Is dandruff normal?

Yes, and it can affect almost anyone.

Is dandruff contagious?

No, dandruff is not contagious. It is caused by a fungus called Malassezia that is present on almost everyone’s scalp. It is not something that you can catch like a cold or the flu.

How do I know which shampoo is best for me?

The shampoo that is best for you should be based on the severity of your condition. Denorex Shampoos offer 3 of the 5 most effective ingredients used to help control dandruff and chronic scalp conditions. For mild to moderate dandruff, use Zincon with Zinc Pyrithione. It is the gentlest of the active ingredients and can be used daily to keep dandruff under control. For moderate to severe dandruff, use Denorex Extra Strength Shampoo with Salicylic Acid. It helps control scalp build up from dandruff and Seborrheic Dermatitis and helps to relieve scalp irritation and itching. For severe dandruff, use Denorex Maximum Strength Shampoo with Coal Tar. It helps treat thick, heavy build up that is a result of severe Seborrheic Dermatitis and Psoriasis. Denorex Maximum Strength combines Coal Tar with Menthol to help calm and soothe serious scalp problems.

How often should I use a medicated shampoo?

We recommend using a medicated dandruff shampoo 2 – 3 times a week and alternating with a milder shampoo like Zincon on the other days you shampoo during the week.

Who gets dandruff?

Almost anyone can have dandruff. It is caused by a fungus called Malassezia present on almost everyone’s scalp. There are, however, other factors that may make you more susceptible to developing dandruff. They include:

1. Age. Dandruff is most prevalent among people ages 15 – 50. 2. Being male. Men are more likely to have dandruff than women in part due to higher levels of the hormone testosterone. 3. Illness. People with nervous system diseases like Parkinson’s disease or compromised immune system illnesses like HIV have an increased risk for developing dandruff.

Is there a cure for dandruff?

There are no known permanent cures for dandruff, Seborrheic Dermatitis and scalp Psoriasis, but they can be treated with medicated anti-dandruff shampoos like Denorex and Zincon

Can exercise help to relieve my dandruff?

Regular exercise can help to reduce dandruff. Exercise spikes your heart rate, which improves circulation. Improved circulation means healthier hair and scalp, and less dandruff. Sweat, however, can make dandruff worse so be sure to shower and rinse your scalp after exercise.

How do I know if I have dandruff?

There are 4 common signs of dandruff. They include:

1. Visible flakes are the most obvious sign of dandruff. You will likely see them on your scalp, in your hair and on your shoulders or clothing. Dandruff flakes range from quite small and white to large and yellowish in the most severe cases. 2. A red, irritated and inflamed scalp is another tell-tale sign of dandruff. It is caused by a reaction to a combination of a fungus called Malassezia and an excess of oil on the scalp. Almost everyone has Malassezia but an extreme sensitivity can lead to a redness, inflammation and irritation. 3. A very itchy scalp can also be a symptom of dandruff. Try not to scratch. Scratching will make dandruff worse and further damage the scalp. 4. Dandruff also causes a dry, tight scalp. It disrupts the skin’s natural moisture barrier. It feels like dry skin, tight skin elsewhere on the body. If you’re suffering from all, or even just one of these symptoms, you probably have dandruff.

Are there natural treatments for dandruff?

Yes, Zinc, B Vitamins, and essential fatty acids are known to help reduce dandruff. Your scalp absorbs Vitamin E every time you go outside. Small doses of sunlight and the Vitamin E it carries nourishes your scalp, keeping it healthy and flake-free. For more information about natural treatments for dandruff, go to Natural and Home Remedies.

Can medicated shampoos be used continuously?

Yes, as long as you have symptoms. The body will not build-up a tolerance or immunity to the products with long-term use. If your symptoms, however, do not improve, consider consulting a physician. You may not have dandruff. It may be another skin condition.

What does “The Tingle Tells You It’s Working” mean?

Maximum Strength Denorex Shampoo with Coal Tar combined with menthol causes a tingling feeling. It is a cool, soothing sensation that lets you know the ingredients are working to reduce dandruff.

Can medicated shampoos be used on open sores?

Denorex and Zincon are not recommended for treatment of open sores. Consult a physician before using these dandruff products with active ingredients on open sores.

Is dandruff itchy?

Yes, dandruff can cause chronic, painful itching. It is one of the most obvious symptoms. It can be significant, distracting and life altering.

Can I color my hair if I have dandruff?

Coloring your hair is not recommended if you have dandruff. Hair color can cause scalp irritation which can aggravate dandruff or a scalp condition. Hair color products can also contribute to scalp build up. The active ingredients in most dandruff shampoos may also strip color from hair. Typically, color products are a good choice for people with moderate to severe dandruff.

Do medicated dandruff shampoos stain fabrics?

Denorex and Zincon products containing Salicylic Acid or Zinc Pyrithione should not stain clothing or other fabrics. Denorex products with Coal Tar, however, may stain clothing or fabrics.

When should I see a physician?

Most cases of dandruff do not require medical care. If your condition does not improve or worsens with regular use of a medicated dandruff shampoo, see a physician or dermatologist.

Denorex doesn’t lather as well as it used to. Has the Denorex formula changed?

Denorex was first introduced in the early 1970s. There have been very few changes to the formula in those 40+ years. We still use the same active ingredients and basic formulations. In 2018, we had a batch of Denorex Extra Strength that was slightly off. It has been corrected but if you think you might have one of these bottles, please contact Consumer Relations at consumerrelations@slginc.com.