Scalp acne is more common than you think — those itchy bumps, redness, and pimples on your scalp can be frustrating, painful, and stubborn. Unlike facial breakouts, scalp acne is often caused by clogged follicles, excess oil, sweat, or buildup from styling products. The right shampoo can make all the difference in clearing your scalp and preventing new breakouts.
We’ve rounded up 7 dermatologist-approved shampoos that work to treat scalp acne, calm irritation, and restore a healthy scalp.
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TOP PICKS
Neutrogena T/Sal Therapeutic Shampoo
Why We Love It:
This classic dermatologist favorite is specially formulated to combat scalp buildup and exfoliate dead skin cells. Perfect for those with persistent scalp bumps and itching.
Key Ingredients:
Salicylic Acid (3%) – gently exfoliates and unclogs follicles
Soothing agents – reduces redness and irritation
Expected Results:
Clearer, calmer scalp
Reduced scalp acne flare-ups
Less itching and flaking
How to Use: Apply to wet hair, lather, leave for 2–3 minutes, then rinse. Use 2–3 times a week.
Sulfur8 Deep Cleaning Shampoo
Why We Love It:
Sulfur8 combines sulfur and salicylic acid to target bacteria and clogged follicles — a go-to for acne-prone scalps.
Key Ingredients:
Sulfur – antimicrobial, reduces bacteria
Salicylic Acid – exfoliates and prevents pore blockages
Expected Results:
Less scalp inflammation
Reduced breakouts and bumps
Healthier, cleaner scalp
How to Use: Massage into wet hair, leave for a few minutes, rinse thoroughly. Recommended 2–3 times weekly.
Ouai Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
Why We Love It:
This shampoo is lightweight yet powerful, designed to soothe irritation while keeping the scalp clean. Ideal if your scalp acne comes with oiliness or dandruff.
Key Ingredients:
Piroctone Olamine – fights fungal buildup
Niacinamide – calms redness and irritation
Expected Results:
Reduced itchiness and bumps
Balanced, healthy scalp
Less flaking and irritation
How to Use: Massage into wet hair, leave for 2 minutes, rinse, and follow with a conditioner.
OGX Refreshing Scalp + Tea Tree Mint Shampoo
Why We Love It:
This energizing formula cleanses, refreshes, and soothes a problematic scalp while fighting bacteria that can trigger acne.
Key Ingredients:
Tea Tree Oil – natural antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory
Peppermint Oil – invigorates and cools scalp
Expected Results:
Clearer, calmer scalp
Reduced redness and irritation
Hair feels fresh and light
How to Use: Apply to wet hair, massage for 1–2 minutes, rinse thoroughly. Can be used 2–3 times weekly.
Vanicream Free & Clear Shampoo
Why We Love It:
Perfect for sensitive, acne-prone scalps, this gentle formula is free from fragrances, dyes, and harsh chemicals.
Key Ingredients:
Mild surfactants – clean without irritation
Free of common irritants – reduces flare-ups
Expected Results:
Minimal irritation
Reduced redness and scalp sensitivity
Safe for daily use
How to Use: Massage gently into wet hair, lather, rinse thoroughly. Safe for daily cleansing.
The Inkey List Glycolic Acid Exfoliating Scalp Scrub
Why We Love It:
A scalp scrub that works like a mini facial for your scalp. Glycolic acid exfoliates buildup, unclogs pores, and removes dead skin that can cause acne.
Key Ingredients:
Glycolic Acid (5%) – chemical exfoliant for scalp
Salicylic Acid – targets bumps and clogged follicles
Expected Results:
Smoother scalp texture
Fewer breakouts and bumps
Healthier hair growth environment
How to Use: Use 1–2 times weekly. Massage into wet scalp, leave for 1–2 minutes, then rinse thoroughly.
Dove DermaCare Anti‑Dandruff Shampoo
Why We Love It:
Dove Derma Care Anti‑Dandruff Shampoo is a gentle yet effective option for anyone dealing with scalp acne symptoms like itchiness, irritation, flakiness, or clogged follicle bumps. Unlike harsh dandruff shampoos that strip natural oils, this formula cleanses while hydrating, making it ideal for those with sensitive or dry scalps prone to breakouts.
Key Ingredients:
Pyrithione Zinc – Helps combat yeast and bacteria that can contribute to scalp acne and itching.
Moisturizing agents – Nourish the scalp to prevent dryness and irritation.
Mild cleansing base – Gently removes buildup, oil, and dead skin without over‑stripping.
How to Use:
Massage into wet hair and scalp for 1–2 minutes, then rinse thoroughly. For best results, use regularly as part of your acne‑focused hair care routine.
FAQ
1. Can Dove DermaCare Anti-Dandruff Shampoo help with scalp acne?
Yes! Its Pyrithione Zinc fights yeast and bacteria that contribute to scalp irritation and bumps, while its moisturizing ingredients prevent dryness, a common trigger for flare-ups.
2. How often should I use this shampoo?
For best results, use 2–3 times per week if your scalp is prone to acne or irritation. Daily use is safe, thanks to its gentle formula, but adjust based on your scalp’s sensitivity.
3. Is it safe for color-treated or chemically treated hair?
Yes. Dove DermaCare is formulated to cleanse without stripping hair color or moisture, making it safe for dyed, bleached, or chemically treated hair.
4. Will it make my hair dry or frizzy?
No. Unlike some anti-dandruff shampoos, Dove DermaCare contains hydrating ingredients that leave hair soft, smooth, and manageable while treating scalp issues.
5. Can men and women use it?
Absolutely. This shampoo is unisex and effective for anyone experiencing scalp acne, itching, or flakiness.