Is charcoal shampoo right for your hair?

Activated charcoal is turning up more and more in shampoos and hair masks. In HLN, Dr Griet Voet and a beauty editor discuss who it makes sense for.

Charcoal binds sebum and impurities, which according to Dr Voet makes it especially useful for hair that gets greasy quickly, and it may also be worth trying for dandruff or an itchy scalp. People with fine hair may also get more volume from it.

Because it cleanses strongly, it is best not to use such a product more than once a week: otherwise the scalp can become irritated or actually start producing more sebum. For a dry or eczema-prone scalp, Dr Voet advises against charcoal and recommends choosing a mild, nourishing shampoo instead.

• Charcoal shampoo is mainly suited to hair that gets greasy quickly.

• Use it no more than once a week to avoid drying out and extra sebum production.

• If you have a dry or eczema-prone scalp, choose a mild, nourishing shampoo.