The Hairstylist's Guide to Dealing with Dander
Top Tips for Handling Dandruff

You found yourself dealing with dander, huh? Whether you’re struggling with a dandruff outbreak or you’ve got a client who’s dealing with an ongoing dandruff issue they can’t seem to shake, this blog is the perfect point of reference to kickstart a solution. 

In this post, we’re going to talk a little bit about something you already know–dander. Obviously, as a hairstylist, this isn’t your first dander rodeo–you’ve learned about it, probably have experienced it, and likely have helped clients before who have been dealt the dander card. 

But we’re going to take it a step further than discussing what might be causing it; we’re actually going to share some must-try tips and offer some insight into how you can possibly change the way your clients (or you!) deal with dander issues. 

So, if you’re ready to kick dander to the curb for real this time, start reading–this blog is full of worth-a-shot options that deliver real results!

Top Tips for Dealing with Dandruff: Anti-Dander Remedies You Should Know 

Try Out Products with Tea Tree Oil 

If your clients aren’t sure about going full-force into the medicated shampoo scene just yet, or they don’t have severe dander to worry about, tea tree oil could be the little trick that makes all the difference. 

Tea tree oil is often used to help with skin issues like dryness, acne, psoriasis, and more–when applied to the scalp, it can have similar benefits for those dealing with dandruff. 

If clients also have sensitive skin, it’s important to dilute tea tree oil with something soothing–like coconut oil or jojoba oil–before applying it directly to the scalp. For some, tea tree oil can cause more irritation, which can exacerbate the dandruff issue. 

Upgrade Their Brushing Techniques 

OK, OK, we know, this one sounds so simple, but if your clients deal with dandruff, one of the best ways to help deal is to evaluate how they’re brushing their hair.

No, changing up how they brush won’t solve the dander prob, but it will help them rid their scalp of excess oils that can cause buildup that turns into dandruff. 

Ask your clients to give you a rundown of how they brush. Offer up suggestions for techniques like firm, downward strokes from roots to tips–and suggest they do this often. This kind of firm brushing can help ensure the oil is gliding along the hair strand, not staying built up on the scalp to cause issues. 

Have a Go-To List of Shampoo Alternatives 

Look for, experiment with, and research shampoos with active ingredients that can help solve the dandruff issue. Identify every client’s unique struggles and goals before offering a blanket suggestion for general dandruff issues.

And above all, remember, every shampoo is different, just like every client is different. What works for one might not work for another.

It might take a little trial and error, and that’s an important sentiment to share with your clients. 

Consider researching shampoos with ingredients like 

• Pyrithione Zinc
• Salicylic acid 
• Sulfur + salicylic acid 
• Coal ta preparations 
• Ketoconazole
• Selenium sulfide

How to Talk to Clients About Dandruff Issues 

Remind Them They’re Not Alone 

Dandruff is an incredibly common circumstance, and it happens to a lot of people for a variety of reasons–no matter their age, gender, or hairstyle. Sometimes, dandruff can be caused by irritated or oily skin, fungus issues, sensitive skin (contact dermatitis), product issues, and beyond. 

There’s no one cause of dandruff, and having it doesn’t mean a client is doing something wrong. Dandruff can last for a week or for a year, but no matter how long it sticks around, your clients aren’t alone in their struggle. 

Evaluate the Root of the Problem to Find the Solution 

Don’t just offer your client a general slew of could-be solutions–get down to the root of everything and try to figure out the original problem before you try to solve it. 

As we mentioned above, every case of dandruff is different, and it can be caused by a multitude of things. The closer you get to understanding the root of the problem, the easier it will be to solve that problem and eliminate the dandruff issue.

Got a few anti-dander tricks up your sleeve? Let’s hear ‘em. The comment section below is the perfect place to drop your knowledge, share your insight, and show the beauty community you’ve got their back. 

We’re positive that readers out there will love what you’ve got to share.