How to find the best shampoo for a sensitive scalp
Think all shampoos are equal? Shampoo formulations can very dramatically from one brand to another – and even some shampoos claiming to be ‘natural’ can in fact contain high amounts of artificial perfumes and colourings that will set off a sensitive scalp. So shopping for the best shampoo when you’re prone to sensitivity requires a little bit of detective work.
RELATED: How to look after your scalp
You need to know what to look out for and what to avoid, so you can cut through all the hype and the pretty packaging to find a shampoo that works for you. Here’s how to do it…
Avoid these common ingredients – they’re all potentially inflammatory to a sensitive scalp:
Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
Ammonium Xylene Sulfonate
TEA Lauryl Sulfate
Sulfur
Selenium Sulfide
The last two ingredients on the list: sulfur and selenium sulfide are both, believe it or not – most commonly used in dandruff shampoos. Yes, that’s right – the shampoo you’re using to treat your flaky, itchy scalp could potentially be inflaming it!
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When you’re shopping for a scalp shampoo, look for products that are hypoallergenic and fragrance-free. Organic shampoos are a good alternative too, though some people find certain natural ingredients such as eucalyptus and mint irritating for their scalp, so sometimes there’s the need for a bit of trial and error.
RELATED: Finding the best shampoo and conditioner for your hair type
If all else fails, you can try making your own shampoo – that way you can be certain there’s nothing else added to the formula and you can experiment to find the combination of natural ingredients that works for you. A popular DIY recipe for sensitive scalp shampoo is to combine soap flakes with distilled water and chamomile tea.
Do you suffer from a sensitive scalp? What do you find helps to soothe an irritated scalp?
82 Member Comments
Kevin Murphy hair products are brilliant.
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Being a Hairdresser I love beautiful shampoo and conditioner but not everyone has the budget to spend lots of money on these items. Lots of people get a reaction from using shampoo with sulphates in it.
I have found a brand in the supermarket called Natures Organics that is as cheap as chips and wonderful. It does contain nasties: No parabens or petrochemical cleansers No SLES, SLS, ALES, ALS. "100%Australian made and owned operation currently providing employment for a skilled workforce of 130 men and women." No I'm not related, I just think it's good wholesome brand.
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I have a family member with psoriasis, so he has to be super careful with anything he puts on his scalp & body. We've found Billie Goat Shampoo & Conditioner both work a treat for him
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Dermaveen Oatmeal Shampoo and Conditioner - great products!
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I have a very sensitive scalp and use Al'chemy Unscented S&C (I can also use the Rosemary Shampoo and Avocado and Calendula conditioner). They are such great quality Australian products and really make my scalp and hair soothed, soft and beautiful.
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alchemy is my fave to minimise irritation but am yet to find a perfect s&c when having a flare up. Great list here to help avoid irritants.
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The David Babaii range is sulphate and paraben free - hydrating shampoo and conditioner are good for those with sensitive scalps. Lathers well (which is surprising considering it's petrochemical, paraben and sulphate free) and is quite gentle. I've also tried Head and Shoulders sensitive scalp - but I find it strips it off shine and lustre.
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According to my grandpa, washing your hair with pineapple peel helps!
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Oh just in time! I just came back from my hair dresser who informed me my scalp was quite red. I thiink its due to the shampoo I was using by Lush 'Big". Of tto buy some moo goo!
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I have a very sensitive scalp it only developed later in life. I used to use Nourish Naturals and Eco store which are slightly expensive I found natural insticnt to be quite harsh as it has no soap products in it. Now I tend to use Organic care it is so cheap its frightening but yes contains to sls and other nasties and doesnt irritate at all.
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If you know the ingredients that go in most things we use now a days, you would lock your self in your room and never come out..
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I'd love to have had recommendations added to this great article.
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I have an ultra sensitive scalp and I only use Moogoo's Milk Shampoo OR Aveda's Scalp Benefits or Dry Remedy Moisturizing Shampoo. Both are sulfate-free and totally non-irritating on my scalp!
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I haven't had any dramas with Moo goo since some of the lovely ladies on the forums here pointed me in their direction. Every now and then I'll try something new but always end up going back
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Totally missed this article. Very helpful, my friend has a sensitive scalp so I'll let her know.
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organic care is good and very good value as well as head and sholders whicch sometimes can be harsh on hair
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I am quite lucky not to suffer from a sensitive scalp so I can use most products without irritation.
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I find that Head and Shoulders doesn't work at all for my sensitive scalp and I have also tied many other supermarket bought products and none of them have continued to work past the first shampoo. I am currently using L'oreal's keratse specifique shampoo which I bought from my hairdresser and it seems to be doing the trick.
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I am currently looking for salon brand shampoo thats gonna give some volume and be gentle to my scalp too!
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