Using dandruff shampoo as a face wash clears acne

Majority view

Dermatologists and skin-care experts report that using certain dandruff shampoos as a face or body wash can help clear *fungal acne* (Malassezia/Pityrosporum folliculitis) because these products contain antifungal ingredients like ketoconazole, zinc pyrithione, or selenium sulfide that target yeast overgrowth.[1][2][3][5][6][8] However, they emphasize that this approach does *not* clear typical acne vulgaris caused by bacteria, clogged pores, and excess sebum, so dandruff shampoo is not a universal acne cure and may only improve specific yeast-related breakouts.[3][4][7][8]

Credible dissent

There is broad agreement that dandruff shampoos with antifungal actives can be effective for fungal acne, but multiple dermatologists stress they will not help and may irritate skin affected by common bacterial acne (acne vulgaris), meaning the blanket claim that they "clear acne" of all types overstates their effectiveness.[3][4][7][8]