11 Best Shampoos For Eczema, Recommended By A Cosmetologist (2024)

Reduce dryness, itchiness, and redness with hydrating shampoos that treat skin sensitivity.

Reviewed by Lindsay Loo, Cosmetologist
Written by Medha Deb, Integrated MA
Edited by Shiboli Chakraborti, MA (English Literature), Certified Skin Care Coach
Fact-checked by Arshiya Syeda, BA (Literature & Psychology), PG Diploma  • 
All products recommended on StyleCraze are independently selected by our editorial team. If you make a purchase through any of these links, we may receive a commission. Learn more about our product selection process here.

Eczema is characterized by redness, itchiness, dryness, and scaliness of the skin or scalp. To prevent your scalp from getting sensitive over time, it is a good idea to invest in the best shampoo for eczema. As this skin condition can also happen in the form of psoriasis or seborrheic dermatitisyou should keep a close eye on your skin health. Some of its symptoms are inflamed scalp, crusting, and scaly patches on the skin. We have reviewed the best shampoos for eczema to help you get rid of this condition. Keep scrolling!

Top Picks
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Best Tear-Free Formula:CeraVe Baby Wash And Shampoo
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Best For All Hair Types:Puriya Scalp Clarifying Shampoo
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Best Anti-Fungal Properties:Free & Clear Medicated Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
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Best Anti-Inflammatory Properties:Sphagnum Botanicals Eczema And Psoriasis Shampoo
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Best Hypoallergenic Formula:Wild Naturals Eczema And Psoriasis Shampoo
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Best For Everyday Use:Neutrogena T/Sal Therapeutic Shampoo For Scalp Build-Up Control
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Best For Dry Scalp And Hair:Mustela Stelatopia Shampooing Mousse
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Best Anti-Bacterial Shampoo:Honey Skin Tea Tree Shampoo
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Best For Dry And Damaged Hair:DHS Zinc Shampoo
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Best For Oily Hair:Healthy Hair Plus Psoriasis Shampoo
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11 Best Shampoos For Eczema To Keep Dandruff At Bay

1. Best Tear-Free Formula:CeraVe Baby Wash And Shampoo

4.6
CeraVe Baby Wash And Shampoo Image: Cerave

Bid adieu to tear-streaked, stingy eyes with this tear-free and mild scalp cleanser cum body wash from CeraVe. While dermatologists originally formulated this shampoo for baby hair, reviews on several e-commerce websites note that it works wonders for adult hair as well, especially if you suffer from eczema or intense dandruff. Key ingredients like ceramides and hyaluronic acid deeply nourish the scalp and empower it to fight dryness to keep flaking and dandruff at bay. It also contains niacinamide that maintains your skin’s delicate barrier, especially if you suffer from eczema or intense dandruff. The active ingredient also effectively removes dead skin cells and promotes clean and healthy skin. To add more goodness to this shampoo for scalp eczema, it is hypoallergenic, dermatologist-recommended, and non-irritating.

Hair Type: All | Product Dimensions: 2.8 x 2.8 x 6.75 inches | Weight: 10.4 Ounces

Pros

  • Provides scalp hydration
  • Tear-free formula
  • Free of fragrance
  • Phthalates, sulfates, dye, and parabens-free
  • Accepted by the National Eczema Association

Cons

  • May not be effective for severe cases of eczema.
protip_icon Fun Fact
CeraVe is a combination of two words, Ceramides, the key ingredient in the products, and MVE, which is the brand’s revolutionary delivery system called MultiVesicular Emulsion Technology.

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

The overwhelming 7,948 positive reviews on Amazon show how popular this product is with happy users.

2. Best For All Hair Types:Puriya Scalp Clarifying Shampoo

4.1

Tea tree oil is known to reduce itchiness and flakiness, and this very ingredient makes the Puriya shampoo and conditioner for eczema effective if you have a dandruff-prone scalp. It is infused with arnica, sage, and rosemary that help gently cleanse the scalp of flakes and nourish brittle, damaged hair. It also contains nourishing ingredients like tea tree oil, aloe vera, and hydrolyzed wheat protein that provide restorative care to the hair and scalp. The medicated shampoo effectively removes excess natural oils that make your hair look flat without stripping it of its natural moisture. It is suitable for curly, fine, color-treated hair, and you can also use it for your toddler or pet as it suits a delicate scalp as well.

