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The last text message I sent to my mom said, “Don’t buy any new shampoo and conditioner—ever.”
On my quest for volume, shine, and all the things that generally make one look like a mermaid who huffs biotin, my shower is heaving with all the shampoos I’ve tried. My only regret? I wish I started using shampoo for a sensitive scalp earlier. Only recently did I start prioritizing shampoos that are formulated for a sensitive scalp—and this is where the magic began.
When you nourish your scalp with soothing, balancing ingredients, lush and shiny hair follows suit. Plus, anyone can use shampoo for a sensitive scalp, and you don’t even have to wait until your hair sheds or becomes increasingly dry to invest in one.
“People can have scalp sensitivity and not even be aware of it,” says Adam Federico, vice president of technical education at R+Co. “Most people don't take scalp type into consideration, but it’s skin. Some scalps are naturally oily, some dry. I would recommend picking your shampoo ingredients based on your skin type, but always avoid things [like sulfates] that strip the scalp of its natural moisture. Those ingredients, though they make your hair feel really 'clean,' can also lead to a moisture imbalance in the scalp.”
Best shampoos for sensitive scalp in 2024
After an endless quest for volume and shine, I found the 10 best shampoos for a sensitive scalp. But don’t just take my word for it. I did in-depth interviews with Federico and dermatologist Dr. Iris Rubin to share the best products and tips for a healthier scalp. Happy shampooing!
Pros
Color-safe
Cons
- Pricey
This will give you the softest, silkiest, spun-by-angels strands—and that’s hardly hyperbole. It’s made with coconut-based surfactants that gently remove buildup from the scalp and are color-safe. Plus, it has a proprietary botanical complex made with ginger root, frankincense, grape, and walnut, all of which protect the scalp and preserve color. The scent is gorgeous, inspired by the wildflowers in Big Sur and is a dreamy blend of bergamot and citrus.
Rōz Hair rating: 5/5 stars
A Rōz reviewer says: “This [shampoo and conditioner] duo has enhanced the shine, softness, highlights and lowlights of my hair.”
Size: 10.1 fl. oz.
Hair type: All hair types and textures
Key ingredient: Botanicomplex
Pros
- Available scented or fragrance-free
Cons
- Some Amazon reviewers found it drying
The dermatologist-developed, non-comedogenic formula was specifically designed for ultra-sensitive skin. It won’t clog pores or cause breakouts, and it has a seal of approval from the National Eczema Association. Unlike shampoos that use sulfates to cleanse, SEEN comprises naturally derived ingredients that won’t strip the scalp of its natural oils. Plus, it’s infused with bisabolol, a moisture superhero that’s commonly found in skincare.
Ulta rating: 4.7/5 stars
An Ulta reviewer said: “This full line has COMPLETELY transformed my hair!!!! My scalp is healthier and my blow outs are more voluminous.”
Size: 8.6 fl. oz
Hair type: All hair types
Key ingredients: Hemisqualane, Bisabolol
Pros
- PCR packaging
Cons
- Some reviewers felt the scent was strong
Hemp’s calming properties are great, and they work wonders on the scalp, too. “CBD can help to soothe and calm an irritated scalp and has fantastic anti-inflammatory properties,” says Federico. Infused with hemp-derived CBD, R+Co’s Super Garden Shampoo also has a nourishing blend of coconut and moringa oils. Some reviewers find the lush, flowery scent a bit strong, but I personally love it. I get to close my eyes, inhale deeply, and pretend I’m showering in a, well, Super Garden.
R+CO rating: 4.6/5 stars
An R+Co reviewer says: “My scalp was freaking out from other products, and as soon as I started using this it calmed down. No more itch or flaking.”
Size: 6.0 fl. oz.
Hair type: All hair types
Key ingredient: Hemp-derived CBD
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Pros
- Reduces breakage
Cons
- Some users say that it makes their hair greasy
This shampoo is a mainstay in my household. My husband—not generally one to hype up shampoos—emerges from the shower, extolling its “refreshing” scent. It glides through my hair like a dream and washes out super easily, leaving it silky smooth. Even better, its minty scent is delightful. Made with peppermint oil, which improves blood flow to the scalp, and scalp-soothing tea-tree-leaf oil, this shampoo gently removes product buildup. It’s particularly effective on frizzy, dry, or coarse hair types, but I’ve gone through bottle after bottle for my fine hair.
