12 Dermatologist-Approved Eczema Shampoos for Itchy, Flaky Scalps

I'll be honest: I used to think scalp eczema was just dandruff or your run-of-the-mill dry skin. Then I actually got eczema, which left my scalp covered in severely itchy, painful, flaky rough patches. That’s when I learned that although scalp eczema can look similar to dandruff and dry scalp, it differs in its intensity and can be triggered by a mix of factors (see: hormones, allergies, medications, health issues), making it difficult to treat with just one product. But a good starting point? Eczema shampoo, says board-certified dermatologist, Michele J. Farber, MD.

Eczema shampoos can help hydrate, exfoliate, and protect your scalp’s moisture barrier and should be free of common irritants, like artificial fragrance and sulfates. A good eczema shampoo can also contain active ingredients, like salicylic acid, to break down rough patches and excess oils during flare-ups, or it can be filled with soothing ingredients, like aloe and colloidal oatmeal, to keep your scalp healthy when you’re not flaring, says Dr. Farber. Sound a little overwhelming? I know. That’s why I chatted with Dr. Farber to find the 12 best eczema shampoos for you.

Here’s a quick look of our favorites:

Our top eczema shampoo picks of 2022:

Now keep scrolling for all the details on the best eczema shampoos, whether you’re in the middle of a flare-up, or you just want to keep your sensitive scalp happy. Then, find answers to all of your scalp questions, including what to look for in a scalp eczema shampoo, how often you should wash your itchy scalp, and the full breakdown on what causes scalp eczema in the first place.