Key takeaways

  • Salicylic acid shampoo can be effective for treating dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis by dissolving dead skin cells and increasing scalp moisture.
  • This shampoo is not proven to treat psoriasis or prevent hair loss, though it may reduce the urge to scratch the scalp, which can indirectly slow hair loss.
  • When using salicylic acid shampoo, thoroughly wet your hair, apply it to the scalp, massage it into a lather, let sit for up to 5 minutes, and rinse it out well. Follow it with a conditioner to replenish moisture.

You may know salicylic acid as an acne-fighting ingredient, but this medication can go beyond facial toners and astringents.

Salicylic acid works in shampoo by breaking down dead skin cells. This is scientifically proven to help treat conditions that affect the scalp, like seborrheic dermatitis and psoriasis.

Other uses for the shampoo lack substantial evidence.

If you’re curious about whether salicylic acid can help treat a dry, itchy, and scaly scalp, read on to learn more about the potential benefits and side effects. Speak with a dermatologist about any concerns you may have.

Salicylic acid works by dissolving dead skin cells. In certain skin and scalp conditions, dead skin cells can accumulate, creating thick patches of dry skin. A salicylic acid shampoo can help by breaking down these patches while increasing moisture to help stop them from forming.

This shampoo can help treat the following conditions:

Dandruff

Dandruff is a common scalp condition that causes itchy, flaky skin. The white flakes from dandruff can build up in your hair and on your shoulders.

Salicylic acid is one ingredient found in over-the-counter (OTC) dandruff shampoos.

It can help remove flakes while also moisturizing a dry scalp. You can use the shampoo for seasonal dandruff or on a regular basis to help maintain your scalp’s moisture levels.

Seborrheic dermatitis

Seborrheic dermatitis is closely related to dandruff and is also marked by a flaky, itchy scalp. This inflammatory skin condition is characterized by skin flakes that are more oily than dry.

You may be able to tell you have seborrheic dermatitis if you see oily skin patches on areas of the skin other than your scalp, including your ears and face.

Salicylic acid shampoo can help treat seborrheic dermatitis that occurs on the scalp. The shampoo may irritate other parts of the body.

Caution

Don’t use salicylic acid shampoo on babies and young children unless directed by your child’s pediatrician.

Salicylic acid shampoo has not been shown to be effective for the following conditions.

Psoriasis

Psoriasis is another type of inflammatory skin condition that can affect all areas of the body. Known for its thick, red-silver, dry skin patches, this skin condition is caused by increased skin cell turnover. When your skin produces new cells at a quicker rate than normal, dead skin cells won’t have a chance to break down, and build up on the surface of your skin.

Prescription shampoos are typically recommended for treating scalp psoriasis. Salicylic acid is just one method of breaking down excess skin cells for scalp relief.

Hair loss

Salicylic acid does notdirectly treat hair loss.

Instead, the medication may help decrease the urge to scratch and pick at an itchy scalp, which can decrease your risk for hair loss in the future.

Salicylic acid is generally considered safe for most users, but it can cause irritation in some individuals. Related side effects may include:

  • increased dry skin
  • burning sensation
  • redness
  • broken or peeling skin

Allergic reactions to salicylic acid are rare. However, you should seek immediate medical help if you experience any of the following symptoms after using this shampoo:

  • swelling that extends to the face
  • red rash that spreads
  • hives
  • breathing difficulties
  • dizziness

Consult your doctor before using this shampoo if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. They may also advise against using salicylic acid shampoo if you have liver or kidney disease.

Salicylic acid shampoo is most effective when used according to its label instructions, often once or twice a week.

Steps to using salicylic shampoo

Follow these steps for proper usage:

  1. Thoroughly wet your hair and scalp with lukewarm water.
  2. Apply a small amount of the shampoo directly to the scalp, adding more as needed.
  3. Work the shampoo into a lather by massaging your scalp. Don’t scrub or rub the shampoo through your hair ends.
  4. Let the shampoo sit for up to 5 minutes at a time.
  5. Rinse it out thoroughly.
  6. Follow up with a conditioner for the mid-to-end sections of your hair to replenish moisture.

A dermatologist may recommend using the shampoo daily until your condition improves. Even if your scalp clears up, you’ll likely need to use salicylic acid shampoo once or twice a week for maintenance.

Shampoo containing salicylic acid is widely available in drugstores in varying strengths. It’s best to start off with the lowest strength at first, and then build up to a stronger medication, if needed.

If your condition doesn’t respond to OTC versions, a dermatologist may recommend a prescription version.

Salicylic acid is one widely available treatment option for scalp conditions, including dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis of the scalp. There is no evidence to suggest that the shampoo is effective for treating psoriasis, hair loss, or providing other hair benefits. However, a healthier scalp can lead to improved overall hair health.

If you don’t notice any improvements in your scalp after using an OTC salicylic acid shampoo, see a dermatologist. They may prescribe another formula or recommend an alternative treatment.