Common dandruff remedies that make everything worse!

Coconut Oil

The root cause of dandruff is often an overgrowth of Malassezia, a fungus that feeds on the natural oils (sebum) on your scalp. The problem is that it can also use many other oils as a food source.

That means the coconut oil you're applying to your scalp may actually be feeding the fungus that's irritating your skin and causing flakes.

If you need to moisturize your hair with an oil, consider MCT oil or Abyssinian oil instead. Their chemical structures are different from many common plant oils and are generally thought to be less likely to feed Malassezia.

Shampoos with Coal Tar

Many over-the-counter anti-dandruff shampoos use coal tar as an active ingredient. Coal tar works by slowing down skin cell turnover, which can reduce flaking.

However, it also has potential side effects. One of the most common is increased sensitivity to sunlight. If you're using a coal tar shampoo regularly, even moderate sun exposure may increase your risk of skin irritation.

Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV)

You've probably heard that the acidity of apple cider vinegar can kill the fungus that causes dandruff. While this is a popular claim, the evidence is still inconclusive.

Some research has found that apple cider vinegar can irritate the skin, and because dandruff is often associated with an already irritated scalp, it may make symptoms worse rather than better.

Baking Soda

Another common recommendation is to scrub your scalp with baking soda to exfoliate flakes.

The problem is that baking soda is highly alkaline, meaning it can disrupt your scalp's natural pH. This can weaken your skin barrier, lead to irritation, and potentially make dandruff symptoms worse.

A Better Approach

Dandruff is a stubborn condition, and what works for one person doesn't always work for another. Hair type, scalp health, and skin sensitivity all play a role.

That's why we created Structure of Skin. It's a gentle anti-dandruff shampoo formulated to work across a wide range of hair types and textures. Instead of relying on harsh ingredients, it's designed to combine effective dandruff-fighting ingredients with salon-quality hydration and soothing, anti-inflammatory ingredients to help reduce flakes while supporting a healthier scalp.