One of the first steps is to soften and remove scales. This makes it easier for medications to do their job.
Apply over-the-counter products to your scalp to help soften scales and make them easier to peel off. Look for products with the active ingredients salicylic acid, lactic acid, urea, zinc pyrithione, or selenium sulfide.
Gently loosen the scales with a brush or fine-toothed comb.
Shampoo your scalp to remove the scales, using a salicylic acid shampoo or soap.
Apply thick moisturizers like petroleum jelly to your scalp while it's still damp.