Image: MomJunction Design Team
Bacteria, dead skin cells, or sebum can clog your hair follicles and lead to acne breakout on the scalp. Acne can also be caused by hormonal imbalances. Irrespective of the cause, if you have acne problems on your scalp, you need the best scalp acne shampoo to tackle it.
Scalp acne shampoos are formulated by combining natural ingredients that prevent pore buildup and keep the scalp clean. Keep scrolling as we bring you a list of the top scalp acne control shampoos to help you eliminate those stubborn breakouts on your scalp.
Top Picks
11 Best Scalp Acne Shampoos To Reduce Stubborn Breakouts In 2024
1. Best Moisturizing: Maple Holistics Tea Tree Oil Shampoo
Formulated with pure tea tree oil, rosemary, and lavender, this scalp acne shampoo for oily hair helps clean the scalp and prevents dirt and product buildup. It is effective in moisturizing dry hair and hydrating the scalp for healthier-looking hair. This acne-fighting scalp cleanser for acne-prone skin also works well on color-treated hair, dry hair, and normal hair. This video review showcasing the tester’s experience with the tea-tree oil scalp shampoo will help you make an informed decision.
Pros
- Effectively clarifies scalp and hair
- Washes away flakes
- Rich in essential oils
- Sulfate-free scalp acne shampoo
Cons
- May have a strong smell
2. Best Pure And Natural: Puriya Plant Based Tea Tree Shampoo
Treat your itchy, flaky, and dry scalp with this mild shampoo for scalp acne treatment. It is infused with clinically verified natural ingredients such as tea tree oil, sage, arnica, and rosemary. The sulfate-free clarifying scalp shampoo deeply hydrates dry scalp and hair and has a pleasant fragrance. This shampoo is pH-balanced and is free of parabens and sodium chloride. This video will help you make an informed decision about your purchase.
Pros
- Works on brittle and damaged hair
- Mild and gentle formulation
- Effectively removes buildup
- Adds shine and luster
- Works well on all hair types
Cons
- May not ease itching
3. Best Unscented: CLn Shampoo For Scalp Acne
This non-drying and anti-dandruff shampoo is unscented and suitable for treating acne, dermatitis, and folliculitis. It is formulated with sodium hypochlorite and salicylic acid and effectively removes dead skin cells and unwanted oils from the scalp. This results-driven salicylic acid shampoo for scalp acne works on normal to oily hair.
Pros
- Hypoallergenic
- Free of triclosan, parabens, and antibiotics
- Approved by a board-certified dermatologist
- Supported by clinical data
Cons
- May cause hair fall
"After trying out numerous products, even prescribed ones, I've finally found a shampoo that has brought me long-awaited relief from my scalp problems. Though it doesn't lather much, it's effective."
Quick tip
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The 2,916 positive reviews on Amazon are proof that this product meets customers' expectations.
4. Best Soothing: Ovante Folliculit Solution Shampoo
Ovante’s shampoo for scalp treatment with an effective formula cleans and deeply hydrates the scalp and hair. It is a soothing scalp cleanser with vitamin A and various essential oils and helps prevent scalp breakouts and itching.
Pros
- Promotes hair growth
- Eliminates dandruff
- Less foam for better absorption
- Helps make hair voluminous
Cons
- May have an unpleasant fragrance
"Despite initial skepticism, I tried this shampoo, and I'm glad I did. The scent is a bit intense, but its effectiveness against my persistent scalp issues has been notable."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The tried-and-true product has earned over 1,636 good reviews on Amazon.
5. Best For Unclogging Pores: Teenology Shampoo For Teens
Rich in aloe vera, vitamin B5, comfrey, and peppermint leaf extract, this deep cleansing scalp shampoo soothes irritation on the scalp, breaks down oil, nourishes hair, and treats dandruff. Unclog your pores and wash away dead skin cells with this sweet mint-scented professional-grade shampoo for the scalp. Check out this product review video and pick the best-suited one for your needs.
Pros
- Not tested on animals
- Dermatologist-reccomended
- Free of sulfates, silicones, gluten, and parabens
- Treats acne on forehead, back, and scalp
- Lathers and cleanses well
Cons
- May cause hair fall
"This shampoo meets my expectations by minimizing acne, particularly around my hairline. Its pleasant scent is what attracted me. Plus, I find it beneficial in soothing my scalp irritation as well."
