antifungal shampoo

Antifungal Shampoo 101: What You Should Know and Our Favorites

How to determine if you need an antifungal shampoo or not.

Believe it or not, it’s possible to catch a fungal infection of the scalp. The symptoms, which start with an itchy scalp, are pretty unpleasant. Today, we’re covering the common symptoms associated with a fungal infection and how an antifungal shampoo can help.

Are you worried that you might be battling an infection on your scalp? Read on to ease your worries or find out if an anti-fungal shampoo is right for you:

Antifungal Shampoo 101

It can be easy to confuse a scalp fungal infection with dandruff. However, once you know the difference between both conditions, you’ll be able to know what shampoo is best or if you need to seek medical care.

What is a scalp fungal infection?

What’s most commonly known as ringworm of the scalp (or tinea capitis) is actually a fungal infection of the scalp. It also affects the hair shafts and can result in some not-so-pleasing results. The symptoms vary, but generally, those suffering from a fungal infection may find their scalp feeling itchy and may notice some bald patches forming. Note: Ringworm of the scalp is highly contagious, so it’s best to sort the infection out with the help of your doctor before coming into close contact with anyone or sharing any hair tools.

Causes of a Scalp Fungal Infection

Scalp fungal infections, like ringworm, can be extremely contagious. Infections like this are often spread by touching the skin of an infected person. Sharing combs, towels, hats, or pillowcases are all ways you could catch a scalp infection. So, you might want to think twice about borrowing your friend’s hairbrush next time.

What’s the difference between dandruff and fungal infection?

woman using shampoo
wash away the itchiness with a shampoo formulated for dandruff relief.

While the itchiness and flakiness associated with dandruff can be pretty uncomfortable, fungal infections of the scalp are another level altogether. While you will find yourself with an itchy scalp in both situations, a fungal infection will also result in bald patches. (Keep in mind that dandruff can also lead to hair loss if the flakes are coming off with patches of hair.)

The best way to diagnose your situation is to consult your physician. If dandruff is indeed your issue, your doctor may suggest using an over-the-counter hair care system like BHS Curl Moisture Anti-Dandruff Shampoo and Conditioner

How do you get rid of the infection?

An antibacterial shampoo, or an antifungal shampoo, can help you get rid of your infection. The importance of keeping the infected area clean cannot be stressed enough. The infection can spread if not properly taken care of. If you are concerned that you might have caught a fungal infection, then we recommend seeing your doctor! He or she will be able to guide you on the best course of action.

Anti Dandruff Shampoo

If you need a shampoo to help reduce itchiness before you’re able to get an antifungal shampoo, you can use a dandruff shampoo to temporarily relieve the itching. If you’ve discovered that you actually have dandruff instead of a fungal infection, these shampoo and conditioner sets will be a great option for you to try!

1. BHS Full & Strong Anti-Dandruff Shampoo

BHS Full & Strong Anti-Dandruff Shampoo and Conditioner is a great option because it uses salicylic acid to help remove visible flakes while the biotin combo uses to help moisturize and soften strands.

2. Dove Dermacare Scalp Soothing Moisture Anti Dandruff Shampoo

Dove Dermacare Scalp Soothing Moisture Anti-Dandruff Shampoo and Conditioner is one of our top picks because this set isn’t aggressive on your scalp. It’s pH balanced so you don’t need to worry about it being too harsh on your scalp. The formula also includes Pyrithione Zinc which effectively tackles dandruff while the rest of the formula nourishes and soothes the scalp.

3. BHS Damage Repair Anti-Dandruff Shampoo

BHS Damage Repair Anti-Dandruff Shampoo and Conditioner set focuses on soothing an itchy scalp. The keratin helps restore the scalp while the white willow bark leaves your hair and scalp feeling refreshed. Plus, this set uses salicylic acid, which helps remove flakes.

4. BHS Smooth Frizz Anti-Dandruff Shampoo

BHS Smooth Frizz Anti-Dandruff Shampoo and Conditioner is a great set if you’re looking for an anti-dandruff shampoo that isn’t harsh on your scalp and hair. This formula doesn’t contain any silicones or parabens and it uses salicylic acid to help reduce flakiness on your scalp.

5. Dove Dermacare Scalp Invigorating Mint Anti-Dandruff 2-In-1 Shampoo & Conditioner

 

Dove Dermacare Scalp Invigorating Mint Anti-Dandruff 2-In-1 Shampoo & Conditioner is the perfect option for anyone in a hurry. This 2-in-1 product is easy to use and won’t strip your hair. The formula contains Pyrithione Zinc to help tackle dandruff. Plus, it adds an invigorating mint sensation.

Shampoo For Itchy Scalp

1. Nexxus Clean & Pure Nourishing Detox Shampoo

 

 

If you want to get rid of itchiness, Nexxus Clean & Pure Nourishing Detox Shampoo helps cleanse and detox your scalp, while replenishing essential nutrients. It’s also free from parabens, dyes and silicones.

2. Love Beauty and Planet Sulfate-Free Delightful Detox Charcoal & Bergamot Shampoo

 

 

Remove excessive buildup and free yourself from itchy scalp with Love Beauty and Planet Sulfate-Free Delightful Detox Charcoal & Bergamot Shampoo. Its sulfate-free formula with charcoal and bergamot will give your hair the perfect detox.

3. Dove Hair Therapy Dry Scalp Care Moisturizing Shampoo

Relieve dry scalp from the roots with Dove Hair Therapy Dry Scalp Care Moisturizing Shampoo. This shampoo has vitamin B3 and nourishes the whole scalp from the cortex, for healthy-looking strands and a refreshing feeling after the first usage.

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