More and more people deal with scalp eczemas. I know how irritating and frustrating that can be because my husband is also dealing with scalp problems. He even went to the dermatologist, who told him he has stress-based seborrheic dermatitis. This issue is quite common and affects numerous individuals.
The answer to these issues might be DHS shampoo. So, today, I chose to discuss the best DHS shampoos on the market, things to consider before buying one, and other useful insights.
Top 7 Best DHS Shampoos to Consider
When you suffer from scalp problems such as eczemas, inflammation, or irritations, using the right kind of shampoo is essential. Unfortunately, you don’t have too many options, but the smartest solution is a hypoallergenic hair care product that will act gently on your skin, preventing further reactions.
First, let’s see the best DHS shampoos available on the market. I have listed them randomly, but I’ve selected these shampoos based on customer reviews, their list of ingredients, and hypoallergenic traits.
Mustela Stelatopia Foam Shampoo
This DHS shampoo is very mild and gentle. It was initially created for the highly sensitive skin of babies. It’s a hypoallergenic formula and contains only safe ingredients. This Mustela foam shampoo is a great choice if you suffer from scalp flaking and eczema. It’s free from any perfumes, and it’s approved and verified by the National Eczema Association.
Pros
- I love its texture and consistency that resembles the one of a lightweight mousse;
- It’s suitable for all hair types
- This shampoo’s scent is mild, and it doesn’t contain sulfates;
- It’s a cruelty-free product;
- The formula is hydrating and very gentle on your skin;
- This shampoo is plant-based.
Cons
- After washing their hair with this shampoo, some users said that they noticed small amounts of residue on their scalp.
DermaCare Anti-Dandruff Shampoo by Dove
This Dove DHS shampoo is very affordable, and it’s mild on your scalp. It’s specially formulated to soothe dry scalp and alleviate annoying symptoms such as itchiness. This Dove shampoo will nourish and hydrate your hair, and it’s safe to use on a daily basis, if necessary. It contains a compound called pyrithione zinc that targets two main eczema symptoms: itchy scalp and flakes.
Pros
- It helps with dandruff and itchiness;
- Your hair will become smoother after using this shampoo;
- It’s mild and soothing;
- This shampoo is great if you have a dry scalp;
- Its scent is clean and mild.
Cons
- It contains sulfates;
- This isn’t a cruelty-free product.
Kiehl’s Amino Acid Shampoo
This amino acid-based shampoo made by Kiehl is great at building new protein blocks all over your hair, while also repairing your scalp skin. It will further lead to a stronger barrier against eczema. Both the amino acids and coconut oil included in the formula will repair your scalp while moisturizing your skin and hair locks. Your strands will become softer and shiny with this mild cleanser.
Pros
- This shampoo will boost your hair’s shine and make it softer and smoother;
- You can purchase the shampoo in several different sizes;
- This shampoo is good for all hair types;
- It lathers well, and it has a nice creamy texture;
- It does a great job at clearing buildup and residue.
Cons
- It contains fragrance;
- It isn’t a cruelty-free shampoo;
- For some of you, this shampoo might feel a bit oily.
Free & Clear Vanicream Shampoo
This Vanicream DHS shampoo contains zinc which is needed by your body to fulfill various roles such as healing wounds, proper development, protein synthesis, and boosting one’s immunity. Applied to your scalp, this shampoo has proven itself effective in healing signs of irritation and eczema. It’s free of the most common toxins and chemical irritants.
Pros
- It’s a mild and clean formula;
- This shampoo is highly effective, and most users were pleased with the way it worked;
- It clears buildup;
- It’s great for the oily scalp;
- This shampoo doesn’t contain parabens and sulfates;
- It’s fragrance-free.
Cons
- It’s not cruelty-free;
- The formula could be improved in order to become more hydrating.
Eczema Psoriasis Shampoo by Wild Naturals
The main ingredient of this Wild Naturals shampoo is Aloe Vera which has powerful moisturizing and soothing properties. Besides Aloe Vera, the shampoo also contains numerous other beneficial ingredients such as vitamin B5, orange oil, and manuka honey.
All these combined will hydrate and repair your damaged scalp and restore the shine of your hair tresses. It’s sold as a duo, alongside the brand’s hair conditioner.
Pros
- This Wild Naturals DHS shampoo is pH-balanced;
- It’s suitable for people who have a sensitive scalp;
- The formula is both gentle and clean;
- It’s sulfate-free;
- This product suits all hair types;
- It has no scent whatsoever.
Cons
- Compared to other similar products, this one is a bit expensive;
- One reviewer said that this shampoo might not work for everyone because, in her case, it made no difference at all.
DHS Zinc Shampoo
This DHS shampoo is the best choice that fights against scalp flakes. This product has both anti-bacterial and antifungal properties due to its zinc pyrithione content. On Amazon, it received a lot of positive comments and high ratings from customers. Besides alleviating the symptoms of eczema, this shampoo can even prevent this kind of issue from appearing.
Pros
- It is effective at soothing an irritated scalp;
- The price is a reasonable one;
- It also helps with dandruff;
- It works well on an oily scalp;
- This is a cruelty-free product.
Cons
- The formula could be cleaner;
- It contains sulfates;
- If you deal with more severe issues such as psoriasis, this product might not be the most effective one.
