A smelly scalp can be frustrating and embarrassing. It's a common problem that can be caused by a variety of factors, such as excess oil, sweat, bacteria, or even a medical condition. While regular shampooing can help, sometimes it's not enough. That's where a specialized shampoo for smelly scalp comes in. After researching and testing ten different shampoos for smelly scalp, we've identified the ones that work the best.

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Best Shampoos for Smelly Scalp

If you are struggling with a smelly scalp, you know how frustrating it can be to find a shampoo that effectively eliminates the odor. Luckily, there are many shampoos on the market that are specifically formulated to target this issue. We have researched and tested various shampoos to bring you the best options available. In this article, we have compiled a list of the top shampoos for smelly scalp that will leave your hair smelling fresh and clean.

Tea Tree Special Shampoo

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If you're looking for a shampoo that can refresh your scalp and leave your hair feeling clean, Tea Tree Special Shampoo might be the right choice for you.

Pros

  • The fresh scent of tea tree oil, peppermint, and lavender is invigorating and long-lasting.
  • This shampoo deep cleans your hair and scalp, which can help to remove dirt, oil, and buildup.
  • Suitable for all hair types, including oily hair.

Cons

  • Some people may find the scent too strong or overpowering.
  • It can be a bit stingy if you get it in your eyes.
  • The shampoo doesn't lather well unless you first wash your hair with water.

I stumbled upon Tea Tree Special Shampoo while wandering through the hair care aisle, and I'm so glad I did. This shampoo has a fresh scent that's invigorating and long-lasting. It's perfect for those who want to refresh their scalp and leave their hair feeling clean.

What I like most about this shampoo is that it deep cleans your hair and scalp, which can help to remove dirt, oil, and buildup. It's suitable for all hair types, including oily hair. However, some people may find the scent too strong or overpowering. Also, it can be a bit stingy if you get it in your eyes.

The shampoo doesn't lather well unless you first wash your hair with water. But once you get it lathered up, it does a great job of cleaning your hair. Overall, I would recommend Tea Tree Special Shampoo to anyone looking for a refreshing, deep-cleaning shampoo that's suitable for all hair types.

OGX Extra Strength Refreshing Scalp + Teatree Mint Shampoo

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If you are looking for a shampoo that can give your hair a refreshing and deep cleanse while nourishing your scalp, then OGX Extra Strength Refreshing Scalp + Teatree Mint Shampoo could be the right choice for you.

Pros

  • The lightweight formula deeply cleanses hair without stripping it of its natural oils, leaving hair shiny, soft, and hydrated.
  • Infused with tea tree oil, peppermint extract, and witch hazel, this shampoo invigorates the scalp, removes buildup, and nourishes the scalp.
  • The sweet peppermint, iced vanilla, and tea tree scent gives a burst of freshness and leaves hair smelling great.

Cons

  • Some users might find the minty tingling sensation too strong for their scalp.
  • The shampoo may not work as effectively for people with extremely dry hair.
  • The 13-fluid ounce bottle might not last long if you have long or thick hair.

OGX Extra Strength Refreshing Scalp + Teatree Mint Shampoo is a great choice for people looking for a shampoo that can remove residue, invigorate the scalp, and leave hair feeling fresh and clean. The lightweight formula deeply cleanses hair without stripping it of its natural oils and the tea tree oil, peppermint extract, and witch hazel help to remove buildup and nourish the scalp. The sweet peppermint, iced vanilla, and tea tree scent gives a burst of freshness and leaves hair smelling great.

If you are looking for a shampoo that can help with scalp issues such as dandruff or itchiness, then the OGX Extra Strength Refreshing Scalp + Teatree Mint Shampoo could be a great choice. However, some users might find the minty tingling sensation too strong for their scalp. Additionally, the shampoo may not work as effectively for people with extremely dry hair. Lastly, the 13-fluid ounce bottle might not last long if you have long or thick hair.

Neutrogena T/Sal Therapeutic Shampoo for Scalp Build-Up Control

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If you're looking for a therapeutic shampoo that can control scalp build-up, treat dandruff, and relieve itching and flaking, then Neutrogena T/Sal Therapeutic Shampoo for Scalp Build-Up Control is an excellent choice.

Pros

  • This shampoo contains 3% salicylic acid, a clinically proven active ingredient that effectively treats scalp psoriasis, seborrheic dermatitis, and dandruff.
  • The conditioning formula is free of added color, preservatives, and fragrance, making it suitable for those with sensitive scalps.
  • After just one use, this shampoo starts clearing crusty scalp build-up while relieving itching and flaking associated with severe scalp conditions.

Cons

  • The bottle is small, so you may need to purchase it frequently if you have a lot of hair or use it frequently.
  • While it soothes an itchy scalp, it may not completely eliminate hair flaking.
  • It's a bit more expensive than other dandruff shampoos on the market.

Neutrogena T/Sal Therapeutic Shampoo for Scalp Build-Up Control is a great choice for those who suffer from scalp conditions like psoriasis, seborrheic dermatitis, or dandruff. The 3% salicylic acid effectively treats these conditions, and the conditioning formula provides relief for dry, itchy, and flaky scalps.

After just one use, this shampoo starts clearing crusty scalp build-up while relieving itching and flaking associated with severe scalp conditions. It's also free of added color, preservatives, and fragrance, making it suitable for those with sensitive scalps.

However, the bottle is small, so you may need to purchase it frequently if you have a lot of hair or use it frequently. While it soothes an itchy scalp, it may not completely eliminate hair flaking. Additionally, it's a bit more expensive than other dandruff shampoos on the market.

