Benefits of Arm & Hammer Shampoo - Baking Soda Cleansing for Hair

Arm & Hammer Shampoo - Benefits and Best Products

Arm & Hammer is a well-known brand that makes a variety of baking soda-based household products. They also have a line of shampoos and hair care items that leverage the cleansing and deodorizing power of baking soda. Arm & Hammer shampoos can have benefits for certain hair types and issues. Here is an overview of the key ingredients in Arm & Hammer shampoos, their purported benefits, and some of their top shampoo products.

Key Ingredients in Arm & Hammer Shampoos

Most Arm & Hammer shampoos contain the following key ingredients:

• Baking Soda - A mild abrasive that helps remove dirt, oil, and residue from the hair and scalp. Helps cleanse away dandruff flakes.
• Peroxide - Assists baking soda in generating a gentle cleansing lather and removing buildup.
• Panthenol - B-vitamin that conditions and strengthens hair, improves elasticity.
• Aloe Vera - Soothes the scalp, adds moisture, and conditions hair.
• Protein - Fortifies and repairs damage to strengthen hair strands.

The Benefits of Baking Soda-Based Shampoos

There are several purported benefits associated with the baking soda ingredient used in Arm & Hammer shampoos:

• Removes residue, oil, and dirt from hair and scalp
• Gently exfoliates to lift away dandruff flakes
• Helps remove product buildup from hair styling products
• Deodorizes to refresh hair and eliminate odors
• Balances pH levels of the hair and scalp
• Softens the hair through mild abrading action

The gritty texture of baking soda allows Arm & Hammer shampoos to deep cleanse the hair and scalp without harsh detergents. Those with dandruff, odor, and product buildup may find these shampoos clarify well.

Who May Benefit From Using Arm & Hammer Shampoos

Arm & Hammer baking soda shampoos can be beneficial for people with certain hair types and needs:

• Oily Hair - Absorbs excess oils and cleanses buildup from scalp
• Dandruff - Exfoliates and lifts away flaky, itchy dandruff
• Thin/Fine Hair - Gently removes residue without stripping hair
• Color Treated Hair - Thoroughly cleanses while preserving color
• Product Buildup - Clarifies away styling product accumulation

The baking soda and peroxide in these shampoos produce a frothy lather to eliminate dirt and oils without overly drying the hair and scalp. However, some hair types may find them overly abrasive with frequent use.

Best Arm & Hammer Shampoo Products

Here are some of Arm & Hammer's top shampoo products tailored to different hair needs:

1. Arm & Hammer Essentials Dandruff Shampoo

This shampoo uses baking soda to gently scrub away flaky dandruff and peroxide to amplify the formula's cleansing action. Zinc pyrithione helps relieve scalp itching and irritation associated with dandruff. It is free of parabens, phthalates, and dyes.

2. Arm & Hammer Clarifying Shampoo

The clarifying shampoo is specially designed to remove residue and buildup from styling products like hairspray, mousse and gel. Baking soda deeply cleanses while leaving hair soft. It is safe for color treated hair and ideal for periodic use to refresh hair.

3. Arm & Hammer Apple Cider Vinegar Clarifying Shampoo

Apple cider vinegar complements the clarifying power of baking soda to remove dirt, oils and styling product accumulation without stripping hair. This formula adds moisture and leaves hair silky and clean.

4. Arm & Hammer Funk Away Body Wash & Shampoo

Containing baking soda, zinc technology, and a fresh scent, this 2-in-1 formula treats funky smelling hair and skin. It also eliminates odor-causing bacteria to keep you smelling your best.

5. Arm & Hammer Complete Care Shampoo & Conditioner

Infused with vitamin E, olive oil, and aloe, this shampoo and conditioner duo cleans gently while replenishing moisture and softness. It leaves all hair types clean and manageable.

How to Use Arm & Hammer Shampoo for Best Results

To optimize the performance of Arm & Hammer baking soda shampoos, here are some tips for use:

Shampoo in Sections

Lather up in sections to thoroughly distribute the shampoo and enable it to penetrate. Focus first on cleansing the scalp before working down the hair strands.

Let It Sit Briefly

Allow Arm & Hammer shampoo to sit and work on hair for 1-2 minutes. This gives the active ingredients time to absorb and effectively cleanse.

Rinse Thoroughly

Always rinse out baking soda shampoos thoroughly. Remaining residue can leave hair feeling dry or crunchy. Rinse until water runs completely clear.

Use a Conditioner

Since baking soda shampoos can be drying, always follow up with a moisturizing conditioner. Focus conditioner on the mid-shaft down to hair ends.

Shampoo as Needed

Only shampoo with baking soda formulas every 2-3 days for most hair types. Over-shampooing can cause dryness or irritation. Gauge frequency by your hair's oiliness.

Precautions When Using Arm & Hammer Shampoos

While Arm & Hammer shampoos can benefit many people, there are some precautions to consider:

Can Dry Out Some Hair Types

Baking soda's cleansing action may overly dry out and damage certain hair types, like chemically treated, thin, or naturally dry hair. Discontinue use if hair becomes brittle.

Can Cause Scalp Irritation

Some people may experience scalp redness, stinging or itching when using baking soda shampoos, especially those with sensitive skin. Discontinue if irritation occurs.

Not for Daily Use

Limit baking soda shampoo use to 2-3 times per week at most. More frequent use can disrupt the scalp and hair's pH balance leading to problems.

Requires a Moisturizing Conditioner

Always pair Arm & Hammer shampoos with a hydrating, pH-balanced conditioner to counteract drying effects and prevent damage.

May Cause Color Fading

Some natural hair color, especially reds and blacks, can be faded with repeated baking soda shampooing. Do occasional strand tests to check for color removal.

Signs Arm & Hammer Shampoo is Not Right for Your Hair

Discontinue Arm & Hammer shampoo use if you experience:

• Excess dryness
• Brittle, damaged hair
• Breakage
• Scalp redness and irritation
• Hair loss
• Color fading
• Lack of moisture
• Unmanageable frizz

These can be signs the baking soda formula is too harsh for your individual hair. Switch to a more gentle, hydrating shampoo and deep condition to repair damage if any dryness or brittleness occurs.

Arm & Hammer Shampoo Alternatives

Those who cannot tolerate Arm & Hammer shampoos may want to consider these alternative options:

• Hydrating shampoos with oils like argan, coconut or avocado
• Moisture-rich shampoos with shea butter
• Gentle, daily use shampoos for fine or color treated hair
• Sulfate-free shampoos to avoid stripping oils
• Detoxifying shampoos with apple cider vinegar
• Clarifying shampoos for hard water residue

Always choose shampoos that are fragrance-free, non-comedogenic and suited to your individual hair needs and sensitivities. Discontinue use of any products that cause adverse reactions or hair damage.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.