What Is Salicylic Acid

Salicylic acid falls is keratolytic that helps soften keratin in the skin. It is similar to medicines like aspirin. It dissolves the substance that causes skin clogging by alleviating the moisture content in the skin, thereby aiding in the shedding of excessive build-up. It is used as a key ingredient in various skin-care products to help in the treatment of conditions like psoriasis and seborrheic dermatitis.

What Does Salicylic Acid Do

 Salicylic acid is used to treat skin and scalp conditions. It performs multiple functions of which treatment of psoriasis, seborrheic dermatitis, elimination of dandruff, flakes, and redness are some of the most useful ones. Salicylic acid hydrates and helps in the shedding of dead cells by penetrating deep into the skin, leaving it feeling soft and fresh. It also helps to reduce the occurrence of facial and scalp acne, thereby reducing itchiness, irritation, and build-up

10 Best Salicylic Acid Shampoos

1. Best For Itchy Scalp: MG217 PSORIASIS THERAPEUTIC SHAMPOO + CONDITIONER

This 2-in-1 shampoo-conditioner, recommended by doctors, is formulated using salicylic acid, chamomile extract, and panthenol to remove flakes. It softens the hair and protects it from damage. It helps prevent the recurrence of itchy-scalp by avoiding build-up after every wash. Those who have psoriasis and seborrheic dermatitis can find relief by using this shampoo regularly, and The National Psoriasis Foundation has approved it as well. Pros

Natural extracts formula Prevents scale build-up Contains 3% salicylic acid

Cons

Does not ship to some parts of the world

2. Best Color-Free Formula: Neutrogena T/SAL Therapeutic Shampoo

This shampoo by Neutrogena is hailed as the best option to treat any scalp issue. It contains salicylic acid, which helps get rid of crusty, flaky scales on the scalp, thereby reducing itchiness, irritation, and redness. Wet your hair and leave a small amount of the shampoo on the scalp for a few minutes after gently massaging it throughout the hair. For best results, use the shampoo twice a week after consulting with the doctor. Here’s a review video to help you get a better understanding of the product. Pros

Color-free formula Preservatives-free Fragrance-free Contains clinically proven salicylic acid.

Cons

Check with a doctor if you are using topical acne treatment as both treatment options cannot be used simultaneously.

3. Best Paraben-Free Formula: DHS SAL Shampoo

DHS SAL Shampoo is a treatment recommended by doctors to tackle scalp conditions arising from psoriasis, seborrheic dermatitis, and dandruff. It helps get rid of crusty scales, itching, and related irritations. Composed of clinically-approved salicylic acid, which helps treat various scalp conditions, has an effect that lasts hours after shampooing. Apply a generous amount on the scalp, lather, and leave it on for a few minutes. It is recommended to use this formula twice a week for best results. Pros

Paraben-free Contains clinically proven salicylic acid

Cons

Expensive

4. Best Fragrance-Free Formula: Dermarest Psoriasis Medicated Shampoo Plus Conditioner

This medicated shampoo plus conditioner is formulated using a zinc complex to treat those who have psoriasis and also moisturizes the scalp. This non-greasy formula helps relieve symptoms like itchiness, scalp irritation, redness, flaking, etc. and prevents recurrence too. It is made using natural ingredients like green tea extract, safflower extract, kukui nut oil, anti-oxidants, and pro-vitamin B5. It is recommended to use this unique formula twice a week for best results. Click here to check out a detailed personal review of this product. Pros

Fragrance-free formula Recognized by the National Psoriasis Foundation Contains 3% Salicylic Acid

Cons

Slightly expensive

5. Best Biodegradable Shampoo: Avalon Organics Anti-Dandruff Medicated Shampoo

This anti-dandruff shampoo is formulated using organic ingredients derived from nature. Some of the key ingredients include aloe vera, chamomile oil, tea tree oil, which, when combined with 2% salicylic acid, provides ultimate relief from symptoms that arise with conditions like psoriasis, scalp-redness, and itching. This product ensures to protect the hair as well as render it looking shiny and healthy for a long time. Pros

