Based on its formula, is this shampoo safe for sensitive, acne-prone, or dry scalp/hair?

The shampoo contains strong cleansing surfactants (SLS and SLES) and added fragrance, which can be irritating for very sensitive or acne-prone scalps, but the presence of dimethicone and conditioning agents helps to soften dry hair; most users can tolerate it, though a patch test is advisable for those with known sensitivities.

What is the specific role and benefit of zinc pyrithione in this shampoo?

Zinc pyrithione is an antifungal agent that suppresses the growth of Malassezia yeast, the primary cause of dandruff, thereby reducing flaking, itching and scalp irritation while also providing mild anti-inflammatory effects.

What is the optimal application frequency for this shampoo, and does it contain controversial chemicals?

For mild dandruff, use the product 2-3 times per week, increasing to daily use for more severe flaking; the formula includes sulfates, synthetic fragrance, and dimethicone, which some consumers consider controversial, but they are not prohibited and are commonly used in mainstream hair-care.

Head & Shoulders • 280 ml

Shampooing antipelliculaire Extra Volume

Hair

Product Insights

Head & Shoulders Extra Volume anti-dandruff shampoo, sold in a 280 ml plastic bottle, is formulated to cleanse the scalp, reduce flaking, and add body to limp hair. Its active ingredient zinc pyrithione targets dandruff-causing fungi, while surfactants such as sodium lauryl sulfate and sodium laureth sulfate provide strong foam but may be drying for sensitive scalps. The formula also contains fragrance, dimethicone, and several fragrance allergens (linalool, limonene, hexyl cinnamal, benzyl salicylate), which could provoke irritation in allergy-prone users.

Comparative Analysis

Positioned as an anti-dandruff, volumizing shampoo, this Head & Shoulders product differentiates itself in the mass-market segment by combining zinc pyrithione for scalp health with volume-enhancing polymers, targeting consumers who want both flake control and thicker-looking hair.

Ingredients

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

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.