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does shikakai make hair dry
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Skin & Hair Concerns
Question #24284
45 days ago
85

does shikakai make hair dry - #24284

Sara

I am really worried about my hair lately, I’ve been using shikakai like everyone suggests for hair growth and shine, but I’m not so sure anymore. I’ve been using it for it like 3 weeks now, but it seems like my hair is getting quite dry. I thought shikakai is supposed to be good for your hair, but does shikakai make hair dry? I mean, my scalp doesn't feel dry or anything weird, just my hair ends feel like straw. I even tried mixing it with some oils thinking it might help, but the dry feeling is still there. I found this article online that says some people experience dry hair after using shikakai, but I was like, doesn’t shikakai have moisturizing properties? I don’t get it. I also noticed that after washing, my hair looks really dull unlike before when I used my regular shampoo! Should I stop using shikakai altogether or are there specific ways to use it that, like, prevent my hair from drying out? Any advice would really be appreciated!

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Doctors' responses

While shikakai is generally thought to be beneficial for hair due to its cleansing and conditioning properties, it can indeed cause dryness for some people. Shikakai is a natural plant-based powder that has traditionally been used as a hair cleanser, and it’s known to help with scalp health and softness. However, it doesn’t lather like synthetic shampoos, and its natural cleansing agents can sometimes strip away too much oil for certain hair types, leaving your hair feeling dry, especially on the ends. This can be particularly true if your hair is already on the dry side or if it has been chemically treated or heat-styled frequently. To counteract this dryness, consider adjusting how you use shikakai. Mixing it with oils, as you’ve tried, is a good start, but you might need to experiment with different types of oils or the ratios. Coconut, olive, or argan oil could be beneficial. Alternatively, you can use it less frequently, say once a week, and see if there’s an improvement. During washes, try applying some conditioner or a leave-in treatment after using shikakai to help seal moisture into your hair. If the dryness persists, consider alternating with your regular shampoo, or transitioning back if shikakai doesn’t suit your hair type despite adjustments. Additionally, watch for environmental factors like exposure to sun, wind, or swimming, which may exacerbate dryness. If you’re seeing hair changes like excessive breakage, you might also benefit from consulting a dermatologist or a trichologist to explore other causes or treatments. Remember that hair and scalp balance can vary greatly, and what works for many might not work for all.

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