Is Classic shampoo suitable for sensitive or dry scalp?

The product contains strong surfactants (SLS and SLES) and fragrance, which can be drying or irritating for very sensitive scalps, so users with extreme sensitivity should perform a patch test or consider a milder formula.

What does zinc pyrithione do in Classic shampoo?

Zinc pyrithione acts as an antifungal and antibacterial agent that targets the yeast Malassezia, the main cause of dandruff, thereby reducing flaking, itching, and scalp oiliness with regular use.

How often should Classic shampoo be used and does it contain any controversial ingredients?

It is typically recommended to use the shampoo two to three times per week or as needed for dandruff control; the formula includes controversial ingredients such as sodium lauryl sulfate, fragrance (parfum), and preservatives methylisothiazolinone and methylchloroisothiazolinone, which may cause skin irritation or allergies in some individuals.

Head & Shoulders • 90 ml

Classic

Hair

Product Insights

Classic anti-dandruff shampoo from Head & Shoulders, sold in a 90 ml plastic bottle at Carrefour in France, combines cleansing surfactants with active zinc compounds to target scalp flaking. Its formula includes zinc pyrithione and zinc carbonate, which are clinically proven to reduce dandruff and soothe itching, while the presence of dimethicone adds slip and conditioning. However, it also contains sodium lauryl sulfate, sodium laureth sulfate, fragrance, and preservatives such as methylisothiazolinone, which may irritate sensitive scalps or trigger allergies to ingredients like hexyl cinnamal and linalool.

Comparative Analysis

Positioned as an affordable mainstream anti-dandruff solution, Classic leverages zinc pyrithione’s proven efficacy alongside routine surfactants to offer effective flake control at a price point that competes with other drug-store brands.

Ingredients

Aqua, Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Glycol Distearate, Zinc Carbonate, Sodium Chloride, Sodium Xylenesulfonate, Zinc Pyrithione, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Dimethicone, Parfum, Sodium Benzoate, Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride, Hydrochloric Acid, Hexyl Cinnamal, Linalool, Sodium Hydroxide, Magnesium Carbonate Hydroxide, Magnesium Nitrate, Sodium Polynaphthalenesulfonate, Methylchloroisothiazolinone, Magnesium Chloride, CI 42090, Methylisothiazolinone, CI 17200.

84%

35%

Unlock Deep Cosmetic Safety Check

Scan this and millions of other cosmetics with the free NutrScan app to discover ingredient safety, potential concerns, and detailed product analysis before every purchase.