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All Things Dandruff & Seborrheic Dermatitis

By Volarre Editorial — May 23, 2025

The Scalp Edit: Dandruff vs. Seborrheic Dermatitis

Dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis can affect anyone—no matter your age, hair type, or styling routine. What sets them apart is the level of inflammation. While dandruff is mostly flakes and mild itch, seborrheic dermatitis shows up with stubborn greasy scales and redness. Both conditions have the same root: an imbalance of scalp yeast and oil. Here’s how to bring your scalp back to balance—beautifully.

“Science-backed solutions and soothing remedies for a happier scalp.”

Dandruff and Seborrheic Dermatitis Relief Products

01. What's Going On?

Both conditions begin when the natural Malassezia yeast on our scalps overgrows. The good news: you don’t have to settle for hiding flakes. With the right ingredients, you can treat, soothe, and prevent both conditions at home.

02. The Edit: Community Top Picks

Nizoral A-D Shampoo

$15.88

The gold standard for stubborn flakes. Use 2x a week for breakouts.

The Science Contains 1% Ketoconazole, a potent antifungal that kills the cell walls of the yeast responsible for flakes.

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Neutrogena T/Sal

$6.41

Fragrance-free and essential for thick buildup.

The Science Features 3% Salicylic Acid, a keratolytic agent that chemically exfoliates crusty buildup so other treatments can penetrate.

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Selsun Blue Medicated

$6.66

A classic, heavy-duty option for itchy, inflamed scalps.

The Science Uses 1% Selenium Sulfide to slow down skin cell death and turnover, reducing the visible "snow" effect.

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H&S Clinical Strength

$19.98

Prescription strength protection in a gentle daily formula.

The Science Contains 1.8% Selenium Sulfide. It reduces yeast production without the harsh smell often associated with medicated washes.

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Briogeo Scalp Revival

$42.00

A luxury scrub that cools instantly upon contact.

The Science Binchotan Charcoal draws out impurities from the follicle, while Peppermint and Tea Tree oils act as natural antiseptics.

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Mielle Rosemary Oil

$9.89

Perfect for pre-wash massages to stimulate blood flow.

The Science Rosemary oil improves circulation, while peppermint soothes itch. Best used *before* shampooing to avoid feeding yeast.

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Hair Syrup Pre-Wash

$23.00

Hydrates dry flakes without clogging pores.

The Science Tea tree combats fungus, while Jojoba oil mimics the skin's natural sebum, tricking the scalp into producing less oil.

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Pro Tip Flaky eyebrows? Apply a thin layer of Nizoral Shampoo as a mask to brows for 3–5 minutes, then rinse. Repeat 2–3x a week.

03. Holistic & DIY Treatments

Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse

Mix 1 part ACV + 2 parts water.
Apply after shampoo, leave 2–5 minutes.
Why? The acidity rebalances scalp pH, making it harder for yeast to thrive.

Tea Tree Oil Massage

Dilute 3 drops tea tree oil in 1 tbsp carrier oil.
Massage into scalp, leave 15 mins, shampoo.
Why? A proven natural antifungal that reduces itch intensity.

Hydrocortisone for Flares

Apply 1% cream to red, painful patches.
Use 2x daily for max 1 week.
Why? Reduces acute inflammation rapidly (not for long-term use).

Vitamin D & UV Light

5–10 mins of gentle scalp sun exposure.
Check vitamin D levels with a doctor.
Why? UV light slows skin cell growth; Vitamin D boosts skin immunity.

+ Professional References

American Academy of Dermatology Association: “Dandruff & Seborrheic Dermatitis.”
Mayo Clinic: “Seborrheic Dermatitis – Diagnosis & Treatment.”
Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology (2021): “Seborrheic Dermatitis: An Overview.”
Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology (2015): “Comprehensive Review.”

This content is for informational purposes only and does not substitute medical advice. Consult your dermatologist for stubborn conditions.

Disclosure: Some links are affiliate links. Purchases through them support our content at no extra cost to you.