CautionWhy We Think It's Worth Buying
The product has earned its stripes, with over 730 reviews on Amazon.
6. Best Vegan:BioB Prebiotic Natural Hair Shampoo
Get beautiful and luscious-looking hair with the soap-free BioB Prebiotic Natural Hair shampoo, which contains the goodness of shea butter, cocoa butter, and aloe vera. It is suitable for treating different scalp and hair issues, including acne, dryness, itchiness, dandruff, damage, and odor. This vegan shampoo, known for its proven efficacy reduces hair fall, supports hair growth, restores the hair’s natural PH level, and adds shine.
Pros
- Free of parabens, SLS, and mineral oil
- Suitable for treating seborrheic dermatitis and psoriasis
- Strengthens the scalp’s immune system
- Vegan friendly
- Vanilla and oatmeal scent
- Easy-to-use pump bottle
Cons
- May take time to show results
- Bottle may be smaller than expected
"It's a delight to find such a shampoo that revives my hair and scalp health. I like the subtle vanilla scent it leaves behind after every wash. The bonus is its fully recyclable bottle, making it an eco-friendly option."
7. Best Antibacterial: Acne Zap Shampoo For Scalp Acne
Created for safe acne treatment, this medicated scalp shampoo is an effective antibacterial formula for oily, itchy, and greasy scalp types, bacterial infections on the scalp, and acne. It works well on different types of hair and leaves you with a clarified scalp and healthy-looking hair
Pros
- Suitable for sensitive skin
- Formulated for kids and adults
- Doesn’t dry out hair
- Gentle formula is suitable for face too
Cons
- May have an unpleasant smell
"Despite my initial skepticism, this shampoo has proven to be a healthy choice for my scalp. It has a distinct woody, menthol aroma, which dissipates after use, leaving nothing but smooth, manageable hair. Also, it only takes a small amount to show effectiveness."
8. Best Dermatologist-Tested: Neutrogena T/Sal Therapeutic Shampoo
The drugstore shampoo by Neutrogena is a therapeutic formulation that prevents scalp buildup. The dermatologist-recommended product helps prevent acne breakouts and clears the scalp.
Pros
- Effective in treating dandruff
- Soothes psoriasis
- Helps reduce itching
- Quick results
Cons
- May smell unpleasant
"Impressed by its lathering abilities, I switched to this product. It helps keep my scalp flake- and itch-free. Also, its neutral scent is a bonus to get that fresh feel. Moreover, I noticed results just after a single wash."
9. Best Unscented: Neutrogena T/Sal Therapeutic Shampoo
Infused with 3% salicylic acid, Neutrogena’s T/Sal Therapeutic Shampoo is suitable for people with dandruff, psoriasis, and seborrheic dermatitis. Its clinically tested formula is free of harmful skin irritants such as preservatives, artificial colors, and fragrances, making it suitable for sensitive scalp. The gentle scalp acne shampoo reduces bumps, clears crusty scalp residue, and relieves itching and flaking caused by scalp build-up.
Pros
- Quick-acting formula
- Controls scalp build-up
- Dermatologically-approved
- Suitable for people with dry skin
Cons
- May not be easy to rinse off
- May have a strong scent
"This therapeutic solution is certainly a relief for my dandruff problems. It seems to moderately control sebum production, keeping dandruff at bay with regular use. I suggest pairing it with a nice conditioner to avoid tangles."
Did you know?10. Best Organic: Avalon Organics Shampoo
Made of plant-based and other natural ingredients, the professional-grade scalp-treating shampoo by Avalon Organics balances the scalp’s moisture levels and soothes inflammation. Created especially for thin hair, the sulfate-free shampoo has been infused with the goodness of active ingredients such as tea tree essential oil, beta-glucan, aloe, quinoa protein, and vitamin E to strengthen the hair cuticles and make the strands look healthy and shiny.
Pros
- Soothes irritated scalp
- Free of harsh chemicals: parabens, sulfates, phthalates, colors, and preservatives
- Not tested on animals
- Non-GMO
Cons
- Might not lather well
"After a few washes, I've noticed that this scalp treatment formula effectively removes the excess oil from my scalp. Its plant-based formula is also reassuring for both scalp and hair health. The fragrance is pleasant, and I like that it doesn't strip my hair of its natural moisture."
