The 12 Best Eczema Shampoos Dermatologists Recommend in 2025
Relieve scalp dryness, itching, and irritation with dermatologist-approved eczema shampoos fit for every hair type and sensitivity.
If you struggle with scalp eczema, you know the right shampoo can make all the difference. Itchy, dry, or flaky patches, persistent irritation, and an uncomfortable tight feeling on the scalp can all be signs of eczema. With hundreds of shampoos on the market, finding the most soothing and non-irritating option can be overwhelming—especially since many hair products contain fragrance, sulfates, or preservatives that can worsen eczema symptoms.
We’ve rounded up the top dermatologist-approved eczema shampoos for every scalp type and comfort need. Read on for expert info, must-have ingredients, dermatologist insights, and real user reviews to help you find the best solution for your sensitive scalp.
What Is Scalp Eczema?
Scalp eczema (also called seborrheic dermatitis or atopic dermatitis when found on the scalp) is a chronic condition marked by redness, itching, scaling, and sometimes oozing or crusting on the scalp. Flare-ups are often triggered by certain ingredients or environmental aggressors, causing discomfort and, in some cases, temporary hair loss.
Effective eczema shampoos work by gently cleansing away dirt, oil, and buildup while maintaining or restoring the scalp’s protective moisture barrier and avoiding further irritation.
How to Choose the Best Shampoo for Eczema-Prone Scalps
According to dermatologists, the best eczema shampoos are those that are ultra-gentle and free from common irritants. Here’s what to consider when shopping:
- Avoid: fragrance, sulfates (like sodium lauryl sulfate), harsh preservatives such as methylisothiazolinone, and parabens.
- Look for: hydrating and soothing ingredients such as glycerin, ceramides, hyaluronic acid, aloe vera, oatmeal, and chamomile.
- For persistent build-up or oily scalps, shampoos with salicylic acid or selenium sulfide can help clear flakes without irritation.
- Some cases may require prescription treatments, including topical or oral steroids, so consult a dermatologist if symptoms persist.
12 Top Eczema Shampoos of 2025
Below, discover dermatologist-approved picks for soothing scalp eczema, backed by reviews and expert recommendations.
1. Mustela Stelatopia Eczema-Prone Skin Foam Shampoo
- Best for: Babies and sensitive scalps
- Pros: Easy dispensing pump; gentle coconut-derived surfactants; approved by the National Eczema Association
- Cons: May leave a slight film on hair
This fragrance-free, sulfate-free foaming shampoo is beloved for its mild cleansing that still gives a rich lather. Formulated with sunflower seed oil for lasting moisture, it’s ideal for infants and adults sensitive to harsh detergents.
“This really cleared up my little one’s dry, flaky scalp. He has terrible eczema, and this winter has been horribly dry. The shampoo has really done the trick.”
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2. Wild Naturals Eczema and Psoriasis Shampoo
- Best for: Clean beauty enthusiasts
- Pros: Minimal, mostly natural ingredients; aloe and manuka honey provide hydration and barrier support
- Cons: Contains orange peel oil, which could irritate ultra-sensitive users
This aloe-vera-based formula avoids harsh detergents, instead relying on gentle surfactants. It soothes with natural extracts and helps relieve itching and inflammation.
“After the very first use, I noticed significantly reduced itching and redness. Now after two months of daily use, I can say this is the best relief I have ever had.”
3. Neutrogena T/Gel Therapeutic Shampoo (Original Formula)
- Best for: Moderate to severe flaking
- Active ingredient: Coal tar
- Pros: Excellent for controlling flake build-up and itching in seborrheic dermatitis
- Cons: Medicated smell; may be over-drying if used too frequently
Recommended by dermatologists for persistent scalp eczema, this classic medicated shampoo uses coal tar to slow down the excessive skin cell production that leads to flaking and irritation.
