Best Sensitive Scalp Shampoo of 2026

Lisa Bechard Avatar
Lisa Bechard
Last Updated: Jan 12, 2026

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Sensitive Scalp Shampoo is a gentle and effective solution for those with delicate scalps. This shampoo is specially formulated to soothe and nourish the scalp while cleansing the hair. It is free from harsh chemicals and fragrances that can irritate sensitive skin, making it a great choice for those with allergies or sensitivities. With regular use, Sensitive Scalp Shampoo can help to reduce dryness, itching, and flakiness, leaving hair looking and feeling healthy and revitalized. Whether you have a sensitive scalp or simply prefer a more natural approach to hair care, this shampoo is an excellent choice for daily use.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Biolage Scalp Sync Calming Shampoo Cover #TOP 1
Biolage Scalp Sync Calming Shampoo
ftb score rating icon 9.9
California Naturals Light & Gentle Shampoo Cover #TOP 2
California Naturals Light & Gentle Shampoo
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Head & Shoulders BARE Sensitive Scalp Shampoo Twin Pack Cover #TOP 3
Head & Shoulders BARE Sensitive Scalp Shampoo Twin Pack
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Sensitive Scalp Shampoo

#TOP 1

Biolage Scalp Sync Calming Shampoo

0884486520791
33.8 Fl Oz
Biolage Scalp Sync Calming Shampoo Cover
Biolage Scalp Sync Calming Shampoo - Gently Cleanses Dry & Sensitive Scalps, Hydrates & Soothes, Fermented Tea Blend & Glycolic Acid, Vegan & Paraben-Free, 33.8 Fl Oz, Packaging may vary

Biolage Calming Shampoo is designed specifically for those with dry and sensitive scalps. It gently cleans your scalp while providing soothing hydration, making your hair washing experience comfortable and refreshing. The shampoo includes a special blend of fermented tea and glycolic acid, which work together to maintain a balanced and healthy scalp. This unique formula helps prevent dryness and tightness caused by a lack of moisture, keeping your scalp feeling hydrated and calm for up to 72 hours. Using this shampoo can bring relief and comfort to your scalp, especially if you struggle with sensitivity or dryness.

What We Like
Soothes dry scalp
Hydrating formula
Fermented tea blend
Includes glycolic acid
Long-lasting hydration
#TOP 2

California Naturals Light & Gentle Shampoo

Multicolor
California Naturals Light & Gentle Shampoo Cover
California Naturals Light & Gentle Hair Shampoo for Sensitive Scalp with Aloe Vera, Hydrating, Vegan, Natural, Cruelty, Silicone, Paraben, and Sulfate Free, for Women & Men, All Hair Types, 16.5 fl oz

The California Naturals Gentle Shampoo is designed to care for sensitive scalps with soothing ingredients like chamomile extract, which helps calm irritation and reduce redness. It also contains allantoin to support healing and keep your scalp hydrated. Aloe vera adds extra nourishment and helps reduce inflammation, ensuring your scalp feels balanced and comfortable. This shampoo is fragrance-free, making it ideal if you’re sensitive to scents or prefer to wear your own fragrance. Plus, it’s suitable for all hair types, so whether your hair is straight or curly, you can enjoy its gentle, natural care every day.

What We Like
Soothes sensitive scalp
Hydrates and heals
Fragrance-free formula
Suitable for all hair types
#TOP 3

Head & Shoulders BARE Sensitive Scalp Shampoo Twin Pack

Head & Shoulders BARE Sensitive Scalp Shampoo Twin Pack Cover
Head & Shoulders Anti-Dandruff Shampoo, BARE Sensitive Scalp Care Twin Pack, with 1% Pyrithione Zinc, Fragrance-Free, Free of Sulfates, Silicones, Gentle, 13.5 fl oz Each

The Head & Shoulders BARE Shampoo is designed for those who want effective dandruff care without harsh additives. This fragrance-free formula is perfect if you prefer a gentle shampoo that doesn’t irritate your scalp or overwhelm your senses. It contains only the essential ingredients needed to fight dandruff, making it a simple yet reliable choice. Plus, it’s free from sulfates, silicones, and dyes, which means it cleanses your hair without stripping natural oils or causing buildup. As America’s top-selling dandruff shampoo brand, it’s trusted and dermatologist-approved, so you can feel confident using it on all hair types to soothe itchiness and irritation caused by dandruff.

