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10 Best Shampoo For Sensitive Scalps 2025 in Canada

NEUTROGENA T GEL SHAMPOO

Fragrance: Unscented
Dermatologist-Tested or Recommended: Recommended by dermatologists
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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Nizoral Ketoconazole 2 Percent Anti-dandruff and Itchy Scalp Shampoo, 200ml

Rating
9.7
Chosen by1,127
Ingredients
Moisturizing Properties
Ingredients
Effectively clears stubborn dry, scaly dandruff when left on the scalp for several minutes, proving its strong anti-dandruff action.
Moisturizing Properties
Can be drying to hair, so pairing with a good conditioner is recommended to maintain softness and manage dryness.

Nizoral Anti-Dandruff Shampoo with 2% Ketoconazole is a strong option if you’re dealing with dandruff and an itchy scalp. Its main ingredient, ketoconazole, is clinically proven to fight dandruff effectively by targeting the root cause of flaking and itchiness. This shampoo works on all hair types and even gray hair, making it versatile. It has a fresh scent, which is pleasant but might be something sensitive scalp users want to test first, as fragrances can sometimes cause irritation.

Using it just twice a week between regular washes can help maintain a flake-free scalp without being too harsh. If you mainly want to control dandruff and don’t have extremely sensitive skin, Nizoral can be effective. For those with highly sensitive or dry scalps, considering a shampoo with added moisturizing and soothing ingredients or one that emphasizes gentle, hypoallergenic formulas may be beneficial.

Rating
9.7
Chosen by1,127
Ingredients
Moisturizing Properties
Ingredients
Effectively clears stubborn dry, scaly dandruff when left on the scalp for several minutes, proving its strong anti-dandruff action.
Moisturizing Properties
Can be drying to hair, so pairing with a good conditioner is recommended to maintain softness and manage dryness.
#2

Seborrheic Dermatitis Shampoo, Psoriasis Shampoo, Folliculitis Shampoo, Scalp Psoriasis Shampoo, Dandruff Shampoo, Dry Itchy Scalp, Provides Soothing Relief

Rating
9.4
Fragrance
Moisturizing Properties
Dermatologist-Tested or Recommended
Fragrance
Has a distinctive natural scent reminiscent of peppers or salsa that fades quickly after drying.
Moisturizing Properties
Effectively calms dry, flaking, and red patches on sensitive scalps, providing noticeable relief.
Dermatologist-Tested or Recommended
Recommended for anyone struggling with scalp problems seeking gentle yet effective care.

This shampoo by Roycederm is tailored specifically for people dealing with sensitive scalp issues like seborrheic dermatitis, psoriasis, dandruff, and folliculitis. Its formula uses natural plant extracts, which suggests it’s gentle and aims to soothe irritation rather than cause further dryness or inflammation. The shampoo is unscented, which is a big plus for those sensitive to fragrances, reducing the risk of allergic reactions. It also claims to moisturize and heal the scalp, which helps prevent the common dryness that often comes with these conditions.

Its easy application process, requiring a few minutes on the scalp, supports effective symptom relief without complicated steps. The shampoo is liquid and designed for all hair types, making it versatile. Customer support availability adds reassurance if users have questions or concerns.

If you are seeking a specialized shampoo to help relieve discomfort and flaking due to scalp conditions and prefer a fragrance-free, naturally derived formula, this product is a solid choice. Those seeking clinically proven hypoallergenic assurance or precise pH information might want to consider additional options.

Rating
9.4
Fragrance
Moisturizing Properties
Dermatologist-Tested or Recommended
Fragrance
Has a distinctive natural scent reminiscent of peppers or salsa that fades quickly after drying.
Moisturizing Properties
Effectively calms dry, flaking, and red patches on sensitive scalps, providing noticeable relief.
Dermatologist-Tested or Recommended
Recommended for anyone struggling with scalp problems seeking gentle yet effective care.
#3

PHARMBANNER Folliculitis Shampoo, Seborrheic Dermatitis Shampoo, Antifungal Shampoo, Scalp Psoriasis Shampoo, Dandruff Shampoo, Dry Itchy Scalp, Provides Soothing Relief

Rating
9.1
Ingredients
Fragrance
Moisturizing Properties
Ingredients
The shampoo's gentle yet medicated nature makes it suitable for sensitive scalps, though it may cause tingling and is not recommended for use on open wounds or very young children.
Fragrance
Despite its mild scent, the shampoo has a noticeable herbal aroma, and it does not produce a lot of foam, so a pre-shampoo step or double application may be needed for thick or long hair.
Moisturizing Properties
It enables longer intervals between washes without greasiness, extending from every two days to four or five days, while leaving hair softer to the touch.
Hypoallergenic Claims
The shampoo delivers remarkable relief from itching, redness, and scaling, with one user experiencing a 90% improvement after the very first wash and sustained benefits over six months.

