If you’re one of the millions of consumers with a chronic skin condition such as eczema or allergic dermatitis, you know how difficult it can be to find a shampoo that cleanses your hair without causing redness and irritation – or, worse, an allergic reaction.
Even if you do have healthy skin and hair, the benefits of a hypoallergenic shampoo are worth exploring.
Many commercial shampoos contain chemicals and sulfates that only worsen the environmental damage that your hair and skin already suffer.
These chemicals will ultimately lead to breakage, hair loss, and a dull, dry appearance.
Read along for reviews of our 10 favorite hypoallergenic shampoos available in 2021 that will reverse damage, heal your scalp, and restore your hair to its natural beauty.
Table of Contents
1. Pharmaceutical Specialties Free & Clear Shampoo
This shampoo by Pharmaceutical Specialties is one of the best and most widely recommended for individuals with allergic dermatitis and other skin conditions that require a hypoallergenic cleanser.
The shampoo is formulated to work with your body’s natural biochemistry, preventing irritation and keeping your hair and scalp calm and hydrated after each use.
It gently removes dirt and buildup without the use of any harsh chemicals and is completely sulfate-free. Use it daily for a dandruff-free scalp and naturally soft, healthy hair.
Pros & Benefits:
- Free of dyes, perfumes, and fragrances
- Keeps hair and scalp pH in balance
- Gently removes dirt, excess oil and hair product buildup
- Fights dandruff and scalp irritation
2. Maple Holistics Keratin Silk18 Shampoo
This salon-quality shampoo will get you the same results as a much more expensive, chemical-heavy brand without all the damage from harsh sulfates and parabens.
The formula contains 96% natural ingredients, with hydrating jojoba oil and argan oil as well as keratin and silk amino acids for elasticity and resilience to environmental damage.
The shampoo effectively cleanses and conditions your hair, preventing split ends and thinning due to breakage.
This blend is ideal for individuals with fine, brittle hair and for those with color-treated styles because it locks in moisture and protects the natural oil balance in your scalp.
Pros & Benefits:
- Cruelty-free, paraben-free, sulfate-free, and made in the USA
- Non-stripping and moisture-locking formula that’s ideal for fine and color-treated hair
- Harnesses the power of natural, high-grade argan oil, jojoba oil, botanical keratin, and silk amino acids
3. Laritelle Organic Unscented Hypoallergenic Shampoo & Conditioner Set
Laritelle’s balancing and nourishing shampoo is an indulgent cleanser that both nourishes hair and treats a variety of scalp conditions (including dandruff and seborrhea).
The all-natural formula contains proven-effective herbs and plant extracts such as saw palmetto, organic rosemary, burdock, nettle, horsetail, sweet basil, and aloe vera.
Each of these ingredients targets a specific need: aloe vera detangles and moisturizes, saw palmetto prevents hair loss, and horsetail is a known cell regenerator with naturally occurring silica, selenium and cysteine that can promote hair growth and reverse damage.
The shampoo and conditioner set includes a Scalp Toning Treatment that is designed for use post-shampoo to lock in the product’s nutritive benefit.
Pros & Benefits:
- Ideal for those with hair loss and thinning concerns because it contains ingredients proven to protect and rejuvenate hair follicles
- Earth-friendly and non-toxic, made with 100% therapeutic grade organic ingredients
- Handmade in the USA and contains zero sulfates, alcohol, parabens, gluten, or phthalates
4. Carina Organics Sweet Pea Extra Gentle Shampoo
This shampoo by Carina Organics is a wonderfully scented, naturally formulated cleanser that’s great for all hair types.
It’s designed to be especially beneficial for those with color-treated hair, gently cleansing strands of excess product and buildup without stripping color from highlighted or dyed hairstyles.
The sweet pea scent is subtle and refreshing, lasting for several hours after each wash.
The shampoo is made with certified organic plant and tree extracts, and can be used daily to replenish the natural mineral and pH balance to your hair and scalp.
Pros & Benefits:
- Soy, paraben, and gluten-free
- Vegan and never tested on animals
- Completely biodegradable and safe for use in oceans, lakes and rivers
5. Coloplast Gentle Rain Extra Mild Shampoo and Cleanser
This multi-purpose cleanser by Coloplast functions as a shampoo, body wash, and hand wash for those with sensitive skin.
The formula is pH-balanced and dermatologist tested to be safe for children and adults of all ages (and can even be used on pets).
The added emollients will keep your hair and skin soft and hydrated, and the built-in dispenser makes it economical and convenient to use every day.
This shampoo has a mild, fresh scent and is one of the most versatile hypoallergenic shampoos available at its price point.
