Shampoo - Buying guide : Your online pharmacy selection

What is a shampoo and how does it work?

A shampoo is a hair care product designed to cleanse the scalp and hair. It contains cleansing agents called surfactants that remove impurities, sebum and hair product residues. Surfactants bind to particles of dirt and grease, allowing them to be easily rinsed away with water. Some shampoos also include nourishing and moisturizing ingredients to improve overall hair health.

How often should I use shampoo?

How often you should use shampoo depends on a number of factors, including hair type, activity level and environment. For normal hair, shampooing two or three times a week is generally sufficient. Oily hair may require daily washing, while dry or textured hair benefits from weekly washing to avoid excessive dehydration.

How do I choose the best shampoo for my hair type?

To choose the best shampoo, it's essential to know your hair type and its specific needs. Here are a few tips:

• Oily hair: Opt for a clarifying shampoo that eliminates excess sebum.
• Dry hair: Choose a moisturizing shampoo with ingredients such as argan oil or shea butter.
• Colored hair: Use a sulfate-free shampoo to protect color.
• Sensitive scal ps: Choose a hypoallergenic, fragrance-free shampoo.

What ingredients should I avoid in my shampoo?

Certain ingredients can be harmful to the hair or scalp. Here are the main ones to avoid:

• Sulfates: Can be irritating and drying.
• Parabens: Controversial preservatives linked to health problems.
• Silicones: Can cause build-up and make hair heavy.
• Phthalates: Endocrine-disrupting chemicals.

What are the benefits of natural shampoos?

Natural shampoos contain ingredients of natural origin that are often less irritating and gentler on hair and scalp. They are free from harsh chemicals such as sulfates and parabens, and may contain beneficial essential oils and plant extracts. Natural shampoos are also environmentally friendly, as they use biodegradable ingredients.

What's the difference between shampoo and conditioner?

Shampoo is used to cleanse the hair and scalp, while conditioner is designed to moisturize, detangle and protect hair after washing. Shampoo opens the hair cuticle for deep cleansing, while conditioner closes the cuticle to lock in moisture and leave hair smoother and shinier.

Can I use a shampoo every day?

It is possible to use a shampoo every day, especially for those with very oily hair or an active lifestyle that requires frequent washing. However, daily washing can strip hair of its natural oils, leading to dryness and potential damage. It is therefore recommended to choose a mild shampoo if daily use is necessary.

How to apply shampoo correctly

To apply shampoo correctly:

1. Wet hair thoroughly with warm water.
2. Take a small amount of shampoo and lather it between your hands.
3. Apply the shampoo to your scalp, massaging gently with your fingers.
4. Distribute the lather over the lengths without rubbing.
5. Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water.
6. Repeat if necessary, especially if your hair is very dirty or greasy.

What are the potential side effects of shampoo?

Potential side effects of a shampoo can include scalp irritation, allergies, excessive dryness or greasy hair (as a reaction to overproduction of sebum). These effects often depend on shampoo ingredients and individual sensitivity. If symptoms persist, consult a dermatologist.

What's the difference between commercial and homemade shampoos?

A commercial shampoo is formulated with specific ingredients to cleanse and care for the hair, often enriched with preservatives for extended shelf life. Homemade shampoos use natural ingredients such as baking soda, cider vinegar or essential oils, without harsh chemicals. Although gentler and more customizable, homemade shampoos may not offer the same level of effectiveness in terms of cleansing and care as commercial shampoos.

What are the benefits of sulfate-free shampoos?

Sulfate-free shampoos are formulated without harsh lathering agents, such as sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) or ammonium lauryl sulfate (ALS). Here are the main benefits:

• Less irritating: Reduces the risk of scalp irritation, ideal for sensitive skin.
• Moisture retention: Sulfates can strip away natural oils, while a sulfate-free shampoo retains moisture.
• Better protection for color-treated hair: Helps color last longer.
• Frizz reduction: Sulfates can aggravate frizz, while a sulfate-free shampoo can minimize it.

Are children's shampoos different from adult shampoos?

Yes, children's shampoos are specially formulated to meet the delicate hair and scalp needs of young children. They feature the following characteristics:

• Gentle formula: Less aggressive, minimizing the risk of irritation and dryness.
• pH balanced: Adapted to children's sensitive scalps.
• Tearless: Formulated not to cause tears when in contact with the eyes.
• Fewer fragrances and colorants: Reduced risk of allergies or skin reactions.

How does an anti-dandruff shampoo work?

An anti-dandruff shampoo is designed to treat and prevent dandruff using specific active ingredients. Common ingredients include:

• Zinc pyrithione: fights the fungi responsible for dandruff.
• Selenium sulfide: Reduces the production of excessive skin cells.
• Salicylic acid: Exfoliates scalp and removes dead cells.
• Ketoconazole: A powerful antifungal agent for severe cases.

These shampoos must be used regularly to be effective and followed according to product instructions.

What is a dry shampoo and how do I use it?

A dry shampoo is a spray or powder product that absorbs excess sebum and refreshes hair without the need for water. Here's how to use it:

1. Shake bottle before use.
2. Spray or apply the powder to the roots from a distance of 20-30 cm.
3. Massage into scalp with fingers to distribute product.
4. Leave on for a few minutes to allow the product to absorb sebum.
5. Brush hair to remove any residue.

Dry shampoos are practical for extending the time between washes and adding volume to hair.

Are specialized shampoos for hair loss effective?

Specialized shampoos for hair loss contain active ingredients designed to strengthen hair and stimulate growth. They may include:

• Biotin: Promotes healthy hair.
• Keratin: Strengthens hair structure.
• Minoxidil: Stimulates hair growth (generally found in topical products, not shampoos).
• Caffeine: Stimulates hair follicles.

The effectiveness of these shampoos may vary depending on the underlying cause of hair loss. For optimum results, it is often advisable to combine these shampoos with other treatments, and to consult a health care professional for a precise diagnosis.