If you’re dealing with dandruff or an itchy scalp, chances are you’ve tried a variety of shampoos and treatments. Among them, tea tree oil shampoo and anti-dandruff shampoo are two popular choices. But which one is the better option for your hair and scalp? Let’s take a closer look.
Tea Tree Oil Shampoo
Tea tree oil has long been known for its antifungal and antimicrobial properties, which make it a popular ingredient in many personal care products. When it comes to shampoo, tea tree oil can help wash away oil, dead skin, and chemical buildup, unblock pores, and improve scalp health. It can also reduce itchiness, greasiness, and lesions associated with dandruff.
One of the top tea tree oil shampoos on the market is Paul Mitchell’s Tea Tree Special Shampoo. This shampoo deeply cleanses the hair and has a refreshing feeling thanks to the addition of lavender and peppermint oil. Another great option that won’t break the bank is Love Beauty & Planet’s Tea Tree Oil & Vetiver Sulfate-Free Shampoo. When choosing a tea tree oil shampoo, make sure tea tree oil is high up on the ingredient list to ensure there’s enough of it in the formula to make a difference. Sulfate-free formulas are also usually more gentle on the hair and can cleanse without irritating your scalp.
What Makes Tea Tree Oil Effective Against Dandruff?
Tea tree oil possesses antiviral, antifungal, and antibacterial properties, making it a powerful tool in combating dandruff. Dandruff, characterized by dry, white flakes of dead skin and itching, can be caused by factors such as oily or irritated skin, dry scalp, or an overgrowth of a fungus called malassezia. Studies have shown that shampoo containing 5 percent tea tree oil can significantly reduce dandruff severity caused by malassezia. Users of tea tree oil shampoo experienced a remarkable 41 percent reduction in dandruff severity. Additionally, tea tree oil has been found to alleviate itching, greasiness, and lesions associated with dandruff.
Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
If you have chronic scalp psoriasis, seborrheic dermatitis, or dandruff, anti-dandruff shampoo may be a better option for you. Neutrogena’s T/Gel is a go-to for oily and dandruff-prone scalps. Its formula, which has the Seal of Recognition from the National Psoriasis Foundation, treats these conditions with coal tar extract. This shampoo should be used at least twice a week for the best results.
Tea Tree Oil Shampoo vs Anti-Dandruff Shampoo: Which One to Choose?
Both tea tree oil shampoo and anti-dandruff shampoo can help improve the health of your scalp and hair. The choice between the two ultimately depends on your specific needs. If you’re dealing with mild or moderate dandruff and are looking for a gentle, natural option, tea tree oil shampoo may be the way to go. However, if you have chronic scalp psoriasis, seborrheic dermatitis, or severe dandruff, anti-dandruff shampoo with coal tar extract may be more effective.
When choosing a shampoo, make sure to read the ingredient list carefully and look for key ingredients such as tea tree oil or coal tar extract. You should also consider factors such as cost, frequency of use, and any potential side effects.