shoplmart's Full Review: Nizoral Anti Dandruff Shampoo, 4 oz
Ever since I was a teen I have had a problem with both dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis. Though I wouldn't categorize my case of dermatitis or dandruff as severe, my condition can still be very embarrassing, especially when socializing or meeting a person for the very first time.
From treating my dandruff/dermatitis with products from drug stores i.e., Neutrogena T-Gel and Pantene Pro V Anti-Dandruff to topical tar treatments from my dermatologist, nothing in the past had worked to my satisfaction. It wasn't until I picked up a bottle of Nizoral 1% Anti-dandruff Shampoo that I found that there was actually a shampoo that could control my condition without a prescription. Note: If you want to read my experience with Nizoral 2% scroll to the bottom of the review.
The Product:
Nizoral is an anti-dandruff shampoo that uses a patented ingredient known as ketoconaczole 1% (or you can get Nizoral 2% with a prescription) to help control flaking, itching, scaling, etc., on the scalp/skin. According to a few publications, studies have suggested that Nizoral A-D 1% and Nizoral 2% may also help re-grow hair in both men and women by reducing the amount dihydrotestosterone AKA DHT on the scalp. The Nizoral company, however, does not make this claim. Nizoral A-D Ketoconazole 1% can be purchased in a 4 oz. plastic bottle and usually lasts me about 3 months when using twice per week on my hair, scalp, and face. One should note that the makers of Nizoral recommend that you use this product twice every week for the first four weeks of treatment or until your dandruff is cured, then once every week thereafter to prevent dandruff.
Product claims:
Unfortunately the makers of Nizoral 1-2% (MCNEIL-PPC, INC.) do not make very many claims about how well this product works or what this product can also be used for other than to treat dandruff. Nizoral claims that this product does control flaking, itching, dandruff, etc., however it fails to mention many of the attributes associated with its main ingredient; ketoconazole. Ketoconazole works by controlling a fungi known as Pityrosporum Ovale. By controlling this fungi, Nizoral can help heal and prevent a wide array of skin disorders, i.e., eczema, dermatitis, dandruff, and it has been proven in some clinical trials that it can even help thicken and re-grow hair on the scalp.
My Experience:
How I use this product: After initially using Nizoral 2-3 times per week for four weeks, I now use Nizoral AD 1% shampoo a maximum of 2 times each week to prevent future problems with dandruff. I also use this product on my face approximately one time each week to help ease my symptoms of seborrheic dermatitis. In conjunction with Nizoral A-D 1%. I also use Nizoral conditioner (non medicated) on my scalp which works great by making my hair even more manageable.
Using Nizoral AD 1% is absolutely painless. Since you only have to use a small amount twice per week, Nizoral 1% doesn't interfere with your overall routine. To explain, you can use Nizoral on Monday and Thursday and then your regular shampoo and conditioner the rest of the days in the week; simple. If you are one that doesn't like to be bound to using only your dandruff shampoo, Nizoral would make a great addition to your hair care routine.
The smell of medicated anti-dandruff shampoos is a fear amongst most men and women who suffer from dandruff. Though you probably won't find Nizoral A-D to smell like your favorite Dolce & Gabbana fragrance, it's scent is much more pleasant than most anti-dandruff products on the market. The smell is both light and pleasant and doesn't smell like medicine whatsoever.
Another excellent attribute offered from this product is that it lathers excellently and makes my hair feel fresh and clean after each wash. Although a small amount of this product is left behind to help prevent dandruff throughout the week, it doesn't feel like it; hair remains soft, clean feeling, and very easy to work with.
So, does it work? It only took one week of treatment before I noticed a huge improvement with my dandruff. Within the very first week of treatment I experienced a huge reduction in the amount of flakes on my shoulders and even found that my hair felt thicker and healthier. I have used Nizoral A-D 1% for about 6 months now and have noticed a massive improvement in the way my hair and scalp look and feel. I no longer have noticeable dandruff and the quality of my skin has also improved from the ill effects of seborrheic dermatitis. Unlike most anti-dandruff shampoos, Nizoral has effectively treated my dandruff with absolutely no harsh side effects.
Prices on Nizoral AD 1% are usually in the $10-$13 range for the 4 oz. bottle. This product can be purchased at most drug stores or large discount stores. If you are looking for an even better value, I highly suggest visiting dermadoctor.com where a 7 oz. bottle can be had for only $15.00.
Final Thoughts:
Though the initial price of this product may be a bit steep, it is well worth the price in the long run. Since you only have to use this product twice each week, it's actually cheaper to use Nizoral than it would be to use a less effective anti-dandruff shampoo that you would have to use everyday. I highly recommend Nizoral AD 1 % to anyone who is suffering from dandruff or seborrheic dermatitis.
Nizoral 2%: I decided to switch to Nizoral 2% after a visit to the dermatologist. Since the Nizoral 2% shampoo only costs about 5 dollars more than the 1% (via prescription only) I thought it would be a better deal. I have had the same great results with Nizoral 2% but I don't think it prevents dandruff any better than the 1% so I have switched back to the 1%. Also, Nizoral 2% did cause some scalp irritation during the first few weeks of use.
Looking for an excellent shampoo to use when you are not using Nizoral? Check out my review on Paul Mitchell
Epinions.com periodically updates pricing and product information from third-party sources, so some information may be slightly out-of-date. You should confirm all information before relying on it.
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