It’s every woman’s dream to have that clean, shiny healthy scalp, one that doesn’t itch or bring out those annoying white flakes. But the good news is with the right shampoo – that has the key ingredients needed for a healthy scalp, you can say goodbye to dandruff forever.

What causes dandruff?

Dandruff is a common condition that causes the skin on the scalp to flake. Anyone can have dandruff, it’s nothing to be ashamed of. It can happen for many reasons. It could be caused by build up of dead skin cells, irritated oily skin, dry skin, sensitivity to some hair products, fungal infections like Malassezia, or other skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis. Sometimes it could be as a result of the weather condition, like harmattan or cold seasons where dryness is usually common.

Shampoos that are proven to be effective

These are some homegrown shampoos that can help stop dry flaky skin and give your scalp that healthy shine.

Natural Nigerian Black Soap Dandruff Shampoo

Made with the typical Nigerian black soap, salicylic acid, nettle, and red acalypha—this formula gently cleanses, calms itchiness and fights flakes naturally without leaving your scalp dry.

Toke Cosmetics Anti-Dandruff Shampoo (Peppermint & Black Soap)
It’s infused with peppermint oil and black soap to soothe your scalp and prevent dandruff, it’s safe for both natural and permed hair.

Slique Mega Growth Anti-Dandruff Shampoo

Affordable and easy to find in any beauty store, this is a medicated shampoo that helps stop flakes while promoting hair growth at the same time.

Sulfur 8 Medicated Anti-Dandruff Shampoo (Aqua Blue)
This is available in most beauty pharmacies. The formulas are created to specifically tackle dandruff with ingredients like sulfur and zinc pyrithione.

Key Ingredients to Look For

When shopping for a shampoo that helps with dandruff, always check the ingredients before purchasing. These are some ingredients that you need to look out for:

• Tea Tree Oil: This is a natural oil that contains antibacterial and antifungal properties. It also leaves a refreshing tingle on your scalp.

• Salicylic Acid: It gently exfoliates your  scalp by decreasing the build up of dead skin cells.

• Zinc Pyrithione: This is a popular ingredient for fighting dandruff. It works by reducing the growth of fungi specifically Malassezia which is responsible for dandruff.

• Menthol: It’s a natural compound gotten from peppermint oil, it helps to soothe and reduce itching.
• Ketoconazole: A strong antifungal ingredient found in some medicated shampoos. It inhibits the growth of fungus.

Final Thoughts

Sometimes our poor habits or the way we treat our hair can cause dandruff, so after purchasing the right shampoo, make sure you indulge in a healthy hair routine and be consistent-your scalp will thank you. A clean scalp leads to a healthy hair. Keep your scalp happy, and your hair will follow.

It’s every girl’s dream to have long, thick shiny hair, but for many of us, the journey to achieving thick strands often feels overwhelming. Between stress, tight hairstyles, heat damage, and poor nutrition, our hair takes a whole lot. So when you hear about hair supplements that promise “longer, thicker, and healthier hair in weeks,” it’s normal to wonder… do they actually work?

Let’s break it down.

What Are Hair Supplements, Really?

Hair supplements are vitamins usually in capsules or gummy that claim to boost hair growth, reduce breakage, and make your strands look fuller. Most of them contain ingredients like biotin, collagen, zinc, folic acid, nutrients that are known to support healthy hair.

But here’s the thing: They work from the inside out. So instead of targeting your hair, they improve your overall health, and that shows up in your hair, skin, and nails.

So The main question is, Do They Work?

Yes, they do but not like magic.

If your hair issues are caused by internal factors like nutritional deficiencies, stress, or hormonal imbalances, supplements can definitely help. However, if your hair problems are due to external factors like poor hair care practices, heat damage, constant tight braids, or poor-quality hair products, supplements alone won’t fix that.

  Think of supplements as a fertilizer, not a hair-making machine. They enhance a healthy routine, not replace it.

Things to consider before purchasing a hair supplement

• Hair structure and concerns – Identify your specific goals and know your hair type.

• Research on the ingredients – look for key ingredients like biotin, iron, zinc, vitamin D,E and B, which are known to support hair growth.

• Not all supplements are created equal – Some are packed with fillers and unnecessary ingredients. Always check the label and go for trusted brands.

. Consult with professionals – Discuss your hair concerns with a dermatologist to know if  a supplement is necessary and to address any hair conditions that are contributing to hair problems

Nigerian Hair Supplement Brands to Try

Support homegrown brands that know your hair struggles:

• Hairfinity Nigeria – Infused with biotin, collagen, and silica, it’s loved by many for reducing shedding.

• Neo Hair Boost – A locally produced option designed for Afro-textured hair.

• NutriHair by Vienne – Targets hair thinning, especially for women dealing with postpartum or stress-related shedding.

Final Thoughts

Hair supplements do work, but only when paired with good haircare habits, consistency, and a healthy lifestyle. Think of them as part of the bigger picture, not the whole solution. Your hair grows from your roots, but it thrives through your routine.

  Tried any hair supplements before? Share your experience in the comments, we’re all trying to grow together!

Hair is often considered a woman’s crown, and many take pride in keeping it long, healthy, and free from dandruff or scalp issues.

For many women, healthy hair is dream worth pursuing. With the right habit and care, that dream is within reach.

While we can’t control every aspect of hair growth, there are effective ways to support healthier, fuller hair.

Follow these strategies for faster, healthier hair growth:

Use Scalp Friendly Products 

Your scalp is highly sensitive and plays a crucial role in supplying nutrients to your hair follicles. Look for products that contain tea tree oil, aloe vera or apple cider vinegar. Choose ingredients that support hair health.

Indulge in Hair Massage

Massaging your scalp stimulates blood flow to the hair follicles, which encourages growth.

Avoid Tight Hairstyles

Tight hairstyles can cause scalp tension, breakage, and even hinder healthy hair growth. Choose hairstyles with your hair health in mind.

Eat a Balanced Diet

Eat foods rich in vitamins, protein, and iron to support hair growth. Include foods like egg, spinach, fish, and sweet potatoes in your diet.

Stay Hydrated 

Staying hydrated by drinking enough water—and spritzing your hair with water regularly—helps maintain strength and elasticity.

Limit Heating Tools

Tools like straighteners, dryer, curling irons can damage your hair and cause breakages. Limit how often you use heat styling tools. If you must use heat, always apply a heat protectant beforehand.

Don’t Overuse Hair Dye

Hair Dye can negatively affect hair growth by weakening your strands and reducing thickness. Research shows that permanent hair dyes can remove the natural fatty acids that protect your hair.

Protect Your Hair During Bedtime 

Get 7-9 hours per sleep nightly. Inadequate sleep can reduce melatonin levels—a hormone essential for healthy hair growth. Wear silk or satin bonnet to help prevent friction and reduce tangling.

Use Essential Oils

Use essential oils like rosemary, lavender, tea tree, or peppermint to nourish your scalp and support healthy hair growth.

Trim Off Rough Edges

Trimming the edges helps to prevent split ends that can lead to further damage. It also improves the appearance of your hair. Trims can refresh hair and make it healthier. It helps to maintain hair health.

Manage Stress 

High stress levels can cause the hair to enter a resting phase, leading to loss of hair. Managing stress improves circulation, which can support healthy hair growth.

When you stay consistent with the right strategies, healthy hair growth will follow.