Pros & Benefits:
- Moisturizes skin and hair with all-natural, gentle emollients
- Versatile for use as a body wash, shampoo, or hand wash that’s safe for all ages (infant to adult)
- Recommended by hospitals and physicians nationwide
- Perfectly formulated for those with eczema or allergic dermatitis
6. Tree to Tub Soapberry for Hair Shampoo
The first two ingredients in this hypoallergenic shampoo are wild soapberry and organic aloe vera – meaning not only your hair, but your scalp and skin, too, will be soft, moisturized and pH-balanced after each use.
Tree to Tub has formulated a shampoo that’s great for color-treated or damaged hair, restoring each strand to its natural condition without the damaging side effects of sulfates, silicone or parabens.
The brand offers this shampoo in both Lavender and Peppermint scents, but for those with highly sensitive skin, we recommend the Raw Unscented variety.
The all-natural ingredients allow the shampoo to multitask as a body wash, too.
Pros & Benefits:
- Suitable for men, women, and children of all ages
- Sustainable and cruelty-free
- Includes organic botanical ingredients including hydrating argan oil, aloe, chamomile, and olive leaves
- Soapberry balances hair and scalp to its natural pH (5.5)
7. JĀSON Fragrance Free Shampoo
This shampoo by JĀSON is great for those with oily hair who need a gentle cleanser that will always get the job done.
It’s a product that’s equally suitable for men and women, and is 100% hypoallergenic, fragrance-free, and made with simple, wholesome ingredients.
The shampoo nourishes and moisturizes hair and leaves your strands shiny, manageable, and full of volume.
JĀSON’s formula blends aloe vera and vitamin B5 as well as chamomile and sage leaf extracts for a soothing and skin-calming effect that will last all day.
Pros & Benefits:
- Works well for individuals with eczema or other dermatological sensitivities
- Great for oily hair and deep-cleansing without dryness or breakage
- Does not contain parabens, SLS, or phthalates
8. Puracy Natural Daily Shampoo
Puracy’s coconut-based shampoo is a richly foaming and luxurious blend that works great for all hair types.
The formula includes enriching vitamins E and B5 for long-term improvement to both hair and scalp.
The citrus and mint scent includes a hint of eucalyptus, a refreshing blend that will wake you up and have you looking forward to your morning shower.
The formula was developed by doctors and has been extensively tested by professionals in the industry to ensure its purity and safety for those with sensitive skin.
Pros & Benefits:
- Contains no harsh chemicals, sulfates, perfumes, dyes or animal products
- Developed and tested by a team of PhD chemists and doctors to ensure suitability for all hair and skin types
- Foams well compared to other natural, hypoallergenic shampoos
- Ingredients are formulated for long-term hydration and decreased frizz
9. Sebamed Everyday Shampoo for All Hair Types
Sebamed’s Everyday Shampoo is known to be one of the gentlest and safest shampoos for all ages, hair types, and skin conditions and is made with only mild, organic cleansing agents.
The extra-delicate and paraben-free blend doesn’t strip your hair of its natural oils and won’t irritate your scalp (as many soap-based shampoos can).
This shampoo will remedy breakage and help to rebuild each strand’s structural integrity, leaving you with soft, shiny, and noticeably healthy locks.
The 33.8-ounce size lasts for weeks and comes with a convenient pump dispenser for optimal ease of use.
Pros & Benefits:
- Gentle and pleasant fragrance
- Safe for those with extreme skin irritation and inflammation
- 100% soap-free and alkali-free
- Creates long-lasting shine and volume
10. VMV Hypoallergenics Essence Skin-Saving Super Wash
This shampoo made by VMV Hypoallergenics is a longtime favorite that removes excess oil and product buildup without any irritation to skin or scalp.
The formula is great for those prone to blemishes or breakouts, and can be used both as a shampoo and a body wash.
The Super Wash also serves as an all-purpose cleanser: Use it as a pet shampoo or as a cleanser for your beauty supplies, such as makeup brushes and sponges.
The formula has been extensively tested and is certified free of all common allergens (extended allergen series, NACDG + ESSA).
Use it often for a deep clean without the drying after-effects that other, similar products may have.
Pros & Benefits:
- Mild formula that’s pore-friendly and great for individuals with dermatitis or acne-prone skin
- 100 % dye, phthalate, paraben, and preservative-free; contains no added perfumes or fragrances
- Serves multiple purposes as a shampoo and body wash for all ages, an all-purpose cleanser, and can be used safely on cats and dogs
11. DHS Clear Shampoo
Dermatological Hair & Scalp, or DHS, is a brand created by certified dermatologists who wanted to design a product that would therapeutically treat skin conditions of the scalp and simultaneously prevent inflammation, irritation, and dryness.
This shampoo cleans gently while maintaining the skin’s natural pH levels, and is a great choice for those with extreme sensitivity.
