Nizoral Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
MEDICATED shampoo - Ketoconazole is the gold standard antifungal for dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis, more effective than Coal Tar or Zinc Pyrithione. However, formula contains concerning ingredients: Imidazolidinyl Urea (formaldehyde-releaser), Cocamide DEA (nitrosamine risk), and harsh SLES. Contains hydrolyzed collagen for some conditioning. Use 2x/week for treatment, not daily. Effective medicine in outdated vehicle - use only when needed for scalp conditions.
Quick Description
Nizoral Anti-Dandruff Shampoo is a shampoo crafted by Nizoral 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
Highlights
Key Ingredients
Powerful antifungal active - gold standard for dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis
Harsh sulfate surfactant
Gentle mild surfactant
Cocamide DEA - can form carcinogenic nitrosamines
Conditioning hydrolyzed protein
Imidazolidinyl Urea - formaldehyde-releasing preservative
Ingredient Table
| Ingredient | Details | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Ketoconazole |
Powerful antifungal active - gold standard for dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis Further: helps keep sebum and buildup in check, improves sensory slip, and stabilizes the formula across repeated washes.
|
Good |
| Sodium Lauryl Ether Sulphate |
Harsh sulfate surfactant Further: helps keep sebum and buildup in check, improves sensory slip, and stabilizes the formula across repeated washes.
|
Bad |
| Disodium Monolauryl Ether Sulphosuccinate |
Gentle mild surfactant Further: helps keep sebum and buildup in check, improves sensory slip, and stabilizes the formula across repeated washes.
|
Good |
| Coconut Fatty Acid Diethanolamine |
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 |
| Laurdimonium Hydrolysed Collagen |
Conditioning hydrolyzed protein Further: helps keep sebum and buildup in check, improves sensory slip, and stabilizes the formula across repeated washes.
|
Good |
| Imidurea |
Imidazolidinyl Urea - formaldehyde-releasing preservative Further: helps keep sebum and buildup in check, improves sensory slip, and stabilizes the formula across repeated washes.
|
Bad |
| Macrogol 120 Methyl Glucose Dioleate |
Emulsifier and thickener Further: helps keep sebum and buildup in check, improves sensory slip, and stabilizes the formula across repeated washes.
|
Moderate |
| Erythrosine E127 |
Red dye - cosmetic only Further: helps keep sebum and buildup in check, improves sensory slip, and stabilizes the formula across repeated washes.
|
Moderate |
| Sodium Chloride |
Thickener Further: helps keep sebum and buildup in check, improves sensory slip, and stabilizes the formula across repeated washes.
|
Moderate |
| 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