Hair Type: All, Oily, Dry, Normal, Damaged | Package Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 8.15 x 2.32 x 2.28 inches | Weight: 1 Pounds

Pros

  • pH balanced
  • Contains plant-rich ingredients
  • Safe for all hair types
  • Suitable for pets and kids
  • Free of questionable ingredients

Cons

  • May not treat thick patches of flake

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

A whopping 3,266 reviews on Amazon make it obvious that users genuinely love this product.

3. Best Anti-Fungal Properties:Free & Clear Medicated Anti-Dandruff Shampoo

4.3
Free & Clear Medicated Anti-Dandruff Shampoo Image: Vanicream

If you’ve been dealing with seborrheic dermatitis for quite a while, it is recommended to use a medicated shampoo for eczema that contains zinc. The Free & Clear eczema hair shampoo is infused with 2% zinc pyrithione that fights the fungi that cause seborrheic dermatitis. With a maximum OTC strength and its natural antifungal properties, you’ll witness a quick reduction in the symptoms of dandruff within a few applications of this atopic dermatitis shampoo. It is ideal for sensitive scalps and damaged hair as it is free of dyes, lanolin protein, formaldehyde releasers, and parabens. For a detailed understanding of the product, watch this video review posted by a reviewer after testing.

Hair Type: All | Product Dimensions: 2 x 2 x 7.25 inches | Weight: 9.6 Ounces.

Pros

  • Anti-fungal properties
  • Treats seborrheic dermatitis
  • Doesn’t contain cocamidopropyl betaine, sulfates, phosphates
  • Free of proteins, gluten, and parabens
  • Dermatologist-tested
  • pH balanced

Cons

  • May not lather adequately
  • Contains alcohol

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

Almost 5,076 happy users have mentioned the value and quality of this product.

CeraVe Baby Wash And Shampoo
Best Tear-Free Formula
Puriya Scalp Clarifying Shampoo
Best For All Hair Types
Free & Clear Medicated Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
Best Anti-Fungal Properties
Hair Type All All, Oily, Dry, Normal, Damaged All
Dimensions 2.8 x 2.8 x 6.75 inches- 2 x 2 x 7.25 inches
Weight 10.4 Ounces 1 Pounds 9.6 Ounces.
Package Dimensions ‏- ‎ 8.15 x 2.32 x 2.28 inches-
Rating
Reviews7,9483,2665,076
Price$8.12$24.29$16.79

4. Best Anti-Inflammatory Properties:Sphagnum Botanicals Eczema And Psoriasis Shampoo

4
Sphagnum Botanicals Eczema And Psoriasis Shampoo Image: Sphagnum Botanicals

If you’re looking for ways to treat eczema on the scalp naturally, one of the best ways is to pick a scientifically proven shampoo that boasts natural ingredients. The Sphagnum shampoo for eczema of the scalp enriches your scalp and hair with peat mud, humic acid, fulvic acid, and hymatomelanic acid to promote collagen production, balance skin pH levels, and heal micro wounds, respectively. Eczema strips the scalp of the many natural minerals, and this supplies those minerals and amino acids along with its antioxidant properties to treat the underlying causes of eczema. It deeply nourishes, hydrates, and saves your scalp from eczema flare-ups.

Hair Type: Dandruff,Color Treated | Package Dimensions ‏: ‎ 5.43 x 2.09 x 2.05 inches | Weight: 9.91 Ounces

Pros

  • Laboratory tested and certified
  • Dermatologically tested
  • Free of coal tar
  • Contains natural ingredients
  • Anti-inflammatory properties
  • Heals micro wounds
  • Offers scalp hydration

Cons

  • May not be color safe

5. Best Hypoallergenic Formula:Wild Naturals Eczema And Psoriasis Shampoo

4
Wild Naturals Eczema Psoriasis Shampoo Image: Wild Naturals

This concentrated shampoo for eczema is the dream product you’ve been waiting for to get rid of the flaky bad guys minus the stink of chemicals. Eczema disturbs the scalp’s pH balance, but this shampoo helps restore a healthy pH balance of 5.5 while retaining vital minerals and oils in the scalp. With a list of oh-so-incredible and rare nourishing ingredients from manuka healing honey and cehami, to organic aloe vera, this organic shampoo for eczema helps promote collagen growth. It also helps in healing and moisturizing your scalp while providing anti-inflammatory benefits. When you use this soothing formula for an extended period of time, it helps reduce the appearance of scars and blemishes. Check out this video based on a reviewer’s experience of using the product.

