Here are 5 Best Anti dandruff Shampoo
- Top Performer: 8X Shampoo by Cipla
- Best for Sensitive Skin: Sebamed Anti Dandruff
- Best for Coloured Hair: 8X Shampoo by Cipla
- Best for Severe Dandruff: Nizral 2% Shampoo
- Most Affordable: Selsun Anti dandruff Shampoo
- Best for Moisturizing Scalp: Blue Cap Shampoo
What is Dandruff?
Dandruff is a common scalp condition that causes white or yellowish-grey flakes to appear on the scalp, often accompanied by itching and redness. Although it primarily affects the scalp, dandruff can also appear on other body parts such as the eyebrows, beard, sides of the nose, chest, and behind the ears (post-auricular area). In severe cases, it may develop into a condition called seborrheic dermatitis, causing intense flaking and discomfort.
How Anti dandruff Shampoo works?
To effectively combat dandruff, Anti dandruff shampoo should contain certain active ingredients that are both safe and beneficial in providing relief.
Some of the most effective active ingredients include:
Ketoconazole
Selenium Sulfide
Ciclopirox Olamine
Zinc Pyrithione
Salicylic Acid
For mild dandruff, use these shampoos on alternate days or two to three times a week. In cases of severe dandruff, daily use may be necessary. Once dandruff is under control, gradually reduce the frequency of use to maintain results.
How Dandruff is different from Dry Scalp?
Dandruff
Cause
- The production of sebum or oil from your skin.
- A yeast called Malassezia, which grows on the skin and feeds on the oil present on the scalp.
Symptoms
- Flakes that are large, oily in texture, and may have a yellowish tint.
- An itchy, scaly, and greasy scalp.
- Redness or inflammation on the scalp.
Ways to fix Dandruff
To combat dandruff effectively, using an antifungal shampoo containing active ingredients like Ketoconazole, Selenium Sulfide, Ciclopirox Olamine, Zinc Pyrithione, or Salicylic Acid can be beneficial.
If shampoos alone do not improve your condition, antifungal lotions with active salts such as Ketoconazole, Clotrimazole, Sertaconazole, Climbazole, or Piroctone Olamine may be recommended.
If these treatments also fail to provide relief, oral antifungal medications may be necessary. However, these should only be taken under the guidance and prescription of a dermatologist.
Dry Scalp
Cause
A dry scalp is typically linked to a lack of moisture on the scalp, often aggravated by environmental factors such as dry weather, excessive hair washing, and the use of harsh chemicals in hair care product
Symptoms
- White, loose flakes scattered throughout the hair.
- Dry, itchy scalp that may feel irritated and sensitive.
- Tight, uncomfortable sensation on the scalp.
Ways to fix Dry Scalp
Use a gentle shampoo to cleanse the scalp without stripping it of its natural oils.
Incorporate scalp exfoliation to help remove dead skin cell buildup and maintain a healthy scalp environment.
Choose an anti-dandruff shampoo containing active ingredients like ketoconazole or salicylic acid to reduce redness, flaking, and the formation of dandruff
What Ingredients to look for in Anti dandruff Shampoo?
There are several key ingredients to consider when selecting an anti-dandruff shampoo, as each is formulated to address specific concerns. It is essential to understand your scalp type and condition in order to choose a product that is appropriate. Using a shampoo with unsuitable ingredients may exacerbate scalp irritation rather than provide the intended benefits.The belwo table shows what each ingredient give benefit.
| Ingredients | Description |
|---|---|
| Ciclopirox | An antifungal agent that works by inhibiting the growth of fungus on the scalp. |
| Coal Tar | Helps reduce skin scaling and slows the excessive growth of skin cells that contribute to dandruff. |
| Ketoconazole | A powerful antifungal ingredient that targets and eliminates the yeast responsible for dandruff. |
| Salicylic Acid | A beta-hydroxy acid that prevents skin cells from clumping together, aiding in the removal of scaly patches. |
| Salicylic Acid and Sulfur | When combined, sulfur enhances the exfoliating effect of salicylic acid while also providing antimicrobial benefits. |
| Zinc Pyrithione | An active ingredient that helps soothe the scalp by controlling yeast growth, regulating oil production, and reducing the buildup of excess skin cells that cause dandruff. |
Conclusion
With a wide variety of anti-dandruff shampoos available in the market, finding the one that best suits your scalp may require some trial and error. However, once you identify the right product, it can become an essential part of your hair care routine. If the severity of dandruff does not improve despite regular use, it is advisable to consult a dermatologist for expert guidance and appropriate treatment to effectively manage and resolve the condition.”