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Brand owned by Procter & Gamble (United States) · about the brand
Oily Sticky Dandruff Deep Cleanse with Oxygenated Charcoal
Decode Label Safety Score
How we got 2.2 ShowHide
Methodology v3.1 (updated 8 Oct 2026) — what changed
The score is capped for a specific safety reason, set out below. This shampoo contains several ingredients of concern, most notably Methylchloroisothiazolinone and Methylisothiazolinone (MCI/MI), which are potent contact sensitizers and are prohibited in EU leave-on cosmetics due to their high sensitization potential. While permitted in rinse-off products at restricted concentrations, their presence is a significant concern for individuals with sensitive skin or a history of contact allergies. The formulation also includes Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS), a strong skin and mucous membrane irritant, and Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES), which can irritate sensitive skin and may contain trace amounts of 1,4-dioxane, classified by IARC as Group 2B (possibly carcinogenic to humans). The product's undisclosed 'Fragrance' is a common source of allergens, further increasing the risk for sensitive individuals. Given these factors, this product is not recommended for those with sensitive skin, fragrance allergies, or a preference for formulations free from harsh irritants and sensitizing preservatives.
At a glance
From the declared label — not a lab testFindings to weigh
What’s favorable
- Zinc Carbonate
- Piroctone Olamine
Contains potent sensitizers MCI/MI, strong irritant SLS, and undisclosed fragrance
The score is capped for a specific safety reason, set out below. This shampoo contains Methylchloroisothiazolinone and Methylisothiazolinone (MCI/MI), preservatives known for causing contact allergies, and are restricted in cosmetics. It also uses Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS), a strong irritant, and Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES), which can irritate sensitive skin and may contain a possible carcinogen impurity. The undisclosed 'Fragrance' can also trigger allergies. These ingredients make the product unsuitable for individuals with sensitive skin or allergies.
Consider this product carefully if you are
- Avoiding certain additives or colours — Sodium Lauryl Sulfate and Methylchloroisothiazolinone are declared.
Personal check · free
Is this right for you or your family?
Just checking whether the product is safe? The analysis above is yours, no account needed. To know if it is safe for you, your father or your child, add a profile and we check this label against them.
- Ingredients you avoid. Sulphates, parabens, silicones, fragrance, drying alcohol, PEGs and more.
- Sensitivities. Sensitive skin, hormonal considerations, pregnancy.
- Skin and hair goals. Acne, dryness, ageing, hair fall, dandruff: what the label declares for each.
- Everyone you buy for. Save a profile for each person and switch in one tap.
Concern breakdown
Score out of 10 · higher = fewer concernsHow this product performs on each concern we check for haircare. This is a breakdown of the same evidence behind the score above — not a separate verdict.
Triggered by CI 19140, CI 42090 — a synthetic colour on our aromatic-amine watch list (impurity risk). A colour-quality caution, not a finding that this product contains a carcinogen.
Why the score is capped
Contains an isothiazolinone contact sensitizer — MCI/MI (EU SCCS)
Rule PC-CAP-15
Primary surfactant with recognised irritation potential (EU SCCS)
Rule PC-CAP-05
Undisclosed fragrance (allergens not named)
Rule PC-CAP-06
What's good
Contains Piroctone Olamine, an effective anti-dandruff agent.
Contains Zinc Carbonate, known for its anti-dandruff properties.
Watch out for
Presence of strong irritant surfactants (Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, Sodium Laureth Sulfate) can lead to scalp irritation and dryness.
Undisclosed 'Fragrance' may contain allergens that can trigger sensitivities.
Dimethicone can lead to product build-up on hair over time, potentially weighing it down.
Menthol may cause a strong cooling sensation that some users find irritating or uncomfortable.
CI 19140 — permitted cosmetic colourant - the EU limits where on the body each may be used.
CI 42090 — permitted cosmetic colourant - the EU limits where on the body each may be used.
Ingredient Concerns safety database
Sources cited below may be Indian (FSSAI) or international (EU, US, WHO, IARC) — an international classification or law is evidence, not an Indian regulatory finding.
