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Head & Shoulders shampoo is widely recognized as an effective anti-dandruff shampoo. The active ingredient in the basic formula is zinc pyrithione. This substance helps reduce dandruff thanks to its antifungal and antibacterial properties. In addition to dandruff relief, the active ingredients in Head & Shoulders make the shampoo a possible treatment for several other conditions, including seborrheic dermatitis, ringworm and eczema. Be sure to consult with your doctor before using Head & Shoulders to treat any serious condition of the skin or scalp.

Ringworm of the Scalp or Beard

According to the University of Michigan, washing with a formulation of Head & Shoulders that contains selenium sulfide can prevent ringworm on the scalp or head. Ringworm is caused by a fungus, and selenium sulfide kills it and prevents it from spreading to other people. Only Head & Shoulders Intensive Treatment contains selenium, not the regular formula.

It should be used once a month, or as recommended by your doctor, if any member of your household has had ringworm recently. The treatment for ringworm should be implemented under the supervision of your doctor who may prescribe other medications besides shampoo.

Seborrheic Dermatitis

Seborrheic Dermatitis is a skin condition characterized by inflamed, scaly and itchy skin. It can cause hair loss when present in the scalp. It is associated with excessive yeast production on the skin, according to the American Hair Loss Association.

The active ingredient in Head & Shoulders, zinc pyrithione, helps kill the yeast and reduce the inflammation and itchiness associated with this condition. Head & Shoulders can be alternated with other anti-dandruff shampoos on different days to increase the effectiveness of the treatment. Antibiotics may be required to help control seborrheic dermatitis, so please check with your doctor before using Head & Shoulders as a dermatitis remedy.

Other Fungal Infections

The active ingredient in Head & Shoulders may treat other fungal infections of the skin, according to the health information website Medic8. Eczema, athlete’s foot, tinea, atypical dermatitis and vitiligo are among the conditions that respond to zinc pyrithione. It can also be used to control the streptococcus and staphyloccus bacteria. Care must be taken not to ingest Head & Shoulders, and it should be used under the recommendation of a physician before being used to treat serious skin conditions.