Hair loss, dandruff, and the booming self-care movement reshaping pharmacy shelves
When it comes to personal care, hair and nail health is an area that has truly come into its own in recent years. Once seen as simply cosmetic, these categories are now increasingly recognised as indicators of overall wellbeing – and consumer demand is reflecting that. In pharmacies across Ireland, we are witnessing a shift: more and more people are actively seeking advice and products that support healthy hair and nails, not just for aesthetics, but for confidence, vitality, and health.
Growth in the Category: Driven by Health and Wellness
The hair and nail care category is growing steadily, underpinned by rising consumer interest in holistic health. Shoppers are no longer just looking for a quick-fix shampoo or a strong-hold nail polish; they want nourishing solutions that address the root cause of concerns like hair thinning, brittle nails, and scalp health.
Products enriched with vitamins, botanicals, functional mushrooms, collagen, and targeted supplements have exploded onto the shelves. Pharmacy customers are asking informed questions — “Is this sulfate-free?”, “Does this contain keratin?”, “Is this clinically studied?” — showing that they are investing more thought, time, and money into their choices.
I’ve seen this shift first hand in my own work too. In my own supplement range, my Skin Hair Nails Glow product is the second best-seller. Consumers reach out daily, asking questions, sharing updates, and wanting to know exactly how it works. Their passion and engagement around hair health mirrors the way skin health became a major focus about ten years ago. It really feels like hair is now having its “health moment” — and customers are keen to invest in looking after it properly.
Price-wise, we have seen some upward pressure. Raw material costs for high-quality ingredients like marine collagen, hyaluronic acid, and patented actives have increased globally, and this is reflected in retail prices. Despite this, consumers are willing to pay a premium for products that deliver visible and lasting results.
Shopper Trends: Education, Trust, and Multi-Solution Products
Educated buying is a major trend. Shoppers want to understand what they are buying and why. In a world saturated with marketing promises, trusted advice from pharmacy staff is more important than ever.
Another key trend is multi-solution products — supplements that support skin, hair, and nails together, or shampoos that address both dandruff and hair thinning. Convenience is king, and anything that offers a holistic benefit in one simple step is winning customer loyalty.
Eco-conscious buying is also emerging strongly. Consumers are scrutinising labels for sustainability claims, cruelty-free certifications, and recyclable packaging. Brands that embrace clean beauty and transparency are gaining market share.
Innovation: Supplements, Scalp Care, and Hair Loss Treatments
Innovation is vibrant in this space. Supplements are becoming more sophisticated, blending vitamins, minerals, adaptogens, and amino acids to support hair strength and growth.
Scalp health is finally getting the spotlight it deserves, with a surge in pre-shampoos, scalp scrubs, and serums designed to create the perfect environment for healthy hair to flourish.
Hair loss treatments have evolved too. Minoxidil remains a pharmacy staple, but it’s now joined by an array of supplement options containing zinc, selenium, marine collagen, and vitamin D, offering a supportive, less medicalised route for those at the beginning of their hair loss journey.
There’s also been significant expansion into dermatologically tested ranges for sensitive scalps — catering to those managing conditions like seborrheic dermatitis, psoriasis, and chronic dandruff.
Spotlight on Conditions: Hair Loss
Hair loss is one of the most emotionally charged topics we encounter in pharmacy practice. It can be devastating to self-esteem, and it affects both men and women.
Causes of hair loss can include stress, hormonal changes (especially around menopause or after pregnancy), nutritional deficiencies, thyroid disorders, certain medications, and genetic predisposition.
For those experiencing hair thinning or loss, a combined approach often works best:
• Topical treatments like minoxidil
• Nutritional support with supplements containing zinc, collagen, vitamin D, and iron (if deficient)
• Stress management and lifestyle changes
• Medical evaluation where appropriate to rule out underlying conditions
It’s crucial to have compassionate conversations, provide reassurance, and recommend professional referral if needed.
Spotlight on Conditions: Dandruff
Dandruff is another common concern, and while it may seem minor, it can be distressing and persistent.
Dandruff occurs when the scalp sheds excess skin cells, often due to an overgrowth of yeast.
(Malassezia) or increased oil production. Stress, cold weather, and hormonal changes can exacerbate it.
Treatment typically includes:
• Medicated shampoos containing ketoconazole, selenium sulfide, or zinc pyrithione
• Soothing scalp treatments to reduce itchiness and inflammation
• Regular washing to reduce oil build-up
It’s important to remind customers that dandruff is a scalp condition, not a sign of poor hygiene, and that with the right treatments, it can be very manageable.
Conclusion: A Category that Reflects Holistic Health
Hair and nail care is no longer a luxury category – it’s a health category. Customers are more empowered, educated, and willing to invest in products and advice that genuinely support their wellbeing.
We’ve seen this pattern before with skin health — once considered purely cosmetic, now recognised as an essential pillar of selfcare. Hair is following the same trajectory. It is having its “health moment,” and pharmacies are perfectly placed to lead the way. With trusted advice, high-quality products, and empathetic listening, we can support our customers not just to look better — but to feel better.
Quick Overview of Treatments for Hair Loss and Dandruff
Written by Laura Dowling, Pharmacist and Women’s Health Advocate
Author Bio – Laura Dowling is a pharmacist, founder, and advocate for women’s health. With over 20 years’ experience in Irish community pharmacy, she is passionate about empowering patients with honest, accessible advice to support real wellness at every stage of life.
Read the Latest at IPN HERE
Read IPN May HERE
