Hair Pros Share How Salicylic Acid Can Treat Scalp Conditions From Dandruff to Psoriasis and More (2024)

Having a dry, flaky scalp is one of the most frustrating scalp concerns to deal with. Whether from suffering from psoriasis on the scalp or seborrheic dermatitis, or just dealing with dry patches due to the weather changing, it’s unpleasant, to say the least. However, there thankfully are treatments available to help. One that’s been making buzz lately is salicylic acid for the scalp. You may have heard of the widely-used ingredient being used in skin care, but it can actually do wonders for treating a variety of scalp concerns, too — and it’s super easy to use. Keep reading for a breakdown on salicylic acid for the scalp and hair, how it works and the best salicylic acid shampoos on the market, all according to a dermatologist and a trichologist.

What is salicylic acid?

First and foremost, let’s go over exactly what this superstar ingredient, salicylic acid, is. “Salicylic acid is a beta hydroxy acid (BHA) commonly used in dermatology for its ability to exfoliate the skin, unclog pores and treat a variety of skin conditions,” explains board-certified dermatologist based in New York City, Pooja Rambhia, MD. “I often recommend salicylic acid to patients with acne-prone skin because it penetrates deeply into the pores, helping to dissolve excess oil and dead skin cells that contribute to blackheads, whiteheads and breakouts.”

But salicylic acid goes beyond just treating acne. It’s “considered a gentle exfoliator and an ideal treatment for dandruff support,” says trichologist Kerry E. Yates. “The ‘acid’ is perfect for sloughing away dead skin cells on the scalp and washing away excess sebum or product build-up. It’s perfect for dandruff sufferers and anyone with an oily scalp.”

What does salicylic acid do for hair and scalp?

Aside from treating dandruff, salicylic acid can also help treat scalp psoriasis and seborrheic dermatitis. Its exfoliating properties help to unclog pores that can lead to a flaky scalp, and it can do wonders when it comes to controlling oil production.

“I often recommend it (salicylic acid) for patients dealing with flaky, itchy scalps because of its keratolytic properties, meaning it helps to shed the outer layer of dead skin cells. By breaking down these cells and preventing the buildup of plaques or scales, salicylic acid helps to keep the scalp clean and reduces itchiness and inflammation,” says Dr. Rambhia. “It also allows other medicated treatments to penetrate more effectively, enhancing their therapeutic effects.”

As the weather gets colder and drier, you may notice your scalp also getting drier and creating more itchy patches. By adding salicylic acid into your hair care routine a couple of times a week, you can help prevent and treat these unwanted scalp concerns.

Who should and shouldn’t use salicylic acid on the scalp?

Yates says all hair types can use salicylic acid on the scalp, but not everyone needs it. “It should be limited to anyone with dandruff, and depending on the severity of the challenge, it should not be used daily or even every time you shampoo your hair,” she advises. “In addition, overuse can cause the scalp to potentially overproduce oil and/or strip the scalp and hair strands of healthy lubrication, impacting overall hair health. Long story short, do not overdo it; when you see improvement, only use it as needed.

Dr. Rambhia agrees, and also adds that those with very dry or brittle hair, or people who have chemically-treated hair (i.e. those who dye, perm or “relax” their hair using chemical treatments), should be more wary using salicylic acid on the scalp.

“Salicylic acid works by exfoliating the scalp and reducing oil, but it can also strip the scalp and hair of natural moisture. For those with already dry or damaged hair, this may exacerbate dehydration, breakage and a rougher texture,” Dr. Rambhia says.

Dr. Rambhia continues, “Additionally, people with sensitive skin or scalp conditions that are easily irritated might find salicylic acid too harsh. In these cases, it’s better to use gentler alternatives or combine salicylic acid with hydrating treatments to maintain moisture.”

How to use salicylic acid for scalp and hair

Now that you know exactly what salicylic acid can do for your scalp health, it’s time to learn how to use it. Thankfully, it’s easy-peasy, and is best when used in your shampoo.

Salicylic acid shampoo is the most common and recommended way to incorporate salicylic acid into your hair care routine. Unlike with skin, where you can apply salicylic acid spot treatments directly onto blemishes, it’s not recommended to apply it directly on the scalp.

“I do not suggest using salicylic acid directly on the scalp,” Yates affirms. “It should be used within a shampoo that is gently massaged into the scalp to help with the sloughing/exfoliation process.”To apply, simply wet your hair and lather the shampoo onto your scalp, massaging in for at least one minute, says Yates. Rinse, then apply conditioner to your mid-lengths to ends.

How often you should use salicylic acid on the scalp

Like most hair and scalp treatments, consistency is key. For example, if you’re using a hair growth serum, you’re probably not going to see results overnight. Rather, you’ll see improvements and results gradually over time if you make it a habit to use in your routine.

“Consistent use of salicylic acid shampoo is crucial for managing scalp conditions. For scalp psoriasis or seborrheic dermatitis, a dermatologist typically recommends using a salicylic acid shampoo 2 to 3 times per week, depending on the severity of the condition,” says Dr. Rambhia. “Initially, more frequent use may be advised to help manage flare-ups and reduce scaling and irritation. In some cases, daily use may be recommended for a short period to gain control of the symptoms. Once the condition improves, reducing the frequency to once or twice a week is often sufficient for maintenance. It’s important to follow up with a dermatologist to adjust the treatment plan as needed based on your progress.”

The 4 best salicylic acid shampoos

Keep reading for expert-recommended salicylic acid shampoos to help with a dry, itchy scalp and remove product build up as you wash your hair.

Neutrogena T/Sal Therapeutic Shampoo

Both Yates and Dr. Rambhia recommended this pick, Neutrogena T/Sal Therapeutic Shampoo. It contains 3% salicylic acid and can treat a variety of scalp concerns, including dandruff and psoriasis, says Dr. Rambhia. She says, “I like it because it effectively exfoliates and removes scales without causing excessive dryness, making it a good option for people with sensitive scalps.”

Yates is a fan as well, because aside from all its scalp-loving properties, it’s affordable and accessible.

Nizoral Scalp Psoriasis Shampoo & Conditioner

Nizoral Scalp Psoriasis Shampoo & Conditioner is Dr. Rambhia’s pick, which has 3% salicylic acid. “I like this product because it combines the exfoliating power of salicylic acid with the convenience of a conditioner, helping to soften the hair while treating scalp psoriasis,” she says. “The 2-in-1 formula makes it a practical solution for those seeking effective scalp treatment without needing an additional conditioner – though those with dryer hair types may still benefit from an additional conditioner.”

Oribe Serene Scalp Anti-Dandruff Shampoo

This salicylic acid shampoo, Oribe Serene Scalp Anti-Dandruff Shampoo, is a pricey option, but it can do wonders for treating dandruff. But not only is it an amazing choice for treating scalp conditions, made with 2% salicylic acid, it also has a luxurious, signature scent that will make hair smell divine. Yates says it’s “formulated with an active level of Salicylic acid and, of course, the signature brand scent, which is my favorite.”

Briogeo Scalp Revival MegaStrength+ Dandruff Relief Shampoo

If you suffer from dandruff and an oily scalp, Briogeo Scalp Revival MegaStrength+ Dandruff Relief Shampoo is for you, says Yates. “(It’s) formulated with a blend of charcoal and an active level of salicylic acid, and it provides perfect support for dandruff sufferers and oily hair support.”