Your scalp’s itchy and inflamed, and no products seem to be helping. Here’s the science behind what’s really going on and how to fix it.
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0:00 Causes of itchy scalp
0:39 Microbes (important even if you don’t have dandruff)
2:02 “Dry” scalp
3:29 Why it’s so confusing
5:09 Common allergens
7:51 Active ingredients
10:26 Common mistakes
11:36 Moisture
12:11 Fixing “dry” scalp
13:02 Antioxidants
13:48 Water quality
14:20 Products that didn’t work
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Article version with full references: coming soon
🙋🏻 I’m Michelle, a chemistry PhD, cosmetic chemist and science educator, here to explain how beauty products work, debunk myths, and help you make smarter decisions about your skincare, hair and makeup!
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🧴 PRODUCTS (affiliate links – some were also part of past sponsorships or were free samples)
NOTE: I tried to link to products with specific actives, but these get reformulated all the time and I can’t control redirects – check the ingredients before buying!!
All recommended products linked here:
DERCOS | Anti-Dandruff Shampoo for Normal to Oily Hair (Selenium Sulfide):
DERCOS | Anti-Dandruff Serum 10 (PO):
HEAD & SHOULDERS | Bare Soothing Hydration Shampoo (PO):
ESSANO | Scalp Refresh Balancing Shampoo (PO):
DOVE | Dryness & Itch Relief Anti-Dandruff Shampoo (ZP):
HEAD AND SHOULDERS | Classic Clean Shampoo (ZP):
HEAD & SHOULDERS | Bare Anti Dandruff Shampoo (ZP):
HEAD & SHOULDERS | Royal Oils Scalp Elixir (ZP):
HEAD & SHOULDERS | Royal Oils Scalp Cream (ZP):
NIOXIN | Scalp Recovery Soothing Serum (ZP):
DERMAL THERAPY | Scalp Relief Shampoo & Conditioner (PO):
NIZORAL | Anti-Dandruff Shampoo Ketoconazole 1%:
SELSUN | Blue Anti Dandruff Shampoo (SS):
HEAD & SHOULDERS | Professional Leave-In Spray (PO):
THANKS TO NATURE | Anti Dandruff Shampoo (PO):
TREE TO TUB | Instant Calm Dry Scalp Solution (PO):
VANICREAM | Dandruff Shampoo (ZP):
CP-1 | Ginger Purifying Shampoo (PO):
PACIFICA | Scalp Brush:
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