The product is guaranteed safe for skin conditions including dandruff, psoriasis, eczema, seborrheic dermatitis, and hypersensitivity.
The simple ingredients that make up the DHS formula are color-free and contain no added fragrances.
Pros & Benefits:
- Best for individuals with high levels of skin sensitivity or a dermatologic condition (treats dandruff, eczema, and psoriasis)
- Relatively inexpensive and long-lasting; great for everyday use
- Free of harsh detergents and chemicals
12. Attitude Super Leaves Clarifying Natural Shampoo
This clarifying shampoo has multiple benefits: it contains anti-aging properties from antioxidant-rich white tea, calming and purifying lemon leaf extract, and moringa seed extract for detoxification of your hair and scalp.
The formula was designed to protect your hair from pollution and oxidation, bringing out its natural shine and softness.
The shampoo has an invigorating scent reminiscent of Earl Grey tea and cucumber, and contains no chemicals or contaminants.
It’s biodegradable, too, so you can feel good about your environmental footprint whether using this shampoo indoors or out.
Pros & Benefits:
- Hydrating and conditioning formula with anti-aging properties from white tea and lemon leaf extract
- Pleasant, refreshing Earl Grey and cucumber scent
- Non-toxic, chemical-free, EWG verified
- PETA certified, vegan, and never tested on animals
13. Christina Moss Naturals Organic Shampoo
This family-owned company has created a full line of natural, hypoallergenic and environmentally friendly products for skin, hair and face – and their shampoo is one of their best sellers.
Christina Moss shampoo cleanses gently with wholesome plant extracts, fatty acids, and essential oils, reducing excess oil and balancing hair tone and texture so that it’s soft, smooth, and manageable.
The formula creates a thick, rich lather, which means you won’t have to use as much of it to get the same deep-cleansing results you’re looking for.
A small, USA-based company, Christina Moss products are 100% satisfaction guaranteed and certified safe for use on children and adults of all ages (even infants and toddlers).
Pros & Benefits:
- Can be used on all hair types and safe for those with sensitive scalp or other skin conditions
- Contains no harmful chemicals (Zero SLS, SLES, PG, parabens, sulfates, dyes, and synthetic fragrances)
- Concentrated, so a little goes a long way
14. First Botany Moroccan Argan Oil Shampoo with Restorative Formula
This shampoo by First Botany is a rich, luxurious moisturizing blend that is perfect for over-processed and highly damaged hair, and for those concerned with breakage and hair loss.
The formula contains pure, sustainably-sourced Moroccan Argan Oil in combination with an innovative bio-restorative complex that provides quick results.
You’ll notice that your hair and scalp are hydrated and free of irritation, with added elasticity and shine in less than three weeks of use.
Additional antioxidants in this shampoo include almond oil, avocado oil, and vitamin D, all of which work to smooth and gently heal any irritation on the scalp.
First Botany shampoo is hypoallergenic and safe for all ages and skin types.
Pros & Benefits:
- Soothing for a dry, itchy scalp and safe for all conditions and degrees of sensitivity
- 100% pure Argan Oil is one of the first ingredients, making this shampoo a great choice for those with extremely dehydrated hair and scalp
- Hydrates, repairs damage, and prevents hair loss with a variety of natural antioxidants
- Free of chemicals and sulfates
15. CLn Gentle Shampoo for Sensitive Scalp
The CLn Gentle Shampoo for Sensitive Scalp is a dermatologist-tested formula that’s perfect for everyday use on all ages.
It provides gentle, therapeutic cleansing and lightweight hydration, and was specially designed for individuals with eczema and other skin conditions affecting the scalp, neck and shoulders.
Carefully selected conditioners included in the formula make this shampoo a great choice for all hair types, even those with thin or fragile hair.
While the shampoo itself is unscented, it leaves hair smelling fresh and clean for hours after each wash.
CLn shampoo carries the National Eczema Seal of Acceptance and is commonly recommended by doctors and dermatologists for individuals with high levels of sensitivity.
Pros & Benefits:
- Hypoallergenic, non-irritating, and never tested on animals
- Can be used as a shampoo, body wash, and shaving cream on areas prone to razor burn and folliculitis
- Heals itching and flaking of the scalp and soothes other skin conditions including eczema and psoriasis
16. Nature’s Essential Organics Clarifying Shampoo
While most shampoos are water-based, this shampoo by Natures Essentials Organics contains a base of aloe vera, manuka honey, and coconut oil – three compounds known to have incredible healing properties and great for reducing dryness and inflammation.
This formula is color-safe and chemical-free, with no sulfates, fragrances, or parabens added.
Gently wash away dirt and product buildup while restoring shine to your hair, keeping color and natural moisture intact.
Orange oil and cehami flower extracts add to the hydrating power, healing any irritation of the scalp and hair shaft and reducing redness.
