As a teenager I suffered from dandruff and because of a lack of other products had to use the dandruff sufferer's standard shampoo range, 'Head and Shoulders'. I hadn't had any problems for years until last month when I had that embarrassing moment of looking down at my black t-shirt, seeing it dusted with a fine snow and having to nonchalantly brush my shoulders down! Nowadays the choice of anti-dandruff products is much better though and what used to seem like medical shampoos now have a cosmetic appeal.

I was happy to discover that Loreal Paris Elvive had an anti-dandruff range of shampoos. I am a regular user of a couple of other shampoos and conditioners in their range and love the results they produce as well as the reasonable price. These particular shampoos comes in vivid blue bottles. There are several to choose from made especially for specific hair types. Included are shampoos for: Normal to Greasy Hair; Dry Hair; Greasy Hair; Intensive 2-in-1; Intensive Fresh Menthol; Active Selenium; Normal 2-in-1. I have the 400ml size for normal to greasy hair and scalp.

The bottle provides a lot of information about the shampoo. it is actually inspired by skincare research and is specifically aimed at treating the skin on the scalp. The brand have trademarked two special active ingredients. The first is Actirox which helps wash away flakes and stop them re-appearing. The second is Equaderm, which combined with a 'mild cleansing agent' is able to 'calm and soothe' the head of hair. These scientific blurbs never really impress me, I have to be honest. I think the proof is in the results.

The shampoo is an alien blue colour and has a glossy, gloopy appearance. I need a large two fifty pence pieces sized dollop for my long hair. When I rub any shampoo into my hair I begin at the roots and let the bubbles rub down the shafts. I find this shampoo does not lather up so well. It almost feels heavy and oily and the lack of bubbles means it is difficult to target all of my hair. Despite a good scrub and adding more shampoo the lather is just barely existent. It is not a luxurious experience using this shampoo!

The fragrance of the shampoo is very mild too. It has a soft, fruity smell which doesn't seem to last beyond the rinsing stage. The hair is easy to rinse because of the lack of lather. As for sensations on the scalp, the shampoo feels mild and cool.

When I towel dry my hair after using this shampoo I find the condition of the wet hair to be remarkably strong and tangle free. Normally I have to use a lot of serum or 'repair' gel to be able to comb through my damp hair. This shampoo seems to make my damp hair almost as manageable as my dry hair. That's one thing I'm very impressed by. When my hair is dry it looks good - shiny and strong and feels nice and easy to manage.

This shampoo is suitable for frequent use. I have used it once or twice a week for a few weeks and have found that it has quickly eliminated my dandruff.

I would say that this shampoo has good points and bad points. As an anti-dandruff agent it does the job. As a cosmetic shampoo it does not provide any luxury or lovely washing experience. It is infact like using some kind of treatment tonic rather than a shampoo. A richer lather, making it easier to use, and a more dramatic fragrance would improve this.

See:

http://www.lorealantidandruff.com

for more information.