There are few things more irritating than an itch on the scalp. It may start as a dry scalp, but it quickly turns into an itch you can’t seem to scratch.
Finding the right shampoo for your scalp to relieve itching can be a game changer. Shop TODAY asked top dermatologists to share their favorite products for treating an itchy scalp. They also answered your burning questions. ).
Shop TODAY rounded out its list by looking at bestsellers, verified reviews, and star ratings. We also included products that target itchiness and promote scalp and hair health. Picks are available for various hair textures, styles, and types.
According to our research and experts, here are the 17 best shampoos to help with itchy scalps.
Balancing Shampoo
Gentle enough for regular use, may help with hair loss, and is scented with natural essential oils.
For some users, it’s only at its most effective combined with the brand’s conditioner.
Dr. Rebecca Baxt, a board-certified dermatologist in New Jersey, recommends this gentle, non-irritating shampoo that uses an active OTC ingredient for itchy and flaky scalps.
Baxt recommended this shampoo as part of a Shop TODAY article on sensitive scalps.
The product also contains several hardworking moisturizers, including squalane (which Jupiter claims have antimicrobial and antiaging properties) and coconut oil.
Hallie Gleman, a member of the Shop TODAY Team and a brand new mother, claims that it helps her to combat hair loss, which many new mothers experience.
She says postpartum hair loss is usually between two and three months after birth. “I used their products postpartum and got some good results.”
The Shampoo
It contains hydrating and skin-protective active ingredients, gentle and color-safe
Not for those who like scents (this has none), maybe more clarifying than hydrating for some hair types
This shampoo is a 2022 winner of Allure’s Best of Beauty Awards (and well-deserved, in our opinion), and it’s an excellent choice for dry or irritated scalps.
It has hyaluronic, which is ultra-hydrating. Niacinamide (vitamin B5) and panthenol are also present to protect the skin barrier. And it contains gentle plant-based ingredients. Plus, it’s fragrance-free.
The best shampoo for flaky scalps
All hair types are prone to dandruff or itching, including color-treated hair.
A little goes a long way; developed by the brand’s trichologists, gentle enough for daily use.
Philip Kingsley Clinics developed this cleansing shampoo. Known for its holistic approach to the care of hair and products created by its team of trichologists, this product does exactly what it claims, according to hundreds of positive reviews. It relieves itchiness caused by scalp psoriasis while clearing build-up and flakiness. It does this while being gentle on the hair. You can use it frequently without worrying about it stripping it of color or moisture.
The brand’s active ingredients include cocamidopropyl bétaine, which “gently cleans without drying,” and anti-microbial pirotone olamine, which helps preserve and prevent.
Scalp Relief Shampoo with Psorzema Herbal Blend
All hair types, including color-treated hair.
The lovely lavender scent is gentle enough for daily use, very inexpensive.
A bit tricky to squeeze the product out of the bottle.
Active components like menthol, salicylic acid, and tea tree oil are used to cleanse, calm, and de-flake dry, itchy skin. It also nourishes the hair with vitamin B5 while safe for color-treated hair. The cherry on top? It costs under $10.
Eucalyptus & Mint Scalp Detox 2 in 1 Shampoo and Conditioner
All hair types, including color-treated hair.
It helps with hair, body, and fullness, and fresh scent.
A few reviewers say it left hair feeling a bit greasy.
Native is known for its skin-friendly, natural deodorants. But it also makes a shampoo and conditioner in one that’s free from sulfates and dyes. This is perfect for those with sensitive scalps and itchy hair, especially those prone to Eczema. Citric acid is also included to help balance the pH of your scalp.
The Body Shop Ginger Scalp Shampoo
Sensitive and flaky scalps, those with product allergies.
It comes in 100 percent recycled plastic bottles, soothing a tingly sensation, and is gentle on the scalp.
The ginger scent may be vital for some.
The shampoo is 90 percent natural and packaged in 100% recycled plastic. This will make your scalp as well as the planet feel good. The active ingredients include purifying Ginger essential oil and two types of Birch Bark extracts that help remove loose flakes from your scalp.
Scalp Revival Charcoal + Coconut Oil micro-Exfoliating shampoo
Straight, wavy, curly, and coiled hair types and all hair textures.
The delightful minty smell works without ruining curls cools while it lathers.
Microbeads take a while to wash out fully.
This shampoo is formulated to soothe itchy, flaky, or red scalps. It also balances. Binchotan Charcoal is used to clear out the follicles, and coconut oil moisturizes your skin.
Cleanse Scalp Therapy
All hair types and textures, weaves, and braids.
Easy application, a little goes a long way, feels refreshing.
Tingling and scent may take getting used to.
This rebalancing treatment is an Allure Beauty Best of Beauty 2019 Winner. Its tri-touch application targets the scalp. It’s made with a refreshing mixture of eucalyptus, tea tree, and witch hazel oils.