Methylisothiazolinone
MI and its chlorinated partner MCI are preservatives and recognised contact sensitisers. After MI replaced parabens in many products, European dermatology clinics recorded a sharp rise in contact allergy to it. Contact allergy, once acquired, is usually long-lasting, so people already sensitised to MI are advised to avoid it. EU rules ban MI from leave-on cosmetics (since 2017) and limit it to 15 ppm in rinse-off products. Whether a particular product causes a reaction depends on the person, the concentration and the contact time, which the label alone cannot show.
Regulatory & scientific authority Source: EU Regulation 2017/1224; SCCS Opinion SCCS/1521/13; British Journal of Dermatology (MI epidemic)
Methylisothiazolinone: regulation, sources and other products →Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
SLS is an aggressive surfactant that strips skin of its natural oils, disrupts the skin barrier, and can cause contact dermatitis, canker sores, and eye irritation. People with eczema, psoriasis, or sensitive skin should avoid SLS-containing products. It is particularly harsh in oral care products where it contacts mucous membranes.
Regulatory & scientific authority Source: SCCS; American Academy of Dermatology; Herlofson & Barkvoll 1996
Sodium Lauryl Sulfate: regulation, sources and other products →Sodium Benzoate (E211)
Benzoates are permitted preservatives with an established acceptable daily intake. Two documented concerns: in acidic drinks that also contain ascorbic acid (vitamin C) they can slowly form small amounts of benzene, especially with heat and light (US FDA beverage survey, 2006); and sodium benzoate was one of the additives in the Southampton study mixtures associated with hyperactivity in children. It can also trigger reactions in some people with asthma or urticaria.
Regulatory & scientific authority Source: EFSA re-evaluation of benzoic acid and benzoates (2016); US FDA benzene-in-beverages survey (2006); McCann et al., Lancet 2007
Sodium Benzoate: regulation, sources and other products →Menthol and Peppermint Oil
Menthol, the main component of peppermint oil, can trigger a reflex that slows or stops breathing in babies when applied or inhaled near the face. The European Medicines Agency herbal monograph for peppermint oil contraindicates it under 2 years of age because of this laryngospasm risk, and does not recommend it between 2 and 4 years because there is not enough experience. For adults and older children it is a normal cooling and flavouring agent in toothpaste and body products, and can irritate sensitive skin at higher strengths.
Regulatory & scientific authority Source: EMA/HMPC European Union herbal monograph on Mentha x piperita L., aetheroleum
Menthol and Peppermint Oil: regulation, sources and other products →Sodium Laureth Sulfate
SLES is a cleansing agent that is milder than SLS but can still irritate very sensitive or compromised skin. Separately, because it is made by ethoxylation, it may carry a residue of 1,4-dioxane, which IARC classifies as possibly carcinogenic to humans (Group 2B). The ingredient list cannot show whether any is present or how much. The EU SCCS considers 1,4-dioxane at or below 10 ppm in a finished cosmetic to be safe, and manufacturers reduce it by vacuum stripping.
Regulatory & scientific authority Source: FDA; EU SCCS
Sodium Laureth Sulfate: regulation, sources and other products →Fragrance
"Fragrance" or "parfum" is a catch-all term that can conceal a blend of hundreds of undisclosed chemicals, including known allergens, sensitisers, and potential endocrine disruptors. The EU now mandates disclosure of 82 specific fragrance allergens. People with fragrance sensitivity, asthma, or contact dermatitis should prefer fragrance-free products.
Regulatory & scientific authority Source: EU Regulation 2023/1545; IFRA
Fragrance: regulation, sources and other products →Cocamidopropyl Betaine
Cocamidopropyl betaine is the usual "gentle" co-surfactant in shampoos, face washes and baby washes. It was named Allergen of the Year by the American Contact Dermatitis Society in 2004; the reactions are attributed mainly to impurities (amidoamine, DMAPA) and are uncommon, but it is a common cause of surfactant allergy in people with eczema.