Hair Type: Oily, Dry, Normal, Damaged | Product Dimensions: 4.5 x 2.5 x 8 inches | Weight: 1.13 Pounds

Pros

  • 98% natural
  • Hypoallergenic
  • Not tested on animals
  • Contains no SLS, parabens, sulfates, dyes
  • Fragrance-free
  • Suitable for both oily and dry hair

Cons

  • Slightly expensive

6. Best For Everyday Use:Neutrogena T/Sal Therapeutic Shampoo For Scalp Build-Up Control

4.2
Neutrogena TSal Therapeutic Shampoo Image: Neutrogena T/sal Therapeutic Shampoo For Scalp Build-up Control

Salicylic acid is among the best scalp eczema remedies, and this clinically-proven magical ingredient makes the Neutrogena T/Sal therapeutic shampoo an effective one. It is composed of maximum strength 3% salicylic acid, which helps break down buildup and provides itchy scalp relief. It combats skin issues like psoriasis, seborrheic dermatitis, and dandruff even after you rinse the shampoo off. Its use extends to the face and the whole body, which is useful if you have both skin and scalp eczema. Since it is formulated to be gentle on the hair and skin, you can use it every dayif you have a severe case of eczema or other similar conditions. It is free of harmful ingredients and does not contain alcohol, fragrance, or preservatives that can make eczema worse.

Hair Type: Crusty | Product Dimensions: 6.73 x 1.97 x 6.73 inches | Weight: 6.35 Ounces

Pros

  • Suitable for everyday use
  • Doubles as body and face wash
  • Dermatologist-recommended
  • Alcohol-free
  • Color and preservative-free
  • Free of fragrance

Cons

  • May not be suitable for dry and flaky scalp
protip_icon StyleCraze Trivia
The brand first started as Natone in Los Angeles in 1930. Later, in 1962, the name was changed to Neutrogena.

7. Best For Dry Scalp And Hair:Mustela Stelatopia Shampooing Mousse

If your toddler has an eczema-prone scalp, this is one of the best clinically proven shampoos for scalp eczema that can curb the condition before it aggravates. The Mustela Stelatopia Foam shampoo packs a wealth of hair-loving ingredients like avocado and sunflower oil distillate that hydrate, protect, and repair the skin barrier to reduce flakiness. It displays proven efficacy in relieving itchiness for both babies and adults. Most people who have dandruff-related conditions have a sensitive scalp. And if that’s the case with you, you can count on this shampoo since it is gentle enough for regular use.

Hair Type: Dry | Product Dimensions: 1.89 x 1.89 x 7.01 inches | Weight: 5.07 Ounces.

Pros

  • Composed of 99% plant-based ingredients
  • Tear-free
  • Soap-free
  • Recognized by the National Eczema Association
  • Pediatrician and dermatologist tested
  • Hypoallergenic
  • Suitable for dry scalp and hair
  • Unscented

Cons

  • May not be helpful for extreme flake buildup

8. Best Anti-Bacterial Shampoo:Honey Skin Tea Tree Shampoo

4.2
Honey Skin Tea Tree Shampoo Image: Honey Skin

What makes this remedy one of the best shampoos for eczema on the scalp is its unique fusion of stem cell advanced technology and natural ingredients that aid in scalp treatment while relieving itchiness and dryness. The key nourishing ingredients like manuka honey, coconut oil, apple stem cells, tea tree oil, Australian cehami, and aloe vera render countless benefits while restoring the health of the scalp. It also boosts hair growth and offers anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, and anti-inflammatory benefits that help fight conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and seborrheic dermatitis. If you’re looking for a restorative care shampoo that keeps dandruff at bay and combats an itchy scalp, while also hydrating and nourishing it, this eczema scalp treatment shampoo is worth investing in.