What We Like
Fragrance-free formula
Minimal ingredient list
Sulfate and silicone free
Dermatologist recommended
Effective dandruff relief
#TOP 4

Paul Mitchell Clear Essential Shampoo

Paul Mitchell Clear Essential Shampoo Cover
Paul Mitchell Clear Essential Shampoo, Fragrance Free, For Sensitive Scalp + Skin, 10.14 fl. oz.

Paul Mitchell Clear Shampoo is designed to gently cleanse your hair without causing irritation, making it perfect if you have a sensitive scalp or skin. Its lightweight formula is safe for daily use, so you can keep your hair fresh and clean every day. This shampoo is made with only eight essential ingredients, avoiding dyes and fragrances that could upset your scalp or cause allergies. Plus, it works well with all hair types, so no matter your hair, you can enjoy a gentle, effective wash without harsh chemicals or strong scents.

What We Like
Gentle cleansing
Lightweight formula
Minimal ingredients
Fragrance-free
Suitable for all hair types

CeraVe Gentle Hydrating Shampoo

9300000195890419
Off White
CeraVe Gentle Hydrating Shampoo Cover
CeraVe Gentle Hydrating Shampoo, With Ceramides, Niacinamide & Hyaluronic Acid For Soft, Healthy Looking Hair & Scalp, Sulfate Free & Color Safe Shampoo, For All Hair Types, 12 Oz

The CeraVe Hydrating Shampoo is perfect if you have a sensitive scalp or want gentle care for your hair. It’s free from harsh ingredients like sulfates, parabens, and fragrances, making it safe for those prone to allergies or irritation. This shampoo is packed with moisturizing ingredients like ceramides, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid, which help keep your scalp and hair hydrated for up to 72 hours. Plus, it balances your scalp’s pH while effectively removing buildup, leaving your hair smoother and more hydrated after just one wash. Suitable for all hair types, including color-treated and curly hair, it’s a versatile choice for everyone.

What We Like
Gentle and lightweight formula
Hydrating for scalp and hair
Fragrance-free and non-irritating
Suitable for sensitive scalp
Free of harsh chemicals

CeraVe Hydrating Anti Dandruff Shampoo

9300000195890166
White
CeraVe Hydrating Anti Dandruff Shampoo Cover
CeraVe Hydrating Anti Dandruff Shampoo, 1% Pyrithione Zinc Dandruff Treatment With Ceramides, Niacinamide & Hyaluronic Acid, Helps Eliminate Flakes & Provides Itchy Scalp Relief, Sulfate Free, 12 Oz

The CeraVe Anti Dandruff Shampoo helps you tackle dandruff effectively with its 1% Pyrithione Zinc formula, which works to remove flakes and soothe your itchy scalp for a more comfortable feel. It also supports your scalp’s natural barrier using ceramides, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid, so your skin stays healthy without irritation. This shampoo leaves your hair feeling soft and nourished, especially when used alongside the matching conditioner. Developed with dermatologists, it’s balanced for your scalp’s pH and allergy tested, making it safe for sensitive scalps and color-treated hair while avoiding harsh ingredients like sulfates and parabens.

What We Like
Reduces dandruff and itching
Gentle, non-drying formula
Fragrance-free and sulfate-free
Leaves hair soft and hydrated
Effective for sensitive scalps
#TOP 7

ATTITUDE Shampoo for Sensitive Skin

60101
ATTITUDE Shampoo for Sensitive Skin Cover
ATTITUDE Hair Shampoo for Sensitive Dry Scalp, EWG Verified, Soothing Oat, For Thin Hair, Naturally Derived Ingredients, Vegan and Plant-Based, Volume and Shine, Unscented, 16 Fl Oz

ATTITUDE Sensitive Skin Shampoo is a plant- and mineral-based shampoo designed for those with sensitive skin. Enriched with oat extract, it offers soothing relief for your scalp. Its hypoallergenic formula is carefully designed for those sensitive to perfume and fragrances. The shampoo is EWG verified, ensuring clean ingredients, full transparency, and good manufacturing practices. It's also ecologo certified, biodegradable, vegan, and cruelty-free. The bottle is made from recycled HDPE #2 plastic, the easiest plastic to recycle, and can be refilled again and again thanks to innovative eco-refills.

