Pyrithione zinc is an ingredient found in many anti-dandruff shampoos. Your hair loss may be reduced by this type of shampoo if it is the result of a buildup of dead skin on your scalp, which can clog your follicles and inhibit hair growth. Furthermore, this ingredient can improve the health, body and appearance of your hair.
Scalp Problems and Hair Loss
Many problems that affect your scalp can also result in temporary hair loss, such as scalp psoriasis or seborrheic dermatitis. These conditions are characterized by thick, scaling and flaking skin on your scalp that may also redden and become itchy. Treatment typically includes the daily use of a medicated shampoo, like one that contains pyrithione zinc. Once you get your scalp condition under control, normal hair growth typically resumes.
Function of Pyrithione Zinc
Pyrithione zinc cleans the skin on your scalp as well as helps control odor, by ridding it of the microorganisms that can grow on your skin and lead to dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis and similar conditions. The ingredient helps prevent bacteria from returning and thereby keeps your scalp symptoms at bay. It can also improve the texture and look of your hair by helping it become fuller, shinier and softer, making it beneficial for healthy hair growth as well.
Zinc in Diet
If you do not get enough zinc in your diet, this can result in hair loss as well. Your body uses zinc to aid in the division of hair follicle cells, which is essential for hair growth. It is not uncommon for people to have a mild deficiency, but you can meet the recommended daily allowance for zinc by adding more red meat, poultry, oysters, cheese, shellfish, legumes and whole grains to your diet. The recommended daily allowance for zinc for is is 11 mg for adult me and 8 mg for adult women.
Additional Considerations
Hair loss can be caused by a variety of reasons, not just scalp conditions. You may also have a nutrient deficiency, scalp infection, alopecia or pattern hair loss. See a doctor to determine the cause of your hair loss before you attempt any at-home remedies, and ask which solutions are best for you. If you find that pyrithione zinc does not help you get your scalp condition under control, there are other active ingredients you can try, such as salicylic acid or tar, and your physician can also help you determine which is best.
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Writer Bio
Lynne Sheldon has over 12 years of dance experience, both in studios and performance groups. She is an avid runner and has studied several types of yoga. Sheldon now works as a freelance writer, editor and book reviewer. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in English and art history from Boston University and recently completed her Master of Fine Arts in writing from Pacific University.