Itchy scalps can be a miserable nuisance, but targeted shampoos offer relief. Formulated with specific ingredients, these specialized cleansers address different causes of itch. Shampoos with ketoconazole combat fungal overgrowth, while salicylic acid tackles flaking and dandruff. Others boast aloe vera or menthol for soothing irritated skin. Choosing the right formula based on your individual needs can calm the itch and restore scalp comfort. That’s where our list of the top seven best shampoos for an itchy scalp comes in!
The next time your scalp throws a tantrum, don’t just endure it. Our trusted sources helped us explore the world of modern itchy scalp shampoos, where science meets nature and relief comes with a side of pampering. We scoured through nine expert reviews to come away with the five best shampoos for an itchy scalp that were raved about most. Your scalp (and mood) will thank you! Let us know your favorite brands in the comments below!
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The List: Best Shampoos For An Itchy Scalp, Per Hair Health Experts
1. Neutrogena T/Gel Therapeutic Shampoo
Neutrogena T/Gel Therapeutic Shampoo medicates itchy scalps with two percent coal tar extract. Designed for daily use, it helps control dandruff, psoriasis, and seborrheic dermatitis by slowing skin cell growth and reducing inflammation.
Reviewers love its ability to target the root cause of itchiness and flaking, particularly for those with oily scalps. Spy points out the shampoo’s high concentration of salicylic acid, which effectively removes dead skin cells and controls oil production.
That’s not all! Glamour says that T/Gel goes beyond dandruff relief, potentially soothing symptoms of scalp conditions like psoriasis, seborrheic dermatitis, and eczema. Yahoo also appreciates the shampoo’s medicated properties. They point out that T/Gel reduces scalp irritation and shedding, offering relief from flaking and itch associated with various scalp conditions.
2. Head & Shoulders Itchy Scalp Care Daily Shampoo
Head & Shoulders Itchy Scalp Care Daily Shampoo combines a powerful anti-dandruff formula with scalp-soothing ingredients like pyrithione zinc and eucalyptus oil. StyleCraze praises the shampoo’s ability to calm an irritated scalp. It’s formulated to address itchiness, flaking, and dandruff through gentle cleansing.
This formula gently cleanses without stripping natural oils, leaving hair flake-free and healthy-looking. Buoy reviewers have experienced success with this shampoo reducing dandruff and keeping hair clean and healthy. Furthermore, they vouch for its ability to potentially eliminate up to 100% of dandruff, a huge perk for those dealing with itchy scalps.
Looking to soothe that pesky itch? Girlboss adds to the chorus of positive reviews. They recommend Head & Shoulders for its clinically proven formula that tackles itch and dandruff. Plus, the refreshing eucalyptus scent is an added bonus.
3. Blu Atlas Shampoo
Made with saw palmetto and vegan biotin, Blu Atlas shampoo gently strengthens hair while coconut-derived surfactants cleanse away dirt and oil. It leaves hair nourished and healthy, without harsh chemicals.
Considering Blu Atlas to tame your itchy scalp? They might be worth a try for a few reasons. Firstly, the brand boasts a medical advisory board with dermatologists, lending a sense of expertise to the product’s formulation. Yahoo also likes how the shampoo is gentle on the skin. While designed for men, it caters to anyone suffering from an itchy scalp. This gentle approach means it avoids harsh ingredients that can further irritate sensitive scalps. In addition to being vegan, Us Weekly notes that it is also cruelty-free, appealing to those who value ethical practices.
4. Nizoral A-D Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
Nizoral A-D Anti-Dandruff Shampoo uses one percent ketoconazole, a clinically proven ingredient, to fight the underlying fungus causing dandruff. Today magazine says this is a great solution while waiting to seek proper care from a dermatologist.
It effectively controls flaking, scaling, and itching associated with dandruff while remaining gentle on color-treated or chemically processed hair. However, NBC Select warns that, as a medicated shampoo, it is not intended for daily use. Think of it as a powerful, over-the-counter version of a prescription shampoo. Due to its strength, the brand recommends using it twice a week in place of your regular shampoo.
Finally, Spy adds to the chorus of positive reviews. They mention that doctors consider Nizoral a gold standard treatment and the most effective anti-itch shampoo they’ve encountered. It comes in both over-the-counter (1%) and prescription (2%) strengths.
5. Tea Tree Special Shampoo By Paul Mitchell
Paul Mitchell’s Tea Tree Special Shampoo features a blend of tea tree oil, peppermint, and lavender. It offers a refreshing tingle that invigorates the scalp while gently cleansing hair and removing impurities. While Spy acknowledges it might not be the strongest dandruff solution, they praise its ability to soothe itchiness and prevent oil buildup, the root cause of much scalp irritation and flaking.
Furthermore, Glamour likes its color-safe formula. Packed with natural ingredients like tea tree, lavender, and mint extracts, this shampoo caters to those with dyed hair while promoting hair health through hydration, shine, and increased resilience.
Shampoo Ingredients That Soothe The Scalp:
- Pyrithione zinc: This ingredient has antifungal and antibacterial properties, which can be beneficial for dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis, common causes of scalp itchiness (WebMD).
- Salicylic acid: This beta hydroxy acid helps exfoliate the scalp, removing dead skin cells and reducing flaking that can contribute to itching (Healthline).
- Selenium sulfide: Another antifungal ingredient, selenium sulfide can help combat dandruff and scalp itch caused by fungal growth (WebMD).
- Coal tar: Found in some medicated shampoos, coal tar helps slow down skin cell production and reduce inflammation, potentially providing relief from scalp itch (WebMD).
- Tea tree oil: This natural oil possesses mild antibacterial and antifungal properties. While some users find it helpful, it’s important to note that tea tree oil can be irritating to the skin, so a dilution test is recommended before applying it directly to the scalp (Healthline).
Important Note: It is crucial to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment of an itchy scalp. They can recommend the most appropriate course of action based on the underlying cause of your condition. Self-treating with shampoos might not always be the best solution.
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