11. Best Anti-Fungal: DS Laboratories Dandrene Shampoo
The dermatologist-recommended exfoliating scalp shampoo for acne has been formulated to control scalp irritation, scaling, soreness, and flaking. It helps exfoliate and fight against the different causes of dandruff. This anti-dandruff, anti-fungal, and anti-bacterial hair product treats the root cause of the problem and supports scalp health.
Pros
- Clinically proven formula
- Dandrene and pyrithione zinc strengthens the formulation
- Works well on red, itchy, and oily scalp
- Contains antifungal agents
- Helps treat fungal acne
- Makes hair softer
- Suitable for curly hair as well
Cons
- May have a strong smell
"Adding this dandruff-prevention shampoo to my haircare routine seemed beneficial in maintaining my scalp and hair. I found it is also effective for dermatitis and psoriasis. However, I have to pair it with proper conditioner to prevent my scalp from drying."
How To Choose The Right Scalp Acne Shampoo?
Here are some points to consider while purchasing a scalp acne shampoo.
1. Ingredients: Choose shampoos rich in active ingredients such as salicylic acid, jojoba oil, and tea tree oil, as they effectively treat acne.
2. Chemical-free formulation: Products free from SLS, sulfates, parabens, and other chemicals effectively treat the scalp gently.
3. Scalp condition: Some shampoos are formulated to soothe redness on the scalp and ease inflammation, others are effective on dandruff, and a few strengthen the hair follicles. Select the right doctor-recommended shampoo based on your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can hair products cause scalp acne?
Yes, some hair products may cause scalp acne if they contain pore-clogging ingredients. Thus, you should opt for a dermatologically approved shampoo. Check the list of active ingredients in the product, and avoid anything that is comedogenic.
2. How often should I wash my hair with scalp acne shampoo?
Scalp acne is itchy and painful, and you may feel like washing your hair every day. However, wash your hair only when it is greasy or when you feel irritated due to sweat. Overwashing your hair may strip off essential oils and nutrients from the scalp.
3. Are shampoos good for scalp acne?
Shampoos specially formulated to eliminate scalp acne or minimize acne breakouts are effective. However, avoid oil-based shampoos as they may aggravate your scalp acne (1).
4. Is an apple cider vinegar shampoo good for scalp acne?
Many beauty experts recommend using apple cider vinegar shampoo for scalp acne as it has microbial properties. However, there is a lack of scientific evidence or research to claim that apple cider vinegar shampoo can eliminate or minimize scalp acne.
5. How long does it take to clear scalp acne?
You can get rid of acne anywhere between four and six weeks after you stop using products that clog pores (2). If you notice no difference, consult a dermatologist to determine the underlying cause and get personalized treatment.
Why Trust MomJunction?
We have compiled a list of the best scalp acne shampoos to clean the hair and scalp while preventing pore build-up. Specifications, pros, and cons are offered for each enumerated product to give you the detailed information. We have included details about components, chemical-free formulations, and scalp problems to help you find the right shampoo. You can also browse the buying guide to make an informed decision.
The best scalp acne shampoos can keep your scalp healthy and clean, unclog hair follicles, and reduce the symptoms of acne. In addition, they can keep your hair moisturized and hydrated in the long run. We have included shampoos made of natural ingredients such as aloe vera, tea tree oil, and jojoba oil that can help treat your scalp effectively. When choosing such a shampoo, check the ingredients to understand if it suits your hair type and ensure it does not contain any unpleasant fragrances or allergens that may irritate your scalp. Once you find a suitable choice, you can flaunt your healthy hair.
Infographic: What Not To Use When You Have Scalp Acne?
Scalp acne is a condition characterized by inflamed hair follicles on the scalp. It can cause itchiness and small pimples, requiring proper care and treatment for relief. To better manage scalp acne, avoiding certain hair products and using scalp acne shampoos is essential. Explore the infographic below to learn what not to use when you have scalp acne.
Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
References
- Scalp Acne
https://www.acne.org/scalp-acne - Are Your Hair Care Products Causing Breakouts?
https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/acne/causes/hair-products
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