Best Shampoo for Scalp Acne (Product Links Below)

People who have acne-prone skin have enough to worry about when it comes to their facial care products. But unfortunately, many also experience flare-ups in their scalp, especially if their shampoo isn’t compatible with their skin. For people with acne, choosing the right shampoo is imperative not just for the health of their scalp but also that of their skin.

The idea that shampoo can cause acne flare-ups not just on the scalp but on the face as well might seem silly, but it really does make a lot of sense. Of course, you don’t shampoo your face. But, its residue will interact with your skin as you wash off the product and also whenever your hair touches your face after it has dried. In fact, this is also one of the more common reasons why people get back acne. No matter where your breakouts manifest, discovering the perfect shampoo for your acne-prone skin will minimize, if not completely eradicate, your skin issues. To help you out, detailed below are qualities to look for in a hair-care product as well as a list of shampoo brands that other acne-prone users swear by.

What to Look for in Shampoo When You Have Acne-Prone Skin

When you’re prone to acne, you’re probably already familiar with product ingredients that are good for you and those that tend to cause breakouts. Basically, you’ll need to look out for the same properties in shampoo, with the exception of a few additional ingredients. While different people experience different reactions, here are some of the most essential qualities to look for in a shampoo product when you have acne-prone skin:

Natural or Organic

As a general rule, the simpler the ingredients list, the safer it should be. While it doesn’t always follow, shampoos that are marketed as organic or natural are often those that don’t contain harsh chemicals and preservatives that could be irritating to acne-prone skin. In addition, many natural ingredients have the ability to address acne issues. Some of them include tea tree, which has potent antibacterial properties, and aloe vera, which is a known anti-inflammatory.

Silicone-Free

Silicone is a difficult matter because not all have been known to cause acne breakouts. Basically, there are water-soluble and water-insoluble variants. Those that don’t dissolve in water are those that tend to leave residues in your pores and irritate your skin. Among the most common water-insoluble silicones in hair products include Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, and Amodimethicone. Generally, it’s a good rule to avoid all ingredients that end in “cone.” On the other hand, common water-soluble silicones include Dimethicone Copolyol and Lauryl Methicone Copolyol, and other silicones that start with “PEG” (e.g., PEG-7 Amodimethicone and PEG-8 Dimethicone). To keep things simple, however, it’s just better to stay away from silicones entirely and go for shampoos that bare the label “Silicone-Free.”

Sulfate-Free

Sulfates are generally used to give shampoo products a rich lather that helps in eliminating grime as well as dead skin cells. But while thick foam might feel luxurious, the sulfates that give them that property are actually harmful to acne-prone skin. They are irritating and have a tendency to cause excessive dryness. Consequently, shampoos with sulfates could lead to itching and worsening of any existing scalp and skin conditions. 

Salicylic Acid

When you experience scalp acne, a shampoo infused with salicylic acid may help you out. Just like in topical treatments for the face, salicylic acid will help remove dead skin cells, reduce sebum build-up, and keep pores and follicles from becoming clogged. Over time, a salicylic treatment for the hair will help reduce acne breakouts, especially in the scalp and along your hairline.

Top Shampoo Brands for People With Acne

1) Maple Holistics Tea Tree Special Formula Shampoo

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The Tea Tree Special Formula Shampoo by Maple Holistics boasts a formulation of natural ingredients and is both sulfate and paraben-free. Both the tea tree and lavender oil gives it its antibacterial and anti-fungal properties. So, it is not only useful for people with acne-prone skin but also for those who have dandruff. As this clarifying shampoo strips off dirt and grime, the argan and jojoba oils keep the scalp and hair moist and nourished. These also help in addressing flakes and itching, effectively minimizing the frequency of breakouts. Additionally, rosemary oil stimulates hair growth.

2) Healthy Hair Plus Anti-b Antibacterial Shampoo

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The Anti-b Antibacterial Shampoo by Healthy Hair Plus is a sulfate-free shampoo. Its impressive antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties help treat irritated scalps and minimize flare-ups. Its benefits stem from a natural formulation that addresses a variety of scalp conditions while also keeping hair fresh and clean as well as moisturized. One of its most active ingredients is Cutipure CLR, an emulsion derived from chaulmoogra oil, magnolia bark, black cumin oil, and manuka oil. This has been touted as a potent ingredient for natural anti-acne, anti-inflammatory, and sebum-regulating treatments. Additionally, it contains aloe vera, lemon essential oil, and witch hazel, which are all beneficial to acne-prone skin.

3) Honeyskin Tea Tree Shampoo

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There are already a good number of tea tree shampoos that are marketed towards people with acne-prone skin, dandruff, and other scalp issues. However, what sets the one by Honeyskin apart is its inclusion of apple stem cells, which is excellent in skin rejuvenation and also stimulates hair growth. It has extracts from tea tree and Australian cehami, both of which are natural antibacterial, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory agents. Additionally, it is formulated with incredibly nourishing manuka honey as well as coconut oil and aloe vera to nourish the scalp and hair. This formulation is also paraben and sulfate-free, further making it an excellent choice for people with acne-prone skin.

4) Neutrogena T/Sal Therapeutic Shampoo

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Neutrogena has always proven to be an excellent drugstore brand, especially for people with sensitive skin or other dermatological conditions. Their T/Sal Therapeutic Shampoo is formulated with 3% salicylic acid, which makes it especially useful for people with skin and scalp issues like acne, dandruff, psoriasis, and seborrheic dermatitis. It helps by reducing flakiness and clearing up residue build-up. It is also fragrance-free and gentle enough to use every day.

5) OGX Refreshing Scalp + Tea Tree Mint Shampoo

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The Refreshing Scalp + Tea Tree Mint Shampoo by OGX is SLS-free and is meant to clean hair and scalp deeply without causing excessive dryness and irritation. Apart from tea tree oil, it includes witch hazel, which is another natural ingredient that’s popular among people with acne-prone skin. The peppermint provides additional antibacterial properties, but its most important use is to soothe the scalp when it is irritated or inflamed. Additionally, it is believed to stimulate hair growth and provide the hair with a natural luster.

How to Care for Your Scalp to Prevent Acne Breakouts

Although using the right product is essential, certain habits can also help you prevent acne flare-ups. Here are some things you might want to try:

• Don’t wash your hair too often. Unless you have excessively oily hair or you use plenty of hair products, you probably don’t need to shampoo your hair every day. Washing your hair every other day will preserve natural oils that will help you avoid the overproduction of acne-causing sebum.
• Avoid touching your scalp. When unwashed, your fingertips and nails could house dirt and bacteria you encounter in your environment. Do your best to keep from touching your scalp and especially avoid scratching your head.
• Keep your brush clean. Dirt and dead skin cells could accumulate in your brush or comb. Make sure you clean them often by removing shed hair and washing with soap and water to minimize bacteria growth that could trigger your acne.
• Dry your hair. Wet or damp hair is ideal for bacteria growth. After bathing, use a fan or a blow dryer to dry your hair more quickly. Also, make sure your hair is dry before tying it up.

Admittedly, flare-ups can be caused by a number of factors. Nevertheless, finding a good shampoo that effectively yet gently cleanses your scalp without causing breakouts is a leap in the right direction when it comes to overcoming your acne troubles. The products listed above are some of the best-reviewed products among other people with acne-prone skin. It might still take a little bit of trial and error, but at least you have a shortlist of excellent products that have been tried and tested by people with similar skin and scalp issues as you.