Seasonal changes can affect our skin and hair {7} . Summers mean our body demands more hydration, and winters can result in dryness which has made me finish bottle after bottle of moisturizers.
For me though, monsoons are the most trying times because of dandruff. This time too, without exception, the dandruff has returned along with an itchy and flaky scalp. This has led me to spend hours on the internet, researching on the causes of dandruff and how to choose the right anti- dandruff shampoo.
While I was trying to find a right solution for my dandruff –– I stumbled upon a very important point:
‘Not all anti-dandruff shampoos are the same’.
Any other time, I would have gone to an app and ordered the first shampoo that came under recommendations. But the point that ‘Not all anti-dandruff shampoos are the same’ made me pause and think; Was there a way I could choose an effective anti-dandruff shampoo without going through a trial and error method? Do anti-dandruff shampoos work? So, I decided to do an in-depth research on causes of dandruff and dandruff related treatments online.
Based on my in-depth research and personal experience, I have tried to answer some of the most common questions that may occur to most of the dandruff sufferers like me.
How to choose the right dandruff shampoo? {3,6}
1. Look for a shampoo that contains an active ingredient with three important properties:
a. Anti-fungal Activity: This helps to treat your dandruff effectively as such shampoo works by targeting the root cause of dandruff i.e. kill certain type of fungi whose overgrowth on scalp may cause dandruff
b. Keratolytic effect i.e. the ability to clear build-up of dead skin cells on scalp i.e. flakiness
c. Provide relief from itching and irritation of scalp due to dandruff
2. And of course, checking online reviews of the products purchased in India.
Did I find a shampoo that fits all the above criteria?
Yes, while researching online, I came across a medicated anti-dandruff shampoo; Selsun Suspension 2.5%. It has been in India for over many years and contains 2.5% selenium sulphide as an active ingredient. Selenium sulphide is known to effectively treat and control dandruff due to its dual-action benefits i.e. anti-fungal and keratolytic actions. My further research online also confirmed that it is effective in providing relief from itching and irritation of scalp due to dandruff. {1}
Did it work after using it for myself?
YES, it exactly worked the same way I read about it! In fact, it should be your first choice too if you want to solve your dandruff problem. However, Selsun Suspension 2.5% being a medicated shampoo, it is advised to carefully follow the pack instructions while using it. It must be used twice weekly for 2 weeks and then only when necessary. For best results, you must apply it directly on your scalp and leave it for 2-3 minutes. Lastly, don’t forget to rinse your scalp and body thoroughly with water to remove all traces of this product. {13}
When we talk about hair care then we often look for shampoos that make our hair soft and healthy, but what about scalp care? Do you know that it is equally important to take care of your scalp?
Now, you don’t have to go for trial and error method while selecting a suitable anti-dandruff shampoo. With Selsun Suspension 2.5% in dandruff you can #BeSelsunSure!
I hope that now you know how to choose the right dandruff shampoo in India and not compromise with your scalp's health. However, the underlying causes and symptoms of dandruff may vary from person to person. So, if you do not see any improvement in your condition despite using a medicated anti-dandruff shampoo, you must seek immediate advice from your dermatologist.
If you have any questions then leave a comment below, I would surely help you with more guidance. Share this article with your family and friends, so that they are aware of right solution to their scalp problems (if anyone faces them).
References:
1. {1} American Academy of Dermatology. 29. 1008-12. 10.1016/0190-9622(93)70282-X.
1. {3} Journal of clinical and investigative dermatology 3.2 (2015).
2. {6} The Antiseptic 201, no. 1 (2004): 5-8.
3. {7} Saudi journal of biological sciences, 24(2), 331-337.
4. {13} Data on File
Thank You!
Amrit Kaur (Amy)
Beauty and Lifestyle Blogger, Delhi, India
Disclaimer:
The views expressed in the blog contents are independent views solely of the blogger. This is a part of the public awareness initiative supported by Abbott Healthcare Private Ltd. This blog is for product awareness purposes only and is not intended to substitute the advice given by licensed health-care professional. Kindly seek advice from a licensed health care provider, if unsure about your symptoms or suitability of product or if pregnant or breastfeeding. We recommend you to read labels, warnings, and directions before use.
