Can You Use Head & Shoulders for Acne?

Acne is a relatively common skin disorder, mainly affecting most individuals at some point during puberty and early adulthood. Conventional treatments for acne often focus on methods to kill bacteria inflammation or regulate the production of oil, while others have turned to alternative solutions such as anti-dandruff shampoos including Head & Shoulders. It's on this very principle that Malassezia, the fungus accountable for dandruff, may also be responsible for acne. In that respect, the efficiency and safety of this remedy would depend on a further examination of the ingredients in Head & Shoulders and their activity on the skin.

What is the Connection Between Dandruff and Acne?

In some cases, acne can be caused by dandruff, in the meaning associated with pathologies related to the scalp. This may be related to the Malassezia yeast, which has been primarily related to dandruff and other acne types. "Acne and dandruff can be related," says Dr Paul Nassif, a leading dermatologist. "Both conditions are at times inflamed because of the same fungus." It's this very connection that leads some to believe anti-dandruff shampoos like Head & Shoulders would clear up acne.

Can Head & Shoulders Treat Acne?

Head & Shoulders contains an active ingredient in its formula called zinc pyrithione that strives to lower dandruff by killing off Malassezia. Theoretically, this ingredient contains anti-fungal and anti-inflammatory properties that work to minimize acne that is a result of this yeast. According to board-certified dermatologist Dr Sandra Lee, "While Head & Shoulders is formulated for the scalp, its anti-fungal properties could decrease fungal-related acne." Again, one should note that it wasn't formulated for facial skin, which is a lot more delicate compared to the scalp.

How to Use Head & Shoulders for Acne

Since you are putting a solution on your face that was designed for your scalp, then you should proceed with some caution. It instructs applying a small amount of this solution to the affected area and washing it out in a few minutes to help reduce possible irritation. The clinical trials show that zinc pyrithione relieves these conditions, which are the work of Malassezia, in nearly 70% of cases. According to a dermatologist, Dr Joshua Zeichner however, continued use for a long time will possibly lead to dry skin and may even cause irritation on the skin of a sensitive person. This, therefore, calls for moderation in use to avoid the development of side effects.

Although Head & Shoulders might help some people deal with acne to some extent, it should not be considered as a remedy for the same. Causes of acne vary from bacterial infections to hormonal changes in the body. If one has acne that doesn't seem to get better or worsens after receiving standard over-the-counter treatment, it is best to consult a dermatologist. Nearly 80% of people between the ages of 11 and 30 have acne at some time, according to the British Association of Dermatologists, which is a further reason that when acne does present itself and will not go away, a professional should be consulted.

People Also Ask

Is it okay to wash your face with head and shoulders shampoo?

Washing your face with Head & Shoulders shampoo is not recommended because it is designed for use on the scalp. It can be too irritating or drying for more sensitive facial skin. However, some dermatologists recommend that it is cautiously applicable in fungal-related acne by applying it briefly to the affected areas before rinsing it very well.

Is head and shoulders safe to use on skin?

Head & Shoulders can be safe on the skin, in limited areas, for some conditions like seborrheic dermatitis or fungal-related acne. Still, it's a product that requires utmost caution and moderation, as it may dry or irritate the skin, especially sensitive skin or areas other than the scalp.

Do head and shoulders clear folliculitis?

Head & Shoulders can help in folliculitis caused by fungal infections, specifically those linked to Malassezia. This is because the active ingredient in it, zinc pyrithione, has antifungal properties to help rid one of this kind of infection. However, one should seek the services of a professional healthcare provider aimed at treatment, especially for bacterial folliculitis.

Conclusion

While this anti-fungal property of Head & Shoulders does help alleviate the suffering from acne related to Malassezia to a certain degree, treatment is still very cautious. This product was made for the scalp and just could not be used on facial skin for such a long time. It is very important to consult a dermatologist in order for one's acne to be treated with the most proper and focused methods. When acne persists, professional advice can help to reveal the 'cause' and can result in much more effective treatments that are tailored accordingly. Find out What Type Of Acne Do I Have.