Anti-Dandruff Shampoo

Do you suffer from dandruff? You’re not alone. Up to half of the population will experience a problem with dandruff during their lifetime. The awkward scratching, the white or yellowish particles in your hair or on your clothes are definitely not pleasant. Dandruff has many causes, but you can resolve them all once and for all. Come and read all about this hair problem and how to choose an effective shampoo for dandruff and itchy skin.

What is dandruff?

Dandruff is the flaking of skin scales off the scalp. It is caused by the death of skin cells on the scalp, which can happen for several reasons:

• an irritated, oily scalp
• a dry scalp
• an infection from a yeast fungus (Malassezia) that feeds on the sebum on the scalp of most adults
• poorly selected hair care products
• certain dermatological diseases, such as psoriasis or eczema

What are the various types of dandruff and what shampoo to use on them?

There are two main types of dandruff, which differ mainly in their appearance and causes:

• Dry dandruff, which is tiny white flakes of skin that peel off the scalp. This is usually caused by excessive drying of the scalp, which can be caused by lack of hydration, excessive use of hair dryers or aggressive shampoos. If you are troubled with this problem, look for a shampoo for dry dandruff.
• Oily dandruff is more of a yellow to brownish colour and the flakes tend to be larger and oilier. It is often associated with excessive sebum production and the growth of yeast on the scalp. This form of dandruff can be linked to seborrhoeic dermatitis. If you are troubled with this problem, look for a shampoo for oily dandruff.

It is important to recognise the type of dandruff that is affecting you, as this can influence the process of dealing with the problem and selecting the appropriate shampoo. Most dandruff shampoos are formulated to target a specific type of dandruff and help relieve those specific symptoms.

Dandruff symptoms

Symptoms primarily include flakes on the scalp, hair, eyebrows, beard or moustache and an itchy scalp. The best way to deal with both the symptoms and the cause is to use an anti-itch scalp and dandruff shampoo. It will help eliminate both dandruff and any skin irritation.

How does dandruff shampoo work?

Specifically, dandruff shampoos work by killing the fungus that causes dandruff and preventing it from returning, while taking care of the skin exactly as needed. Dandruff shampoos in turn also wash sebum from the hair and scalp, thanks to their surfactant content (molecules that are both hydrophobic and hydrophilic, meaning they can interact with both oil and water). The hydrophobic part interacts with sebum and the hydrophilic part with water, allowing you to wash the sebum out of your hair.

What active ingredients do dandruff shampoos typically contain?

• ketoconazole - slows the growth of the Malassezia fungus, which is known to cause dandruff; you're more likely to find it in medicines prescribed by your doctor
• selenium sulphide - this ingredient is used to treat more severe conditions and also targets Malassezia; it slows down sebum production and dries out the scalp; it is typically included in shampoo for those with oily hair and dandruff
• zinc pyrithione - it works by preventing the growth of fungi and also keeps the scalp clean and oil-free
• salicylic acid - helps soften and remove dead skin cells from the scalp
• coal tar - reduces the amount of skin cells that are renewed, which in turn reduces the number of flakes that peel off the surface of your skin

How to choose an effective shampoo for dandruff?

Choosing the right dandruff shampoo is key to successful dandruff treatment and prevention. Here are some steps to help you choose:

1. Identify the type of dandruff: Distinguish whether you have dry or oily dandruff. Some shampoos are designed specifically for just one type of dandruff.
2. Look for shampoos with the following active ingredients: Zinc pyrithione, selenium disulphide, ketoconazole or salicylic acid are active ingredients that counteract the causes of dandruff.
3. Avoid harsh ingredients: Avoid shampoos that contain strong chemicals, dyes or harsh fragrances as they can irritate the scalp and aggravate dandruff.
4. Take sensitive skin into account: If you have a sensitive scalp, look for shampoos that are labelled as suitable for sensitive skin and have milder, hypoallergenic ingredients.
5. Be patient: Bear in mind that the effects of dandruff shampoos will only become apparent after some time.  Use the shampoo regularly and persevere until you see results.

The best dandruff shampoo will be one that addresses the type of dandruff you have and at the same time is suitable for your skin type.

Depending on the type of dandruff and other problems you are dealing with, choose:

• a shampoo against dry dandruff
• a shampoo against oily dandruff (shampoo for oily hair and dandruff)
• a shampoo against dandruff and hair loss

Choose a shampoo according to its intended use:

• dandruff shampoo for men
• dandruff shampoo for women
• dandruff shampoo for children

Do you prefer natural cosmetics? Try natural dandruff shampoos, such as:

• a hemp shampoo for dandruff
• a nettle shampoo for dandruff
• a ginger shampoo for dandruff

 In our range you will also find special products such as:

• a solid dandruff shampoo, which is suitable when travelling
• a 2-in-1 dandruff shampoo and conditioner that combines hair washing and conditioning all in one

Tip: If you have a significant dandruff problem and regular shampoos don't help, consult a dermatologist. They will recommend special shampoos or treatments suitable for your particular condition.

How to use dandruff shampoos?

• When using dandruff shampoo, make sure to massage the shampoo thoroughly into the entire scalp. Dandruff shampoo usually needs to be allowed to work for a few minutes (approximately 2-3 minutes) before the active ingredient is released and comes into contact with the skin. Follow the manufacturer's recommended application times.
• Rinse the hair thoroughly after application. After shampooing with a dandruff shampoo, you can use an anti-dandruff hair mask or conditioner - and yes, there are also conditioners for hair with dandruff.
• After rinsing, run a towel through the entire length of your hair and let it dry naturally.
• Initially, use only dandruff shampoo until the problem is under control, after which you can alternate it with regular shampoo.

Tip: For better removal of dead skin particles, try a scalp scrub.

Choose the best dandruff shampoo on notino.co.uk and have beautiful hair and a healthy scalp. In our wide range you will find quality shampoos from great brands such as Bioderma, Eucerin, La Roche-Posay, Neutrogena, Vichy and many more.