The American swimming sensation, who won a record eight gold medals at Beijing in 2008, will front the "Wash in Confidence" campaign the company are running, which will encourage people to have the confidence to take part in the Games, it is claimed by P&G, who are a worldwide Olympic sponsor. 

Phelps is expected to join a number of other Olympic athletes as part of the campaign, and said that he was "excited" to be part of the campaign on his Facebook page, adding:  "I'm excited to join the P&G family and work with the Head & Shoulders brand as I prepare for the London 2012 Olympic Games.

"It's a hair care range that I've come to count on, with the amount of time I spend in the pool each week – chlorine and chemicals can give my hair and scalp a hard time.

"Doubts are the last thing any athlete needs when trying to focus and compete.

"Fortunately, with the help of Head & Shoulders, I have the confidence I need to be at my best for the moments that matter most – in the pool and in life."

Lisa Jennings, Head & Shoulders global marketing director, added: "Michael Phelps's status as one of the world's greatest ever Olympians makes him the perfect person to front our international anti-dandruff campaign.

"We are proud to welcome Michael on board for this exciting Olympic Games initiative, aimed at encouraging individuals all over the world to take part in life.

"Head & Shoulders helps people wash in confidence to help them succeed, and simultaneously washes out doubts and distractions that may hold them back."

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