Bodewell Shampoo
This Bodewell shampoo addresses two of the main concerns when it comes to eczema: dandruff/flaking and itching. The product is formulated in a special way that restores your scalp’s natural moisture. Regardless of your hair type, you can effectively use this shampoo if you have sensitive skin, dandruff, flakes, eczema, and other related issues.
Pros
- It’s effective when it comes to issues like dandruff;
- Your hair will become softer after using this shampoo;
- It’s mild on sensitive scalps;
- It’s a cruelty-free product;
- This shampoo was tested and approved by dermatologists.
Cons
- It contains sulfates;
- Although the almond scent is a pleasant one, some people might find it annoying and irritating for their skin.
Best DHS Shampoo Guide – How to Find the Perfect One for Your Needs
Here are the things you must consider when searching for the best DHS shampoo you can afford.
Choose a Medicated Formula
As much as possible, you should search for a medicated shampoo that could fight against your scalp problems. Most medicated formulas can be spotted right from the start when you read the label and find the mentioning of a certain ingredient: zinc pyrithione. Other useful ingredients added to medicated DHS shampoos are selenium sulfide, salicylic acid, and other active compounds. All these substances eliminate or alleviate the symptoms of eczema.
Opt for a Very Gentle DHS Shampoo
In order to get rid of scalp issues, you must first follow a simple rule: control the production of oil and sebum, nourish and moisturize your scalp, and only then can you start getting rid of both dandruff and flaky skin. Mild and gentle shampoos can achieve all these purposes.
Besides medicated formulas, another great option is represented by hypoallergenic alternatives that will keep your scalp nourished without stressing it even more than it already is. A very important aspect is to buy those DHS shampoos that are fragrance-free.
Read the Label
One of the things you should look for when reading a shampoo’s label is whether or not the product contains antifungal ingredients such as ketoconazole or zinc. Treating dandruff and eczema with totally natural shampoos or other homemade remedies might work if your problem is a mild one. But, more serious issues can only be treated with specialized products.
So, to recap, some of the essential ingredients a DHS shampoo should contain are:
- Zinc pyrithione – has both antifungal and antimicrobial properties;
- Ketoconazole – it’s a great and effective ingredient, but you should only use it once or twice per week;
- Selenium sulfide – this compound is a tad harsher compared to the aforementioned one, but it’s also highly effective when used a couple of times per week; meanwhile, you should also pay attention to the way your scalp reacts, in case mild irritations occur;
- Salicylic acid – according to specialists, people who have seborrheic dermatitis should definitely wash their hair with a shampoo that contains, among other ingredients, salicylic acid since this compound removed buildup and dead skin from your scalp’s surface.
Choose a Hydrating Shampoo
Don’t make the mistake of using a shampoo that stops or lowers the production of your natural oils and sebum because that might lead to even drier skin. Also, shampoos that contain harsh chemicals are to be avoided as well. Instead, you should always opt for a mild and hydrating product that will nourish your hair, while also keeping your scalp at a normal level in terms of oil production.
Consider the Severity of Your Problem
You can always use an OTC DHS shampoo if your problem is mild to moderate. Severe cases should rely on prescription DHS shampoos. To be on the safe side, I suggest you see a specialist and find out exactly what kind of problems you deal with.
Additional Things to Consider
- Your hair type – before buying a certain product, you should carefully go through the entire list of ingredients to see if the formula is suitable for your type of hair. If you have color-treated hair, dry tresses, or curly locks, you should avoid shampoos with drying compounds such as sulfates;
- Do your research – read all about your hair type and then browse through appropriate hair care products. Read the reviews of a product you may like, and think about specific useful ingredients like zinc or coal tar.
Extra Tip! Be Aware of the Potential Risks
Avoid harsh shampoos that could dry your hair even more. You might want to avoid using coal tar-based shampoos on your kids or if you’re pregnant. If your hair is too oily, don’t apply shampoos that are way too moisturizing. Balance is key! And, remember to ask for your doctor’s advice whenever you’re in doubt.
Best DHS Shampoo Guide – Frequently Asked Questions
Answer: The DHS shampoos that you can purchase at any drugstore are the best starting point in the attempt of treating your eczema and scalp issues. However, if your symptoms and condition are severe or more serious than just dandruff and a bit of itchiness, you should definitely see a dermatologist and get a prescription product that will have a stronger effect.
Answer: It depends on the type of product you’re using and the ingredients it contains. Gentle shampoos can be safely used to wash your hair several times per week, whereas other shampoos that are stronger, can only be applied once every week. You should always check the instructions provided on the label, but if you’re still undecided or unsure, ask your dermatologist for advice.
Answer: Psoriasis can appear not only on the body but also on the scalp. It’s a chronic health condition and signs of it can occur anywhere on one’s body, including under the nails or on the scalp, both of which are very hard areas to treat. Scalp psoriasis leads to plaques or scaly patches of skin. Milder cases feature finer scales, while severe cases have irritations and thicker scales.
Best DHS Shampoo Guide – Final Thoughts
Eczema and scalp sensitivity are serious problems that must be addressed. It’s no fun to suffer from excessive sebum production, dandruff, irritations, and itchiness, but, you can solve or, at least, minimize some of these reactions if you use the right kind of shampoo and the proper hair care products.
Of all the DHS shampoos I’ve chosen to include in the list above, I believe that my personal favorite one is the foam shampoo marketed by Mustela Stelatopia due to the fact that’s approved by specialized associations, and has a very gentle formula, considering it was specially created to meet the needs of baby skin.
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