PHARMBANNER Folliculitis Shampoo is made for people dealing with sensitive scalps affected by conditions like seborrheic dermatitis, psoriasis, dandruff, and folliculitis. It contains Piroctone Olamine and natural herbal extracts, which are known to help reduce itching, redness, scaling, and flaking—common symptoms of these scalp issues. The formula is unscented, making it suitable for those sensitive to fragrances, and it’s designed to be gentle and moisturizing, helping soothe dryness without stripping the scalp's natural oils.

The product is intended for dry hair types and is easy to use, requiring a few minutes of leave-in time to work effectively. It is safe and supportive for sensitive skin and suits people who want targeted relief from chronic scalp problems while preferring a natural, fragrance-free option.

Rating
9.1
Ingredients
Fragrance
Moisturizing Properties
Ingredients
The shampoo's gentle yet medicated nature makes it suitable for sensitive scalps, though it may cause tingling and is not recommended for use on open wounds or very young children.
Fragrance
Despite its mild scent, the shampoo has a noticeable herbal aroma, and it does not produce a lot of foam, so a pre-shampoo step or double application may be needed for thick or long hair.
Moisturizing Properties
It enables longer intervals between washes without greasiness, extending from every two days to four or five days, while leaving hair softer to the touch.
Hypoallergenic Claims
The shampoo delivers remarkable relief from itching, redness, and scaling, with one user experiencing a 90% improvement after the very first wash and sustained benefits over six months.

Buying Guide for the Best Shampoo For Sensitive Scalps

Choosing the right shampoo for sensitive scalps can make a big difference in your comfort and hair health. Sensitive scalps can react to harsh ingredients, fragrances, or even certain textures, so it's important to pay attention to what goes into your shampoo. The best approach is to look for gentle, soothing formulas that clean effectively without causing irritation. Understanding the key features and ingredients will help you find a shampoo that keeps your scalp calm and your hair looking its best.
IngredientsIngredients are the substances that make up the shampoo, and they are crucial for people with sensitive scalps. Some ingredients, like sulfates, parabens, and artificial fragrances, can cause irritation or dryness. When looking at ingredients, it's helpful to choose shampoos labeled as 'free from' harsh chemicals or those that use natural, gentle cleansers. If your scalp is very sensitive, look for products with soothing ingredients like aloe vera, chamomile, or oatmeal. Always check the ingredient list and avoid anything you know you react to.
FragranceFragrance refers to the scent added to shampoo, which can be either synthetic or natural. For sensitive scalps, fragrances—especially artificial ones—can be a common trigger for irritation or allergic reactions. Shampoos labeled as 'fragrance-free' or 'unscented' are usually the safest bet. If you prefer a scented shampoo, look for those with mild, natural fragrances from essential oils, but be aware that even natural scents can sometimes cause reactions. Your personal sensitivity should guide your choice here.
pH BalancepH balance describes how acidic or alkaline the shampoo is. The scalp's natural pH is slightly acidic, around 4.5 to 5.5. Shampoos that are too alkaline can disrupt this balance, leading to dryness or irritation. Look for shampoos that mention being 'pH-balanced' for the scalp, as these are formulated to match your skin's natural level. If you have a history of scalp irritation, choosing a pH-balanced shampoo can help maintain comfort and health.
Moisturizing PropertiesMoisturizing properties refer to how well the shampoo helps retain or add moisture to your scalp and hair. Sensitive scalps often become dry or flaky, so a shampoo with moisturizing ingredients like glycerin, coconut oil, or shea butter can be beneficial. If your scalp tends to be dry, look for shampoos that highlight hydration or moisture on the label. If your scalp is oily but sensitive, choose a gentle formula that cleans without stripping away too much natural oil.
Hypoallergenic ClaimsHypoallergenic means the product is formulated to minimize the risk of allergic reactions. While this isn't a guarantee that you won't react, it does suggest the shampoo avoids common irritants. If you have a history of allergies or very sensitive skin, looking for shampoos labeled as hypoallergenic can be a helpful starting point. However, always patch test a new product to be sure it works for you.
Dermatologist-Tested or RecommendedSome shampoos are tested or recommended by dermatologists, which means they have been evaluated for safety and gentleness on sensitive skin. While this isn't a must-have, it can provide extra reassurance if you have had trouble with irritation in the past. If you are unsure about what will work for you, products with this label can be a safer choice.