Dandruff in men: which shampoo solves the problem

Dandruff is a widely shared problem, so much so that one in two people at least once in their lifetime have seen the typical whitish scales appear on their hair and shoulders. It is a frequent male disorder that generally represents the manifestation of seborrheic dermatitis on the scalp, not infrequently extending to the eyebrows as well.

Using an anti-dandruff shampoo is certainly a very effective remedy to keep dandruff and its trigger at bay, however, navigating the choice may not be as simple as it seems. Resorting to an overly aggressive product, in fact, may prove ineffective and even aggravate the disorder.

While dandruff is caused by uncontrolled sebum production, in fact, some cleansers can alter the functioning of the sebaceous glands. Which shampoos are best suited to combat dandruff while respecting the delicate balance of the scalp? Valuable help comes from some specific natural ingredients that boast moisturizing, soothing and refreshing effects.

Anti-dandruff shampoo: what should it contain?

Shampoo Alghe, blog

The trigger for dandruff is certainly excess sebum, a breeding ground for the development and proliferation of Malassezia furfur. In men, in particular, a higher incidence of dandruff is due precisely to the presence of androgenic hormones, such as testosterone, which stimulate sebum production.

A good dandruff shampoo should both reduce flaking and soothe itching while moisturizing the scalp optimally. Here are what ingredients turn a cleansing product into a valuable ally for dandruff sufferers:

  • Spirulina, an algae considered a superfood but also a valuable natural remedy for combating dandruff due to its high concentration of zinc and selenium, which are essential for restoring the hydrolipid balance of the scalp and regulating the activity of the sebaceous glands. Antica Barbieria Colla’s Algae Shampoo, for example, was created specifically to gently cleanse hair with dandruff;
  • Mallow: a natural remedy known since ancient times, has emollient and soothing properties, ideal for reducing irritation that can affect the scalp. It is present in the eponymous Mallow Shampoo by Antica Barbieria Colla, also ideal for daily use.

After shampooing: how to choose conditioners and lotions

Shampooing represents only the first step in the hair routine for those with oily hair prone to developing dandruff.

The application of a conditioner, in fact, can also help reduce itching and restore the scalp’s natural pH. Antica Barbieria Colla has created Herbal Conditioner for this very purpose, taking advantage of all the beneficial properties of nettle, mallow and fenugreek.

Finally, for a refreshing and revitalizing effect, the application of a few drops of the Capsicum & Menthol Lotion greatly helps stimulate blood circulation and promote regrowth.

Let’s talk about dandruff

Dandruff is a major problem affecting adult males’ hair:  the little white flakes we see in the hair and on clothes are remains of dry and death cells which come off due to an excessive turnover of skin cells.

Since the scalp is irritated, dandruff often involves itchiness and the need to scratch, besides enhancing flaking, can cause skin scrapes leading to a risk of infection.

Dandruff is clearly one of the biggest threaten to hair health: it damages both the delicate cells at the bottom of the bulb responsible for continual hair growth, and for the other scalp areas which get weaker, irritated and itchy.

Since it usually features some psychological distress, in our salon we have always paid great attention to it.

Nowadays we know that dandruff has several causes :

  • a fungus naturally occurring on the scalp which metabolizes sebum, producing and inflammatory response;
  • hormonal changes altering sebum production;
  • emotional and physical stress, also related to season changes during which dandruff issue are more frequent (so we hope that not too many people are suffering from it at the moment, being this one our third lockdown),
  • bad eating habits like fats and alcohol overconsumption;
  • use of haircare products causing irritation or sensitivity.
Algae Shampoo by Antica Barbieria Colla

 

This very last aspect prompted us to design a specific product, the Algae Shampoo, based on seaweeds among which spirulina, giving the characteristic blue color: rich in vitamins and minerals, they help restoring skin hydrolipidic balance and controlling sebaceous glands activity.

Just to be clear: this shampoo doesn’t heal severe dandruff, but its daily use offers concrete help in preventing it.

Dandruff is usually a minor and manageable issue, but it’s important to keep in mind that if it gets frequent or if dermatitis symptoms occur, you should address a dermatologist.