DISCLAIMER: This is not a recommendation to use Head & Shoulders shampoo as a part of your regular curly hair routine. As a curl specialist, I’ve always advocated for curly hair safe shampoos that nourish and protect textured hair. Head & Shoulders contains Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLS) and itchy m’s (methylchloroisothiazolinone + methylisothiazolinone) — both of which are known to cause irritation and dryness, especially for curly and sensitive scalps. But in rare, specific cases, I’ve found it useful.
So, here are the only three scenarios where I — HonestLiz — would ever reach for Head & Shoulders.
1. As a Face Wash for Acne
Sounds wild? Hear me out.
Head & Shoulders contains pyrithione zinc, an antifungal and antibacterial agent shown in some studies to calm acne, especially fungal acne or flare-ups caused by yeast on the skin. When used topically (never near your eyes!), the zinc can reduce inflammation and promote clearer skin.
How I use it: I apply a tiny amount as a face wash, once or twice a week, focusing on acne-prone areas like my neck and jawline. Then I rinse thoroughly and moisturize.
Caution: This trick is not for everyone — especially if you have dry, reactive, or sensitive skin. Do a patch test before trying, and always follow with barrier-friendly products.
2. To Fade Unwanted Hair Color (Fast)
Ever had a DIY toner go wrong? Or regretted that at-home box dye?
Head & Shoulders is surprisingly effective at stripping color from your hair when you need a quick fade. It’s commonly used to remove semi-permanent dyes or toners before your next coloring appointment.
How I use it:
- Shampoo twice, back to back, focusing on the colored areas.
- Leave the lather in for a few minutes before rinsing.
- Always follow with a deep conditioning mask, rinse and style as usual. Here’s how I treat my color treated hair.
Why it works: The high sulfate content lifts pigments from the hair shaft, making it one of the fastest ways to remove color — though it can also damage your curl pattern if you’re not careful.
3. Emergency Clarifying — When You Have Nothing Else
Let’s say you’ve only been using moisturizing or curl-friendly shampoos for months. Suddenly, your hair feels limp, greasy, or flat. You’ve got buildup and no proper clarifying shampoo on hand.
Head & Shoulders can act as a reset. Are head and shoulders good for frizzy hair?
But ONLY IF:
- You follow up with a 20-minute deep treatment
- You choose a protein or moisture mask based on your hair needs
- You don’t make it a habit
Are head and shoulders good for curly hair?
This method is especially useful for beginners in the curly hair journey who haven’t yet discovered SLS-free clarifying shampoos.
But Wait… Aren’t There Other Reasons People Use It?
From my research, here are a few additional reasons the internet praises Head & Shoulders — but I personally don’t recommend them:
- Dandruff treatment: Can I use dandruff shampoo on curly hair? While pyrithione zinc can reduce flakes, the shampoo’s harsh base often worsens irritation long-term.
- Seborrheic dermatitis: Some dermatologists suggest it, but gentler, prescription options exist.
- Back acne or chest breakouts: Some people use it on their body acne — same zinc principle applies, but again, it’s very drying.
These claims are common online but should be treated with caution. Especially for curly-haired individuals, the long-term damage outweighs any quick-fix benefit unless used very sparingly.
Final Thoughts from HonestLiz
Head & Shoulders has a place in my emergency kit — but it’s not a staple. Is it the best anti dandruff shampoo for curly hair? Not exactly. It doesn’t respect the structure or needs of curly hair. The SLS base strips too much natural oil, and the itchy m’s can cause inflammation in sensitive scalps.
Use it if you must, but always follow up with a nourishing treatment. And if you’re just starting your curly journey, invest in better, curl-safe alternatives.
Need help figuring out what your hair actually needs? My Curly Hair Product Guide and 1:1 Consultations are designed to get you clarity fast.
Let’s give your curls the respect they deserve 💛
