These dermatologists’ recommended, gentle shampoos for the sensitive scalp are the perfect fit for your itchy scalp. They eliminate dandruff and dryness.
Can you relate to these two pictures?
Do they remind you of yourself?
Well, then I must say you are in the right place. Our selection of best shampoos for sensitive scalp won’t leave you unsatisfied.
Your scalp is as important as your hair and needs to be taken care of to have healthy and strong hair. With that being said, just like your face, your scalp is prone to irritation, itchiness, inflammation, and flakiness. If all these minor symptoms are not been paid attention they might even lead to skin problems like eczema or psoriasis.
Before moving onto the list I would like to answer some frequently asked questions about sensitive scalp and the kind of shampoo that should be used.
What makes a scalp sensitive?
Multiple reasons cause a scalp to be sensitive out of which I will be mentioning a few.
- The most common of all is a headache. The compressed nerves mainly run from the back of your neck to your forehead.
- Stress can also trigger skin conditions like psoriasis and eczema.
- Hormonal imbalance in both males and females.
- Allergic reactions from your everyday shampoos that contain irritants and harmful chemicals like Sulfur and Paraben.
- Damaged hair due to frequent dyeing and exposure to the heat of styling instruments.
- UV radiation that may cause severe sunburn on your scalp and make your follicles swell.
- Medications that may trigger acne or inflammation.
- Fungal infections or head lice.
What do dermatologists say about sensitive scalp?
A known dermatologist in Philadelphia Dr. Erum Ilyas, once said, “When it comes to managing a dry scalp, it’s important to understand the underlying triggers.”
Sensitive skin and scalp have been under research for many years and studies have proved that mild conditions like itchiness, flakiness, scalings and dandruff can be treated with a natural shampoo for sensitive scalp. You need a shampoo that is infused with all the natural ingredients, and is free of harm.
How to take care of your sensitive scalp?
Avoid using shampoos with Silicone
Silicone is mostly added to shampoos for removing frizz fro your hair. However, it can deposit on your scalp and make the perfect ground for bacterial infection.
Minimum exposure to Chlorine
Chlorine can intensify rash and itching on your scalp. You should wear a swimming cap when going into a pool and wash your hair afterward.
Stay away from Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) is added to shampoos to make it lather and cleanse your scalp. But, this substance also removes the natural oils and minerals present on your scalp which disturbs the balance of your scalp causing dryness and dandruff.
Head massage
Head massages not only relives compressed nerves that are responsible for causing headaches but it also increases blood flow to the scalp. This helps in reviving the dead skin and promoting healthy hair growth.
Deep rinsing
Dermatologist emphasizes on rinsing your hair thoroughly with clean water every time you apply a serum or mousse. It prevents any chemical from building up on your scalp.
Switch to Sensitive Scalp Shampoos
Mild to moderate itching and dandruff can be treated with shampoos typically formulated for sensitive scalp. They should contain natural ingredients like Jojoba oil, Tea-tree oil, Salicylic acid, Apple cider vinegar, Aloe Vera, etc. Sensitive scalp shampoos treat your scalp gently and might even reverse some conditions.
How we choose a shampoo for you?
Firstly, we talked to different dermatologists to understand what things can trigger a sensitive scalp. Every product mentioned was found after intense research and every ingredient was looked into before recommending it to you. They all are dermatologist tested and recommended by experts.
OUR TOP 8 PICKS OF BEST SHAMPOOS FOR SENSITIVE SCALP
Scalp Rescue Shampoo
“The Organic Shampoo”
Scalp Rescue Shampoo is completely vegan and animal cruelty- free.
This solution free of Sulfate, Paraben, Quats, or PEGs has a perfectly balanced pH that makes your hair follicles strong, reducing hair fall and dryness. You are left with shiny, manageable, and frizz-free hair.
This natural shampoo sensitive scalp is safe for everyone above six months of age and can be used by males and females, both. The formula is color-safe and compatible with all hair types.
With a mixture of herbal extracts, essential vitamins, and oil you can easily achieve dandruff and itch-free scalp.
While the Herbal extracts help in combating conditions like eczema and psoriasis, Lemon tea tree oil provides an excellent source of Vitamin C for oil control that prevents a greasy scalp. Hydrolyzed Soy Protein traps moisture and makes your hair voluminous. Lastly, Oryzanol restores nourishment by providing omega 3 and 6.
Naturelle Biotera Hypoallergenic Shampoo
“The Ultra-Cleansing Shampoo”
Dermatologist tested and recommended hypoallergenic formula is free of all irritants that may trigger an allergic reaction or inflammation on your scalp.
All the chemicals that might trigger a sensitive scalp or exaggerate pre-existing symptoms are not used in this shampoo. It is Fragrance-Free, Gluten- Free, Paraben- Free And Dye-Free.
Suitable for all hair types specifically those who have extensively damaged and dry hair. It is also color-safe.
The ultra cleansing formula is gentle on your skin and ideal for a sensitive scalp.
This gentle shampoo for the sensitive scalp is nourished with natural ingredients like Chamomile that has a soothing effect and reduces itchiness. Marula Oil that is rich in Vitamin C, E, and antioxidants which moisturize your hair follicles and give you hair extra shine.
Buy Naturelle Biotera Hypoallergenic Shampoo
Nizoral A-D Shampoo
“The Anti-Dandruff Shampoo”
A shampoo recommended by skin experts and is clinically proven to work on the roots of your hair to control dandruff and flakiness.
The formula is Silicone and Paraben Free. It not only helps to eliminate dandruff but also kills the fungus that might be causing it. It cleanses your scalp and revives your hair growth.
