Head and Shoulders Shampoo: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Precautions and Alternates

Quick overview

Head and Shoulders Shampoo is an over-the-counter anti-dandruff shampoo containing pyrithione zinc (Classic line) or selenium sulfide (Clinical Strength line). It is used to manage dandruff and related scalp flaking and itching. The active ingredients work by fighting the fungus linked to dandruff and, for selenium sulfide, also slowing skin cell production. It is available in shampoo, cream, soap, solution, and spray forms.

What is Head and Shoulders Shampoo

Head & Shoulders is an over-the-counter anti-dandruff shampoo. It contains pyrithione zinc or selenium sulfide as active ingredients, depending on the product line, to help treat dandruff and related scalp flaking and itching.

Head and Shoulders Shampoo uses

• Helps prevent recurrence of flaking and itching associated with dandruff.
• Manages mild-to-moderate dandruff (Everyday/Classic line with pyrithione zinc).
• Manages more severe dandruff (Clinical Strength line with selenium sulfide).

Benefits of Head and Shoulders Shampoo

• Reduces dandruff flakes and scalp itchiness.
• May support scalp health, which can help with hair retention.
• Generally gentle on the scalp with a low risk of side effects.

How Head and Shoulders Shampoo works

The active ingredients fight the fungus that causes dandruff. Pyrithione zinc reduces the amount of fungus on the scalp, which helps prevent flakes. Selenium sulfide also works by slowing down skin cell production and stopping fungal growth.

Head and Shoulders Shampoo dosage

Shake the bottle before use. Wet your hair, massage the shampoo onto your scalp, then rinse. You can repeat if desired.

For best results, use at least twice a week, or as directed by a doctor; for maximum dandruff control, use every time you shampoo.

Clinical Strength products should be used in addition to your regular daily shampoo, applied twice a week for the first two weeks, then once weekly for two to four more weeks depending on how you respond.

Letting the shampoo sit on the scalp for a few minutes before rinsing may help increase its effectiveness.

Avoid contact with eyes; if contact occurs, rinse eyes thoroughly with water. For external use only — do not swallow.

Available forms and strengths

• Topical shampoo
• Topical cream
• Topical soap
• Topical solution
• Topical spray

Side effects of Head and Shoulders Shampoo

Common

• Skin/scalp irritation
• Temporary hair discoloration
• Dry scalp
• Increased oiliness

Serious

• Contact dermatitis (skin irritation and dryness) in rare cases
• Scalp dryness or tightness
• Mild itching or irritation
• Redness of the scalp
• Burning or stinging sensation (especially on sensitive skin)

Warnings and precautions

• Pregnancy

• Avoid contact with eyes, mouth, and open wounds. Rinse thoroughly with water if shampoo gets into the eyes.

• Breastfeeding

• Do not use if you are allergic or sensitive to any ingredients. Avoid excessive use, as it may cause scalp dryness or irritation.

• Kidney

• Stop use if severe itching, redness, burning, or swelling occurs. Keep away from children unless suitable for their age.

• Liver

• Do not share personal shampoo products with others. Avoid applying on severely irritated or damaged scalp skin.

• Alcohol

• Follow the instructions on the product label for proper use.

• Driving

• Consult a doctor before use if you have a serious scalp condition or persistent dandruff.
• This product is for external use only. Avoid getting the shampoo in your eyes. If it does get in your eyes, rinse them thoroughly with water. Keep this product and all drugs out of the reach of children. Head & Shoulders products can damage silver, gold, and other metallic jewelry, so remove jewelry before showering.

Storage

• Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
• Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use.
• Avoid storing near excessive heat or moisture.
• Keep out of reach of children and pets.
• Do not freeze or expose the shampoo to extreme temperatures.

When to see a doctor

• Talk to a doctor if your dandruff does not improve, or gets worse, after using this product regularly as directed.
• If the product is swallowed, get medical help or contact a poison control center right away.
• Check with your doctor as soon as possible if you notice skin irritation or other side effects that need medical attention.

Alternatives

• Nizoral Shampoo (Ketoconazole)
• Zinc Pyrithione Shampoo
• Selsun Blue Shampoo