My daughter and I are engaged in an ongoing battle with dandruff and dry scalp. While it tends to get worse in winter, we still have mild symptoms in the warm months.
Dandruff is related to seborrheic dermatitis (a chronic form of eczema on the scalp) which causes itchy and flaky skin. I was amazed to read that it’s so common, it affects about half the GLOBAL adult population! For both my daughter and I, the flakes are not so severe – it’s more the uncomfortable and sometimes uncontrollable itching that can become unbearable.
Many factors can contribute to the development of dandruff: Secretions from sebaceous glands, over brushing hair, going to sleep with damp hair (I’m guilty of this, especially in summer!), too much exposure to sunlight (guilty again), diet, over shampooing, certain haircare products (I wonder if my dry shampoo could be a culprit?) and fungal colonization on the surface of the skin (sounds charming).
There’s a difference between dandruff and dry scalp, even though both cause flakes and an itchy sensation on the scalp.
Dandruff is related to seborrheic dermatitis as previously mentioned. Dry scalp is caused by water loss and can happen when one doesn’t get enough fluids. Dry scalp can also be the result of certain hair products that strip the scalp of its natural oils. Again, I wonder whether my regular use of dry shampoo may be the culprit.
The one thing both my daughter and I have learnt: DO NOT use anti dandruff shampoos continuously. They work best used as a treatment for around three weeks to a month.
I was THRILLED when Sisley Paris sent me two products from their “Hair Rituel” line to try: The Soothing Anti-Dandruff Shampoo and the Soothing Anti-Dandruff Cure.
Both soothe and treat the underlying symptoms of dandruff and dry scalp while delivering immediate results.
Both products contain ‘The intense Rebalancing Complex’ that includes sage extract, celery seed extract, Verbena essential oil, Piroctone Olamine (treats fungal infections) and Alpha Bisabolol (soothing agent) to rebalance the scalp. The complex soothes scalp irritation and protects it from discomfort like itchiness and stinging. Cotton proteins help rebuild the hair’s protein structure while Pro-vitamin B5 strengthens hair fibers, leaving it softer and glossier.
For best results, one needs to use the Soothing Anti-dandruff Shampoo in combination with the Soothing Anti-dandruff Cure. Using both treats the underlying factors responsible for the appearance of dandruff and sensations of discomfort. The anti-dandruff effect continues, even after completing treatment.
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Soothing Anti-dandruff Shampoo R1,350 for a 200ml – BUY
Expensive, yes. But, as with all Sisley products, this shampoo certainly does deliver on its claims. One also needs only a small amount of product, so the tube lasts a while. It also lathers incredibly well, while being super gentle. It works to gently cleanse, rebalance and purify the scalp. I like that the formula does not contain any sulfates or surfactants, so it’s super gentle and won’t result in colour leech.
You use it by applying a small amount (about the size of two thumbnails) to wet hair. Massage gently into the scalp and through mid-lengths and ends. You can add a little water to help with the lather. For optimal effectiveness, leave the shampoo on for 3 minutes, then rinse thoroughly. No need to wash twice. I love how soft, supple and light my hair feels and this shampoo certainly does boost body, as you can see in the images.
Soothing Anti Dandruff Cure R2,000 – BUY
This treatment is the second step in the Soothing Anti-dandruff ritual. This non-rinse formula boosts the Intense Rebalancing Complex’s action. It eliminates the fungus that causes dandruff by attaching to the keratin of the scalp.
It’s really easy to use too. Simply apply 4 pipettes, section by section to either dry or damp hair. Both Miyo and I apply it to damp, combed hair, but it’s easier to section the hair into four areas if it’s dry. It’s your choice really, use it whichever way you find works best for you.
Both my daughter and I used the two products three times a week for three weeks and our scalps have been dandruff free since, with no itchy scalp to speak of. We are thrilled with how gentle yet effective both these formulas are.
