Neutrogena Scalp Therapy Anti-Dandruff Medicated Shampoo

Shampoo

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Expert Recommendation

MEDICATED shampoo with Coal Tar for dandruff/psoriasis - effective for treatment but concerning formula. Contains Imidazolidinyl Urea (formaldehyde-releasing preservative), Cocamide DEA (potential nitrosamine formation), harsh SLES sulfate, and multiple parabens. Use ONLY if prescribed or needed for scalp condition, not for regular use. Consider cleaner alternatives like Nizoral (ketoconazole) or tea tree oil shampoos for mild dandruff.

Quick Description

Neutrogena Scalp Therapy Anti-Dandruff Medicated Shampoo is a shampoo crafted by Neutrogena to keep scalp and hair balanced. It is designed for everyday use and aims to leave hair feeling refreshed and lightweight. The formula features key ingredients selected to cleanse, support scalp comfort, and maintain a clean finish. Ideal for users wanting a thorough yet considerate cleanse with a focus on clarity.

Ingredient Overview

Coal Tar Extract, Sodium Lauryl Ether Sulphate, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Cocodiethanolamide, Imidazolidinyl Urea, Methylparaben, Propylparaben, Butylated Hydroxytoluene, Tetrasodium EDTA, Benzyl Benzoate, Citric Acid, Water

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Highlights

#alcohol-free #contains-colorants

Key Ingredients

Coal Tar Extract

Active medicated ingredient for dandruff/psoriasis treatment

Sodium Lauryl Ether Sulphate

Harsh sulfate surfactant that strips hair and scalp

Cocamidopropyl Betaine

Gentle co-surfactant

Cocodiethanolamide

Cocamide DEA - can form carcinogenic nitrosamines

Imidazolidinyl Urea

Formaldehyde-releasing preservative - potential carcinogen

Methylparaben

Paraben preservative with endocrine concerns

Ingredient Table

Ingredient	Details	Rating
Coal Tar Extract	Active medicated ingredient for dandruff/psoriasis treatment Further: helps keep sebum and buildup in check, improves sensory slip, and stabilizes the formula across repeated washes.	Moderate
Sodium Lauryl Ether Sulphate	Harsh sulfate surfactant that strips hair and scalp Further: helps keep sebum and buildup in check, improves sensory slip, and stabilizes the formula across repeated washes.	Bad
Cocamidopropyl Betaine	Gentle co-surfactant Further: helps keep sebum and buildup in check, improves sensory slip, and stabilizes the formula across repeated washes.	Good
Cocodiethanolamide	Cocamide DEA - can form carcinogenic nitrosamines Further: helps keep sebum and buildup in check, improves sensory slip, and stabilizes the formula across repeated washes.	Bad
Imidazolidinyl Urea	Formaldehyde-releasing preservative - potential carcinogen Further: helps keep sebum and buildup in check, improves sensory slip, and stabilizes the formula across repeated washes.	Bad
Methylparaben	Paraben preservative with endocrine concerns Further: helps keep sebum and buildup in check, improves sensory slip, and stabilizes the formula across repeated washes.	Moderate
Propylparaben	Paraben preservative with endocrine concerns Further: helps keep sebum and buildup in check, improves sensory slip, and stabilizes the formula across repeated washes.	Moderate
Butylated Hydroxytoluene	BHT antioxidant with some safety concerns Further: helps keep sebum and buildup in check, improves sensory slip, and stabilizes the formula across repeated washes.	Moderate
Tetrasodium EDTA	Chelating agent Further: helps keep sebum and buildup in check, improves sensory slip, and stabilizes the formula across repeated washes.	Moderate
Benzyl Benzoate	Fragrance component Further: helps keep sebum and buildup in check, improves sensory slip, and stabilizes the formula across repeated washes.	Moderate
Citric Acid	pH adjuster Further: helps keep sebum and buildup in check, improves sensory slip, and stabilizes the formula across repeated washes.	Good
Water	Base solvent Further: helps keep sebum and buildup in check, improves sensory slip, and stabilizes the formula across repeated washes.	Good

Explanation of Key Groups

Surfactants

Primary and co-surfactants (e.g., Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Coco/Ampho betaines) provide the cleanse, foam, and removal of scalp oils. Mild co-surfactants help soften the feel and improve tolerance.

Clay Minerals

Clays like kaolin, bentonite, or montmorillonite absorb excess sebum and impurities, contributing to a fresher, balanced scalp feel without heavy residue.

Actives

Ingredients such as salicylic acid or zinc derivatives can support gentle exfoliation and sebum regulation, helping keep follicles clear and comfortable.

Humectants

Water-binding agents (e.g., glycerin, hyaluronate) attract moisture to reduce the stripped feel after cleansing and keep lengths softer.

Safety Notes & Allergens

Fragrance allergens (e.g., linalool, geraniol, coumarin) may be present if fragrance is listed.
Colorants (CI numbers or named dyes) are aesthetic only; skip if you react to synthetic dyes.
Potential irritation: strong surfactants and fragrance allergens can bother very sensitive scalps.
If you have fragrance allergies or highly reactive skin, patch test before full use.

Summary

Best suited for users seeking a clear, balanced cleanse. It effectively targets buildup with its surfactant system and supporting actives, while maintaining a light feel on the hair. Be mindful of surfactant strength, fragrance presence, and any colorants if you are sensitive.

Who is this product good for?

✓ People wanting a refreshing cleanse with balanced oil control
✓ Those comfortable with light fragrance in haircare
⚠ Very sensitive scalps should monitor for fragrance or surfactant irritation

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