Hair Type: Oily, Wavy, Dry, Normal, Straight | Package Dimensions‏ : ‎ 8.03 x 2.4 x 2.4 inches | Weight: 1 Pounds

Pros

  • Promotes hair growth
  • Aids in moisture retention
  • Has a hair restorative effect
  • Color safe
  • Paraben and sulfate-free
  • Fragrance-free

Cons

  • Contains cocamidopropyl betaine which may irritate the eyes

9. Best For Dry And Damaged Hair:DHS Zinc Shampoo

4.5

The DHS eczema shampoo contains 2% pyrithione zinc, making it one of the most effective medicated shampoos for eczema. It helps fight dandruff and improves the symptoms of seborrheic dermatitis. It brings down the redness and itchiness of the scalp, while also strengthening the natural skin barrier. Since it has hydrating properties, it is well suited for dry and damaged hair. Effective yet gentle, this is a good shampoo for eczema on the scalp that is highly recommended by dermatologists.

Hair Type: Oily | Product Dimensions: 1.7 x 1.3 x 5.3 inches | Weight: 8 Ounces

Pros

  • Suitable for dry and damaged hair
  • Soothes the scalp
  • Controls itching and redness
  • Dermatologist-recommended

Cons

  • Some may find the scent too pungent.
  • Not suitable for colored hair.

10. Best For Oily Hair:Healthy Hair Plus Psoriasis Shampoo

No products found.

One of the favorites among people with eczema and similar scalp conditions, the Healthy Hair Plus shampoo is enriched with flake fighting ingredients like keratin, peppermint, jojoba, amino acids, and zinc. While it reduces dandruff, it also treats and heals sores and bumps. Emu oil and jojoba oil have anti-inflammatory effects and pacify itchiness and scaliness. If you have skin eczema, the good news is that it doubles as a body and face wash.

Pros

  • Relieves itchiness and flakiness
  • Can also be used as body and face wash
  • Suitable for both oily and dry hair
  • Free of parabens

Cons

  • Contains sulfate
  • Contains alcohol

11. Best For All Hair Types:Nature Sustained Raw And Wild Soap Nut Shampoo

4.1
Nature Sustained Raw And Wild Soapnut Shampoo Image: Nature Sustained

If you’re looking for a shampoo that’s closest to natural remedies for dandruff-related scalp problems that pampers your hair, this shampoo from Nature Sustained is an ideal solution. Concocted with makrut lime, soap nut, pineapple, India laurel leaf, and elephant apple, it deeply nourishes the scalp. It also contains natural probiotics that help sustain a healthy bacteria biome in the scalp and equip it to fight bad bacteria. You get a rich lather out of this shampoo, and the best thing is that the soap nut gives it a natural yet rich foam that would no harm to your hair.

Hair Type: Oily, Dry, Normal | Product Dimensions: 5.5 x 2.5 x 2.5 inches | Weight: 9 Ounces

Pros

  • pH balanced
  • Hypoallergenic
  • Suitable for all hair types
  • Sulfate-free
  • Cruelty-free

Cons

  • Slightly expensive
*The prices provided in this article are based on the latest available information. However, they may vary due to changes in pricing by the seller and/or promotional offers.

Let’s move on to a brief yet useful buying guide on how to buy the right eczema shampoo that remedies your condition.

How To Choose The Right Eczema Shampoo?

  • Active ingredients

Conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and seborrheic dermatitis are often an outcome of fungal or bacterial infection. So, when you’re looking for a shampoo that helps treat and heal your scalp condition, some of the common ingredients to look for are zinc, tea tree oil, coal tar, and salicylic acid. These ingredients are known to attack bacteria and fungi and can bring back a healthy, flake-free scalp.

  • Soothing ingredients

Most of the active ingredients that kill eczema causing bacteria and fungi can be harsh to your scalp. This is why it is recommended to opt for a shampoo that makes up for the harshness with a healthy dose of soothing ingredients like coconut oil, jojoba oil, aloe vera, tea tree oil, and hyaluronic acid among others.

  • pH balance

Eczema-causing agents primarily attack the skin barrier and throw the pH value of the scalp off balance. This is when shampoos for eczema that also restore the pH balance come to your rescue. You’ll find in the description of the product if the shampoo works on the pH of your scalp, thus making it easier to choose the right shampoo.

  • Dermatologist-tested

Scalp infections call for medicated shampoos. This is why it is essential to opt for a shampoo for eczema that has been clinically tested and is dermatologist recommended or approved.