Ulta rating: 4/5 stars
An Ulta reviewer says: “My hair had zero frizz. It looked like I had used a smoothing oil. Shiny, soft, and smooth.”
Size: 12.0 oz.
Hair type: Dry, thick, coarse hair types
Key ingredients: Peppermint oil, tea tree leaf oil, jojoba seed oil
Pros
- Removes dandruff
Cons
- Bottle leaks very easily
Here's a shampoo that makes dandruff removal chic. In sleek, display-worthy amber packaging, the formulation contains piroctone olamine and climbazole to remove uncomely flakes. Simultaneously, the Swedish shampoo treats redness, itching, psoriasis, and eczema. Like all Sachajuan products, this shampoo is made with a custom blend of algae that boosts shine and volume. (The brand calls this “ocean silk technology.”)
Amazon rating: 4.3/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “I have to say — I think the product is a miracle. Immediately my scalp felt better and I stopped itching and flaking.”
Size: 8.4 fl. oz.
Hair type: Normal
Key ingredients: Piroctone olamine, climbazole
Pros
- Keratin-safe
Cons
- Can make hair a little greasy
Celebrity hairstylist Kristin Ess has a sensitive scalp herself, so she designed this shampoo to promote scalp health. It’s made without harsh ingredients—such as sulfates, parabens, and silicones—that can lead to dryness and itching. However, what it does contain is a patented “zip-up” technology that helps seal split ends. The shampoo has an ultra-creamy lather, and its pear-magnolia-sandalwood fragrance is a lovely perk.
Target rating: 4/5 stars
A Target reviewer says: “It keeps my scalp feeling fresh and clean without leaving it dry, itchy, or tight.”
Size: 10 fl. oz.
Hair type: Dry
Key ingredients: Patented “zip-up technology”
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7
Best For Thick Hair
Fable & Mane HoliRoots Shampoo
Pros
- Color-safe
Cons
- May weigh down fine or oily hair
For the fragrance lovers, how’s this for a decadent sensory experience? Fable & Mane founders called on a Christian Dior perfumer to develop a signature scent for the brand. Inspired by a “paradise in India,” the heady fragrance blends banana, coconut, jasmine, and vanilla. You’d think all that fragrance would be tough on your poor scalp, but rest assured: The shampoo is formulated with the antioxidant-rich tiger herb, which hydrates the scalp. It also contains aloe vera to calm and moisturize the scalp and coconut to hydrate the scalp and strands.
Amazon rating: 4.4 / 5 stars on Amazon
An Amazon reviewer says: “My scalp is always kind of hurting, and this makes it feel so much better. I actually look forward to shampooing.”
Size: 8.5 fl. oz.
Hair type: Thick or medium hair
Key ingredient: Tiger herb
Pros
- Fragrance-free
Cons
- Some reviewers note that it doesn’t lather easily
This plastic-free product is free of sulfates, but it’s jam-packed with ingredients that nourish the scalp and promote growth, such as caffeine, menthol, and rosemary oil. Also included in the formula is Alma (or Indian gooseberry) extract that feeds it with nutrients and vegan keratin to make the hair shiny and smooth. The shampoo bar is water-free, so its ultra-concentrated formulation lasts longer than a typical bottle of shampoo. Most users note that it takes them two to four months to use up a single bar.
Sephora rating: 4.8/5 stars
A Sephora reviewer says: “I deal with scalp eczema and this bad boy clears it right up while also moisturizing and cleaning my hair.”
Size: 2.15 oz.
