Unfortunately, narrowing down the best hypoallergenic shampoo isn't as simple as scanning the terms themselves on the label, board-certified dermatologist Dr. Kristin M. Baird tells Bustle. "The 'hypoallergenic' label on a beauty or skin care product simply means that the product claims to contain less allergy-causing substances (called allergens) than other products. This does not necessarily mean that it is hypoallergenic or safe for you It’s gentler on the skin,” says Dr. Baird. Instead, she recommends that people with sensitive scalps choose dermatologist-recommended products specifically formulated for their hair type, and look for formulas that don't contain fragrance, parabens or dyes. "By avoiding these ingredients, people with sensitive skin may experience fewer allergic reactions such as dryness, itching, and inflammation," she says.
Celebrity esthetician and dermatology nurse Natalie Aguilar agrees, noting that "hypoallergenic means whatever the companies want it to mean. There are no federal standards governing manufacturers' use of the term." She says some of her clients with sensitive skin and allergies have purchased hypoallergenic products and had severe reactions, so it's understandable that people with sensitive skin, as she puts it, "have trust issues with hair and skin care products." . Aguilar recommends erring on the side of caution, sticking to the most trustworthy products, always reading labels, and supporting brands that are transparent about their ingredients.
Below, you'll find five of the best gentle shampoos that are generally well tolerated by people with sensitive skin, including one chosen by Dr. Baird. Keep scrolling to see them all.
1. Doctors Recommend: Best Hypoallergenic Shampoo Overall
The Free & Clear shampoo recommended by Dr. Baird can be said to be the best shampoo for sensitive skin. It's generally well-tolerated by people with sensitive skin and scalp because it doesn't contain any dyes, fragrances, parabens, sulfates, preservatives or gluten, yet it still leaves hair feeling nice and clean. Also looking for a gentle conditioner? Try the matching Free & Clear conditioner.
2. The Best Hypoallergenic Shampoos for Babies
This shampoo and body wash from The Honest Company is an ultra-mild, multi-purpose shampoo that's tear-free and safe for all ages. It's made with natural ingredients like aloe vera, chamomile, and coconut oil, and doesn't contain any parabens, sulfates, or fragrances, making it a great choice for sensitive skin. It's a cruelty-free brand that prides itself on its due diligence in researching its products and being candid about its ingredients, so there are no surprises inside.
3. Best hypoallergenic shampoo for dyed hair
Most of the shampoos on this list are safe to use on color-treated hair because they are sulfate-free. However, ColorProof SuperSheer is actually designed to keep your hair color vibrant between salon visits, thanks to its unique blend of ingredients. The hydrating formula is made with Blue Lotus, Shea Butter, and Jojoba Oil to moisturize and shine, while antioxidants like Baobab and Edelweiss help protect your hair, keeping it shiny and strong. As for what it doesn’t include? Sulfates, salts, silicones, parabens and fragrance.
4. Best value
For less than $15, you can get a 32-ounce bottle of JASON Shampoo, making it the best fragrance-free shampoo for anyone who washes their hair often, has a big family, or just likes a good deal . It contains a host of gentle, hydrating ingredients including aloe vera, glycerin, chamomile and provitamin B5. The product is free of parabens, sulfates and fragrance, and the brand is certified cruelty-free by Leaping Bunny. The pump top bottle also makes dispensing the product very easy.
expert:
Dr. Kristin M. Baird, MD, FAAD, board-certified dermatologist
Natalie Aguilar, celebrity beautician and dermatology nurse
