If your scalp is causing itchiness, irritation, or flaking, it won’t matter how your hair looks, even if you have a perfect hairstyle or are searching for the latest hair trend. Because no one wants to walk around with large flakes of dandruff on their shoulder. If this sounds like a daily battle for you, you may be suffering from seborrheic dermatitis of the scalp, also known as scalp eczema in the medical community.
What is seborrheic dermatitis of the scalp?
Seborrheic dermatitis of the scalp is a common condition that can cause itching, redness, and inflammation of the scalp. It is actually quite common. In fact, it is estimated that 31.6 million people, or 10.1 percent of the U.S. population, suffer from some forms of eczema, and the condition develops in 1 in 10 people at some point in their lives.
Preview of some of the best shampoos for eczema:
Fortunately, the right health products (and possibly even a scalp massager) can help. While prescription antifungal shampoos may be recommended, there are many gentle options available at grocery store pharmacies that can also do the trick, according to Anna Chacon, a board-certified dermatologist and writer for my psoriasis team.
To help you select the best eczema shampoo to relieve symptoms such as dryness, itching, and scalp flaking, we asked dermatologists to share the products they recommend to their patients because they really work.
AD Dandruff Shampoo
This shampoo is considered extremely effective in treating seborrheic dermatitis of the scalp because it contains the active ingredient ketoconazole, an antifungal that can help control the growth of yeast associated with seborrheic dermatitis, according to Dr. Chacon. Use it to relieve symptoms like redness, itching, and flaking.
Shampoo review: “I bought this for my 11-year-old daughter. She always has a dry scalp, and no matter what we do, she suffers from dandruff. This stuff is amazing. The first wash removed a lot of the dry scalp, and by the second wash, it was gone. Now she uses it once or twice a week to keep the flakes away from her hair! I highly recommend it!”
AD Dandruff Shampoo
Head & Shoulders is one of the classic options for anyone suffering from dandruff or seborrheic dermatitis of the scalp. While it’s gentle enough for sensitive skin, it contains one percent selenium sulfide – the power of a prescription – to relieve itching and control flaking and dandruff. It is also mixed with aloe vera for added comfort.
Shampoo review: “This is a really nice formula. It doesn’t have a strong scent like some dandruff shampoos. It leaves a nice scent after your hair dries. You only need a little bit as it lathers well.”
T/Gel Therapeutic Shampoo
This shampoo may have a strange color and a strong scent, but that’s because it contains coal tar, which can help slow down the growth of skin cells and reduce itching and inflammation, according to Dr. Chacon. “It is often recommended for conditions like scalp psoriasis and seborrheic dermatitis.”
Shampoo review: “Yes, it smells like tar, and yes, you will need a good conditioner, but for those of us who suffer from eczema and seborrheic dermatitis of the scalp, it’s the only shampoo I’ve found that effectively removes and prevents the buildup of dandruff on the scalp.”
Zinc Shampoo
Using 2 percent zinc power, this shampoo reduces dandruff-like symptoms and decreases inflammation, according to Sarah Roberts, a licensed consultant in hair, beauty, and skincare, and the founder of A Beauty Edit. The formula is hypoallergenic and completely fragrance-free as well.
Review
Shampoo: “I have battled eczema for most of my life. Regular anti-dandruff shampoos just make things worse. This is an amazing OTC shampoo that will eliminate flakes, itching, and irritation on the scalp. I use it almost every day and no longer need topical steroids on my scalp to control my eczema. Buy it now!”
Free & Clear Sensitive Skin Shampoo
This formula is as clean as it looks. The shampoo is free from common irritants like dyes, fragrances, parabens, and sulfates, making it highly suitable for individuals with sensitive or allergy-prone skin, according to Dr. Chacon.
Shampoo review: “I am on Accutane and my scalp became very itchy and painful. I was recommended this by my dermatologist and after using it once, I felt 95 percent better. After the second wash, the itching was completely gone and the flakes disappeared.”
Medical Dandruff Shampoo
Containing mint, this powerful shampoo is an excellent option for those experiencing painful and itchy scalps. It provides a cooling and soothing effect to alleviate symptoms immediately, while also tackling flakes and dandruff at the same time.
Shampoo review: “Honestly, this is my favorite shampoo that really helps eliminate dandruff! I love the minty feeling after using it.”
Dermo Capillary Extra Tolerability Shampoo
This shampoo uses natural moisturizing agents like urea and lactate to relieve itching, according to Roberts. It also contains polidocanol, which has additional itch-relieving properties. Most importantly, it is free from potential irritants like dyes, parabens, and fragrances.
Shampoo review: “I have suffered from an itchy scalp for years. The charcoal shampoo was not working. The sulfate-free shampoo was not working. This shampoo stops the itching. Ah!”
Extra Strength Medical Dandruff Shampoo and Conditioner
This compounded product is recommended by the National Eczema Association, and it takes the guesswork out of choosing a conditioner as well. It contains an impressive 3 percent salicylic acid to control and treat symptoms of dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis, and psoriasis without stripping away natural oils that promote shiny, healthy hair.
Shampoo review: “I have used Denorex medicated for years. I suffer from clogged pores and eczema. Denorex has kept my condition at bay. I also use Denorex during showers when my eczema flares up.”
Scalp Revival Charcoal + Coconut Oil Micro-Exfoliating Shampoo
Most shampoos specifically designed for scalp eczema have an unpleasant smell, but you won’t have such complaints about this product, which smells like chocolate mint. Although the once-a-week formula is more of a treatment for the scalp than a true shampoo, it’s a great option for anyone with scalp eczema due to a buildup of flakes.
The scrub features a powerful blend of activated charcoal to eliminate impurities, plant-derived exfoliants to reset the scalp, moisturizing oils to nourish hair, peppermint and spearmint to soothe the skin, and panthenol to strengthen hair.