Peer-reviewed research Source: American Contact Dermatitis Society - Allergen of the Year 2004; contact-dermatitis literature
Cocamidopropyl Betaine: regulation, sources and other products →Synthetic Cosmetic Colourants (CI)
These Colour Index (CI) numbers are colourants on the EU list of permitted cosmetic colours, each with conditions on where it may be used (for example, some are allowed only in products that do not stay in contact with mucous membranes). A listed colour in a product used as directed is not a finding of harm; the colour serves only to colour the product, and this is information for anyone who prefers to avoid synthetic dyes.
Regulatory & scientific authority Source: EU Regulation 1223/2009 Annex IV (permitted colourants); SCCS opinions on colourants
Synthetic Cosmetic Colourants (CI): regulation, sources and other products →Decode Label Analysis
Contains Methylchloroisothiazolinone and Methylisothiazolinone (MCI/MI), potent contact sensitizers prohibited in EU leave-on cosmetics due to high sensitization potential (EU Reg. 2016/1198). While permitted in rinse-off products, they pose a significant risk for allergic reactions.
Contains Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS), a strong skin and mucous membrane irritant.
Contains Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES), which can irritate sensitive skin and may carry a 1,4-dioxane impurity (IARC Group 2B, possibly carcinogenic to humans). The EU SCCS considers 1,4-dioxane at or below 10 ppm in a finished cosmetic safe.
Contains undisclosed 'Fragrance', a common source of allergens, raising transparency concerns as specific allergens are not named (EU Reg. 1223/2009 Art. 19 + Annex III).
Contains Cocamidopropyl Betaine, a recognised contact allergen, mostly through manufacturing impurities.
Contains Menthol, a cooling agent not recommended for infants and toddlers due to potential breathing reflex risks.
Contains Sodium Benzoate, a preservative that can form benzene with vitamin C and is part of the Southampton colour/preservative mixtures.
Combined Effects interactions
The combination of two strong surfactants, Sodium Laureth Sulfate and Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, can lead to increased irritation and dryness, especially for sensitive scalps, compared to either ingredient alone.
The combination of Methylchloroisothiazolinone and Methylisothiazolinone (MCI/MI) is a well-known potent contact sensitizer blend. While permitted in rinse-off products at restricted concentrations, their combined presence significantly increases the risk of allergic reactions and sensitization, particularly for individuals with predisposed sensitivities.
Claim check
1 claim not supported by label dataFront-of-pack marketing claims checked against this product's actual ingredients and nutrition. "Can't verify" means the label does not provide enough information to check the claim — it is not the same as the claim being false.
Charcoal is not listed in the ingredients.
The term 'Deep Cleanse' is a marketing claim describing a product benefit that cannot be verified from the ingredient list.
This is a performance claim that cannot be verified from the ingredient list.
This is a claim about product testing and efficacy that cannot be verified from the ingredient list.
Read straight from the back-of-pack photo — quantities, sections and any disguised terms, so the small print can’t hide behind the marketing.
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1.
Water
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2.
Sodium Laureth Sulfate
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3.
Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
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4.
Cocamidopropyl Betaine
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5.
Glycol Distearate
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6.
Zinc Carbonate
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7.
Sodium Chloride
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8.
Dimethicone
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9.
Sodium Xylenesulfonate
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10.
Piroctone Olamine
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11.
Fragrance undisclosed fragrance
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12.
Citric Acid
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13.
Menthol
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14.
Sodium Benzoate
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15.
Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride
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16.
Sodium Hydroxide
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17.
Magnesium Carbonate Hydroxide
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18.
Methylchloroisothiazolinone
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19.
Methylisothiazolinone
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20.
CI 19140 synthetic colour
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21.
CI 42090 synthetic colour
In label order — normally largest quantity first. Select a row for the full write-up and sources.
✓ Decode Label Assessment: Favorable ⚠ Decode Label Assessment: Concern Decode Label Assessment: Neutral
Who should take caution
About this ingredient
Declared on this label as
No detailed safety data in our database yet for this ingredient.
Learn More
Compare with other shampoo products
Assessed using the same Decode Label methodology, sorted by score. Each score reflects the information available for that product at the time of assessment.
