I cured my dry scalp and dandruff using this effective sulfate-free shampoo.

2026-01-21 Shampoo reviews Categroy：Men's Views：81

This shampoo ended my long dandruff battle. It's sulfate-free, smells amazing, feels refreshing, and I use it weekly.

This is a review from Amazon.com about product:

Kick Mens Shampoo - Peppermint & Tea Tree for Oil Control - Sulfate-Free, Refreshing Formula - Anti-Dandruff and Scalp Soothing - Shampoo for Oily Hair - Cruelty-Free - 17oz

I Conquered Dandruff with Sulfate-Free Shampoo

Okay so my problem with a dry scalp goes back to highschool (about a decade) I used to have really oily hair which eventually led to bad dandruff. After years of trying different shampoos (prescription strength, head and shoulders, tea tree, baking soda) I ultimately quit shampooing all together because NOTHING was working. I used dry shampoo to supplement the greasy, but after about 6 months my hair stopped being greasy, and my dandruff went away (so I thought). It comes back seasonally now, normally when it starts getting hot, or when it starts getting cold. I sort of just dealt with it and started shampooing again every couple of months when i needed it. After going on a cruise ship (which uses tons of water softeners) I realized having soft water WORKS BETTER THAN ANYTHING IVE EVER USED TO TREAT DANDRUFF. I dont want to spend the money on a water softener just yet so I bought this shampoo after reading the reviews. I went from shampooing once a month or so to shampooing with kick once per sunday. I'm not joking when I say that a few days after one shampoo, my horribly peeling scalp went back to normal. Dandruff gone. I normally dont write reviews but I LOVE this product. Smells great, burns good, sulfate and bs free. WOW. I would definitely reccomend one of those round plastic scalp massager things when shampooing to help get rid of dead skin and spread the poo nicely. Plus it feels great too. Anyways, buy this stuff you wont regret it.

Shampoo Basics & Tips

Dry Scalp Explained

Dry scalp is a condition where the scalp lacks sufficient moisture, leading to flakiness, itching, and sometimes dandruff. It can be caused by factors like cold or dry weather, harsh hair products, overwashing, or underlying skin conditions such as eczema or psoriasis. Unlike dandruff, which is often linked to excess oil, dry scalp results from dehydration. Symptoms include small, white flakes and tightness. To manage it, use gentle, moisturizing shampoos and avoid hot water showers.

Understanding Dandruff

Dandruff is a common scalp disorder characterized by the shedding of dead skin cells in visible white or yellow flakes. It is frequently associated with an overgrowth of a yeast-like fungus called Malassezia, which feeds on scalp oils and causes irritation. Other causes include oily scalp, sensitivity to hair products, stress, or hormonal changes. Dandruff can lead to itching and social discomfort. Treatment often involves antifungal shampoos containing ingredients like zinc pyrithione or ketoconazole.

Types of Shampoos for Dandruff

Various shampoos are designed to combat dandruff: prescription-strength options may include ketoconazole or selenium sulfide to target fungal infections; over-the-counter brands like Head and Shoulders use zinc pyrithione for its antifungal and antibacterial properties; tea tree oil shampoos offer natural antifungal benefits; and baking soda acts as an exfoliant but can be too abrasive for sensitive skin. It's essential to choose based on your scalp type and severity of symptoms.

Benefits of Sulfate-Free Shampoos

Sulfates are surfactants like sodium lauryl sulfate that create lather but can strip natural oils from the scalp and hair, leading to dryness, irritation, and color fading. Sulfate-free shampoos use milder cleansers, such as decyl glucoside, which preserve moisture, reduce inflammation, and are ideal for dry, sensitive, or color-treated hair. They help maintain a healthy scalp barrier, preventing dandruff flare-ups and promoting overall hair health.

Understanding Soft Water

Soft water has low concentrations of minerals like calcium and magnesium, unlike hard water, which can leave residue on hair and skin. Soft water allows shampoos to lather more effectively, rinse cleanly, and reduce buildup that exacerbates dandruff. It helps maintain scalp hydration and can improve the efficacy of hair care products. While water softeners are an option, using shampoos formulated for hard water areas can mimic these benefits.

Scalp Massagers and Their Benefits

Scalp massagers, often made of silicone or plastic, are tools used during shampooing to exfoliate dead skin, improve blood circulation, and distribute products evenly. They can help loosen flakes, reduce dandruff, and enhance the penetration of active ingredients. Regular use may also relieve stress and promote hair growth by stimulating follicles. For best results, use gentle circular motions to avoid irritation.

Common Hair Care Mistakes

Many people make errors that worsen scalp issues: overwashing strips natural oils, causing dryness; underwashing leads to oil and product buildup; using hot water dehydrates the scalp; and applying harsh chemicals like alcohol-based products increases irritation. To maintain a healthy scalp, wash hair 2-3 times weekly with lukewarm water, choose pH-balanced products, and incorporate a balanced diet rich in vitamins and omega-3s.

FAQs About Dandruff and Scalp Care

Q: How often should I shampoo if I have dandruff? A: It depends on your scalp type; typically, 2-3 times a week with a medicated shampoo is recommended. Q: Can diet affect dandruff? A: Yes, a diet low in zinc, B vitamins, or healthy fats can contribute; include foods like nuts, fish, and leafy greens. Q: Are natural remedies effective? A: Some, like apple cider vinegar rinses, may help balance pH, but consult a dermatologist for persistent issues. Q: What's the difference between dry scalp and dandruff? A: Dry scalp produces small, white flakes due to lack of moisture, while dandruff flakes are larger and often oily from fungal causes.