Head & Shoulders
Head and Shoulders
Fact or Fiction?

You've heard a lot of things about dandruff over the years. It's time to put an end to speculation and confirm the truth. Here you will find the most common myths about dandruff, as well as the absolute truth behind them. Learn even more about dandruff in our Dandruff Q&A section.
 
"You can't get rid of dandruff forever."
This is true. Many scientists believe a naturally occurring fungus residing on everyone's scalp known as Malassezia causes dandruff. While the fungus can be fought with Head & Shoulders, it is nearly impossible to completely eradicate from the scalp. However, regular use of Head & Shoulders can help keep Malassezia under control. With regular use of Head & Shoulders, dandruff buildup is eliminated, leaving you with soft, great-looking hair.
 
"Antidandruff shampoos are harsh and can damage your hair."
We can only speak for Head & Shoulders and can assure it will not damage hair. NEW Head & Shoulders provides the same benefits for your hair as the leading cosmetic shampoo. In blind tests, people who used Head & Shoulders found it left their hair as clean, soft and manageable as the leading cosmetic shampoo.* The active dandruff-fighting ingredients in Head & Shoulders act directly on your scalp to help prevent dandruff at the source. They do this without damage to your hair. All our formulas are pH-balanced and gentle enough for everyday use, even on color-treated hair.
 
"There's a difference between dandruff and dry scalp."
Yes, there is a difference between these two conditions. Dry scalp is simply a lack of either moisture or natural oils on the scalp. This may indeed lead to small, dry flakes, as well as itchiness or tightness of the scalp. Dandruff, on the other hand, is believed to be caused by a microscopic fungus on the scalp called Malassezia. Dandruff flakes are medium-to-large in size and are usually white and oily looking.
 
"Head & Shoulders will ruin my color-treated hair."
No, it will not. You can safely use any Head & Shoulders formula without damaging color-treated hair. Head & Shoulders products actually help protect fragile hair that can be a result of the coloring process.
 
*Internal P&G study.