Best Salicylic Acid Shampoo of 2025

Lisa Bechard Avatar
Lisa Bechard
Last Updated: Jan 10, 2025

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Salicylic Acid Shampoo is a popular choice for those struggling with dandruff or other scalp issues. This type of shampoo contains salicylic acid, which helps to exfoliate the scalp and remove dead skin cells. It also has anti-inflammatory properties that can soothe irritated or inflamed skin. Salicylic Acid Shampoo is often recommended by dermatologists and can be used on a regular basis to maintain a healthy scalp. It's important to note that this type of shampoo may not be suitable for everyone, so it's best to consult with a healthcare professional before use.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Neutrogena T/Sal Therapeutic Shampoo Cover #TOP 1
Neutrogena T/Sal Therapeutic Shampoo
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Neutrogena Scalp Therapy Anti-Dandruff Shampoo Extra Strength Cover #TOP 2
Neutrogena Scalp Therapy Anti-Dandruff Shampoo Extra Strength
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Selsun Blue Naturals Itchy Dry Scalp Anti-dandruff Shampoo Cover #TOP 3
Selsun Blue Naturals Itchy Dry Scalp Anti-dandruff Shampoo
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Salicylic Acid Shampoo

Neutrogena T/Sal Therapeutic Shampoo

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Neutrogena T/Sal Therapeutic Shampoo Cover
Neutrogena T/Sal Therapeutic Shampoo for Scalp Build-Up Control with Salicylic Acid, Scalp Treatment for Dandruff, Scalp Psoriasis & Seborrheic Dermatitis Relief, 4.5 fl. oz

Treat scalp build-up with Neutrogena T/Sal Therapeutic Build-Up Control Scalp Shampoo. This therapeutic shampoo even helps control the symptoms of common dandruff, clearing and helping prevent flakes and scalp build-up. It contains 3% salicylic acid, a clinically proven active ingredient, and continues to work for hours even after shampoo is rinsed off. Free of added color, preservatives and fragrance, the conditioning anti-dandruff and psoriasis scalp shampoo provides maximum relief for dry, itchy, flaky scalps and comes from Neutrogena, a dermatologist recommended brand.

What We Like
Clinically proven active ingredient
Continues to work for hours even after shampoo is rinsed off
Free of added color, preservatives, and fragrance
Provides maximum relief for dry, itchy, flaky scalps
Dermatologist recommended brand

Neutrogena Scalp Therapy Anti-Dandruff Shampoo Extra Strength

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Neutrogena Scalp Therapy Anti-Dandruff Shampoo Extra Strength Cover
Neutrogena Scalp Therapy Anti-Dandruff Shampoo Extra Strength, with 3% salicylic acid, Fragrance Free, 12 fl oz

Neutrogena Anti-Dandruff Shampoo is a luxurious fragrance-free shampoo that is formulated with 3% salicylic acid concentration, which is clinically proven to control scalp flakiness, irritation, and redness due to dandruff. This shampoo starts working from the first use and continues to work long after it is rinsed off. It is ideal for those who want to get rid of dandruff and maintain a healthy scalp. The extra strength formula ensures that you get the maximum benefits of salicylic acid without any irritation. This shampoo is also alcohol-free, making it gentle on your hair and scalp.

What We Like
Clinically proven
Alcohol-free
Fragrance-free

Selsun Blue Naturals Itchy Dry Scalp Anti-dandruff Shampoo

I00023838
Naturals
Selsun Blue Naturals Itchy Dry Scalp Anti-dandruff Shampoo Cover
Selsun Blue Naturals Itchy Dry Scalp Anti-dandruff Shampoo, 11 fl. oz., Extra-Hydrating Formula Plus Vitamins B5 & E, Salicylic Acid 3%

Selsun Blue Naturals Itchy Dry Scalp Anti-dandruff Shampoo is a daily care anti-dandruff shampoo for clean and healthy-looking hair. Formulated with eight intensive moisturizers, botanicals, and vitamins B5 & E, this extra-hydrating formula conditions and moisturizes the scalp to relieve dryness and itchiness. With 3% salicylic acid, it helps prevent and eliminate visible flakes associated with dandruff. This shampoo is perfect for those with dry hair and itchy scalp. Use at least twice a week or as directed by a doctor for best results.

