TikTok Trend Claims Dandruff Shampoo Clears Acne — Here’s the Verdict

In recent months, a TikTok trend has emerged claiming that using dandruff shampoo can clear up acne. According to some TikTok users, using dandruff shampoo as a face wash can help to reduce acne breakouts, and even improve the appearance of acne scars. But is there any truth to this growing TikTok trend that seems a little too good (and odd) to be true? 

In this blog post, we’ll explore the science behind dandruff shampoo and acne, and whether or not this trend is worth trying out for yourself. By the end of this post, you’ll know whether it’s time to head out to the store for some Head and Shoulders!

What Is Dandruff Shampoo?

Dandruff shampoo is a specialized shampoo that is designed to treat dandruff, a common condition that causes flakes of dead skin to shed from the scalp. Dandruff can be caused by various factors, including dry skin, oily skin and fungal infections. The speciality shampoos for dandruff typically contain active ingredients like zinc pyrithione, selenium sulfide or ketoconazole, which help to control the overgrowth of yeast or fungus on the scalp.

How Does Dandruff Shampoo Work for Acne?

The theory behind using dandruff shampoo for acne is that the active ingredients in the shampoo, such as zinc pyrithione, can help to reduce inflammation and kill bacteria on the skin’s surface. Acne is caused by a combination of factors, including clogged pores, excess oil production, and bacteria on the skin’s surface. By using dandruff shampoo as a face wash, the active ingredients in the shampoo may help to reduce inflammation and kill bacteria on the skin’s surface, which could potentially improve acne symptoms.

The Verdict

While the TikTok trend of using dandruff shampoo for acne may sound promising, it’s not recommended. In fact, using dandruff shampoo as a face wash could potentially do more harm than good, as the active ingredients in the shampoo are designed to treat the scalp, not the face. Using dandruff shampoo on the face could lead to dryness, irritation and even more breakouts. The only real way dandruff shampoo could help is if you were dealing with fungal acne, which is actually less common than bacterial acne. 

If you’re looking for a more effective way to treat acne, several proven treatments are available. Over-the-counter acne treatments containing benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid can help to reduce inflammation and unclog pores. Prescription acne treatments like retinoids or antibiotics can also be effective for treating moderate to severe acne.

In addition to using acne treatments, it’s also important to maintain a consistent skincare routine to keep the skin clean and hydrated. This includes washing the face twice daily with a gentle cleanser, moisturizing the skin and using sunscreen to protect the skin from sun damage.

Conclusion

While the TikTok trend of using dandruff shampoo for acne may seem like a quick fix, it’s not really a good idea. Using dandruff shampoo as a face wash could potentially lead to dryness, irritation and more breakouts, making it an unreliable and potentially harmful treatment option. If you’re struggling with acne, it’s important to consult with a dermatologist to determine the best treatment plan for your individual needs. Over-the-counter and prescription acne treatments are proven to be effective in reducing acne symptoms, and a consistent skincare routine can help to keep the skin clean and healthy.