Monday 25 March 2013

Key Ingredients in Dandruff Shampoo



Dandruff is a common scalp condition found in almost all age groups. It may cause irritation due to an itchy and flaky scalp. It is caused due to a yeast infection and other fungi. There are several brands on the market which work differently on various types of dandruff. The difference lies in the key ingredient or the active ingredient present in these, otherwise ordinary shampoos.

All dandruff shampoos contain a basic scalp cleanser i.e. sodium laureth sulfate or ammonium laureth sulfate which creates a lather when mixed with water. Some manufacturers use ketoconazole, or salicylic acid as a key ingredient in dandruff shampoos. These chemical derivatives regulate the keratinization. They act tough on the fungal growth on scalp and are effective in physically removing dandruff. However, the effectiveness of these shampoos depends on the amount of active ingredient added in the shampoo.

Another active compound found in major dandruff shampoo brands is zinc pyrithione which is popularly known as ZPT. It acts as an antibacterial and antifungal agent. It is effective in healing most common forms of dandruff. Other than chemical compounds, some dandruff shampoos come with natural derivatives such as Neem and sandalwood oil which may be effective in healing dandruff and also have a soothing effect on the scalp after a wash.

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