What We Like
Contains 3% salicylic acid to prevent and eliminate visible flakes associated with dandruff
Formulated with eight intensive moisturizers, botanicals, and vitamins B5 & E to condition and moisturize the scalp
Extra-hydrating formula relieves dryness and itchiness, making it perfect for those with dry hair and itchy scalp

Neutrogena Scalp Therapy Anti-Dandruff Shampoo

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Neutrogena Scalp Therapy Anti-Dandruff Shampoo Cover
Neutrogena Scalp Therapy Anti-Dandruff Shampoo for Itchy Scalp, 2.5% salicylic acid with Peppermint Fragrance, 12 fl oz

Neutrogena Anti-Dandruff Shampoo is a luxurious shampoo that contains 2.5% salicylic acid. It is clinically proven to control itchy flaky scalp due to dandruff and provides a cooling sensation with a peppermint fragrance. The shampoo starts working from the first use and keeps working long after it's rinsed off. You can use the shampoo to control symptoms of dandruff or on a regular basis to help maintain your scalp's moisture levels and help prevent the recurrence of dandruff.

What We Like
2.5% salicylic acid
Cooling sensation
Clinically proven
#TOP 5

CLn® Shampoo for Scalp Prone to Folliculitis, Dermatitis, Dandruff, Itchy and Flaky Scalp (8 oz)

CLn
856447003209
Clear
8 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
CLn® Shampoo for Scalp Prone to Folliculitis, Dermatitis, Dandruff, Itchy and Flaky Scalp (8 oz) Cover
CLn® Shampoo - Clarifying Formula with Salicylic Acid, For Normal to Oily Scalp Prone to Folliculitis, Dandruff, Itchy & Flaky Scalp, Fragrance-Free & Paraben-Free, 8 fl. oz.

CLn® Scalp Shampoo is a physician-designed cleansing solution for normal-to-oily scalps and beards prone to itching, folliculitis, and dandruff. It is effective in removing excess oil and dead skin cells, leaving your scalp rejuvenated and your hair fresh. This fragrance-free shampoo lathers away impurities and can be used 1-3 times a week, making it a convenient solution for those who suffer from scalp issues. It can also be used prior to shaving heads or facial hair grooming to minimize potential for folliculitis. The elegant bottle design and lack of medicinal odors allow you to follow with your favorite conditioner, aftershave, or cologne. Suitable for all hair types, including close-shaved heads and chemically relaxed hair.

What We Like
Physician-designed
Removes excess oil and dead skin cells
Convenient usage 1-3 times a week
#TOP 6

Keralyt 5 Anti-Dandruff Shampoo

Keralyt
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Keralyt 5 Anti-Dandruff Shampoo Cover
Keralyt 5 Anti-Dandruff Shampoo - Max Strength 5% Salicylic Acid Scalp Build-Up Clearing - Promotes Relief from Dandruff, Psoriasis, Seborrheic Dermatitis, Dryness, and Itchiness, 177 milliliters

Keralyt 5 is a maximum strength 5% salicylic acid shampoo that helps eliminate problem flaky itchy skin and dandruff flakes by exfoliating the difficult to reach skin of your scalp and helping to exfoliate away redness, dryness, roughness, dandruff, and crusty build-up. With regular use, Keralyt 5 Shampoos not only help your skin look better but feel better too. It's perfect conditions like psoriasis, seborrheic dermatitis, and eczema.

What We Like
Maximum strength 5% salicylic acid
Helps eliminate flaky itchy skin and dandruff flakes
Can be used as shampoo or scalp pre-shower cream
Perfect for conditions like psoriasis, seborrheic dermatitis, and eczema
Moisturizing and exfoliating
#TOP 7

OUAI Anti-Dandruff Shampoo

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OUAI Anti-Dandruff Shampoo Cover
OUAI Anti Dandruff Shampoo - Soothing Salicylic Acid Shampoo for Flaky, Dry and Itchy Scalp - Reduces Itching, Redness and Irritation - Sulfate Free Scalp Care (10 Fl Oz)

OUAI Anti-Dandruff Shampoo is a gentle hair cleanser specifically formulated for flaky and dry scalp. It contains Salicylic Acid and propanediol caprylate to fight flakes and provide soothing relief for irritated scalps. The shampoo is clinically-proven to reduce itching, redness, and irritation. It's easy to use, simply lather up, leave-on for 5 minutes, and rinse clean. OUAI believes in effortless routines and good-for-you ingredients, this shampoo is customized to your hair type to nourish, strengthen, and condition.