4. Vanicream Free & Clear Medicated Shampoo
- Best for: Sensitivities to nearly everything
- Pros: Fragrance-, dye-, and preservative-free; hypoallergenic
- Cons: May not lather as richly as other shampoos
Especially formulated for those with severe allergies or extremely sensitive skin, this straightforward medicated shampoo cleanses without unnecessary additives or irritants.
5. Eucerin Dermocapillaire Calming Urea Shampoo
- Best for: Dry, itchy scalp and eczema-prone hair
- Pros: Contains 5% urea for deep hydration; gentle surfactants
- Cons: Some may dislike the lightweight, non-foaming texture
Urea helps soften scale and deeply moisturizes. Ideal for flaking and dryness from eczema or psoriasis.
6. Head & Shoulders Clinical Strength Shampoo
- Best for: Flaky scalp with mild eczema symptoms
- Active ingredient: Selenium sulfide
- Pros: Reduces itching and flakes; suitable for frequent use
- Cons: Contains a light fragrance
With dermatologist-recommended selenium sulfide, this shampoo effectively reduces scaling and irritation for mild cases, and is easy to find in stores.
7. Nizoral A-D Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
- Best for: Eczema with underlying yeast (Malassezia) involvement
- Active ingredient: Ketoconazole 1%
- Pros: Helps reduce persistent dandruff and scaling; proven antifungal ingredient
- Cons: Medicated scent
Great for controlling inflammation due to yeast imbalance, which is especially common in seborrheic dermatitis.
8. DHS Zinc Shampoo
- Best for: Redness and flaking
- Active ingredient: Zinc pyrithione
- Pros: Gentle, approved in clinics for sensitive skin
- Cons: Mild medicinal odor
Zinc pyrithione targets inflammation and itching without harsh detergents. Clinically tested and effective for regular use.
9. Aveeno Skin Relief Soothing Shampoo
- Best for: Dry, fragile hair and scalp
- Pros: Oat and almond oil moisturize and calm; great for daily use
- Cons: Not suited for severe cases
Harnesses oat extract and emollient oils to restore moisture while gently removing debris and stubborn flakes; ideal for those with mild to moderate eczema or as maintenance between medicated treatments.
10. Bioderma Node A Soothing Shampoo
- Best for: Sensitive scalps needing frequent washing
- Pros: Non-detergent base leaves scalp soft and balanced; fragrance-free
- Cons: May not remove heavy buildup as aggressively as medicated options
Ultra-gentle, hypoallergenic, and formulated to be soothing for regular cleansing of even the most sensitive eczema-prone scalps.
11. La Roche-Posay Kerium DS Intensive Shampoo
- Best for: Flaky, irritated, and highly reactive skin
- Pros: Reduces itching, soothes scalp, removes flakes with micro-exfoliating action
- Cons: Premium price point
This dermatologist-developed shampoo contains micro-exfoliants and soothing agents specifically designed for inflamed scalps with severe eczema or dermatitis.
12. CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser Bar (For Scalp & Body)
- Best for: Those wanting multi-use gentle cleansing
- Pros: Ceramides and hyaluronic acid help restore moisture barrier; non-comedogenic
- Cons: Not a true “shampoo”—best for gentle scalp cleansing or as an add-on for stubborn dryness or sensitivity
CeraVe’s bar offers a fragrance- and sulfate-free cleansing option with moisture-locking ceramides perfect for tender or broken skin on the scalp.
What Ingredients Work Best for Scalp Eczema?
- Hydrators: Glycerin, ceramides, hyaluronic acid, panthenol
- Soothers: Aloe vera, oatmeal, chamomile, manuka honey, sunflower seed oil
- Medicated actives (for persistent flaking): Salicylic acid, selenium sulfide, coal tar, ketoconazole, zinc pyrithione
Always avoid fragrance, alcohol, and harsh surfactants—these are the most common triggers for irritation and delayed healing in scalp eczema.