Contains organic ingredients Paraben-free GMO-free Vegan Biodegradable No preservatives or synthetic colors Cruelty-free

Cons

Expensive

6. Best For Flakes: RE-fresh Scalp Care Coconut + Soothe Anti-Dandruff Shampoo

The Scalp Care Coconut + Soothe Anti-Dandruff Shampoo from RE-fresh is formulated with salicylic acid to break down excess oil, prevent the recurrence of flakes, and promote scalp health. This cleanser is enriched with coconut water to provide deep hydration and relieve dryness. White willow bark helps remove dirt and product buildup from the scalp while eliminating dead skin cells to leave the hair clean and healthy. This anti-dandruff shampoo is free of parabens and silicones and is 90% naturally derived. For best results, use this product at least twice weekly and follow up with the Coconut + Soothe Conditioner to rejuvenate the scalp and nourish your hair. Pros

Gluten-free Nickel-free Lanolin-free Paraben-free Silicone-free Soy-free Propylene glycol-free Oil-free Dye-free

Cons

Contains SLS

7. Best For Hair Growth: XtraCare Dandruff Shampoo

This shampoo is ideal for treating your dandruff problems effectively. It helps reduce itchiness, redness, and ensures that flaky skin on your scalp doesn’t come back. This specially formulated anti-dandruff solution promotes the regrowth of healthy hair and leaves it feeling shiny and fresh. Pros

Contains 3% salicylic acid Controls itch and scales Gets rid of dandruff

Cons

Non-refundable Expensive

8. Best For Dry Hair: Soft Sheen-Carson Dark & Lovely Healthy-Gloss Moisture Shampoo

This formula containing satin oil helps restore the 5 important signs of healthy hair. It is a gentle cleansing formula that cleanses and transforms the strands, reduces flakiness, and prevents scales build-up. It is suitable for dry hair and promotes shine and growth. Apply a generous amount onto your hair, and gently massage to produce lather, rinse off with cold water. For best results, use this shampoo thrice a week. Pros

Contains satin oil Restores 5 signs of healthy hair Suitable for dry hair

Cons

Might not help detangle hair

9. Best For All Hair Types: Salve Salicylic Acid And Coal Tar Cosalic Solution

This range of shampoo is exceptionally effective in fighting symptoms of psoriasis and seborrheic dermatitis. It also helps prevent the recurrence of dandruff and related skin issues. Formulated with 1% coal tar and 3% salicylic acid, it is suitable for all hair types. It aids in getting rid of scalp irritation and itching. For the best results, it is recommended to use this product weekly once. Pros

Contains 1% coal tar and 3% salicylic acid Avoids dandruff recurrence Gets rid of psoriasis and seborrheic dermatitis

Cons

Highly runny consistency No refunds if not returned within 30 days.

10. Best For Color-Treated Hair: NAPURA S6 Active Natural Professional Anti Dandruff Shampoo 

This organic anti-dandruff shampoo from Napura is formulated with a blend of rosemary, lavender, tea tree, and oregano that eliminate dryness and scalp irritation. These moisturizing ingredients keep the hair soft, healthy, and voluminous. The S6 Active shampoo is enriched with essential oils, salicylic acid (5%), zinc pyrithione (1%), and piroctone olamine that combat dandruff. This cleanser maintains the delicate pH balance of the scalp while reducing redness, flaking, and itchiness. The paraben-free formula is gentle enough for color-treated or chemically-processed hair.  Pros

Soothes irritated scalp Adds moisture and volume SLS-free  SLES-free Cruelty-free

Cons None Salicylic acid shampoos are very effective at treating flaky scalps and dandruff. However, a wrong choice of shampoo can adversely affect your scalp health. Therefore, here is a buying guide to choosing the best salicylic acid shampoo for your hair.