  • Hypoallergenic

If you have sensitive skin that acts up when exposed to certain ingredients, it is best to ensure that the shampoo is hypoallergenic. While suffering from eczema is an exhausting experience in itself, suffering an allergy will only add to your troubles, which is why it is best to be careful that you’re using the best hypoallergenic shampoos that are crafted for a sensitive scalp.

  • Free of toxins

Since harsh chemicals are known to aggravate flake buildup and itching for eczema-prone scalp, you should make it a point to purchase a shampoo that is free of parabens, sulfates, phthalates, alcohol, artificial colors, dyes, etc.

While using a good shampoo that works for eczema can be a gamechanger, you might need to take some extra precautions to ensure that you have complete control over your scalp health. Read ahead to find out what more you can do to treat eczema on your scalp.

How Can I Treat Eczema On My Scalp?

  • Use hair products such as shampoos and creams that are specifically formulated with soothing ingredients like salicylic acid, tea tree oil, zinc pyrithione, coal tar, etc. that are known to improve the symptoms of eczema, psoriasis, and seborrheic dermatitis.
  • Keep a check on your diet and other products that you use on your scalp to determine what causes flare ups. You can also observe seasonal changes and if a particular time of year aggravates your condition. Making a few changes in your lifestyle and avoiding these factors may help.
  • Make it a point to see a dermatologist when the symptoms worsen over time. This could indicate a chronic infection of the scalp, which might need medications. Symptoms to look out for are— yellow or white discharge, pus discharge, blisters, severe itchiness that cause bleeding and a burning sensation.

Infographic: Precautions To Take Before Using Shampoos To Combat Eczema

When dealing with eczema flares on the scalps, it is crucial to take extra precautions even while using specially formulated shampoos. These safety measures will not only prevent aggravation of the symptoms but also ensure you get the best results from using the medicated formula. Check out the infographic below to learn more.

Precautions To Take Before Using Shampoos To Combat Eczema (infographic)

Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team

Get the high-quality PDF version of this infographic.

Download Infographic in PDF version

The Bottom Line

The best shampoos for eczema are designed to keep your scalp healthy and flake-free. They relieve itching and irritation caused by this skin condition and provide the scalp with the required hydration to keep dandruff and dryness at bay. Most of the products mentioned on our list are chemical-free, pH-balanced, have antifungal properties, and tested by dermatologists. The CeraVe Baby Wash And Shampoo is ceramide-based and ideal for tear-free bath time, while the Puriya Scalp Clarifying Shampoo is a natural, plant-based formula to treat dandruff as well. However, if you prefer an over-the-counter medicated formula, the Free & Clear Medicated Anti-Dandruff Shampoo should be your pick. Some of these shampoos are made with natural ingredients and have hypoallergenic formulas. However, some shampoos may contain harmful chemicals, and some of them may not be suitable for color-treated hair. Read our detailed reviews before picking a product.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does anti-dandruff shampoo help with eczema?

If the anti-dandruff shampoo contains zinc pyrithione, salicylic acid, or similar ingredients that are generally used in OTC shampoos, the shampoo might help with eczema.

Does tea tree shampoo help with eczema?

Tea tree oil is known to relieve mild to moderate dandruff, a common symptom of eczema. However, not everyone would find a tea tree shampoo to be effective.

Is sulfate-free shampoo good for eczema?

Yes, because sulfate may aggravate itching and redness and can be a bad choice for sensitive skin if you have eczema, psoriasis, seborrheic dermatitis, or any other similar scalp condition.

Can shampoo cause eczema?

While a shampoo can’t cause eczema by itself, some of the shampoos that contain certain toxins like sulfates and phthalates can make it worse for you.

Is Head and Shoulders good for eczema?

If you’re looking for over-the-counter alternatives to prescription shampoos, Head and Shoulders is an option worth considering.

Why Trust StyleCraze?

The author of this article, Medha Deb, is a skin and hair care expert whose aim is to provide you with the answers to all your skin and hair issues like an eczematous scalp. She recommends using these shampoos to manage eczema and prevent your scalp from becoming dry, itchy, red, and scaly. She chose these products because they have soothing ingredients with pH regulating properties and are dermatologist-tested and approved.


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