When it comes to our hair, there’s a lot for us gents to stress over.
Whether you’re conscious of emerging greys, you’ve noticed thinning or receding or you’re prone to dandruff, our locks can fill us with worry, especially when you don’t know how to combat the problem - which is where we come in.
From products to combat greys to thickening shampoos, we’re on a mission to solve every hair-related anxiety going - and now, with the help of Anabel Kingsley, Consultant Trichologist and Brand President at the Philip Kingsley Clinic, it’s time to talk dandruff.
Why does dandruff happen?
First of all, it’s important to understand the root of the issue (sorry...). As explained by Kingsley, “In many people, dandruff occurs when there is an overgrowth of a certain species of yeast on the scalp, called the Malassezia yeasts. However, it is also thought that some are simply sensitive to normal levels of these yeasts”.
She continues, “Others are simply more susceptible to dandruff and other factors such as shampooing too infrequently can trigger or worsen dandruff. This is because Malasezzia yeasts thrive in an oily scalp environment.”
What are the best ways to prevent dandruff?
The best prevention technique starts with cleansing your hair, as Kingsley describes, “Shampoo at least every three days, and preferably daily if you have fine hair because those with fine hair have more oil glands on their scalp making them more susceptible. Spend one minute gently but firmly shampooing your scalp and rinse very well. Sometimes flakes appear simply because you’re rushing.”
There are some external factors to take into account too, namely stress and diet. Kingsley continues, “Keep your stress under control and watch your diet. Trigger foods are not the same for everyone, so if you suffer from dandruff keeping a food diary can be a good way to find out if there is anything you’re eating that might be aggravating your scalp.”
How can you treat dandruff?
The most effective way to achieve a flake-free scalp is with an anti-dandruff shampoo. Kingsley’s top tips? “Shampoo daily until symptoms clear using a soothing antimicrobial shampoo to bring malassezia yeasts to normal levels.
“I love our Flaky Itchy Scalp Shampoo, containing piroctone olamine which you should massage on your scalp for at least one minute to help lift away flakes and then rinse well. If your dandruff is persistent, add an exfoliating targeted Scalp Mask into your weekly routine”, she concludes.
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Horace Gentle Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
French grooming expert Horace is the best on the market for affordable products that don’t compromise on quality - and haircare is one of the brand’s specialities. This sulphate-free shampoo not only eliminates dandruff but also the itchiness that comes with it. You need to use it two to three times per week for a month for flake-free results.
Buy now £13.00, Horace
Ouai Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
Ouai is the haircare specialist you should have on your radar. Founded by celebrity hairstylist Jen Atkin, who has over two decades of experience in the field, all of the products are expertly crafted to deliver results.
Infused with salicylic acid, this anti-dandruff formula will reduce flaking, itching and irritation - and the deliciously fresh aroma of ginger and spearmint will keep you coming back for more.
Buy now £32.00, Ouai
La Roche Posay Kerium DS Anti-Dandruff Intensive Shampoo
La Roche Posay’s sensitive skin and hair formulations are loved by beauty editors and influencers alike, with many of them earning viral status on TikTok and Instagram - from the SPF to the hyaluronic acid serum.
An intensive treatment, the French brand’s micro-exfoliating shampoo is perfect for those with persistent cases. It will cleanse your scalp, eliminate dandruff and reduce itching over a four-week period.
Buy now £14.00, La Roche Posay
Philip Kingsley Flaky/Itchy Scalp Anti-Dandruff Shampoo 250ml
Philip Kingsley’s history dates back to 1960 when the eponymous founder opened his first consulting rooms on Dorset Street in London. Over 65 years later, the science-backed haircare brand is run by his daughter, Anabel, who continues her father’s legacy through both the formulations and the London-based clinic.
Formulated with anti-microbial piroctone olamine which helps relieve flaking and itching, and lauryl betaine to cleanse without irritation, your scalp will feel both soothed and cleared after using this shampoo for as little as four days.
Buy now £27.00, lookfantastic
Typology Anti-Dandruff Treatment Shampoo with Piroctone Olamine 1% + Jujube Extract
Founded in 2019, in just four years Typology has achieved cult-favourite status - and for good reason. As with all of its products, this anti-dandruff shampoo contains only necessary active ingredients that treat the problem and deliver results. This time, it’s infused with anti-fungal piroctone olamine which eliminates dandruff while jujube extract calms any scalp irritation. For £17.90, it’s a no-brainer.
Buy now £17.90, Typology
Malin + Goetz Peppermint Shampoo
Although Malin + Goetz’s shampoo will not necessarily eliminate bad cases of dandruff, it’s a gentle cleanser which you can use daily to prevent it happening in the first place. It uses natural amino acids and peppermint that are delicate yet will effectively remove impurities without the risk of drying or stripping your hair.
Buy now £21.00, Cult Beauty
VICHY Dercos Anti-Dandruff Purifying Scalp Shampoo for Normal to Oily Hair 200ml
A shampoo formulated for normal to oily scalps that are prone to dandruff, Vichy’s salicylic acid and selenium disulfide enriched product will remove dead skin cells and product build-up without any drying after-effects. Your locks will be left feeling cleansed, hydrated and glossy, without a flake in sight.
Buy now £13.50, lookfantastic
Head & Shoulders Men Total Care Anti Dandruff 2in1 Shampoo
One of the first brands that springs to mind when you think of anti-dandruff shampoo is Head & Shoulders - and the household name label offers a version of its globally tried-and-tested recipe that’s specifically designed for men. It’s pH balanced, includes cleansing sea minerals and antioxidants and will leave your hair smelling of the classic clean Head & Shoulders fragrance we all know and love.
Buy now £4.00, Boots
Chāmpo Kapha Balancing Shampoo
If you’ve not yet heard of British haircare brand ChÄmpo, you’re in for a treat. The luxury formulas, which can be found on the shelves at both Selfridges and Harrods, are packed with active botanicals that are specifically chosen to solve common hair concerns.
For dandruff, it’s the Balancing Shampoo that should be going straight into your basket. A 98 per cent natural formulation, the turmeric root extract will tone the scalp while the mild coconut oil will cleanse and purify without stripping the hair - and it smells divine.
If this doesn’t sound quite right for you, you can take the brand’s handy quiz to find out which of the products is best for your locks.
Buy now £18.50, Selfridges
