The shampoo with salicylic acid you choose depends on your hair type and needs, but for one that delivers amazing results at removing build-up while still being gentle, we like the Neutrogena T/Sal Therapeutic Shampoo-Scalp Build-Up Control. Not only is it dermatologist-recommended and contains 3% salicylic acid, but it helps alleviate symptoms of more serious issues such as psoriasis. For something that’ll treat your hair to true luxury and combat dandruff, you can’t beat the Oribe Serene Scalp Anti-Dandruff Shampoo. Though on the pricier side, we think its effective formula and list of strengthening and nourishing ingredients are well worth the splurge.

Salicylic acid is one ingredient found in over-the-counter (OTC) dandruff shampoos. It can help get rid of flakes while also moisturizing a dry scalp. You can use the shampoo for seasonal dandruff, or on a regular basis to help maintain your scalp’s moisture levels. Seborrheic dermatitis The short ingredient list includes the most important one—3% salicylic acid. At this amount, the ingredient is very effective at detoxifying the scalp without feeling too stripping. Additionally, it has no added fragrance, silicones, or sulfates so it’s a safe choice for those with sensitive skin, too (though we always recommend doing a patch test before applying a new product).If you aren't sold yet, among its other strengths are its anti-inflammatory effect, and that it can help to reduce sebum production, making your scalp less greasy over time. Still have questions? We got Kate to answer the most common ones. Who are salicylic acid shampoos suitable for?

Our suggestion: Practice patience with this shampoo and it’ll reward you down the line—since it leaves out harsher ingredients it may take a couple of consistent washes to wave dandruff goodbye for good.

Taylor initially steered us toward this shampoo for those experiencing hair loss, and after seeing its natural formula and sustainable manufacturing practices, we were sold on the idea of using it. In addition to salicylic acid, the formula leans on multi-talented ingredients that simultaneously remove oil buildup and result in more voluminous hair. Ginseng and turmeric, for example, have not only been shown to promote hair growth, but they also boast anti-inflammatory properties that quell itchy skin. Lactic acid is another star player that gently breaks down pore-clogging dirt, opens the follicle up to new growth, and boosts vibrancy. This shampoo is formulated using Salicylic Acid and Tee Tree Oil, which work together to exfoliate and refresh the hair and scalp, leaving it cleansed and oil-free. Piroctone Olamine is an intense clarifying agent, which helps to remove bacterial and fungal cultures to refresh and balance the scalp further. Betaine provides an anti-static covering, which prevents hair from frizzing whilst Panthenol improves hair strength and gently softens it, enhancing manageability. Sulphate-free. Cruelty-free & vegan-friendly. So, you'll likely first have heard of salicylic acid as a skincare ingredient, and if you've found your way here because you've seen it's in shampoos too. Well, we're here to tell you everything you need to know about the wonder ingredient, as well as to recommend some of the best buys across all price points and hair types. It's heaven-sent for dry, flaky irritated scalps, but also is a dream for oily scalps too. Not to mention it's a win for smoothing and hydrating. A true all-rounder. Now that we've secured your attention, let us elaborate. Is salicylic acid shampoo good for hair?

In addition to exfoliating the scalp with salicylic acid, it also contains glycolic acid, an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) to slough off dead skin and help the hair retain moisture, hence your shinier tresses. Witch hazel and rose clay act similarly to how they do in your favorite toners in face masks by sopping up oil with their naturally astringent properties. And, you may even see your hair become fuller and more voluminous with the aid of niacinamide and zinc, two ingredients that have been shown to promote hair growth. Seborrheic dermatitis is closely related to dandruff, and is also marked by a flaky, itchy scalp. This inflammatory skin condition is known for skin flakes that are more oily than they are dry. Anyone who struggles with an oily or flaky scalp can benefit from a salicylic acid shampoo. We also use salicylic acid to help in scalp conditions such as seborrhoeic dermatitis or psoriasis. However, dry scalps might find salicylic acid stripping." Is there a % needed to be effective? Park GH, Park KY, Cho HI, et al. Red ginseng extract promotes the hair growth in cultured human hair follicles. J Med Food. 2015;18(3):354-362. doi:10.1089/jmf.2013.3031 You may be able to tell you have seborrheic dermatitis if you see oily skin patches on areas of the skin other than your scalp, including your ears and face.

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This shampoo and conditioner act as dual magicians to vanish irritated, red, and acne-prone scalps. Both products use salicylic acid to combat oil while fortifying strands with moisturizing ingredients like lactic acid and wheat protein. We are also thrilled to see menthol and rosemary oil listed on the bottle since these anti-inflammatory ingredients have a soothing, cooling sensation that’ll feel fantastic on aggravated skin.

Menthol and apple cider vinegar get right to work calming irritation and exfoliating the scalp, leaving behind a tingling feeling as a telltale sign that they’re working. Its other benefits—like promoting hair growth through niacinamide and red flower extract—may take a little longer to see, but we’re in it for the long run. And although it only contains 0.25% of salicylic acid (a relatively low amount), the BHA still works so well with the naturally acidic apple cider vinegar to deep-clean the hair, balance the pH of your scalp, and rid it of dandruff. Beloved by many dermatologists, salicylic acid wins practically every skincare popularity contest. And since shampoos started incorporating the ingredient into their formulas, it’s garnered quite a few adoring fans in the haircare community, too. “Not only are salicylic acid shampoos good for hair, but they are a safe and effective clarifying treatment for your scalp,” says celebrity hairstylist and founder of Deeper Than Hair, Annagjid “Kee” Taylor. Effects on the scalp microbiota of a 1% selenium disulfide and 1% salicylic acid shampoo after 2% ketaconazole foaming gel treatment for scalp seborrheic dermatitis. (2019). Schmidt-Rose T, Braren S, Fölster H, et al. Efficacy of a piroctone olamine/climbazol shampoo in comparison with a zinc pyrithione shampoo in subjects with moderate to severe dandruff. Int J Cosmet Sci. 2011;33(3):276-282. doi:10.1111/j.1468-2494.2010.00623.xSalicylic acid shampoo can help treat seborrheic dermatitis that occurs on the scalp . The shampoo may be irritating to other parts of the body. Caution Tea Tree: An essential oil with antibacterial, soothing and antioxidant properties, perfect for blemish prone skin. If you took one look at the ingredient list and balked at the idea of using sulfates, hear us out. Gohara recommends this shampoo because she says that the “BHA is steeped in a gentle shampoo surfactant,” known as SLES, which Dr. Rachel Nazarian of Schweiger Dermatology Group previously told us that this kind of sulfate has a much lower rate of irritation than an SLS like sodium lauryl sulfate. Used alongside the high percentage of salicylic acid, the ingredients work beautifully to cast away flakes, dissolve build-up, and mitigate the effects of psoriasis and seborrheic dermatitis. Additionally, it’s free of fragrances, dyes, and PABA — a potentially harmful acid that could cause negative skin reactions. If you have fine or thin hair, we recommend following this one up with a hydrating conditioner (perhaps a leave-in one), since it can be slightly drying. Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. We avoid using tertiary references. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy.