Combination shampoo and conditioners that act as a two-in-one may save time, but in the long run they can do more damage than good, according to Michelle Blaisure, Product and Technical Specialist and Certified Trichologist with Bosley Professional Strength. She explains, “I would never use the trendy co-shampoos or combo shampoo/conditioner as the scalp needs to be cleansed to remove build up and debris on a regular basis. These types of products leave behind residue that can cause build up, trapping oil and bacteria on the scalp that may lead to scalp problems.”
Scalp build up, while not immediately damaging, can cause hair loss if ignored over time. According to Healthline, “Scalp buildup can cause hair loss if left untreated and the dead skin, oil, and sweat clog your hair follicles. This can lead to an uncomfortable condition called folliculitis.”
Extreme build up on the scalp that transforms into folliculitis can cause inflammation and in severe cases, infection. In these instances, hair loss is possible, as well as scarring to the scalp. Because of this, it’s important to be aware of the products which could add to such buildup, like two-in-one shampoo and conditioner duos.
At the end of the day, you want the products in your hair lineup to actually benefit your locks from root to tip. Buildup is a huge concern for hair loss, so cutting corners and skimping on a separate shampoo and conditioner could be setting you back, forcing you to invest more in products in the future to undo the damage. If hair loss is already a concern of yours, take a close look at your roots to make sure your scalp is properly cleansed of build up, and make sure to choose products that preserve your locks, rather than put them at risk.