This shampoo is a great choice for those looking for a clarifying hypoallergenic shampoo that provides maximum moisture.
Pros & Benefits:
- Cleans away buildup from environmental pollutants and excess hair product while locking in natural moisture
- Aloe Vera, Manuka Honey, and Coconut Oil base for maximum hydration
- Organic ingredients sourced from New Zealand
- Cruelty free and never tested on animals
17. FRAGFRE Hydrating Sensitive Shampoo
FRAGFRE’s mission is to provide products selected and formulated with utmost care to avoid common irritants and allergens.
Their Hydrating Sensitive Shampoo is no exception, containing zero chemicals, fragrances, or dyes and made with all-natural ingredients that are beneficial to the long-term health of your hair and scalp.
The shampoo contains natural cucumber fruit extract that restores shine and vitality to hair that’s been damaged by chlorine, chemicals and other irritants.
It’s gluten-free and will gently reduce static and frizz, making it an excellent choice for those with naturally curly or wavy hair.
Pros & Benefits:
- Concentrated formula that is long-lasting and effective
- Purifies hair and nourishes scalp after exposure to chlorine or environmental pollutants
- Light cucumber scent from all-natural cucumber fruit extract
- Reduces static and frizz while increasing shine
18. The Honest Company Shampoo & Body Wash Sweet Orange Vanilla
This plant-based, hypoallergenic shampoo doubles as a body wash and is extra gentle on skin, physician-approved for babies, children and adults.
The blend of jojoba protein, coconut oil, and quinoa extract soften and moisturize parched skin and hair, with aloe, chamomile, and calendula to soothe any irritation or redness.
The light orange and vanilla scent (from all-natural orange peel and vanilla extracts) is pleasantly invigorating and suitable for both men and women.
Use this shampoo regularly to rejuvenate your hair and body from head to toe.
You’ll see noticeably softer skin and decreased redness after only the first few uses, with a rich foaming lather that quickly removes built-up dirt and excess oil.
Pros & Benefits:
- Works well as both a shampoo and body wash, cleansing thoroughly without stripping natural moisture
- Tear-free formula that’s ideal for both children and adults with sensitive skin
- Made without SLS, sulfates, parabens, synthetic fragrances, MEA, DEA or TEA
- 100% plant-based ingredients enriched with soothing botanical extracts
19. Cleure Hypoallergenic Volumizing Shampoo
Cleure’s Volumizing Shampoo is fragrance-free and a great choice for individuals with dermatitis or sensitive skin types.
Since this shampoo does not contain the commercial foaming detergent that most brands utilize (sodium lauryl sulfate), it does not foam up as much as other shampoos might.
Not to worry, though – it cleans hair thoroughly and leaves your strands soft and shiny after each use.
Cleure’s formula is completely sulfate-free, vegan, gluten-free, and ecologically responsible.
You’ll notice increase volume and fuller, healthier-looking hair without the dehydrating aftereffects of other commercial volumizing shampoos.
Pros & Benefits:
- Quickly clears up any redness, breakouts, or irritation on scalp and shoulders
- Great for those with fine hair seeking a volumizing shampoo that’s hypoallergenic and free of harsh chemicals
- Verified free of allergens by the American Contact Dermatitis Society
- Works well on all hair types and safe for color-treated hair
20. Nature Sustained Raw & Wild Soap Nut Shampoo
This shampoo by Nature Sustained is made with beneficial microorganisms and probiotics that are slowly fermented, resulting in an increase in the good bacteria that’s critical for healthy, balanced skin and hair.
The synergistic blend enlivens your skin and supports your body’s natural productions of oils, while simultaneously eliminating the odors caused by bad bacteria.
The formula is made with a blend of raw soap nuts, makrut lime, elephant apple, laurel leaf, probiotics, and pineapple, all of which work in conjunction to calm itchy, dry skin and remedy scalp conditions such as dandruff, eczema and psoriasis.
Pros & Benefits:
- Contains naturally-fermented probiotics for increased vitality of hair and skin
- Packed with absorbable vitamins extracted from fruit and plant ingredients that are highly bioavailable
- 100% raw and organic, sulfate-free, silicone-free, paraben-free, and gluten-free
- Biodegradable and manufactured with renewable energy and sustainably-sourced ingredients
Final Thoughts
Hypoallergenic shampoos are a great choice for anyone looking for new ways to improve overall wellbeing and restore moisture and vitality to dry, damaged, or chemically-treated hair.
Many of the shampoos reviewed above are multi-purpose (they can serve as body wash, hand wash, and shampoo) and are great for all ages, hair types, and levels of sensitivity.
It’s important to pick a shampoo that works well for your individual concerns, whether that’s a skin condition, an allergy, or just an increased level of sensitivity. Always read the ingredients first!
