Why you should use salicylic acid shampoos

You spend days layering texturising spray, leave-in conditioner and dry shampoo into your hair, to the point where you’re left with a big build-up of product on your scalp and in your strands. And then what do you do? Just shampoo and condition as per usual.

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But that is where things go awry! You wouldn’t just leave clogged pores and breakouts to sort themselves out, you would implement an exfoliating mask or treatment into your routine for a deep and thorough clean. So instead of washing your hair like you usually would, you should substitute one of your regular shampoos for one that contains salicylic acid.

You’re probably more familiar with salicylic acid fighting acne and breakouts, but you may not have guessed the ingredient actually works in a similar way when used on your scalp. The same way it exfoliates and controls oil on your face, salicylic acid works to slough away excess skin cells and oil on your scalp – which is why it’s a common ingredient in dandruff shampoos. Using a shampoo with salicylic acid will leave your scalp refreshed, revitalised and clean, which in turn encourages healthy hair growth.

Not convinced that salicylic acid shampoos will work for you? Check out these three salicylic acid shampoos below…

Aveda Invati Advanced™ Exfoliating Shampoo

“The best thing about the shampoo is that my scalp has been kept dandruff free. Usually, my scalp is flaky but this shampoo has gotten rid of the flaky bits so I guess it is a great exfoliating shampoo. It gets rid of all the product buildup, sweat and oil from my scalp providing a clean healthy environment for new hair growth. I find it is quite concentrated and need only a little bit to cleanse my hair and scalp. Still loving the amazing herbal scent. It is so relaxing and creates a luxurious experience for me. I also love that this shampoo contains all the Ayurvedic goodies inside it. My mum always shares her amazing hair recipes with me which needs all these ingredients example Indian Gooseberry, turmeric ETC but I do not have time to make these at home. I am happy to buy a ready made bottle of goodness and use it in my hair. My hair looks healthier and it is so soft. Great that this shampoo does not make the ends of my hair dry and straw like. I would definitely continue to buy this shampoo, really enjoyed using it.” – beautyheaven member MoonlightSak16

Read more reviews for Aveda Invati Advanced™ Exfoliating Shampoo >

L’Oréal Professionnel Volumetry Shampoo

This volumising shampoo is formulated specifically for fine and flat hair. Salicylic acid works to purify roots and get rid of oily build-up on the scalp, while HydraLight adds shine, hydrates and conditions the hair fibre, with Intra-Cylaneª boosting volume.

Find out more about the L’Oréal Professionnel Volumetry Shampoo >

Kérastase Paris Bain Divalent

“This is an excellent shampoo for those who struggle with the dilemma of oily roots and dry ends. I have no idea how this manages to do it, but it gets rid of the excess oil at my roots and actually gives back rather than stripping my ends. I have difficult hair: fine hair, with waves/curls that go crazy under my ears (think Hermione in HP…the early, early years). So, I need to wash regularly to get rid of the grease from my roots, but doing so with some products just further dries out my ends so the waves go into a mess of frizz which I desperately try to tame with the straightener, leading to more damage… Given all this, I am prepared to shell out for my haircare, though I understand people who refuse to spend this amount…Though for me, it has been one of the products where the proof is in the pudding.” – beautyheaven member MrsRobinson

Read more reviews for Kérastase Paris Bain Divalent >

Do you use any salicylic acid shampoos? How do you detox your hair and scalp?

Main image: @reesewitherspoon