Do you struggle with a dry scalp or dandruff? I know I do, and finding the right dandruff shampoo has been key. I’ve tried almost every option out there—both name-brand and generic—including Selsun Blue, Head & Shoulders, Nizoral, and even some with tea tree oil. But the best by far has been Neutrogena’s T-Sal shampoo. Unlike other brands that lose effectiveness after a few months, T-Sal consistently works for me. It’s a clear, minimal-scent formula that keeps my scalp healthy and comfortable.

I’ve been using T-Sal since May 2020 (there’s an empties post on my Instagram to prove it!). At first, it wasn’t quite strong enough for the issues I had, but since I started using it again a year ago, it’s been a game-changer. It keeps the itchiness at bay, which is all I can ask for right now. While I still have some flaking—probably because I don’t wash my hair as often as I should—the itching is what bothers me most, and T-Sal handles it well.

There’s a common belief that you shouldn’t wash your hair more than once a week, but honestly, that doesn’t work for me. My scalp issues aside, my hair gets greasy after just three days, and I hate that feeling. So, I wash my hair every two days or as needed if I have an important event or work. I know people who can go a month without washing, and more power to them, but that could never be me! The takeaway here is to wash your hair when it feels right for you. “Hair training” only works for certain hair types, so don’t be discouraged if it doesn’t work for yours.

Neutrogena also has a coal tar shampoo that’s stronger, though the scent is harsher. With T-Sal, I find it helps to pre-lather in my hands before applying it to my scalp—this technique seems to make it work even better.

In the end, finding the right dandruff shampoo is about understanding your own hair and scalp needs. While the right product may take some trial and error, once you find it, the relief is worth it. Whether it’s Neutrogena’s T-Sal or something else, don’t be afraid to experiment and break the “rules” if that’s what keeps your scalp comfortable and your hair feeling fresh. Remember, hair care is personal—listen to what your scalp tells you, and you’ll find what works best for you.