Salicylic Acid For Dandruff: How To Make Your Own

Summary

This video explores the benefits of salicylic acid for scalp conditions like dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis. It explains how salicylic acid, a beta hydroxy acid, can penetrate pores to remove excess skin flakes and unclog hair follicles, potentially aiding hair growth. The video also discusses its indirect role in combating hair loss by reducing DHT buildup and presents scientific research supporting its efficacy. Additionally, it covers side effects, availability, cost, and a DIY recipe for a salicylic acid shampoo.

Takeaways

• 🌿 Salicylic acid is a phenolic acid derived from the bark of the white willow and is also found in foods like blackberries, apricots, walnuts, and peanuts.
• 🧪 It has keratolytic properties, which means it can remove excess skin flakes, making it beneficial for treating dandruff and other flaky scalp conditions.
• 🧬 As a beta hydroxy acid, salicylic acid's chemical structure allows it to penetrate the scalp more effectively than alpha hydroxy acids, aiding in the treatment of clogged hair follicles.
• 🚿 When used in shampoos, salicylic acid can gently cleanse the scalp and remove flakes, promoting a healthier environment for hair growth.
• 💇‍♀️ While not a cure for hair loss, salicylic acid can contribute to a healthier scalp, which is beneficial for hair growth and can indirectly combat hair loss by reducing DHT build-up.
• 🔬 Scientific research supports the use of salicylic acid for treating dandruff and seborrhoeic dermatitis, with effects lasting up to 14 days post-use.
• 📊 Comparative studies have shown salicylic acid to be more effective than other treatments in reducing itching and irritation associated with scalp conditions.
• ⚠️ Potential side effects of salicylic acid include skin irritation and allergic reactions, so it's important to test the product on a small patch of skin before full application.
• 💧 There are various over-the-counter shampoos containing salicylic acid, with brands like Neutrogena and Avalon offering products designed to treat scalp build-up and reduce itching.
• 👩‍🍳 A homemade salicylic acid shampoo recipe is provided, using white willow bark extract as a natural source of salicylic acid, along with other ingredients like liquid castile soap and tea tree oil.

Q & A

What is salicylic acid and where can it be found?

Salicylic acid is a phenolic acid originally sourced from the bark of the white willow, but it's also found naturally in foods like blackberries, apricots, walnuts, and peanuts.

How does salicylic acid help with scalp conditions?

Salicylic acid has keratolytic properties, meaning it removes excess buildup of skin flakes, which is common in individuals with dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis, scalp psoriasis, and eczema.

What is the chemical structure of salicylic acid that makes it effective for the scalp?

As a beta hydroxy acid, salicylic acid has a chemical formula that separates the hydroxy group from the acid group with two carbon molecules, making it more oil soluble and allowing it to penetrate the pores more easily.

Can salicylic acid help with hair loss?

Salicylic acid may not combat all types of hair loss, but it can contribute to a healthier scalp, which is beneficial for hair growth. It can also remove DHT, one of the main causes of hair loss, from the scalp.

What scientific research supports the use of salicylic acid for scalp conditions?

A 2002 study showed that a salicylic acid shampoo was as effective as a selenium sulfide shampoo in treating dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis, and it reduced itching and irritation up to 14 days after use.

Are there any side effects associated with using salicylic acid on the scalp?

Yes, it's possible to experience an allergic reaction or skin irritation. It's important to test the product on a small patch of skin before use and follow all dilution and dosage recommendations.

What brands offer salicylic acid shampoos and what is their cost?

Popular brands like Neutrogena and Avalon offer salicylic acid shampoos. Avalon can be found for around $11-$14 for 16 fluid ounces, and Neutrogena is around $7-$14 for 4.5 fluid ounces.

How can one make their own salicylic acid shampoo?

A homemade recipe includes distilled water, liquid castile soap, white willow bark extract, and tea tree oil. Mix the ingredients, apply to wet hair and scalp, let it sit for a few minutes, then rinse with lukewarm water.

What other factors should be considered when treating hair loss besides using salicylic acid?

A multi-pronged approach is necessary for treating hair loss, including topical solutions, internal supplements, probiotics, micro-needling, and other physical treatments.

What is the role of DHT in hair loss and how does salicylic acid help?

DHT is one of the main causes of hair loss. Salicylic acid can help by removing the sebum that contains DHT from the scalp, reducing the risk of hair follicle miniaturization.