What We Like
EWG verified
Hypoallergenic formula
Biodegradable and vegan

Dercos Anti Dandruff Shampoo by Vichy

Dercos Anti Dandruff Shampoo by Vichy Cover
Dercos Anti Dandruff Shampoo, Dry Scalp Treatment and Itch Relief. Prescription Strength Comparable to 2% Ketoconazole, for Mild to Severe Dandruff-Prone Hair & Flaky, Itchy Scalps, 6.76 Fl. Oz.

Vichy Dercos Anti Dandruff shampoo is designed to effectively treat dandruff and relieve dry, itchy scalps. It uses 0.6% micronized selenium sulfide, a powerful ingredient that works as well as 2% ketoconazole shampoos, helping to reduce flakes and scalp irritation. This shampoo quickly controls dandruff and soothes itching, reducing redness and discomfort for a healthier scalp. Additionally, it hydrates your hair with niacinamide and glycerin, making your hair stronger, softer, and shinier while preventing breakage. It's also safe for all hair types, including color-treated and sensitive scalps, ensuring gentle yet effective care.

What We Like
Effective dandruff control
Fast itch relief
Hydrating formula
Strengthens and softens hair
Safe for sensitive scalps
#TOP 9

ATTITUDE Unscented Shampoo for Sensitive Skin

60501
ATTITUDE Unscented Shampoo for Sensitive Skin Cover
ATTITUDE Hair Shampoo for Sensitive Dry Scalp, EWG Verified, Soothing Oat, For Thin Hair, Naturally Derived Ingredients, Vegan and Plant-Based, Volume and Shine, Unscented, 32 Fl Oz

ATTITUDE Unscented Shampoo for Sensitive Skin is a natural, hypoallergenic shampoo enriched with oatmeal that deeply hydrates your hair and scalp, leaving your hair smooth and shiny. It is perfect for people who are sensitive to smells and is dermatologist-tested, free of irritants such as fragrances and dyes. This shampoo is EWG verified, listed green in the EWG's Skin Deep Database, vegan, cruelty-free and never tested on animals. For best results, use it with ATTITUDE Extra Gentle & Volumizing Unscented Conditioner for Sensitive Skin.

What We Like
Natural and hypoallergenic shampoo enriched with oatmeal
EWG verified and listed green in the EWG's Skin Deep Database
Vegan, cruelty-free and never tested on animals
#TOP 10

Seaweed Bath Co. Gentle Shampoo

760-120-SHUS
Seaweed Bath Co. Gentle Shampoo Cover
Seaweed Bath Co. Gentle Shampoo, Unscented, 12 Ounce, Sustainably Harvested Seaweed, Aloe, Argan Oil, for Sensitive Scalps and All Hair Types

The Seaweed Bath Co. Gentle Shampoo, also known as Seaweed Shampoo, is a vegan and cruelty-free shampoo that is made with natural, marine-derived ingredients. Infused with sustainably harvested seaweed, this shampoo is designed to provide pure marine moisture to dry and damaged hair. With the softening properties of aloe and the nutrient-rich benefits of argan oil, this shampoo gently cleanses both hair and scalp. As a bonus, this product is free from parabens and sulfates, making it a healthier choice for your hair. The Seaweed Bath Co. is committed to using the nourishing power of the ocean in its products, and this shampoo is no exception.

What We Like
Natural ingredients
Free from parabens and sulfates
Gentle on hair and scalp
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What are the symptoms of sensitive scalp?

Common symptoms of sensitive scalp are burning, stinging, dry scalp, vague discomfort in the scalp, and sometimes, the trichodynia. The latter is defined as “discomfort, pain, or paresthesia of the scalp.” Patients often perceive it as unpleasurable combing of hair.

Editor's Notes

During our sensitive scalp shampoo research, we found 48 sensitive scalp shampoo products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 88,274 customer reviews through our big data system to write the sensitive scalp shampoo list. We found that most customers choose sensitive scalp shampoo with an average price of $19.88.

The sensitive scalp shampoo are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of sensitive scalp shampoo, including Biolage, California Naturals, Head & Shoulders, Paul Mitchell, CeraVe. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 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.