It is gentle enough to be used on all hair types typically men with thick, coarse hair. This sensitive scalp shampoo is also suitable for chemically treated and gray hair.
You can see effective results immediately. The shampoo is to be used only twice a week and gives a very fresh smell despite the chemicals.
The anti-dandruff shampoo contains Ketoconazole 1% as an active ingredient. This not only removes dandruff but also control flakiness, itchiness, and scaling. The powerful anti-dandruff ingredient overshadows Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) that is present as an inactive ingredient.
Degrease Shampoo for Oily Hair & Oily Scalp
“The Oil Control Shampoo”
This moisture control shampoo is ideal for those who have excessive sebum production and greasy hair.
It is a naturally-sourced shampoo free of Sulfate, Paraben, and Animal cruelty. The formula rebalances the pH of your scalp preventing excessive oils from building up.
The gentle shampoo for the sensitive scalp is color safe and suitable for all hair types from curly, wavy, oily, dry, and natural hair. It targets both the sex.
The perfect blend of ingredients not only balances moisture but also increases blood circulation to the scalp restoring healthy hair growth.
The Lemon essential oils neutralize pH and prevent sebum production to make your hair grease-free. Jojoba and Rosemary protects your hair cuticles from pollutants and kills germs that may cause itchiness. Moreover, basil and cypress have a noticeable effect on reducing hair fall.
Buy Degrease Shampoo for Oily Hair & Oily Scalp
Sebamed Everyday Shampoo
“The pH Balance Shampoo”
It is a pure plant originated shampoo with pH 5.5, similar as that of the skin, and gives you healthy looking luxurious hair.
The everyday sensitive scalp shampoo is non-toxic and 100% free of soap and alkali. It is free of all those chemicals that remove the natural moisture from your scalp leaving it dry.
Compatible for both, male and female the shampoo can be used on all types of hair. It is specially formulated for those who have extremely sensitive skin and scalp.
The botanical ingredients also strengthen every single hair strand of yours from the roots and reduce hair fall and enhance sheen.
Sugar tenside exfoliates your scalp and removes all the dirt that has build-up preventing your scalp against excessive oil production. Sodium citrate gives the right pH by reacting with the charge of the cuticle maintaining the ph at 5.5 for healthy hair growth.
Aveeno Scalp Soothing Apple Cider Vinegar Blend Shampoo
“The Soothing Shampoo”
People have trusted this brand for producing the best products for hair and skin since 1945.
This natural shampoo for the sensitive scalp is free of Sulfate, Dye, Paraben, and irritants that make your scalp itchy. The soothing formula nourishes your hair from its root to its ends. Every single hair strand becomes shiny and smooth.
The shampoo is suitable for all color-treated, bleached, and natural hair types. It works exceptionally well on fine hair.
Oats infused with apple cider vinegar give your hair a lustrous and volumized look.
Oat is the first soothing element that not only reduces hair fall but also exfoliates and unclog your hair cuticles. It does not allow dirt or irritants to accumulate and give a refreshing feel. Next is Apple cider vinegar that cleanses your scalp and increases hair growth.
Buy Aveeno Scalp Soothing Apple Shampoo
Jason Fragrance-Free Shampoo
“The Fragrance-Free Shampoo”
This sensitive scalp shampoo is free from all kinds of natural or artificial fragrances that can irritate your scalp.
The Paraben, Phthalates, Petroleum, Artificial colors, and Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLS) free formula has a soothing effect on your scalp. It moisturizes your hair and makes them more manageable and frizz-free.
The shampoo is suitable for all hair types and can also be used on color-treated hair without fading it. It is the perfect pH and moisture-balancing solution for your scalp.
The fragrance-free shampoo is enriched with ingredients like Chamomile that helps in dandruff, revitalizing hair, and soothing scalp irritation. The most important is Aloe Vera that revives dead skin and makes your hair smooth and shiny. It also reduced dandruff and conditions your hair. Lastly, Pro-Vitamin B5 that traps moisture in hair follicles and nourishes your scalp.
Buy Jason Fragrance-Free Shampoo
Free & Clear Hair Shampoo
“The Irritant Free Shampoo”
The shampoo is free and clean of all the irritants that might make a sensitive scalp much worse like dyes, fragrance, lanolin, formaldehyde, and other preservatives.
The Gluten-Free, Paraben-Free, Sulfate-Free, Protein-Free, Cocamidopropyl Betaine-Free And Phosphate-Free shampoo is dermatologist tested and pH balanced recommended for daily use.
The shampoo is suitable for all hair types and removed flakiness and excessive oil from your scalp. It leaves back no residue and you are only left with shiny, clean hair.
The formula of the shampoo contains ingredients like Lauryl glucoside that is useful in cleansing your hair without stripping off the moisture. Sucrose cocoate prepared from coconut oil and beet extract reduces the charge in your hair making it manageable and frizz-free.
END NOTE
Taking care of your scalp is very important especially when you have a sensitive one and our list of Best Shampoos for Sensitive Scalp will help you in that regard.
For a shampoo to be suitable for a sensitive scalp it has to be free of all the irritants and contain ingredients that have been clinically proven. Only those shampoos which are recommended by experts or dermatologist should be used because anything other than that can inflate irritation of your scalp.
Most of the shampoos mentioned above contain plant origin elements that not only remove dandruff but also prevent it. They are color-safe and free of chemicals.
In the end, if I have to recommend a shampoo with my personal experience then that would be “SebaMed Everyday Shampoo”. Its formula balances the pH of your scalp and is 100% chemical-free. The shampoo nourishes your scalp and gives them a healthy look.