Shoppers battling itchy, flaky scalps are praising a £12 medicated shampoo that has been a bathroom staple for years. Polytar Scalp Shampoo (£11.99) is formulated to tackle stubborn dandruff and scalp conditions such as psoriasis, eczema and seborrhoeic dermatitis, while also providing relief from persistent itching and flaking.
Research highlights scalp issues
Research conducted by Polytar revealed that over a third of women (34%) suffer from a persistently itchy scalp, while 27% grapple with a dry or tight-feeling scalp, and a quarter (25%) report increased flaking. Men aren't immune either, with the brand's research showing that 37% experience dandruff and 34% endure persistent scalp itchiness.
For those seeking an affordable treatment solution rather than merely masking visible flakes, the shampoo is priced at £11.99 per bottle. It can also be purchased in bulk for additional savings - three bottles cost £30.57 (a 15% saving on its full price of £35.97, or £10.19 per bottle), and six bottles are priced at £53.95 (down from £71.94, or £8.99 per bottle).
How the shampoo works
The shampoo's anti-inflammatory properties help to alleviate redness and irritation, while its exfoliating and keratolytic action works to loosen and remove excess dead skin cells that can lead to scaling and flaking.
The formula can help ease persistent itching while cleansing both hair and scalp, making it ideal for those battling stubborn symptoms that regular shampoos simply can't tackle. To use it, customers should thoroughly wet their hair before applying sufficient shampoo to work up a lather, as reported by Mirror.
The product should then be gently worked into the scalp and left on the skin for a total of three to five minutes, before rinsing completely and repeating the process. Polytar advises using the shampoo once or twice weekly, adhering to the product guidelines. Anyone whose symptoms continue or deteriorate should consult their GP or pharmacist.
Alternative dandruff shampoos
An alternative choice is Oilatrum Soothing Scalp Shampoo - 100ml for £12.99 from Boots. This particular formula contains an anti-fungal ingredient to combat dandruff, and can deliver 'soothing relief' for irritated, flaky scalps.
Amazon stocks Biolage Scalp Sync Clarifying Shampoo for £19.98, reduced from £27.50. It removes excess oil and impurities from roots through to tips, and is claimed to restore natural moisture balance without damaging hair fibres.
Customer reviews
Yet the Polytar Scalp Shampoo has earned glowing reviews from customers. One shopper commented: "Been using this shampoo for 53 years and nothing else is as good for psoriasis I find."
Another said: "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."
One satisfied customer penned: "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!"
However, some customers had minor reservations, with one remarking: "Only used once so far, no noticeable difference yet."
Despite this, the majority of users were delighted. One shopper shared in their review: "Used many products for scalp psoriasis, and this has been by far the best. Will carry on using it."
The Polytar Scalp Shampoo is priced at £11.99.
