Balancing a hectic schedule often makes it tough to keep up with regular hair care. However, using a good quality shampoo is essential for maintaining a clean and healthy scalp by effectively removing dirt, odour, and debris, and preventing dandruff. For those short on time, dry shampoos have become a convenient solution for quickly refreshing hair. But are they truly beneficial for your health and what might be their potential side effects? We spoke to our expert Dr Akshay Batra, Trichologist and Managing Director, Dr Batra’s Group of Companies, who shared insights on the same.
Dry shampoos can be a lifesaver, quickly absorbing excess oil and giving your hair a fresh, voluminous look with just one spritz. But behind this easy fix, there’s a harsh truth: dry shampoos can have some negative effects on your scalp and hair. "Recent revelations have uncovered that dry shampoos contain harmful ingredients that negatively affect our well-being," added Dr Batra.
Side Effects Of Using Dry Shampoos
Risk Of Developing Fatal Diseases
A recent study by the independent laboratory JDSUPRA revealed that at least 70% of the tested products contain a harmful chemical called 'benzene,' which has been identified as a human carcinogen responsible for causing fatal diseases like leukaemia and other blood cancers. These findings raise serious concerns about the safety of using dry shampoos frequently.
"Dry shampoos are also associated with additional risks. Regular usage can affect the scalp’s natural moisture balance and cause dehydration, irritation, and other severe conditions, such as Demodex (human hair mites) or seborrheic dermatitis," said Dr Batra.
Also Read: Is Your Shampoo Causing Hair Loss? Watch Out For These Ingredients
Clogged Hair Follicles and Folliculitis
Dry shampoos’ inability to effectively cleanse the scalp can lead to another concerning issue, i.e., clogged hair follicles. "When the follicles become clogged with product buildup, it can trigger folliculitis, an inflammation of the hair growth follicles. This condition can appear as itchy, irritated skin and clusters of red or white bumps on the scalp, causing discomfort and potentially leading to hair loss," added Dr Batra.
Allergic Reactions and Sensitivity
"Dry shampoos can pose a risk even for those without pre-existing scalp conditions. Some people may be hypersensitive to specific chemicals or ingredients found in these products, leading to allergic reactions or skin irritations," said Dr Batra. Individuals with a history of skin reactions must exercise caution and avoid regular use of dry shampoos.
The Homoeopathic Alternative
"Amid the concerns surrounding dry shampoos, many people opt for homoeopathic shampoos as a gentler and more natural alternative. These shampoos are formulated with botanical ingredients tested for their safe and effective use, free from potentially harmful additives like parabens, sulphates, and SLES," explained Dr Batra.
"Aim to wash your hair every other day, or daily if it’s exceptionally oily. Choose a shampoo with a pH level of 5.5 and look for ingredients, such as tea tree oil, peppermint, or Thuja, which help regulate oil production without irritating," said Dr Batra. Focus on lathering at the roots, where oil production is highest. Remember, using a conditioner is essential, even for oily hair.
Also Read: Benefits Of Using A Sulphate-Free Shampoo
Lifestyle Changes For Maintaining Hair Health
Your diet also has a major influence on hair health, so it's important to limit sugary and processed foods that can exacerbate oil production. Instead, focus on a balanced diet, which is rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to promote healthy hair.
Staying properly hydrated is essential; a healthy adult should aim to drink about 2–3 litres of water daily, which is roughly 8–10 glasses. This combination of a balanced diet and adequate hydration helps maintain not only your hair but also your overall well-being.
Bottomline
Dr Batra concluded, "People can make informed choices when they prioritise their overall well-being by staying aware of the potential dangers and exploring alternative options like Homoeopathic shampoos. Ultimately, striking a balance between convenience and caution will be key to achieving good hair days."
[Disclaimer: This article contains information provided by an expert and is for informational purposes only. Hence, we advise you to consult your own professional if you are dealing with any hair issues to avoid complications.]