Overall, if you're looking for a therapeutic shampoo that can control scalp build-up, treat dandruff, and relieve itching and flaking, then Neutrogena T/Sal Therapeutic Shampoo for Scalp Build-Up Control is definitely worth trying.

Neutrogena Healthy Scalp Hydro Boost Shampoo

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If you're looking for a shampoo that cleanses and moisturizes your hair while also promoting a healthy scalp, Neutrogena Healthy Scalp Hydro Boost Shampoo is worth considering.

Pros

  • Provides long-lasting hydration to your hair
  • Promotes a healthy scalp and helps maintain its natural barrier
  • Contains skin-quenching hyaluronic acid, which attracts moisture and locks it in

Cons

  • Some users may find it a bit pricey
  • May not be suitable for those with extremely oily hair
  • Unscented, so it may not be ideal for those who prefer fragranced shampoos

Neutrogena Healthy Scalp Hydro Boost Shampoo is designed to be gentle and non-drying, making it ideal for dry hair and scalp. It contains sulfate-free surfactants and is free from parabens, phthalates, SLS, and SLES. The formula is pH-balanced, making it safe for use on color-treated hair.

The shampoo uses hyaluronic acid, a hydrator naturally found in skin, to attract moisture and lock it in. With regular use, it can help promote a healthy scalp and maintain its natural barrier. The shampoo is suitable for all hair types, but it is particularly beneficial for those with dry hair and scalp.

One of the standout features of this shampoo is its ability to provide long-lasting hydration to your hair. It leaves your hair feeling soft, smooth, and moisturized. The gentle formula also means that you can use it every day without worrying about it drying out your hair or scalp.

Overall, if you're looking for a shampoo that can help promote a healthy scalp and provide long-lasting hydration to your hair, Neutrogena Healthy Scalp Hydro Boost Shampoo is definitely worth trying.

Avalon Organics Scalp Treatment Shampoo

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This shampoo is a great option for those looking for a natural solution to scalp discomfort.

Pros

  • Gently cleanses hair and relieves scalp discomfort
  • Certified organic formula made with plant-based botanicals and essential oils
  • No GMOs, parabens, harsh preservatives, synthetic colors or fragrances, or phthalates

Cons

  • Not very moisturizing, may require conditioner after use
  • May dry out hair if used too frequently
  • Some users may not like the scent

If you're looking for a natural and organic shampoo to help soothe your scalp, Avalon Organics Scalp Treatment Shampoo is a great option. Made with tea tree essential oil, beta-glucan, aloe, quinoa protein, and vitamin E, this shampoo works to condition and seal the hair cuticle for strong, shiny hair and lasting scalp comfort. The formula is certified organic and made with non-GMO ingredients, and it's also vegan and not tested on animals.

One of the biggest pros of this shampoo is that it effectively cleanses hair and relieves scalp discomfort. It's also made with plant-based botanicals and essential oils, making it a great choice for those who are environmentally conscious. Additionally, it's free from harsh preservatives, synthetic colors or fragrances, or phthalates.

However, one potential downside is that it may not be very moisturizing, so some users may need to use a conditioner after using the shampoo. Additionally, if used too frequently, it may dry out hair. Lastly, some users may not like the scent of the tea tree oil.

Overall, if you're looking for a natural and organic solution to scalp discomfort, Avalon Organics Scalp Treatment Shampoo is definitely worth considering.

Buying Guide

When selecting a shampoo for a smelly scalp, there are several factors to consider. Here are some key features to look for when choosing the best product for your needs:

Ingredients

The ingredients in the shampoo play a vital role in how effective it is in treating scalp odor. Look for products that contain natural ingredients such as tea tree oil, peppermint oil, or lavender oil. These ingredients have antibacterial properties that help to eliminate odor-causing bacteria.

pH Balance

The pH level of the shampoo is another important factor to consider. A balanced pH level helps to maintain the natural acidity of the scalp, which helps to prevent the growth of odor-causing bacteria. Look for shampoos that have a pH level of 5.5, which is the same as the natural pH level of the scalp.

Sulfate-free

Sulfates are harsh detergents that can strip the scalp of its natural oils, leading to dryness and irritation. Look for shampoos that are sulfate-free to avoid these issues.

Fragrance

While fragrance may seem like a desirable feature in a shampoo, it can actually exacerbate scalp odor. Look for fragrance-free products to avoid any potential issues.

Volume

Consider how often you will be using the shampoo and how much you will need each time. Look for products that come in a size and quantity that will meet your needs.

Price

Price is always a consideration when choosing a shampoo. Look for products that fit within your budget while still meeting your needs.

By considering these factors, you can select the best shampoo for your smelly scalp and enjoy a fresh, clean scent all day long.

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Frequently Asked Questions FAQs

What causes a smelly scalp?

A smelly scalp can be caused by a variety of factors, including excess oil production, sweat buildup, and bacterial or fungal infections. It can also be caused by using hair products that contain harsh chemicals or fragrances.

What should I look for in a shampoo for smelly scalp?

When choosing a shampoo for smelly scalp, look for a product that is designed to help balance the scalp's pH levels and reduce excess oil and sweat buildup. Look for ingredients like tea tree oil, peppermint oil, and salicylic acid, which can help combat bacteria and fungus on the scalp.

What are some of the best shampoos for smelly scalp?

Some of the best shampoos for smelly scalp include Neutrogena T/Gel Therapeutic Shampoo, Head & Shoulders Clinical Strength Dandruff and Seborrheic Dermatitis Shampoo, and Nizoral A-D Anti-Dandruff Shampoo. These products are all designed to help balance the scalp's pH levels and reduce excess oil and sweat buildup, while also combatting bacteria and fungus on the scalp.