Eliminating Dandruff with Salicylic Acid

Dandruff is a condition that causes flaking of the scalp. It appears as unsightly white spots on your clothing that are more noticeable if you are wearing something dark. Salicylic acid is considered in a class of drugs known as keratolytics, an agent that separates or softens the skin. It can work well to help you eliminate dandruff from your scalp.

Procedure

For the treatment of dandruff, salicylic acid comes in a shampoo. Before using it, the Mayo Clinic suggests wetting the scalp and hair completely with water that is lukewarm, then applying enough to lather. It should then be rubbed into the scalp for two to three minutes before rinsing thoroughly. To make sure that the salicylic acid treats the dandruff, repeat the shampooing and rinsing.

Mechanism

Products with salicylic acid can help remove dandruff by loosening it. Salicylic acid shampoo is a topical version of the medication. It causes the skin to swell and then soften. In turn, the areas where it is being used will slough, causing the dandruff to fall off while you are rinsing the shampoo out.

Interactions

Certain medications can interact with salicylic acids. Use of these drugs may decrease the shampoo's effectiveness or increase the likelihood of side effects. According to Drugs.com, use caution when using salicylic acid and taking corticosteroids, ammonium sulfate, anticoagulants, aspirin, sulfonylureas, phenvibutazone, sulfinpyrazone, pyrazinamide, probenecid, or methotrexate. Consult with your pharmacist about all of your medications and supplements before using salicylic acid shampoo.

Warning

Salicylic acid shampoo should not be used be children and teenagers who make have the chickenpox, shingles or flu and should never be used on someone under two years of age. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, have liver or kidney problems, you should be careful when using salicylic acid shampoo. Other health precautions are necessary when applying this preparation. Consult with a health professional to make sure using salicylic acid for dandruff is considered safe for you.

Considerations

There are a number of shampoos available over the counter in your local drugstore or supermarket that treat dandruff. It may be worth trying those first. If you find they do not work, speak to your doctor about the risks and benefits of using salicylic acid for dandruff control.