No, Dettol soap is not good for hair.
Dettol and Hair: Why It's Not Recommended
Dettol is primarily an antiseptic and disinfectant, designed to kill germs on the skin. It's not formulated for hair care and using it can be detrimental to your hair's health. Several sources confirm this:
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Disrupts Natural pH: The natural pH of your scalp is between 4.5 and 5.5. Using Dettol, which is highly alkaline, significantly disrupts this balance, leading to potential damage and irritation. ([Reference 1, Reference 2, Reference 6])
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Harmful Effects: Dettol can be a mild skin irritant and may trigger allergic reactions. Frequent use on your scalp and hair can cause dryness, breakage, and other problems. ([Reference 1, Reference 2])
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Outdated Dandruff Treatment: While some may have used it to treat dandruff in the past, Dettol is not an effective or recommended treatment. Modern, specialized dandruff shampoos are far better options. ([Reference 3])
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Not a Hair Care Product: Dettol is explicitly designed for disinfecting and killing germs. Its ingredients aren't suitable for the delicate balance needed for healthy hair and scalp. ([Reference 4, Reference 7, Reference 8])
Several anecdotal accounts online describe negative experiences using Dettol on hair, highlighting hair thinning and other issues. ([Reference 6, Reference 8]) However, it's crucial to rely on expert advice and not anecdotal evidence. A trichologist or dermatologist should be consulted for any scalp or hair issues. ([Reference 5])
In summary, while some sources might suggest using Dettol for specific issues like dandruff or lice, the consensus is overwhelmingly against it. Using Dettol on your hair regularly is likely to cause more harm than good. Stick to hair care products formulated for healthy hair and scalp.
