A lot of the advice you get online, especially relating to medical conditions is nonsense and sometimes dangerous. However, one of the trending topics we have noticed is people recommending using Anti-Dandruff shampoo on skin to treat skin conditions.
And it turns out it technically works. But - only when used for an actual fungal infection driven by high levels of oil in the skin (and usually moist, hot conditions).
Using anti-dandruff shampoo on the skin, particularly on areas affected by conditions like fungal acne (also known as Malassezia folliculitis) or seborrheic dermatitis, can be beneficial due to the active ingredients commonly found in these shampoos. Here’s why:
1. Antifungal Properties:
Malassezia Yeast: Both dandruff and certain skin conditions, like fungal acne and seborrheic dermatitis, can be caused or exacerbated by an overgrowth of Malassezia yeast. Anti-dandruff shampoos often contain antifungal ingredients like piroctone olamine, ketoconazole, selenium sulfide, pyrithione zinc, or coal tar that help reduce this yeast on the skin.
2. Reducing Inflammation:
Soothing Irritation: These shampoos can help to calm inflammation and redness in affected areas. Ingredients like salicylic acid also have anti-inflammatory properties and can help to exfoliate the skin gently.
Sebum Regulation: Anti-dandruff shampoos can help manage excessive oil production, which is often a contributing factor in both dandruff and certain skin conditions. Keeping oil levels balanced can prevent the growth of Malassezia and reduce the chances of breakouts.
4. Exfoliation:
Salicylic Acid: Some anti-dandruff shampoos contain salicylic acid, which helps exfoliate the skin, removing dead skin cells and preventing clogged pores. This can be particularly helpful for people dealing with acne-prone skin.
5. Cost-Effective Treatment:
Multipurpose Product: Using an anti-dandruff shampoo as a treatment on the skin can be more cost-effective than buying specialized creams or treatments, especially if you already have the shampoo on hand.
How to Use:
Application: You can apply a small amount of the shampoo to the affected skin areas (like the face, chest, or back), leave it on for a few minutes, and then rinse off thoroughly.
Frequency: Depending on the severity of the condition, this can be done a few times a week.
Important Considerations:
Patch Test: Always do a patch test on a small area of your skin before using the shampoo more widely to ensure you don’t have an adverse reaction.
Moisturizing: Anti-dandruff shampoos can be drying, so following up with a non-comedogenic moisturizer is recommended.
This off-label use is generally safe but should be done with care, and consulting with a dermatologist is advisable if you have any concerns. Never use products on broken skin, and if you get any type of reaction then clean the area and cease use.
Learn more about acne from the NHS website
And best not used on your face
People are using Head and Shoulders shampoo on their face for impressive results
I'm A Doctor – Here's When You Should Wash Your Face With Shampoo