What We Like
Gentle hair cleanser for flaky and dry scalp
Clinically-proven to reduce itching, redness, and irritation
Easy to use
#TOP 8

Neutrogena Scalp Therapy Anti-Dandruff Shampoo

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Neutrogena Scalp Therapy Anti-Dandruff Shampoo Cover
Neutrogena Scalp Therapy Anti-Dandruff Shampoo for Scalp Build-up Control, 2.5% salicylic acid, with Apple Cider Vinegar Fragrance, 12 fl oz

Neutrogena Scalp Therapy Anti-Dandruff Shampoo is a luxurious anti-dandruff shampoo formulated with 2.5% salicylic acid and refreshing apple cider vinegar fragrance. It is clinically proven to control scalp flaking due to dandruff and breaks down flaky scalp buildup. This shampoo starts working from first use and keeps working long after the shampoo is rinsed off. It is formulated with salicylic acid which helps remove excess oil and dead skin from the skin surface, penetrates deep into the skin surface to help get rid of flakes while moisturizing dry scalp. You can use the shampoo to control symptoms of dandruff, or on a regular basis to help maintain your scalp’s moisture levels and help prevent recurrence of dandruff.

What We Like
Clinically proven to control scalp flaking due to dandruff
Starts working from first use and keeps working long after the shampoo is rinsed off
Formulated with 2.5% salicylic acid and refreshing apple cider vinegar fragrance
#TOP 9

True+Real Salicylic Acid Anti-Dandruff Shampoo

Pack of 1
True+Real Salicylic Acid Anti-Dandruff Shampoo Cover
True+Real Salicylic Acid Anti-Dandruff Shampoo 3% Salicylic Acid, 4.4 Fl Oz

True + Real 3% Salicylic Acid Anti-Dandruff Shampoo is a fragrance-free formula designed for all hair types with both men and women. It contains 3% Salicylic Acid to help control symptoms of dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis, and psoriasis. This shampoo fights itchy, flaky scalp build-up and leaves your hair shiny and manageable. For best results, use at least twice a week or as directed by a doctor, and store away from sunlight. It is comparable to the same ingredients as Neutrogena T/Sal Therapeutic Shampoo.

What We Like
Fragrance-free formula suitable for all hair types
Contains 3% Salicylic Acid to control dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis, and psoriasis symptoms
Fights itchy, flaky scalp build-up and leaves hair shiny and manageable
#TOP 10

VERB Dandruff Shampoo 3% Salicylic Acid

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8 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
VERB Dandruff Shampoo 3% Salicylic Acid Cover
VERB® Dandruff Shampoo - for Gentle Cleansing and Clinical Strength Dandruff Relief with 3% Salicylic Acid, 8 oz

VERB Dandruff Shampoo offers a gentle yet effective solution for those struggling with dandruff. Its moisturizing formula cleanses your hair without drying it out, ensuring that your scalp feels comfortable. Thanks to its clinical strength, this shampoo significantly reduces flakes, itchiness, and dryness. The key ingredients, including 3% Salicylic Acid, help relieve irritation, while Clary Sage Oil soothes inflammation. Additionally, Zinc PCA controls excess oil while keeping your hair hydrated. Enjoy a refreshing eucalyptus scent that transforms your hair care routine into a calming experience.

What We Like
Gentle cleansing
Effective dandruff relief
Soothes scalp irritation
Moisturizes without drying
Buying Guide Image

Find Your Fit: How to Buy the Right Salicylic Acid Shampoo

How to Choose the Best Salicylic Acid Shampoo

When it comes to treating dandruff and other scalp conditions, salicylic acid shampoos are an effective solution. But with so many options available in the market, choosing the right one can be overwhelming. In this article, we will guide you through the process of selecting the best salicylic acid shampoo for your hair and scalp.

