Why is everyone using Salicylic Acid and Glycolic Acid for Dandruff?

Let’s first break down the role of these two popular actives in Skin care. Salicylic acid has been popular for it’s ability to treat acne, blackheads, whiteheads and pores. It basically exfoliates dead skin and break down clogs. Whereas, Glycolic acid is also used to treat acne, exfoliate skin and work as an anti-aging.

The main difference between both the actives is that Salicylic is BHA which is oil soluble ingredient, best for oily skin and goes deep into the skin. It is derived from “Willow Bark”.

Glycolic is AHA a water soluble ingredient, best for normal to dry skin and exfoliates surface of the skin. It is derived from “Sugar cane”.

Now, let’s understand why are these products great for your scalp?

There are mainly two types of dandruffs, Oily & Dry. Dandruff is a condition where dead skin cells from the scalp shed more rapidly than usual. It could be in the form of oily or dry flaky substance.

Glycolic and salicylic acids treat dandruff by exfoliating the scalp, which helps to loosen and remove the dead skin cells that form flakes. Let’s understand these two ingredients in detail:

Salicylic Acid

1. Gently exfoliates and normalizes scalp shedding:
Salicylic acid is a powerful keratolytic ingredient that dissolves the bonds between dead skin cells, helping them shed more easily. This prevents the buildup that leads to visible flakes and dandruff.

2. Unclogs pores and hair follicles:
It clears away excess oil, dead skin, and product residue that often clog pores and follicles, keeping the scalp clean and balanced.

3. Soothes inflammation and prevents recurrence:
By deeply cleansing and reducing buildup, salicylic acid helps calm scalp irritation and lowers the chance of dandruff returning over time.

Glycolic Acid

1. Deeply exfoliates and removes buildup:
As the smallest alpha hydroxy acid (AHA), glycolic acid penetrates the scalp efficiently to dissolve dead skin cells and eliminate oil or residue that can cause flaking.

2. Hydrates while exfoliating:
Unlike many exfoliants, glycolic acid also attracts moisture, helping to keep the scalp hydrated. It is ideal for those with dry, irritated, or peeling skin.

3. Balances scalp pH for a healthier environment:
It helps maintain the scalp’s natural pH, creating a balanced ecosystem that discourages the overgrowth of yeast and bacteria which are two common dandruff triggers.

These two amazing products are technically great Anti-dandruff products. Internet is going crazy, there are millions of videos on YouTube and Tiktok where people are sharing their hair care journey with these two amazing scalp exfoliators.