Hair Care

From medicated shampoos for dandruff and itchy scalps to proven hair-loss treatments such as minoxidil and Viviscal, plus everyday care from Elvive, Batiste and K18. Our pharmacists will tell you honestly what works for thinning hair and what does not.

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Hair loss, dandruff and scalp problems: what actually works

Thinning hair and hair loss

Gradual thinning at the temples or crown in men, or a widening parting in women, is usually hereditary pattern hair loss. Two treatments have solid evidence. Minoxidil 5% (Regaine foam, or the Sons cutaneous solution at a lower price) applied twice daily regrows hair in about two thirds of users, but takes four to six months to show and must be continued. Viviscal, a marine protein supplement, has clinical trials behind it for thinning hair in women and is a good option if you would rather not use a topical. Caffeine shampoos such as Alpecin are pleasant to use but have weaker evidence; treat them as a supporting product, not the treatment.

Sudden or patchy hair loss, hair loss with a sore scalp, or shedding after illness, childbirth or a crash diet are different problems. Shedding after a shock usually recovers on its own within six months. Patchy loss needs a GP.

Dandruff and flaky scalp

Ordinary dandruff responds to an anti-fungal shampoo. Ketoconazole (Nizoral, or Sons Ketoconazole at a better price) used twice a week for a month, then weekly, is the most effective. Vichy Dercos is gentler for sensitive scalps. Thick, yellow scaling or a very itchy scalp suggests seborrhoeic dermatitis or psoriasis; a coal-tar shampoo such as Capasal softens the scale, and persistent cases need a GP.

Itchy scalp without flakes

Often caused by products, heat or simply washing too rarely. Switch to a fragrance-free shampoo such as Elave Sensitive or Aveeno Skin Relief for a month before assuming anything else.

Everyday hair care

Fine or oily hair likes lightweight shampoos and a dry shampoo such as Batiste between washes. Dry, coloured or heat-damaged hair benefits from a bond-repair product such as K18 or a weekly mask. Elvive is the reliable budget option for coloured hair.

Head lice

Lyclear kills lice and eggs in one application and is the easiest treatment for a family. Repeat after seven days and check everyone in the house with a fine comb.

Pharmacist tip: with minoxidil, the first few weeks can cause extra shedding as old hairs are pushed out by new growth. It is normal and a sign it is working. Give it six months before judging.

Common questions about hair care

Does Regaine really work?

Yes, for hereditary pattern hair loss. Minoxidil 5% regrows hair or slows loss in about two thirds of men and women who use it twice daily for at least four months. The Sons minoxidil solution contains the same active ingredient at a lower price. Stop using it and the benefit is lost within months.

What is the best shampoo for dandruff?

Ketoconazole 2% shampoo (Nizoral or Sons Ketoconazole) is the most effective, used twice a week for four weeks then once a week. For mild dandruff or sensitive scalps, Vichy Dercos Anti-Dandruff is a good everyday option.

Is Viviscal worth it for thinning hair?

Viviscal has several published clinical trials showing more hair and less shedding in women with thinning hair after three to six months. It is the supplement we recommend when minoxidil is not suitable or not wanted. Results take at least three months.

Why is my hair falling out after having a baby?

Postpartum shedding is very common about three months after birth and usually recovers by itself within six to twelve months. A good diet, iron if you are low, and patience are the main treatments. If it continues beyond a year, see your GP.

Written and reviewed by the pharmacist team at Laois Pharmacy, Portlaoise. General information only, not a substitute for advice about your own health. Ask us in store or on WhatsApp.