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Are there any over-the-counter treatments for dandruff?

Dandruff is a condition that results in excessive scaling of skin on the scalp. There are many nonprescription medicines available to treat dandruff. Some of the active ingredients to look for include coal tar (in brands such as DHS Tar shampoo), pyrithione zinc (>Head and Shoulders), selenium sulfide (>Selsun Blue), salicylic acid (Neutrogena Healthy Scalp Anti-Dandruff), sulfur (Sulfur 8 Anti-Dandruff Hair and Scalp Conditioner), and ketoconazole (>Nizoral A-D).

Coal tar is an antiseptic, antifungal, and anti-itch ingredient. Pyrithione zinc and selenium sulfide work by decreasing the rate at which the cells on the scalp reproduce. Salicylic acid and sulfur loosen the skin cells and allow them to be removed. Ketoconazole is an antifungal agent that targets the yeast Pityrosporum ovale, which is commonly seen in dandruff sufferers. Dandruff shampoos work best when they are left on the scalp for at least one full minute before rinsing and repeating use.

If over-the-counter products do not seem to be effective after several weeks of use, you may want to see a dermatologist regarding prescription medications.

Sources:
Handbook of Nonprescription Drugs. American Pharmaceutical Association, 2000.
Drug Facts and Comparisons, Facts & Comparisons, 2007.
Habif, Thomas. Clinical Dermatology. Mosby-Year Book Inc., 1996.
Diseases and Conditions, “Dandruff.” http://www.mayoclinic.com. Mayo Clinic Health. Last accessed 1/10/2007.
Medline Plus. Medline, 2007.

This answer prepared 10/27/2000.
This information updated 1/10/2007.