Best Sensitive Shampoo for Scalps

If you have a sensitive scalp, washing your hair can be an uncomfortable ordeal. Whether you suffer from itchiness, tenderness, dandruff, or psoriasis, sensitive scalps can cause a lot of irritation and stress in your everyday life. Therefore, choosing the right shampoo is essential. 

If you have a sensitive scalp, you should look for a sensitive shampoo that won’t irritate your skin. Keep reading to discover our top suggestions for shampoos for sensitive scalps, as well as some tips on how best to care for your scalp.

What to Look for in Sensitive Shampoo

There is a wide variety of shampoos available on the market for every hair type, from colour-treated to dry or oily hair. Fortunately, there are plenty of options for sensitive scalps, too. 

When it comes to choosing hair care products for a sensitive scalp, it helps if you know which ingredients irritate your skin. Generally speaking, it's a good idea to look for products with simple formulas (without lots of added chemicals). 

Some of the most beneficial ingredients to help an irritated or sensitive scalp include:

Peppermint Oil

Peppermint oil may be effective at reducing dandruff and soothing the scalp, as it has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. Peppermint oil should be infused in a shampoo/conditioner, rather than being used at full strength.

Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil is another ingredient that can be used to help soothe an itchy scalp. The oil derived from its leaves contains natural antimicrobial properties, so it can fight bacteria, viruses, and fungi.

Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is a well-known sun protectant, but it can also help relieve irritation in your scalp. The ingredient works really well as a moisturiser, helping fight skin irritation through hydration.

Aloe Vera Extract

The symptoms of an itchy scalp and flaking under your hair can also be treated with aloe vera. The acids found in the aloe plant have anti-inflammatory properties and can help resolve scalp inflammation and dandruff.

Best Shampoos for Sensitive Scalps

At Weldricks Pharmacy, we stock an extensive range of hair products for a variety of hair types. 

Here are some of our top shampoos for sensitive scalps:

Oilatum Scalp Anti-Dandruff Shampoo

Oilatum Scalp Anti-Dandruff Shampoo has been specially formulated with ciclopirox, which treats the underlying cause of itchy, flaky scalps. It contains no colour or preservatives and is gentle on the most sensitive scalps.

MooGoo Milk Shampoo

MooGoo Milk Shampoo is specifically designed for people with sensitive, itchy scalps. MooGoo contains natural ingredients for smooth and silky hair without irritating the scalp.

Aveeno Skin Relief Soothing Shampoo

Aveeno uses a mild formula that gently cleanses the hair and relieves itchiness related to dry and sensitive scalps.

Neutrogena T/gel Sensitive Scalp Shampoo 

This fragrance-free formula will help clear dandruff and relieve dry, sensitive scalps. 

Polytar Scalp Shampoo

Polytar Scalp Shampoo is an antiseptic medicated scalp shampoo that can help treat scalp conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and itchy scalp. 

Tips for Caring for your Sensitive Scalp

Rinse Thoroughly After Shampooing

Having an itchy scalp can be a sign that the skin has been aggravated by an ingredient in your hair care. Fragrances and soaps are known to irritate a sensitive scalp, so make sure you always rinse your hair thoroughly after shampooing.

Avoid Chlorine

Water that is highly chlorinated can irritate the scalp and make it feel itchy. A good way to tackle this is to wear a swimming hat while you’re in a pool and wash your hair with a clarifying shampoo after your swim.

Gently Massage the Scalp

Treating your scalp to a nourishing massage with warm water can be a great way to relieve some tenderness. As well as boosting the condition of your scalp, it can also help you feel relaxed. Make sure your nails aren't too long, and gently massage the scalp with your fingertips in circular motions.

Avoid Synthetic Fragrances

While a floral scent can make your hair smell lovely, it could mean bad news if you suffer from a sensitive scalp. Synthetic fragrance is a leading cause of skin reactions to cosmetics, so it's best to try and avoid this in your shampoo.

Browse Our Range of Sensitive Shampoos

A lot of us suffer from sensitive scalps, but fortunately, there are solutions. We’ve discussed our top sensitive shampoo recommendations, as well as the ingredients to look for and what to avoid.  

Alongside our collection of sensitive shampoos, we also offer a range of other hair care products, including conditioners and treatments.