Yes, you can! However, we would recommend using these two products on separate occassions to avoid over exfoliation of the scalp. Salicylic acid is one ingredient found in over-the-counter (OTC) dandruff shampoos. It can help get rid of flakes while also moisturizing a dry scalp. You can use the shampoo for seasonal dandruff, or on a regular basis to help maintain your scalp’s moisture levels. Seborrheic dermatitis If you’re using a shampoo with salicylic acid as an active ingredient, follow the directions on the product label for applying it directly onto your scalp with a cotton swab or pad. 2. Use the right concentration Salicylic acid shampoo is commonly used to manage dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis, and scalp psoriasis. Dandruff

We thought you might. We spoke to Dr Alia, P&G's Consultant Dermatologist, who answered the queries on everyone’s lips. Don’t use it if you have a scalp condition like seborrheic dermatitis or dandruff that causes redness and flaking of the skin in addition to itching and burning. Salicylic acid is a common ingredient in shampoos designed to treat dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis (a chronic form of eczema). If you don’t experience irritation, there should be no problem leaving the salicylic acid on for about five minutes. Do not use this medicine on warts with hair growing from them or on warts on the face, in or on the genital (sex) organs, or inside the nose or mouth. Also do not use on moles or birthmarks. To do so may cause severe irritation.

How Long Can You Leave Salicylic Acid on Your Scalp?

Leyden, JJ. (1987). Effects of sulfur and salicylic acid in a shampoo base in the treatment of dandruff: a double-blind study using corneocyte counts and clinical grading. Cutis. 1987 Jun;39(6):557-61. PMID: 3301220. Dermatologists commonly prescribe salicylic acid shampoo to treat seborrheic dermatitis. Studies have shown that salicylic acid effectively reduces seborrheic dermatitis symptoms, including itchiness and redness of the skin. It inhibits fungus growth while breaking down dead skin cells and promoting hydration ( Squire, 2002). Scalp psoriasis If you live in an area with hard water, consider a shower filter. You could also look for ingredients to remove build-up and scale on the scalp, as well as nourishing the hair (which can become dry and brittle). Deep cleanses can be useful for hair affected by hard water.”

Vasconcelos, R.M. (2012). Synthesis, acute toxicity and anti-inflammatory effect of bornyl salicylate, a salicylic acid derivative. Immunopharmacol Immunotoxicol. doi: 10.3109/08923973.2012.694891. High WA, et al., eds. Special considerations in skin of color. In: Dermatology Secrets. 6th ed. Elsevier; 2021. https://www.clinicalkey.com. Accessed May 5, 2021. Elgash M, et al. Seborrheic dermatitis in skin of color: Clinical considerations. Journal of Drugs in Dermatology. 2019; doi:10.12788/jfp.0315. If regular shampoo doesn't help with dandruff, try nonprescription dandruff shampoos. They are classified according to the active ingredient they contain: There are no adequate studies in women for determining infant risk when using this medication during breastfeeding. Weigh the potential benefits against the potential risks before taking this medication while breastfeeding. Drug InteractionsKelly AP, et al., eds. Seborrheic dermatitis. In: Taylor and Kelly's Dermatology for Skin of Color. 2nd ed. McGraw Hill; 2016. https://accessmedicine.mhmedical.com. Accessed March 16, 2022. Learn to manage stress. Stress affects your overall health, making you susceptible to a number of conditions and diseases. It can even help trigger dandruff or worsen existing symptoms. Narshana, M. & Ravikumar, P. (2017). An overview of dandruff and novel formulations as a treatment strategy, International Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research, 9(2), Repeat every 48 hours as needed for up to 14 days, or as directed by your doctor, until the corn or callus is removed. Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or breast-feeding. Salicylic acid can be absorbed through the mother's skin. The risks and benefits will need to be discussed with your doctor before using any preparations containing salicylic acid.

We know that most scalps are prone to oiliness (that’s because our hair follicles produce a natural oil called sebum). But when oil builds up and mixes with daily sweat, grime and product (dry shampoo, we’re looking at you!), it becomes harder and harder for your hair to thrive and grow. Bolognia JL, et al., eds. Other eczematous eruptions. In: Dermatology. 4th ed. Elsevier; 2018. https://www.clinicalkey.com. Accessed March 16, 2022. Anyone struggling with flakiness, itchiness, and excessively oily roots can benefit from a weekly salicylic acid scalp treatment. The exfoliant is formulated to be applied to the scalp before you shower, left in to break down product, sebum and environmental buildup, before shampooing it all out, Reslan explains. My Scalp Issue Squire, R. & Goode, K. (2002). A randomised, single-blind, single-centre clinical trial to evaluate comparative clinical efficacy of shampoos containing ciclopirox olamine (1.5%) and salicylic acid (3%), or ketoconazole (2%, Nizoral) for the treatment of dandruff/seborrhoeic dermatitis. Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 13 When using any exfoliating actives we would recommend seeking advice from your doctor prior to using if pregnant or breastfeeding.

Seborrheic dermatitis

Stress can trigger receptors in your skin, causing an itching sensation, but with no underlying scalp condition as the cause,” explains Anabel Kingsley, trichologist at Philip Kingsley in London. “It can also disrupt your scalp’s barrier function, leaving it more vulnerable to other problems – like dandruff – which are often itchy too.” Hair worn in tight braids, ponytails or weaves, is also more susceptible to the dreaded itch. The presence of other medical problems may affect the use of this medicine. Make sure you tell your doctor if you have any other medical problems, especially: Kelly AP, et al. Pediatrics. In: Taylor and Kelly's Dermatology for Skin of Color. 2nd ed. McGraw-Hill Education; 2016. https://accessmedicine.mhmedical.com. Accessed May 27, 2021.