Understanding Salicylic Acid

Salicylic acid is a beta-hydroxy acid that helps exfoliate the skin by breaking down dead skin cells. It is commonly used in skincare products to treat acne and other skin conditions. Salicylic acid also has antifungal and antibacterial properties that can help combat dandruff and other scalp conditions.

Factors to Consider

  1. Scalp Condition: Different salicylic acid shampoos are formulated to address different scalp conditions. If you have mild dandruff, look for shampoos with lower concentrations of salicylic acid. For more severe scalp conditions, a higher concentration of salicylic acid may be required.

  2. Hair Type: It is important to choose a shampoo that is suitable for your hair type. If you have dry or damaged hair, look for shampoos that contain moisturizing ingredients like coconut oil or shea butter. If you have oily hair, opt for a clarifying shampoo that can help remove excess oil and buildup.

  3. Ingredients: Apart from salicylic acid, look for shampoos that contain other beneficial ingredients like tea tree oil, peppermint oil, or aloe vera. These ingredients can help soothe and nourish the scalp, promoting healthy hair growth.

  4. Brand Reputation: Always choose a reputable brand when purchasing hair care products. Look for brands that have been in the market for a long time and have positive customer reviews.

Dos and Don'ts

  • Do patch test the shampoo on a small area of your scalp before using it all over your head.
  • Do not use salicylic acid shampoos if you have open wounds or cuts on your scalp.
  • Do not use salicylic acid shampoos if you are pregnant or breastfeeding without consulting your doctor.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right salicylic acid shampoo can make a world of difference in treating scalp conditions and promoting healthy hair growth. By considering your scalp condition, hair type, ingredients, and brand reputation, you can find a shampoo that delivers the best results for you. Remember to always follow the dos and don'ts to ensure safe and effective use of the product.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is salicylic acid in shampoo good for hair?

Yes, salicylic acid in shampoo is beneficial for hair. It is a safe and effective ingredient that can help keep the hair clean and promote scalp health. Salicylic acid shampoo is particularly useful in minimizing dandruff, reducing symptoms of seborrheic dermatitis, and aiding in the treatment of psoriasis.

2. What does salicylic acid shampoo do?

Salicylic acid shampoo is a medicated treatment that works by breaking down layers of thick skin on the scalp. It is effective in treating various scalp conditions such as dandruff, psoriasis, eczema, and dermatitis. To use, simply apply the shampoo to wet hair, massage it in, and leave it on the scalp for several minutes before rinsing off.

3. What are the side effects of salicylic acid shampoo?

Some potential side effects of salicylic acid shampoo may include increased dry skin, a burning sensation, and redness. It is important to carefully follow the instructions and use the shampoo as directed to minimize any potential side effects.

4. Can I use salicylic shampoo everyday?

Salicylic acid shampoo can be used once a day on the scalp, at least two times a week or as directed by a doctor. If needed, it may be used daily. However, it is important to follow the recommended dosage and consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice.

5. What is the highest percentage of salicylic acid you can buy?

Over-the-counter salicylic acid products, including shampoos, typically range from 0.5% to 2% concentration. These strengths are readily available without a prescription. Higher concentrations of salicylic acid would require a prescription and are not commonly found in over-the-counter products.

Editor's Notes

During our salicylic acid shampoo research, we found 48 salicylic acid shampoo products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 103,795 customer reviews through our big data system to write the salicylic acid shampoo list. We found that most customers choose salicylic acid shampoo with an average price of $15.69.

The salicylic acid shampoo are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of salicylic acid shampoo, including Neutrogena, Selsun Blue, CLn, Keralyt, OUAI. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Lisa Bechard Avatar

Lisa Bechard is a skin therapist with 12 years of working experience in the beauty industry and also an experienced beauty writer who has expertise in skincare, medical aesthetics and cosmetic surgery, and wellness. Her writing skills are excellent and all her content is very persuasive and insightful.