Dandruff Control

What causes dandruff in hair?

Dandruff shows up when your scalp starts shedding dead skin cells faster than usual. Those cells can build up with oil and turn into visible flakes that sit in your hair or fall onto your shoulders. It’s a common issue, and the problem can get worse when a hair product adds too much oil or strips the scalp dry.

An oily scalp producing too much sebum can create the right environment for dandruff, while dry skin can leave your scalp tight, itchy and irritated. With the right haircare for men, you can manage the root cause and help your scalp feel balanced again.

Can shampoo make an itchy scalp worse?

Yes, some shampoos can make an itchy scalp feel more irritated, especially if they don’t match your scalp condition. These haircare products that can cause dryness or lack proper hydration can leave your skin feeling tight or uncomfortable.

That’s why we offer a range of shampoos made to calm, hydrate and support a healthy scalp from wash to wash. Not sure where to start? Consult with one of our Hairhouse experts in-store!

What to look for in anti-dandruff shampoo

A good itchy scalp shampoo does more than clear dandruff flakes. It should calm irritation, feel great to use and suit your hair from root to ends.

Here’s what we recommend checking before choosing one for your routine:

• A shampoo that calms and cleans: A gentle formula helps wash away flakes while soothing sensitivity.
• Support for sensitive or reactive scalps: The right option should match your hair concern like dryness, oiliness or irritation.
• The right level of care for your strands: Shampoo works best when it’s made for your hair type, such as thick, fine, curly or straight.
• Moisturising and nourishing ingredients: These help keep oily or dry scalps balanced and your hair feeling soft and healthy.
• Something that fits with your haircare products: It should work well alongside the rest of your routine without overloading your scalp.

Active ingredients that help with dandruff

Ingredients that help with dandruff calm the scalp and clear build-up. The right formula supports healthy scalp care by targeting flakes, itchiness and excess oil at the source.

Pyrithione zinc helps control the yeast linked to dandruff, while salicylic acid clears oil and dead skin. You’ll also find soothing ingredients like peppermint and tea tree oil that can calm irritation and refresh the scalp. If you’re dealing with a flaky scalp that’s dry or sensitive, a sulphate-free shampoo cleanses without stripping moisture.

How often to wash hair with dandruff

We recommend washing your hair 3-4 times a week to help reduce dandruff and keep your scalp in check. This keeps oil and irritation under control without overdrying.

A targeted scalp shampoo can help clear product build-up while calming the scalp. If your hair feels oily or itchy between washes, you can adjust the routine to suit your needs.

How to treat dandruff with anti-dandruff shampoo

To treat dandruff, your shampoo needs to target flakes without irritating your scalp or drying out your strands. A good routine can help reduce build-up, calm irritation and support long-term scalp balance. It also helps keep your hair looking fresh and feeling strong, which is a big part of maintaining healthy hair.

Here’s how you can use your anti-dandruff shampoo for the best results:

1. Always apply shampoo to wet hair: Wet hair helps the formula spread more evenly and gives it the chance to do its job properly.
2. Gently massage it into the scalp: This is where flakes and oil tend to build up, so take your time and use your fingertips to work it in.
3. Rinse thoroughly from roots to ends: Any leftover shampoo can cause irritation, which makes rinsing properly an important step in scalp care.
4. Follow with conditioner through the mid-lengths and ends: This helps keep your hair soft and strong without weighing the scalp down.
5. Support your scalp between washes: If your scalp still feels dry or itchy, a targeted scalp treatment can help soothe irritation and support overall scalp health.

How long does it take to see results with scalp shampoo?

Most people start to see results from scalp shampoo after several weeks of regular use. Flakes often reduce first, followed by less itchiness and a more comfortable scalp. It’s not instant, but consistency really helps.

Stick with your routine before changing it too soon. If the flakes or irritation return quickly, it might be time to add a dandruff treatment or chat with a Hairhouse expert to see if your routine needs adjustment.

Top anti-dandruff shampoos for itchy scalps

Choosing the right anti-dandruff shampoo can help bring lasting relief if your scalp feels itchy, dry or irritated. A well-formulated shampoo can calm the skin, reduce flakes and support a healthier scalp over time.

Look for shampoos with zinc to help manage dandruff and visible build-up. For sensitive scalps, sulphate-free options are a gentler choice that helps keep the scalp calm without drying out your skin.

Some itchy scalp shampoos are also made for thinning hair, helping to create the right scalp environment to support stronger growth. These can be a great pick if your hair concern includes both flakes and fine or weak strands.

Where to buy anti-dandruff scalp care in Australia

Stock up on targeted scalp care for men and more with Hairhouse. From flaking and redness to dryness and itchiness, our anti-dandruff shampoos include best-sellers and customer favourites from leading brands to help manage flakes and calm irritated skin, with formulas backed by real results.

You can shop online across Australia with free delivery on orders over $70 or pop into your nearest Hairhouse store. Use our store locator to find a Hairhouse near you, and hit checkout when you've found the right match for your scalp needs!