Use of unsuitable shampoos may lead to hair-loss

Doctors yesterday urged the public to use shampoo types that are appropriate to individual scalp conditions so as to reduce the risk of hair-loss and other symptoms.

Zinc pyrithione, an effective antifungal and antibacterial agent, is an often-prescribed medication to treat dandruff and other symptoms related to scalp and hair.

It is most known for being in the Head & Shoulders brand of anti-dandruff shampoo, at 1-percent potency.

Head & Shoulders is developed by Proctor & Gamble.

Head & Shoulders Shampoo has a range of variants to suit different requirements.

The product is formulated with fine particles for maximum absorbency of the zinc pyrithione active ingredients, while its Pro-Clean formula has the optimal combination of oil cleansing agents to curb the effects of over active sebaceous glands in the scalp.

Recently, a man was reported to be suffering from severe hair-loss after sharing a bottle of shampoo designed to revitalize permed and dye-damaged hair with his girlfriend. Doctors indicated that the shampoo in question contained an abundance of nutrients not suitable for the man's condition as they clogged his scalp follicles.

The man's symptoms materialized within months, as use of an inappropriate shampoo rapidly exacerbated pre-existing conditions. Doctors urged men to be aware that male dermal sebaceous glands function at about double the pace of those in women, and advised against the sharing of shampoos between genders.

An estimated 10 million men in Taiwan suffer from scalp and hair irritations, with 5 million men in danger of hair-loss. One in two men report symptoms of dandruff, itchiness and excessively oily hair and scalp.

Apart from using an inappropriate shampoo, the increasing rate of hair-loss and scalp irritation is due to Taiwan's humid climate, which promotes symptom-inducing bacterial and fungal growth.

According to studies, the genus of fungi Malasseziaa globossa is often identified as the primary cause of hair and scalp irritations among men. Doctors urge the public to consult physicians and pharmacists before conducting treatment.

Source