Studies prove that individuals aged between 16 to 27 face Dandruff problems, leading to severe hair fall. If you fall at this age and you are not aware of what to look for when choosing the best Anti-dandruff shampoo, you aren't helping your hair as much as you think. 

So, it has become a necessity to learn what to avoid and what to look for in shampoo labels before buying one. Don't worry, we have supportable facts that will help you in your Hair care Journey!

What is Dandruff?

Some of us know that dandruff is shedding of dead skin from time to time. What many of us are not aware of is that this process is normal. They shed just like any other skin from our body. But when the rate of shedding becomes frequent, the dead skin combines with natural oil, and pileup into a clump of tiny snowflakes that start showing off on your Head, shoulders, and sometimes on your clothes - Now we call that “Dandruff”

In science, it is known as the Hyperproliferative condition. Though it is weird that we have medical conditions, this is not a huge thing to be afraid of. With little instruction and effort, you can have your head clean and fresh.

Main Reasons for Dandruff

Though reasons like poor hygiene and feeble diet are certainly responsible for dandruff presence, these considerations fall under one of two Major Factors for Dandruff

• External Factor
• Internal Factor

External Factors are circumstances which can lead you to Dandruff Growth. The following situations are a good example of External Factors

1. More Exposure of Hair to Sunlight
2. Inappropriate Use of Hair Gel/Hair Wax/Sprays etc...
3. Not washing the hair right after using chemical hair products
4. Excess use of Shampoo
5. Irregular Hair washing
6. Letting your hair highly exposed to Pollution

On the other hand, the Internal Factor is something like holding the call for dandruff naturally. Some people unavoidably possess genes that wait for trigger points. They will be prone to diseases in the first before everyone else. In science, it is known as Individual susceptibility. Such persons have a high chance of getting dandruff in the early stages.

Also Read: Epsom Salt for hair: Benefits and the guidelines.

Avoid these mistakes to prevent Dandruff

There are several ways to prevent dandruff. Look whether you are making these mistakes. When you stop making these errors, Dandruff will no longer be your guest!

1. You are overusing the shampoo

Hair type changes from person to person. Some may need hair wash once or twice a week whereas some prefer only once a week. Everything depends on what type of hair you have. Studies claim that washing your hair daily damages the hair roots and strips off all your natural hair oil that protects them. It is suggested to wash 3-4 times a week if you have oily hair and 2-3 times for Dry hair.

Note: Do not underestimate your natural hair oil. Allow it to stay on your scalp for a day and then shampoo. 

2. You are using chemical hair products regularly

Avoid using hair gels, hair wax, and hair sprays as much as you can. They contain harmful chemicals that will weaken your hair strength, leading to hair fall. In case you require using it occasionally (on festive days), wash your hair right after you reach home. Do not let those harmful chemicals stay on your head.

3. You confuse dandruff with other diseases

Other medical conditions like Psoriasis and Atopic have a similar appearance to dandruff. Make sure you have minimal itching. If you are suffering from extreme itching and have rash kind of signs, kindly consult your doctor before buying an Anti-Dandruff shampoo.

4. You Roam too much under the Sunlight

If you are a good adventurer who likes to travel anywhere, you might have the chance of getting dandruff more than your office mates. Heavy sun exposure damages hair strength. Thus, it is advised to wear a cap whenever possible under scorching sunlight.

Chemicals to Avoid in Anti-Dandruff Shampoos

When you have dandruff, you must be careful in choosing the right shampoo that is appropriate for your hair type. Though each one of us has unique hair types, everyone should avoid buying shampoos with these compounds in shampoo labels

Sulphates

Sulphates are the prime enemy that threatens our hair. The reason why haircare brands use sulphates despite their harmful effects is because they create a satisfying lather while washing. It is a psychological fact that people buy shampoos which create pleasing lather effects they find comfortable and refreshing.

Sulphates such as Ammonium Lauryl Sulphate, Sodium Lauryl Sulphate and Sodium Laureth Sulphate in shampoos will stripe your hair off along with its natural oil in each wash. This may lead to constant dryness and irritation.

Note: Sodium Laureth Sulphates (SLES) may contain traces of the carcinogenic 1,4 dioxane which resulted in cancer when tested on lab animals.

Parabens

We might have come across shampoos advertised with the slogan “Free from Sulphates and Parabens” which is considered to be a First-rate shampoo. Indeed, yes it is. Parabens are used as preservatives in many personal care products and shampoos are one of those. 

Parabens-infused shampoos will cause skin irritation and are suspected of disrupting hormones. Some studies say it is linked to Breast Cancer. So, avoid buying paraben-loaded shampoos.

Phthalates

Phthalates might be a new chemical you are hearing. They are used not only in shampoos but also in other hair care products such as creams, wax and gels.

Phthalates are not environmentally friendly and similar to Parabens, Phthalates too, damage hormonal balance.

Formaldehyde

Though Formaldehydes are not explicitly labelled, they can be found in several haircare products without mentioning. Formaldehyde is used as a vapour to provide smoothening or cleansing effects - which indicates its presence in keratin-based haircare products. 

Since they cause skin irritation, formaldehyde-based products never suit sensitive skin. Not only in shampoos, but at rare times hair straighteners also contain formaldehyde. Though most of the brands do not mention their presence directly on the label, people cannot identify which one is formaldehyde-free. So, It is advised to look for a branded straightener ( reputed brands never deceit customers’ expectations) with proper product descriptions before buying. 

Polyethylene Glycols (PEGs)

Polyethylene Glycol is another harmful chemical often found in shampoos. They lead to scalp itching, redness and discomfort. PEGs nature is attracting moisture. So, when it is used in hair, it wipes all your moisture out leading to dry hair. Plus, its 1,4 dioxane contamination during the manufacturing process makes it carcinogenic - which means it induces cancer. 

Also Read: Avoid Scaly Scalp With Five Necessary Lifestyle Changes

These are only a handful of numerous harmful chemicals that are generally found in shampoos. When it comes to Anti-dandruff shampoos, above listed components are the most commonly found. To know more useful pieces of information regarding haircare and skincare, Visit Mrmard.