Does anti dandruff shampoo damage hair?

If you have been plagued by dandruff, then you certainly must have tried an anti-dandruff shampoo. Predominantly, these shampoos are equipped with Selenium Sulphide that acts as an anti-fungal agent to address the itching and irritation on the scalp. While dandruff can be an extremely frustrating condition, the cause is attributed to fungal organisms, or to the over-exposure of scalp irritants. The condition is also associated with some notable hair loss.

Does anti dandruff shampoo damage hair?

Seborrhoeic Dermatitis

A skin affected by seborrhoeic dermatitis is itchy, irritated and even starts scaling. Most of the time, the affected skin seems extremely oily and individuals often experience marked inflammation. Small light coloured flakes appear due to the excessive shedding of dead skin cells, which are otherwise known as dandruff. Additionally, the production of yeast, Malassezia, is augmented due to the excess oil, and actually worsens the problem.

The main compound in most anti-dandruff shampoos is Selenium Sulphide. The element is known to be extremely effective against Malassezia where the death of the skin cells slows down. The accumulation of scaly particles, flaking, and itching is minimised as well. Usually, Selenium Sulphide is concentrated with 1% strength in over-the-counter shampoos and may be about 2.5% in strength in prescriptive medicated shampoos. Either way, this may or may not be the ideal answer to dandruff simply because the condition is really difficult to treat.

Side effects of selenium sulphide

Immaterial of whether the shampoo works or not, generally, at low concentration levels, Selenium Sulphide is not considered harmful. But if you think the product is causing you evident discomfort such as burning, stinging or any such side effects, then you must consult your doctor immediately. There are reports of the chemical causing excessive dryness or oiliness of the scalp and hair. In some cases, discolouration of hair has been noted as well, particularly in those who possess blond or dyed hair. You may even notice an increase in hair loss levels.

Using anti-dandruff shampoo

While some shedding of hair is normal, on a daily basis, the presence of Seborrhoeic dermatitis or dandruff, by itself leads to a lot of hair loss. Selenium Sulphide in your anti-dandruff shampoo may aggravate the situation leading you to lose an unusual amount of hair. To avoid these effects, first, read the instructions on the shampoo pack carefully. Do exactly as directed on the label. Do not let the shampoo stay on your scalp longer than the duration prescribed on the container. Last but not least, rinse thoroughly to remove all of the shampoo suspension without any trace or residue. You may want to check if your anti-dandruff shampoo contains sulphur, salicylic acid, and tar or even zinc pyrithione. These may also have some significant side-effects.

Does anti dandruff shampoo damage hair?

How many times have you realised in the middle of the day that your colleagues are giving you weird looks because of the white flakes which are quite visible on your shoulders? If dandruff is the reason for all the attention you are getting, then it is high time you did something about it. Dandruff is not a serious skin disease that should scare you.

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You can get rid of it easily using a good anti-dandruff shampoo. Here are a few facts about anti-dandruff shampoos, which will clear all your doubts about their side effects and put you at ease about using these shampoos regularly.

#1. You can use an anti-dandruff shampoo daily

Does anti dandruff shampoo damage hair?

There are many reports claiming that using anti-dandruff shampoo on a daily basis can aggravate the problem. But, skin specialists recommend that you can use an anti-dandruff shampoo for 15 days continuously before giving yourself a break. However, to avoid making your scalp all dry, try not to use it more than three times a week. Look for shampoos that contain zinc pyrithione. You can also try herbal anti-dandruff shampoos. These are quite effective for getting rid of dandruff quickly.

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#2. Your hair does not become dependent on the shampoo

Does anti dandruff shampoo damage hair?

A lot of people have this misconception that once you start using an anti-dandruff shampoo, your scalp becomes dependent on it to stay clean. This is completely untrue. In fact, you can stop using the shampoo whenever you wish to.

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#3. Good anti-dandruff shampoos are a combination of nature and science

Does anti dandruff shampoo damage hair?

Scientists and hair care experts have realised that dandruff is caused by yeast-like fungi, and only chemicals cannot successfully get rid of it. Hence, good anti-dandruff shampoos combine chemicals with essential oils like tea tree, rosemary, etc., to increase effectiveness.

#4. Conditioning aces the effect

Does anti dandruff shampoo damage hair?

Once the anti-dandruff shampoo has performed its function, you should apply an anti-dandruff conditioner. This will make your hair smooth. But, remember to use the conditioner of the same brand as your shampoo.

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#5. Anti-dandruff shampoos might not be the ultimate solution

Does anti dandruff shampoo damage hair?

Remember, your anti-dandruff shampoo might not be the ultimate solution to your dandruff problems. If after using an anti-dandruff shampoo for a considerable amount of time, the problem still persists, then you must pay the dermatologist a visit. There are some problems that even the best of anti-dandruff shampoos cannot cure, and you do need professional assistance for the issue.

We hope by now you are clear about the facts and fictions of anti-dandruff shampoos. Keep your hair healthy and shiny forever with right care!

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Does anti dandruff shampoo damage hair?

Does anti dandruff shampoo damage hair?

Is anti dandruff shampoo damaging?

This can lead to increased dryness, irritation, and itchy scalp. It may also cause more flaking of dead skin cells, the opposite of what you are looking for in a shampoo meant to hydrate your scalp. Some sulfate cleansers can also damage and clog hair follicles.

Does dandruff shampoo cause hair loss?

Dandruff refers to the dry, itchy flakes of skin that develop on the scalp. It is a symptom, not a specific diagnosis. Many factors can cause dandruff, such as dry skin, diet, stress, and some shampoos and hair products. Dandruff itself does not cause hair loss.

Is it OK to use anti dandruff shampoo everyday?

You can use it as many times as you like since there is no limit to the frequency with which you can apply the shampoo: it has a balanced and soft pH for the hair, so you can use it every day.

Does anti dandruff shampoo cause dry hair?

Problems with anti-dandruff shampoos While it may do a great job at curbing dandruff, mint can also remove the natural oils from your hair leaving it dry and rough. Coal tar and sulfur are also common ingredients that are added to anti-dandruff shampoos.