Shoppers with itchy, flaky scalps are praising an £11.99 medicated shampoo that has been a bathroom staple for decades. Polytar Scalp Shampoo is designed to treat stubborn dandruff and scalp conditions including psoriasis, eczema and seborrhoeic dermatitis, while helping relieve persistent itching and flaking.
Research highlights scalp concerns
Research carried out by Polytar found that more than a third of women (34%) experience a persistently itchy scalp, while 27% struggle with a dry or tight-feeling scalp, and a quarter (25%) report increased flaking. Men are also affected, with the brand's research finding that 37% experience dandruff and 34% suffer from persistent scalp itchiness.
The shampoo costs £11.99 for one bottle. It can also be bought in bulk to save money – three bottles cost £30.57 (a 15% saving on the full price of £35.97, £10.19 a bottle), and six bottles cost £53.95 (was £71.94, £8.99 a bottle).
How the formula works
The shampoo's anti-inflammatory properties help reduce redness and irritation, while its exfoliating and keratolytic action works to loosen and remove excess dead skin cells that can contribute to scaling and flaking. The formula can help soothe persistent itching while cleansing the hair and scalp.
To use it, shoppers should wet their hair thoroughly before applying enough shampoo to create a lather. The product should then be gently massaged into the scalp and left in contact with the skin for three to five minutes in total, before rinsing thoroughly and repeating the application.
Shopper reviews and alternatives
Polytar recommends using the shampoo once or twice a week, following the product instructions. Anyone whose symptoms persist or worsen should speak to their GP or pharmacist.
The shampoo has racked up high ratings from shoppers. One customer wrote in their review: “Been using this shampoo for 53 years and nothing else is as good for psoriasis I find.” Another added: “I used to use Polytar shampoo in my teens, which was a long time ago. So glad I have found it again as it is perfect for my hair.”
This person wrote: “Highly recommend. Been using it for a few weeks now and seen a massive difference. Hair is so soft and smooth. And most importantly, no more flaky scalp!” Some customers had slight reservations, with one commenting: “Only used once so far, no noticeable difference yet.”
Overall though, most people were pleased. This shopper wrote in their review: “Used many products for scalp psoriasis and this has been by far the best. Will carry on using it.”
