Alpecin — Frequently Asked Questions
Which Alpecin shampoo should I choose?
It depends far more on what your scalp is doing than on how much hair you have. As a quick guide:
How do I use Alpecin C1 Caffeine Shampoo?
Wet the hair, work the shampoo into the scalp rather than only through the lengths, and leave it in contact with the scalp for at least 120 seconds before rinsing. That contact time is the step people most often skip, and it is the basis of the brand's own testing. Always read the pack directions before use.
How often can I use Alpecin?
These shampoos are formulated for regular washing. Tuning Shampoo and Dandruff Killer are both described as suitable for daily use, and C1 is positioned as a daily maintenance step in an existing routine. If your scalp starts to feel dry or tight, drop back to every second day and have a word with us.
Why does my hair feel different after using C1?
Alpecin C1 deliberately leaves out softening silicones, so hair can feel grippier and stronger to the touch straight after washing rather than slippery and coated. That is the expected result of the formula, not a fault with the bottle.
What is the difference between Double Effect and Dandruff Killer?
- Double Effect is the two-in-one: salicylic acid and piroctone olamine loosen and remove flakes and help reduce scalp itching, and the caffeine complex is delivered in the same wash.
- Dandruff Killer is the more targeted anti-dandruff option, combining zinc pyrithione, piroctone olamine, salicylic acid and fumaric acid, with panthenol (provitamin B5) to soothe an irritated scalp.
If dandruff is the main problem, start with Dandruff Killer. If you want scalp care and caffeine in one bottle, Double Effect keeps the routine simpler.
Do I need the Caffeine Liquid as well as the shampoo?
You do not need both. Caffeine Liquid is a leave-in tonic applied to dry or towel-dried hair and is not rinsed out, which makes it useful on days you are not washing your hair, or alongside the shampoo if you want a more intensive routine. It absorbs quickly without leaving hair greasy and can be used with your usual styling products. A light tingle on the scalp is normal.
What is the difference between Tuning Shampoo and Grey Attack?
Both are colour shampoos that also carry the caffeine complex. Tuning Shampoo fortifies your natural hair colour and tints early grey hairs so hair looks darker and fuller. Grey Attack works the same way and is aimed at light brown to black hair, with the brand describing visible results within three to six weeks of everyday use. Neither is a permanent dye: the effect builds wash by wash and fades again if you stop.
Are the 250ml and 375ml C1 bottles the same shampoo?
Yes, it is the same formula in two sizes. The 375ml bottle is the better value per millilitre once C1 is part of your routine, while the 250ml is a sensible size to start with.
Is Alpecin only for men?
The range is developed and marketed as men's haircare and the product information is written with the male scalp in mind. These are ordinary cosmetic cleansers, so nothing restricts who can buy them, but if you are a woman worried about thinning hair we would far rather talk to you about it than sell you a shampoo. Female hair loss has its own set of causes and is worth a proper conversation with your GP or with our pharmacy team.
Inish Pharmacy Expert Tip
"The single biggest mistake we see with caffeine shampoo is rushing it. Lather it into the scalp, then leave it there while you finish the rest of your shower before rinsing - a full two minutes of contact, every wash. And if your hair loss is patchy, sudden, or comes with an itchy or scaly scalp, come and talk to us before you spend another cent on shampoo."
