acid only if thick plaques persist. Apply to the scalp, keep 3–5 minutes of contact, and use a double lather during the active flare.
- Monday: Ketoconazole
- Tuesday: Selenium
- Wednesday: Zinc
- Thursday: Ketoconazole
- Friday: Selenium
- Saturday: Zinc or Salicylic acid (if thick plaques)
- Sunday: Gentle shampoo or rest (if the scalp is calm)Usage instructions (for each indicated day):
Apply shampoo directly to the scalp, leave 3–5 minutes before rinsing, and do a double lather if there’s heavy oil or flaking. Rinse with lukewarm water.
- Monday: Ketoconazole
- Tuesday: Rest
- Wednesday: Selenium
- Thursday: Rest
- Friday: Zinc
- Saturday: Salicylic acid (if flaking continues; otherwise Zinc)
- Sunday: KetoconazoleObjective:
Reduce wash frequency while maintaining the control achieved during the flare phase.
- Shampoo goes on the scalp (no need on hair lengths).
- 3–5 minutes contact and double lather during flare weeks.
- Use lukewarm water, not hot.
- Gentle brushing before shower to loosen flakes (no scratching).
- If a product irritates, swap that active for another from the list that week.
- Brows/beard: you can use the same anti-dandruff shampoo 2–3 minutes, then rinse.
With consistency, you should notice fewer “snow-like” flakes, less itch, and less redness within 2–3 weeks.
| Category | Active | Product |
|---|---|---|
| Antifungal | Ketoconazole 2% | Nizoral Anti-Dandruff Shampoo, 1% Ketoconazole |
| Antifungal | Selenium sulfide | Dercos Anti-Dandruff Shampoo, Selenium Sulfide |
| Antifungal | Zinc pyrithione | CeraVe Hydrating Anti-Dandruff Shampoo, 1% Zinc |
| Keratolytic | Salicylic acid | Neutrogena T/Sal Therapeutic Shampoo, 3% Salicylic Acid |
| Gentle | PH-balanced mild | Tree To Tub Fragrance Free Shampoo for Dry & Sensitive Scalp |
- Ketoconazole
- Selenium sulfide
- Zinc pyrithione
- Salicylic acid (only if thick plaques; on the indicated day)
- Gentle shampoo (for in-between days or rest)
- If an active irritates, pause it for that week and substitute another allowed active.
- If the scalp is calm, on Sunday you may use a gentle shampoo or rest.
Safety Note
This routine is not medical advice. If you develop severe redness, crusting, bleeding, or diffuse shedding, or if you don’t improve after 4 weeks, consult a dermatologist.
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