How To Choose The Best Salicylic Acid Shampoo

Ingredients

When choosing a salicylic acid shampoo, those with sensitive skin should take extra precautions. First, check the ingredients list to ensure your shampoo is free of allergens and irritants. Some common irritating ingredients are methylparaben, propylparaben, GMO, paraben, and artificial fragrances.

Concentration Level

The percentage of salicylic acid in the shampoo has a significant role in determining how effective it will be when used or how well it will suit your hair. If you’re using salicylic acid shampoo for the first time or have a sensitive or dry scalp, always start with the lowest concentration of around 1-2%. Then, you can gradually increase the concentration to 3% or more once your scalp can tolerate it.

Scalp Type

Salicylic acid is generally a safe and sound ingredient for all hair types. However, those with sensitive scalps may react adversely to the component, which is irritating. When using salicylic acid, those with extremely dry scalps should also proceed cautiously, as it may cause excessive dryness and inflammation. Opt for a shampoo with soothing and hydrating ingredients to prevent this. Even the oiliest scalps can dry out with the excessive use of salicylic acid. Therefore, it is advisable to use it less frequently. Now that we have taken a look at the 10 best salicylic acid shampoos, let us know more about using them.

How Often Should I Wash My Hair With A Salicylic Acid Shampoo

Shampoos containing salicylic acid contain a small concentration of the substance in them. Therefore, regular usage of such shampoos to treat one’s scalp conditions will not adversely affect the hair. In fact, it will help add shine, volume, cleanse hair, as well as make it look healthier and more nourished than before.

Is Salicylic Acid Safe To Use

Yes, salicylic acid is safe to use provided the below-mentioned points are adhered to:

Run an allergy test by using a small amount initially. Then slowly use it every other day and wait for skin reactions. Skincare products containing salicylic acid can be used regularly until the skin condition has been treated if no reaction/skin irritation occurs. It is recommended by doctors to use products containing salicylic acid, in moderation. Since it penetrates deep into the skin to remove build-up and bacterial growth, don’t over-use the product. Follow directions carefully, as mentioned on the leaflets. Consult a doctor before trying out any treatment options to get relief from psoriasis, dandruff problems, etc.

Why Trust StyleCraze?

The author of this article, Kirtana Divakar, is a haircare buff and loves experimenting with different hair care products. She browsed multiple forums to check user feedback and researched the products in detail to compile this list of the best salicylic acid shampoos for her readers. These products can remove product build-ups, and impart shine and bounce to the hair. Can salicylic acid shampoo be used daily? Yes, salicylic acid shampoos can be used daily. But if you have sensitive skin, these shampoos can aggravate your scalp and develop irritations. In such cases, wash your hair with salicylic acid shampoos twice a week. Does salicylic acid help with dandruff? Yes, salicylic acid effectively eliminates scaly, flaky, and hyperkeratotic skin. It also moisturizes dry scalp and improves its health. Does salicylic acid help with hair loss? Yes. Salicylic acid does not directly promote hair growth, but it reduces the amount of DHT, a hormone that restricts the growth and development of hair follicles. A low DHT means less hair fall and salicylic acid somewhat contributes to reducing hair fall. How long should I leave salicylic acid on my hair? You should leave salicylic acid for a minimum of five minutes on your scalp. This is enough time for the acid to get rid of your flaky skin and moisturize the scalp. Remember to wet your hair with lukewarm water and lather the shampoo gently to avoid irritating your affected scalp. What happens if you leave salicylic acid on too long? Leaving salicylic acid on for too long can have adverse effects. It can penetrate the pores and start drying out your scalp further. What should you not use with salicylic acid? Vitamin C should not be used with salicylic acid. The layering of these ingredients can disturb the pH level of the scalp and damage your hair health. Also, skip using salicylic acid with retinol to prevent excessive skin sensitivity and redness.

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