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What are the ingredients in Oily Sticky Dandruff Deep Cleanse with Oxygenated Charcoal?
The label of Oily Sticky Dandruff Deep Cleanse with Oxygenated Charcoal lists 21 ingredients, in label order: Water, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Glycol Distearate, Zinc Carbonate, Sodium Chloride, Dimethicone, Sodium Xylenesulfonate, Piroctone Olamine, Fragrance, Citric Acid, Menthol, Sodium Benzoate, Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride, Sodium Hydroxide, Magnesium Carbonate Hydroxide, Methylchloroisothiazolinone, Methylisothiazolinone, CI 19140, CI 42090. Flagged by the analysis: Methylchloroisothiazolinone, Methylisothiazolinone, Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Fragrance and 4 more.
Is Oily Sticky Dandruff Deep Cleanse with Oxygenated Charcoal safe to use?
Oily Sticky Dandruff Deep Cleanse with Oxygenated Charcoal scores 2.2/10 on Decode Label (Concerning). The score is capped for a specific safety reason, set out below. This shampoo contains Methylchloroisothiazolinone and Methylisothiazolinone (MCI/MI), preservatives known for causing contact allergies, and are restricted in cosmetics. It also uses Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS), a strong irritant, and Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES), which can irritate sensitive skin and may contain a possible carcinogen impurity. The undisclosed 'Fragrance' can also trigger allergies. These ingredients make the product unsuitable for individuals with sensitive skin or allergies.
Why does Oily Sticky Dandruff Deep Cleanse with Oxygenated Charcoal score 2.2/10?
Flagged in the score: Presence of strong irritant surfactants (Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, Sodium Laureth Sulfate) can lead to scalp irritation and dryness. Undisclosed 'Fragrance' may contain allergens that can trigger sensitivities. Also noted: Dimethicone can lead to product build-up on hair over time, potentially weighing it down.
Who should avoid Oily Sticky Dandruff Deep Cleanse with Oxygenated Charcoal?
The points the analysis notes are most relevant to: Sensitive skin or contact allergies; Avoiding isothiazolinone preservatives; Avoiding strong irritant surfactants (SLS); Fragrance allergy or sensitivity; Avoiding ethoxylated ingredients due to 1,4-dioxane concern.
Does Oily Sticky Dandruff Deep Cleanse with Oxygenated Charcoal contain fragrance?
Yes — the ingredient list includes Fragrance. Fragrance is declared as a single ingredient, so the individual scent chemicals in it are not named. This matters mainly if you have sensitive skin or a known fragrance allergy.
Are the claims on the Oily Sticky Dandruff Deep Cleanse with Oxygenated Charcoal pack accurate?
Decode Label checked 4 claims against the ingredient list and nutrition panel. "WITH OXYGENATED CHARCOAL" — false. "DEEP CLEANSE" — can't be verified from the label. "UP TO 100% DANDRUFF PROTECTION" — can't be verified from the label.
Answers are generated from this product's own Decode Label analysis — the score, the ingredient list and the label claims shown above. Always check the pack itself for allergen and dietary information.
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About this analysis: Based on declared label information and available evidence. Decode Label does not independently laboratory-test products, and a score is not a regulatory determination or medical advice.
Disclaimer: Safety scores are Decode Label-generated assessments based on publicly available regulatory data (FSSAI, WHO, EFSA, IARC) and peer-reviewed research. They are not a substitute for professional medical advice, and they are not a regulatory determination, a laboratory safety certification or a medical diagnosis. Ingredient safety can vary by individual health conditions, concentration, and usage context. Decode Label is an independent information service and scores every brand by the same rules. No brand pays for or influences its score. Our founder also founded the personal-care brand Botani Bestie (see our story); its products are scored exactly like everyone else's. Data limitations: This assessment is based on the information declared on the product label and the evidence sources above — Decode Label does not independently laboratory-test this product. Ingredient concentrations, sourcing and manufacturing can vary between batches and are not always disclosed. A finding that is not shown here means it was not identified from the available label information, not that it has been ruled out.
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