Priya Sharma Priya Sharma Asked 4 months ago

How to use glycolic acid for dandruff?

My friend told me glycolic acid can help with my stubborn dandruff, but I'm not sure how to actually use it on my scalp. Is it like a normal shampoo or something else? I've tried so many things and nothing seems to work properly.

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10 answers

Kabir Lamba Kabir Lamba Joined Feb 2026 4 months ago
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I can only speak from my personal routine with a dry scalp. I used a 5% glycolic acid toner on my scalp once a week for ten minutes before washing my hair, and it helped clear up the flaky buildup. I don't know if it's safe for everyone, but it worked for me.

Rohan Bakshi Rohan Bakshi Joined Apr 2026 4 months ago

Glycolic acid can help exfoliate the scalp, especially if you get a lot of sweat and oil buildup from daily workouts. Just apply a mild solution for 10 minutes before your post-workout shower. Make sure your diet is also clean, as excess sugar can sometimes worsen scalp irritation.

Anjali Deshmukh Anjali Deshmukh Joined Mar 2026 4 months ago

I tried using glycolic acid for my flaky scalp, and it definitely helped reduce the build-up. But if you have severe itching or redness, make sure to ask your dermatologist first before applying any active acids to your skin. A healthy lifestyle also helps keep skin issues in check.

Sunita Rao Sunita Rao Joined Jun 2026 4 months ago

I have seen this glycolic acid trend a lot lately. If you want to try it, apply a very small amount on a small patch of your scalp first to check for any burning or redness. If that goes well, you can use it once a week, but never leave it overnight.

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Pooja Trivedi Pooja Trivedi Joined Apr 2026 4 months ago

I know how stressful and embarrassing it is to deal with constant dandruff and an itchy scalp, it really affects your confidence. Please don't panic or rush into putting strong acids on your head. Start with a very mild product, or better, visit a doctor to ease your worries.

Kriti Sharma Kriti Sharma Joined May 2026 4 months ago

Hey there! Glycolic acid works like a charm for exfoliating scalp buildup. Just dab a little bit of a gentle 7% toner using a cotton pad, leave it for 10 minutes, and rinse. Don't use it more than once a week though, otherwise it might dry out your hair.

Riya Sen Riya Sen Joined Mar 2026 4 months ago

I totally relate to the struggle of dealing with winter dandruff flaking on black sweaters! I tried glycolic acid, and while it does clear the flakes temporarily, it can really sting if you have any scratches on your scalp. Be very gentle and don't leave it on for too long.

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Nisha Patel Nisha Patel Joined Jun 2026 4 months ago

I am a bit scared of using acids on my hair because my scalp is already very sensitive. Does glycolic acid cause hair fall or burn the skin? If anyone with sensitive skin has used it safely, please tell me how you did it.

Siddharth Nair Siddharth Nair Joined Apr 2026 4 months ago

I agree with using it sparingly. Just apply a few drops on a dry scalp for 5 to 10 minutes max, then wash it off with a gentle shampoo.

Sameer Malhotra Sameer Malhotra Joined Jul 2026 4 months ago

If you actually have seborrheic dermatitis, glycolic acid might make the inflammation worse. Don't experiment with skincare acids blindly based on social media trends. Go see a qualified dermatologist and get a proper ketoconazole shampoo prescribed.

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