Hair type: Fine, medium, thick
Key ingredients: Caffeine, menthol, rosemary oil
Pros
- Fragrance-free
Cons
- Not for daily use
Clarifying shampoos aren’t formulated for daily use, so think of Bread’s new Clear-Wash as the friend you look forward to seeing once a month—a powerhouse product for cleansing the scalp of everything that doesn’t serve it. The gentle, non-drying formula was designed to remove silicone and product buildup, boost blood circulation to the scalp, and support collagen production. Though this wash means business, it has the sweetest, cotton-candy-pink hue.
Sephora rating: 5/5 stars
An ELLE Editor says: “After a month and a half of knotless box braids, my scalp was screaming for reprieve. This shampoo takes you on a ride; a few pumps and lather create a good amount of suds to remove weeks of oil and leave-in build-up effectively. Then, the tingling starts and adds another layer of fun to this wash day treat. Is it bad that I can't wait for my next protective style so I have another excuse to use this clarifying shampoo?”—Nerisha Penrose, ELLE.com beauty commerce editor
Size: 10.4 fl. oz.
Hair type: Straight, wavy, curly, coily
Key ingredients: Sage, rosemary, and eucalyptus leaf extract
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Who should use shampoo for a sensitive scalp?
“Shampoos and conditioners formulated for sensitive scalps are appropriate for everyone,” says Dr. Iris Rubin, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of SEEN Skin & Hair Care. “Scalp sensitivity can occur suddenly, even in those with no history of sensitive skin. Among the triggers are harsh ingredients, products that may contain an irritant or allergen, and environmental conditions. Using gentle products designed with the health and comfort of the scalp in mind can help minimize symptoms of sensitivity.”
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What causes scalp sensitivity?
Along with hereditary factors and harsh ingredients found in some products, “pollution, UV damage, dehydrating products, heat damage, and minerals in the water you're using” can all cause scalp sensitivity, says Federico.
“There are definitely some telltale signs [of a sensitive scalp], but you really have to be looking for them,” says Federico.”Some of the less obvious signs are a pink or red color, hair that always seems dehydrated, and lots of shedding. A more obvious sign is itching.”
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How can I tell if a shampoo is safe for a sensitive scalp?
“The key for calming a sensitive scalp is gentle haircare products,” Dr. Rubin says. “ Look for sulfate-free shampoos formulated with mild yet effective naturally-derived cleansing ingredients. You’ll also want to avoid common irritants and allergens, and look for haircare formulas that are non-irritating and safe for sensitive skin.” She adds: “Fragrance can trigger scalp sensitivity in some, so fragrance-free haircare can be helpful as well.”
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13
What are the best practices for shampooing a sensitive scalp?
Shower time calls for a little caution for those with a sensitive scalp. “To avoid aggravating a sensitive scalp, avoid using too-hot water in the shower to prevent stripping the scalp—as well as the hair and all other skin— of its natural oils,” Dr. Rubin notes. “Also, try not to scrub the scalp over-aggressively when shampooing, and use a wide-toothed comb to detangle your hair before rinsing.”
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How long does it take for shampoo to improve a sensitive scalp?
If your shampoo doesn’t improve redness, itchiness, or dryness after just one wash, don’t fret. “Although some people may notice a difference after just one use, it may take a few weeks to experience improvement in signs of sensitive scalp,” Dr. Rubin notes.
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Meet The Experts
Dr. Iris Rubin is a Harvard-trained dermatologist and the founder of SEEN Skin & Hair Care
Adam Federico is the vice president of technical education at R+Co
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16
Why trust ELLE Beauty?
Jenny Berg is a beauty writer who’s spent more than a decade testing, reviewing, and obsessing over products in every category, from fragrance to skincare and haircare. For this story, she put her sensitive scalp to the test, sudsing up with more than 20 shampoos (only half of which made the cut.) She also interviewed a top dermatologist and hair expert.
Jenny Berg
Jenny Berg is a beauty writer and copywriter whose work has appeared in Elle, Vogue, InStyle, and more. She’s obsessed with launches and celebrity beauty, transfixed with fragrances, and easily wooed by anything that promises luminous skin and a berry-stained lip. (Liv Tyler in Stealing Beauty is her eternal beauty muse.) She has a B.A. in Art History from the University of Chicago.