How to Use Eczema-Friendly Shampoos
- Wet hair and scalp thoroughly before applying shampoo.
- Gently massage shampoo into the scalp with fingertips; avoid using nails or vigorous scrubbing.
- Leave shampoo on the scalp for 2-5 minutes to allow active ingredients to penetrate (follow specific product instructions).
- Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm (not hot) water.
- Follow with a fragrance-free, gentle conditioner if needed; avoid scalp contact if your skin is weeping or raw.
- Use medicated shampoos as directed (often 2-3 times weekly), and switch to a gentle daily shampoo for maintenance.
What If My Scalp Eczema Isn’t Improving?
Shampoos can offer significant relief for mild to moderate scalp eczema, but if you experience:
- Raw, open, or bleeding sores
- Painful or rapidly spreading patches
- Persistent or worsening symptoms despite 2–4 weeks of gentle shampoo use
It’s time to see a dermatologist. You may need prescription topical steroids, antifungals, or oral therapies to address resistant inflammation and restore scalp comfort.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)What shampoo ingredients should I avoid for scalp eczema?
Steer clear of fragrances, sulfates, parabens, methylisothiazolinone, and alcohol-based ingredients. These can further irritate sensitive skin and trigger or prolong flares.
Is it safe to use dandruff shampoos for eczema?
Some dandruff shampoos contain ingredients (like selenium sulfide or zinc pyrithione) that benefit seborrheic dermatitis, a specific form of scalp eczema. However, look for formulas designed for sensitive scalps, and stop use if irritation worsens.
Can eczema shampoos be used every day?
It depends on the product and severity. Gentle, non-medicated shampoos can usually be used daily. Medicated options (coal tar, salicylic acid) are typically recommended 2–3 times per week to avoid over-drying the scalp.
Should children use eczema shampoos?
Yes, but ensure the shampoo is free of common irritants and is suitable for children or infants. Products labeled “pediatrician tested” or “National Eczema Association approved” are generally safest for young, sensitive skin.
What else can I do to help my scalp eczema?
- Keep your scalp clean and avoid hot water.
- Limit exposure to hair dyes or products containing harsh chemicals.
- Reduce stress, which can worsen eczema flares.
- Use a cool-mist humidifier in dry months to prevent skin dehydration.
Summary Table: Top Eczema Shampoos
| Shampoo | Best For | Key Benefits | Potential Drawbacks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mustela Stelatopia | Babies & Sensitive Scalps | Fragrance-free, gentle foam, NEA approved | May leave film |
| Wild Naturals | Natural Formula Lovers | Aloe, manuka honey soothe and moisturize | Contains essential oil |
| Neutrogena T/Gel | Severe Flakes | Coal tar slows skin turnover, reduces flakes | Strong scent, potential dryness |
| Vanicream Free & Clear | Sensitivities | No fragrance, dyes, or preservatives | Minimal lather |
Final Thoughts
Managing scalp eczema takes a combination of the right shampoo, a gentle hair care routine, and—when necessary—support from a dermatologist. The dermatologist-recommended shampoos above offer a targeted, gentle approach for every hair type and level of sensitivity, from babies to adults. With consistent use and a little patience, relief from itching, irritation, and flakes is possible for even the most sensitive scalps.
References
- https://hestakofi.de/en/products/hestakofi-sommerekzemer-shampoo
- https://www.cosmopolitan.com/style-beauty/beauty/g40764215/best-eczema-shampoos/
- https://www.cosmopolitan.com/uk/beauty-hair/skincare/g43599222/murad-exasoothe-skincare-review/
- https://skinfriend.com/blogs/news/effective-treatments-for-scalp-eczema
- https://incidecoder.com/products/cosmo-naturel-shampooing-nourrissant-cheveux-secs-bio
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11111391/
- https://adulted.lausd.org/ourpages/auto/2022/11/3/40204361485982136911/78-45-63%20Cosmo%202%20FINAL.pdf
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