The 15 Best Hypoallergenic Shampoos for Sensitive Scalps
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If lately you’re finding that wash day leaves you with more of an irritated scalp than a clean one, chances are you might need to try a different shampoo. See, some shampoos contain ingredients that can cause allergic reactions with symptoms like redness, itchiness and breakouts, and switching to a hypoallergenic shampoo can help. To walk us through the ins and outs of hypoallergenic shampoos, we asked one of Hollywood's leading haircare specialists to weigh in.
Meet the Expert:
What Is a Hypoallergenic Shampoo?
“Hypoallergenic means that a formula that is free of allergens and ingredients that can potentially be harmful to your skin and scalp,” explains Philip B. So, whether you have a sensitive scalp or you’re allergic to specific ingredients, this type of shampoo can be a safer option to use in the shower. Plus, it's often gentler on the skin and contains other ingredients that help relieve related concerns like itchiness, redness or inflammation.
And if you don’t have the time (or patience) to scour the haircare aisle, we found the 15 best hypoallergenic shampoos for sensitive scalps, according to reviewers that stand by them.
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3. Augustinus Bader The Shampoo
Leave it to Augustinus Bader to create a lightweight vegan shampoo that does more than just gently cleanse. With ingredients like watercress, shikakai and maca Root, the luxurious formula also helps strengthen hair and reduce breakage all while boosting thickness and shine, according to the brand. Meanwhile, the brand’s Trigger Factor Complex supposedly tackles everything from frizz to shedding. And since it's made without irritants like sulfates and parabens, buyers have even used it on their kids and pets with no problems.
4. Klorane Ultra-Gentle Shampoo
With ‘ultra-gentle’ in its name, we had high hopes for this shampoo and we’re happy to report that it delivers. Its lightweight blend, which features oat milk, promises to soften, hydrate and condition your hair, while also balancing the scalp. Shoppers find it's super helpful for dry and damaged locks, as the formula works to improve shine and strengthen strands.
5. Briogeo Be Gentle, Be Kind Aloe + Oat Milk Ultra Soothing Shampoo
This gentle shampoo aims to improve both your hair and scalp health. The aloe vera minimizes irritation and inflammation, while the oat milk and green tea extract blend works to cleanse and calm the scalp and hair. As one reviewer explains, "I have coarse [and] thick curly hair and this effectively cleans my scalp even when it's been several days between washes and there's a lot of product in my hair. It has a watery consistency, but as long as you lather it in your hands before applying it to your scalp, it works like a charm! All in all, this is a great regular-basis shampoo to use alongside a monthly clarifying shampoo!”
10. Kristin Ess Daily Cleansing Shampoo
Whether you’re looking to remove buildup, improve shine or add volume, this shampoo checks all the boxes. The formula includes betaine, glycerin and aloe to deliver a rich lather without stripping away your natural oils. Plus, you can forget all about parabens, silicones or heavy fragrances, none of which are included in this bottle.
12. Odele Ultra-Sensitive Shampoo
This ultra-sensitive shampoo is formulated with amino acids and oat extract to nourish locks, add shine and reduce breakage while soothing an irritated scalp. It’s great for all hair types, but some users found it to be especially helpful with psoriasis, eczema and dandruff.
13. Philip B. Gentle Conditioning Shampoo
This conditioning shampoo preserves your hair color, boosts shine and increases moisture without weighing your hair down. Whether you have color-treated, curly or fine locks, this cleanser washes away buildup and leaves a softer finish in its place. “This super mild and gentle formula is made with botanical agents like African shea butter, as well as panthenol (which contains vitamin B5) for healthier, bouncier and pH-balanced locks,” explains Philip B.
14. Pipette Baby Shampoo
This hypoallergenic shampoo is a must-have for your babies and adults alike. Its gentle formula contains plant-based ingredients (like citric acid, squalene and glycerin) that cleanse and hydrate the scalp without being too drying or irritating. Plus, the shampoo has a stamp of approval from the Environmental Working Group (EWG), so you know your luscious locks are in good hands.
15. HIBAR Shampoo Bar
Shampoo bars have been all the rage in the last few years and for good reason. For one, they're easier to travel with than your regular bottle, they lasts longer (one bar is equivalent to 16 ounces of shampoo) and they're better for the environment, as they use less plastic and waste. This one by HIBAR is a great choice for cleansing the scalp and adding moisture back to parched strands. It's formulated with coconut oil and rice protein, which aims to strengthen and repair your hair.
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How Do You Choose the Right Hypoallergenic Shampoo?
You’ll want to keep these three factors in mind before adding a new shampoo to your cart:
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