Shampoo review: “I love it! It helps clean dandruff very effectively! In just a few uses, I can feel the difference in my scalp, especially when I comb my hair there is less flaking.”
Sulfate-Free White Vinegar Shampoo
To help balance the scalp’s pH and eliminate any buildup that can exacerbate scalp eczema symptoms, try this shampoo endorsed by Sheel Desai Solomon, a board-certified dermatologist in North Carolina. It contains vitamins, enzymes, and amino acids that work together to clarify skin and combat irritation, itching, and flakes.
Review
Shampoo: “This shampoo is great. It doesn’t contain harsh chemicals that could damage my hair. Apple cider vinegar works to prevent frizz.”
Stelatopia Sensitive Skin Foaming Shampoo
According to the National Eczema Association, seborrheic dermatitis on the scalp is very common in infants and young children who need a gentle shampoo like this one. In fact, the light, foam-like formula is primarily made for the younger age group. It’s fragrance-free and tear-free, plus it contains natural oils such as avocado oil and sunflower oil that won’t strip sensitive skin.
Shampoo Review: “I tried this for my child’s dandruff. It seemed to work well. I didn’t have to scrub the flakes with oil. The shampoo has a light scent and doesn’t leave a lingering smell.”
Moisturizing Shampoo
Don’t you hate how most shampoos for scalp eczema dry out and smell awful? You’re in luck, because this high-quality salon pick deeply moisturizes and has a lovely scent, while still addressing common complaints associated with the condition. This is due to its inclusion of algae that effectively removes impurities while acting as a natural moisturizer at the same time, according to Dr. Gretchen Friling, a board-certified dermatologist in Boston.
Shampoo Review: “I loved this product! It made my hair so soft and smells absolutely delightful! I’ve used many shampoos in my life but this is definitely at the top.”
Special Tea Tree Shampoo
This best-selling shampoo on Amazon (it has nearly 55,000 reviews!) is based on tea tree and peppermint oils to purify hair and remove buildup. It also has lavender oil to help soothe an irritated scalp. Reviewers love the cool sensation that works instantly to relieve symptoms like itching.
Shampoo Review: “This stuff is a game changer! I stumbled upon this shampoo while aimlessly wandering the hair care aisle, and I’m so glad I did. I’m not exaggerating when I say it’s the best shampoo I’ve ever used.”
Meet the Experts
Anna Chacon, board-certified dermatologist in Miami and writer for my psoriasis team. Sarah Roberts is a licensed beauty and hair care consultant, and founder of A Beauty Edit. Shil Desai Solomon, board-certified dermatologist in North Carolina. Gretchen Friling, board-certified dermatologist in Boston.
What causes seborrheic dermatitis on the scalp?
Seborrheic dermatitis on the scalp, also known as seborrheic eczema in the medical community, can affect people of all ages, although it is more common in infants and adults aged 30 to 60, according to the National Eczema Association. But what exactly causes this condition? Seborrheic dermatitis on the scalp is usually the result of an inflammatory reaction to excess Malassezia yeast, a microorganism that normally lives on the skin’s surface, but can exacerbate the condition when the immune system overreacts to it. This leads to a fungal infection that results in changes in the skin, including skin flaking or dandruff, white or yellow scales on oily skin, painful rashes, or itching.
Some medical conditions such as psoriasis, HIV, acne, rosacea, Parkinson’s disease, epilepsy, alcoholism, depression, eating disorders, and recovery from a stroke or heart attack can increase a person’s chances of developing seborrheic dermatitis on the scalp, in addition to stress and harsh shampoos or soaps, cold and dry weather, or a change in medication.
WhatWhat is the best type of shampoo for treating seborrheic dermatitis on the scalp?
If you have seborrheic dermatitis on your scalp, a dermatologist may recommend an antifungal shampoo, as these formulations contain effective ingredients such as ketoconazole, selenium sulfide, coal tar, zinc pyrithione, or salicylic acid, which can help control symptoms, according to Dr. Chacon. “For example, ketoconazole is an effective antifungal that can control the growth of yeast associated with this condition, while salicylic acid helps remove scales and dandruff.” These shampoos should be used as directed by a healthcare provider to avoid potential side effects.
If you’re hoping to go the non-prescription route, allergy shampoos can also be helpful, as they are free from common allergens such as fragrances and dyes that can irritate sensitive skin and worsen symptoms of seborrheic dermatitis on the scalp, according to Chacon. Some may also find relief using natural ingredients such as tea tree oil, aloe vera, or oatmeal.
Regardless of the method you choose, it’s important to select a sulfate- and alcohol-free shampoo, as these ingredients can dry out the scalp and exacerbate eczema symptoms, according to Chacon.
How often should you wash your hair if you have seborrheic dermatitis on the scalp?
If you have seborrheic dermatitis on your scalp, the frequency with which you wash your hair is important to reduce symptoms, although specific guidelines vary based on the individual and severity of the condition. “A general rule for mild cases is every other day, but those with severe cases may need to wash daily,” according to Dr. Chacon. “During flare-up periods, you may need to wash your hair more frequently to help manage symptoms and remove flakes.”
Discussing your hair washing routine, triggers, and hair products with a qualified dermatologist can help you determine the best routine for your seborrheic dermatitis on the scalp – there is no one-size-fits-all solution.
How we chose the best eczema shampoos?
Over the past few months, the editors of Women’s Health, including writer Brigitte Eirly, have researched the best-selling and most popular eczema shampoos. Our team consulted three dermatologists and a licensed hair expert for their opinions, then we assessed thousands of customer reviews and ratings to determine the best eczema shampoos for a wide range of needs and preferences.
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