Can I use Tresemme conditioner on my dog? Is it ok to use human products on dogs? We find out the answer in the post below.
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Dogs love to roll around in the mud and run around in places that would be completely revolting to humans. When he finally comes back home and raises a stink that can rouse the undead you want to give him an emergency bath.
Well, you are going to need a shampoo and conditioner to make your dog look fresh again. Hopefully, the conditioner will also make your dog’s fur coat softer, shinier, and healthier.
Many people use shampoos and conditioners for themselves, and Tresemme is an extremely popular brand that promises hair as smooth as what you get at a salon. You might wonder: Can I use Tresemme conditioner on my dog too? Will it make his coat smooth and silky?
Well, the answer is that you shouldn’t. Using Tresemme conditioner (or any human shampoo or conditioner) will interfere with the dog’s acid mantle and allow harmful bacteria and viruses to enter in your dog’s body.
Moreover, Tresemme and other human hair products contain chemicals, preservatives, and fragrances that can irritate your furry friend’s skin. In this article, I will discuss questions related to the use of human shampoos and conditioners on your dog’s body. Stay tuned!
Can I Use Tresemme Conditioner On My Dog?
No, you should not use Tresemme conditioner on your dog.
The top layer of your and your dog’s skin is known as the Stratum Corneum. It is protected by a thin barrier layer known as the acid mantle. The acid mantle protects the stratus corneum from bacteria and other germs. It also keeps their skin hydrated and reduces water loss through evaporation.
When you take a bath with a human shampoo, the acid mantle layer on your skin is washed away. That’s why shampoos and conditioners have ingredients that will moisturize and protect your skin, until the acid mantle gets replenished back, which may take upto 12 hours.
Understanding the pH scale
The pH scale measures the acidity and alkalinity of a substance. It varies from 0 to 14, where the levels less than 6.4 are considered acidic, and more than 6.4 are considered alkaline.
The pH value of our skin is different from that of dogs. The pH value of our skin lies varies between 5.2 to 6.2, which means our skin is slightly acidic. But the pH value of your pet dog’s skin lies between 5.5 to 7.5, which indicates that their skin is slightly alkaline.
The acid mantle can work properly only if there is a good balance between acidity and alkalinity. Now, human conditioners and shampoos such as Tresemme, are made especially for skin that is slightly acidic like ours.
When you use them on dogs, their acid mantle is disturbed and gives an opportunity for the pathogens, bacteria, and other harmful microorganisms to enter into their body.
Moreover, the Tresemme conditioner contains chemicals and fragrances that can irritate your dog’s skin. Consequently, it can lead to dry, itchy, and flaky skin. He may even get wounds and abrasions if you use these products too often on him.
Which Is The Best Shampoo And Conditioner For My Dog?
Dog shampoos and conditioners are specially formulated keeping their pH in mind.
You should find shampoo and conditioner, which has pH value specially designed for dogs. The shampoos and conditioners of your dog should be in the neutral range, i.e., around 7.
So, you need to read the label while purchasing shampoo and conditioner for them. Your dog may be big and healthy but have sensitive skin. So, make sure that it should not have any artificial fragrances and colors. You should look for natural ingredients that moisturize your dogs’ skin, like vitamin E, honey, and aloe vera.
The fragrances in the shampoos and conditioners of your dog should be natural, no artificial ones. For instance, it can have fragrances like lavender and chamomile. It will be best if you purchase organic shampoos for your dog. But don’t forget to read the label.
You don’t need to clean your dog with shampoo and conditioner every day. You can use them once a month. So invest in a good product that will not harm your dog’s skin.
Can I Use Dog Shampoo On My Hair?
No, you should not use dog shampoo on your hair, for the same reason: they are calibrated for a different pH value.
#1. Disturbs Your PH Balance
The shampoo made for the dog is specially designed according to the PH balance. We human beings have PH values different than canines. So if you will start using dog shampoo and conditioner on your hair, it will disrupt the Ph balance.
#2. Dryness
If you start using a shampoo meant for your furry friend, it will dry your scalp and hair. Your hair will soon have split ends with no moisture or excess hair fall.
#3. Exposure To Toxicity
The shampoos meant for dogs are specially designed to manage fleas. So it may have harmful chemicals like pyrethrins which are highly toxic to insects. If you start using dog shampoo on your hair, you are indirectly exposing yourself to toxins.
It may enter your eyes and may cause burning. You can have other side effects like irritation on your respiratory tract, vomiting, or difficulty in breathing.
Can I Use T-Gel On My Dog?
No, this is a human shampoo and will not work well on your dog’s skin.
T-Gel is a medicinal shampoo and is available over the counter. It is highly effective for treating itching and flaking of your scalp. But if you start using this shampoo on your dog, it will dry his skin severely, and you need to take him to a veterinary doctor.
Can I Use Baby Shampoo On My Furry Friend?
No, even baby shampoo can be slightly acidic.
Baby shampoo is a better option than regular shampoo for your furry friend as it contains fewer harmful chemicals. The most important thing is that the PH level of baby shampoo is nearly seven, which is perfect for your dog’s skin. It will not disturb the acid mantle of your dog and even doesn’t cause irritation or itchy skin.
So if you don’t have dog shampoo at home and need to clean your dog, then it’s best to use baby shampoo.
A Few Final Words
A dog owner always wants their dog to look clean and healthy. So you may think of using your own cleaning products while bathing your dog.
But I will strongly advise you not to use your shampoo and conditioner because it will severely dry your dog’s skin. You may need to take him to a veterinary doctor. There are so many dog shampoos and conditioners available in the market, use them once a month to clean your dog.
Thank you for reading this article, you can ask me any queries related to using shampoo and conditioner in dogs in the comments section. You might also be interested in reading: Why Is My Dog Shaking After Grooming?, and Best Bathtub for Small Dogs