Shampoo Guide: What to Check

Hair loss is a common condition that affects individuals across various age groups and is often linked to factors such as aging, sleep deprivation, stress, hormonal imbalances, and underlying medical disorders.

Hair cosmetics play a key role in improving patient adherence to alopecia and scalp treatments. Dermatologists’ familiarity with hair care products, their proper use, and potential side effects enables tailored treatment approaches that consider different hair types and ethnic backgrounds.

Shampoos are formulated primarily to cleanse the scalp and hair. Most contain a combination of 10 to 30 ingredients, including surfactants (cleansing agents), conditioning components, pH stabilizers, fragrances, and various other additives.

Defining a Strong Hair

Strong hair is typically long, thick, shiny, and easy to manage. Manageable hair feels soft and can be easily combed or styled by hand.

Common shampoo allergens

• Cocamidopropyl betaine
• Methylchloroisothiazolinone
• Formaldehyde-releasing preservatives
• Propylene glycol
• Vitamin E (tocopherol)
• Parabens
• Benzophenones

Containing caffeine & adenosine

Caffeine has been shown to support hair growth by extending the growth phase of hair follicles, reversing testosterone-related hair loss, and promoting the activity of keratinocytes in the skin.

Adenosine promotes hair growth by increasing levels of fibroblast growth factor-7 (FGF-7). A recent clinical study found that using a scalp treatment with adenosine led to thicker hair and reduced hair loss, with no reported side effects during the trial.

A shampoo formulated with 0.4% caffeine and 0.2% adenosine demonstrated effectiveness in increasing hair density after three months of use, compared with baseline measurements.

After Hair Transplant

Following a hair transplant, the scalp is particularly sensitive and requires gentle care to prevent graft displacement and to support optimal healing and surgical outcomes. It is important to avoid regular shampoos that contain potentially irritating ingredients. Patients should consult their doctor for recommendations on safe, gentle shampoos. Baby shampoos are frequently advised because of their mild formulations. Controlled, gentle washing helps remove scabs while protecting delicate hair follicles.

At Ulusan Clinic, our doctors provide personalized guidance on post-transplant care, including recommending vitamins to support hair growth and detailed instructions on proper hair washing techniques.

References

1.Chen D, Yu F, Wang C, et al. Anti-hair loss effect of a shampoo containing caffeine and adenosine. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2024;23(9):2927-2933. doi:10.1111/jocd.16347

2.Dias MFRG, Loures AF, Ekelem C. Hair Cosmetics for the Hair Loss Patient. Indian J Plast Surg. 2021;54(4):507-513. Published 2021 Dec 27. doi:10.1055/s-0041-1739241

3.Gavazzoni Dias MF. Hair cosmetics: an overview. Int J Trichology. 2015;7(1):2-15. doi:10.4103/0974-7753.153450

4.Gupta AK, Talukder M, Bamimore MA. Natural products for male androgenetic alopecia. Dermatol Ther. 2022;35(4):e15323. doi:10.1111/dth.15323

5.Schweiger D, Schoelermann AM, Filbry A, Hamann T, Moser C, Rippke F. Highly efficient and compatible shampoo for use after hair transplant. Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol. 2015;8:355-360. Published 2015 Jul 22. doi:10.2147/CCID.S86015

6.Völker JM, Koch N, Becker M, Klenk A. Caffeine and Its Pharmacological Benefits in the Management of Androgenetic Alopecia: A Review. Skin Pharmacol Physiol. 2020;33(3):93-109. doi:10.1159/000508228