Nisha Patel Nisha Patel Asked 6 months ago

Is glycolic acid good for dandruff?

My scalp has been really itchy and flaky, and I suspect it's dandruff. I saw some shampoos with glycolic acid and wondered if it's good for treating dandruff. Has anyone tried it?

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6 answers

Rohan Malhotra Rohan Malhotra Joined May 2026 6 months ago
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Glycolic acid works as an exfoliant, so it's good for clearing up product buildup or dry flakes on the scalp. But if you have actual fungal dandruff, you need a ketoconazole shampoo, not skincare acids.

Nisha Shah Nisha Shah Joined Jan 2026 6 months ago

I love trying new beauty trends! I used glycolic acid on my scalp and it did clear up the flakes, but honestly, it stings a bit if you have any scratches. Make sure you don't keep it on for too long.

Amit Sen Amit Sen Joined Apr 2026 6 months ago

I barely have the energy to wash my hair, let alone do a multi-step chemical exfoliation for my scalp. A basic anti-dandruff shampoo in the shower is all I can manage, and it works fine.

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Siddharth Goel Siddharth Goel Joined Apr 2026 6 months ago

I tried using my sister's glycolic acid toner on my scalp for dandruff last winter. It cleared the dry flakes in two uses, but it can dry out your hair if you don't wash it out properly.

Aparna Pillai Aparna Pillai Joined Jan 2026 6 months ago

I know how embarrassing it feels when dandruff flakes fall on your dark clothes. Glycolic acid can help gently remove that buildup and make you feel much more confident, just use it carefully.

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Kriti Saxena Kriti Saxena Joined Jun 2026 4 months ago

I completely understand the anxiety of trying new chemicals on your scalp when it is already irritated. To feel safe, do a small patch test behind your ear first before applying it all over.

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