Dandruff can be frustrating and challenging to deal with. Although harmless, the tell-tale signs of dandruff – white or yellowish flakes, and an itchy, and irritated scalp can interfere with your lifestyle and lower self-esteem. Solution? Building an effective hair cleansing routine with the best dandruff removal shampoo. However, the task of finding the right shampoo and formula for dandruff control might feel overwhelming, especially if you are a beginner. But not anymore!
This guide, crafted with the hair care experts at L’Oréal Professionnel will assist you in making an informed decision and find you the right dandruff removal shampoo based on your unique scalp type.
1. Understand the root causes of dandruff
Contrary to popular belief, dandruff doesn’t only result from a dry scalp. Oily scalp also contributes to dandruff. The overgrowth of a fungus can cause inflammation, scalp irritation, and ultimately dandruff. Also, those with dry scalp may notice fine powdery dust on their shoulder and confuse it with dandruff. Hence, you should decode the causes of dandruff before embarking on a journey of selecting the ideal dandruff removal shampoo for you.
Here is a list of the root causes of dandruff:
- Malassezia overgrowth: This fungus lives on the scalp and feeds off the lipids aka sebum produced by the sebaceous glands present on the scalp. Though harmless, overgrowth of Malassezia fungus can cause faster cell shedding, resulting in flaking.
- Seborrheic dermatitis: This inflammatory skin condition produces scaly patches, redness, itching, and dandruff.
- Dry scalp: When your scalp is dry, you might notice flaking, which is often confused with dandruff.
- Underlying skin conditions: Psoriasis or eczema are dry skin conditions that can lead to the formation of dandruff.
Now that you know the primary causes of dandruff, you can identify whether you have dandruff or dry scalp and choose products accordingly. Read on to learn which ingredients work best on dandruff-prone scalp.
2. Find active ingredients in a dandruff removal shampoo
You might find various anti-dandruff ingredients and formulations in a cleanser. Some of the effective anti-dandruff ingredients are as follows”
- Piroctone olamine: Known for its antifungal efficacy, this scalp care ingredient helps prevent dandruff recurrence and works gently on the scalp.
- Zinc pyrithione: Targets dandruff-causing fungus, prevents its growth, and reduces scalp irritation.
- Salicylic acid: This active ingredient dissolves oils, removes dead cells and helps prevent scalp buildup and flaking.
- Ketoconazole: This potent anti-fungal agent tackles severe dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis.
- Selenium sulfide: It helps treat fungal or yeast infections.
- Coal tar: It helps slow down the new skin cells’ growth and minimizes scaling and itching. However, this ingredient can dry out your hair.
3. Consider your scalp type
Your scalp type determines which dandruff removal shampoo will work best:
- Oily scalp: A clarifying formula with active dandruff control ingredients is an ideal choice for people with oily scalps.
- Dry scalp: Selecting anti-dandruff hydrating formulas will suit people with dry scalp.
- Sensitive scalp: Picking up the right dandruff removal shampoo is easy. Look for harsh ingredients and sulfate-free, fragrance-free options with mild dandruff control ingredients.
4. Other factors to consider
Now that you know the key ingredients, best formulas for different scalp types, etc. consider these factors before selecting the right cleanser.
- Severity of dandruff: In case, you are struggling with severe dandruff, choose shampoos with piroctone olamine, ketoconazole, selenium sulfide, etc.
- Color-treated hair: Those with dry or color-treated hair must choose nourishing dandruff removal shampoos that will help combat dandruff without drying out hair.
Dandruff removal shampoo: Recommended by experts
Looking for the best dandruff removal shampoo? Here’s one expert’s suggestion for you;
Include L’Oréal Professionnel Scalp Advanced anti-dandruff dermo-clarifier shampoo in your anti-dandruff routine. Enriched with Piroctone Olamine – a powerful antibacterial and antifungal active ingredient, this professional shampoo ensures up to 100% visible dandruff removed* & up to 72h dandruff protection**.
*Clinical test on 60 subjects, after 4 weeks of use.
This dandruff removal shampoo benefits the scalp in the following ways:
- Its lightweight formula gently clarifies the scalp
- This dandruff removal shampoo is free from silicone and alcohol
- Effectively removes dry and oily dandruff within a few washes
- Soothes scalp and makes hair healthy
How to use a dandruff removal shampoo for best results?
Reap maximum benefits from your dandruff control shampoo by applying it in the right way. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to use dandruff removal shampoo:
Step 1: Wet your hair using lukewarm water as it will help open pores in the scalp.
Step 2: Apply the dandruff removal shampoo on your wet scalp and hair and massage the product into the scalp for 2-3 minutes. This will allow active ingredients to penetrate for the best results.
Step 3: Rinse thoroughly with water. Cleanse Use 2-3 times weekly or as advised by a dermatologist.
Pro tip: Avoid overwashing your hair (especially if you have a dry or sensitive scalp) as it can strip the natural oil from your scalp and worsen dandruff.
Follow a dedicated dandruff control hair care routine and use the best products to cleanse and moisturize your without clogging follicles. Not sure how to build your hair care routine? Take the L’Oréal Professionnel Hair Quiz, get a professional diagnosis, and customized hair care routine with product recommendations in just 2 minutes.
Choosing the right dandruff removal shampoo can be a game-changer in your journey toward a flake-free, healthy scalp. So, what are you waiting for? Understand your scalp needs and choose a dandruff control shampoo accordingly. For further professional assistance, pay a visit to the nearest L’Oréal Professionnel partner salon and get expert help for every scalp and hair woe.