13 Dermatologist-Approved Shampoos for Psoriasis That Soothe Redness, Itchiness, & Inflammation (2024)

While less common than other scalp conditions like dandruff, psoriasis causes significant discomfort and distress to those it affects. Around 3% of Americans have psoriasis, and many have difficulty managing the scales and flaking that almost always accompanies the condition. Fortunately, there are a number of over-the-counter (OTC) shampoos formulated with psoriasis in mind.

Brendan Camp, MD, FAAD, double board-certified dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology in New York, says that any type of psoriasis can potentially benefit from the help of specialty shampoo. "Those with mild psoriasis may find their symptoms are well controlled by using only shampoo, while those with moderate or severe psoriasis may find that they need to couple with a topical leave-in medication or prescription," he says.

When choosing a psoriasis shampoo, consider the active ingredient's potential effect on your scalp. Many treatment options contain salicylic acid or coal tar—the only two FDA-approved OTC ingredients for psoriasis. To help you find the best shampoo for your scalp condition, we spoke to board-certified dermatologists and skin specialists and referenced the National Psoriasis Foundation's approved products to compile a list of the best shampoos for psoriasis. Here are the ones we recommend.

• Best Overall: MG217 Psoriasis Scalp Shampoo + Conditioner
• Best Budget: Neutrogena Scalp Therapy Anti-Dandruff Itchy Scalp Shampoo
• Best Coal Tar: Neutrogena T/Gel Therapeutic Shampoo
• Best Salicylic Acid: Fixderma 2% Salicylic Acid T-Shampoo
• Best Natural: Sphagnum Botanicals Psoriasis Shampoo with Peat Mud and Salicylic Acid 3%
• Best Medicated: Nizoral Anti-Dandruff Shampoo with 1% Ketoconazole, Fresh Scent
• Best Moisturizing: Dermarest Psoriasis Medicated Shampoo Plus Conditioner
• Best for Color-Treated Hair: Biolage Scalp Sync Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
• Best for Sensitive Skin: Medovie 3HX All-Natural Scalp Shampoo For Psoriasis
• Best Fragrance-Free: Gladskin Shampoo Bar for Sensitive Scalp & Skin

MG217’s Psoriasis Scalp Shampoo + Conditioner is formulated to soothe and treat your dry, itchy scalp. This shampoo contains a well-known psoriasis-fighting ingredient, salicylic acid. When used on the scalp, salicylic acid helps break down hard, scaly skin and promotes the shedding of psoriasis flakes. Add in the soothing chamomile and panthenol, a form of vitamin B5, and you have a practical solution that won’t strip your scalp’s natural oils.

This product is suitable for all hair types. The manufacturer recommends pairing it with a coal tar-based product for the best results. It’s essential to note that salicylic acid can cause dryness and irritation for some, so consider starting with a smaller amount and increasing as your body adjusts.

Product Details:

• Best for: Mild to moderate psoriasis
• Active ingredients: 3% salicylic acid
• Size: 8 ounces
• Scented: No

Neutrogena Scalp Therapy Anti-Dandruff Shampoo for Itchy Scalp offers a good balance of affordable and effective psoriasis relief. Like our top overall pick, it contains salicylic acid—though the concentration is slightly lower. Additionally, this shampoo contains menthol, which helps calm irritation and reduce itching.

The manufacturer recommends washing your hair with this shampoo at least twice weekly. However, using it more frequently is safe if your skin tolerates it. Keep in mind that menthol may be irritating to some. It’s best to test before beginning a regular routine. Overall, it's an excellent option for searching for an affordable shampoo that doesn’t sacrifice quality.

Product Details:

• Best for: Mild to moderate psoriasis
• Active ingredients: 2.5% salicylic acid
• Size: 12 ounces
• Scented: Yes

Neutrogena T/Gel Therapeutic Shampoo Original Formula is formulated with coal tar, which has been used to treat skin conditions for decades. Coal tar is a byproduct of coal and helps control scaling, redness, and inflammation. It's also FDA-approved for psoriasis, one of only two OTC active ingredients approved by the agency for this condition.

This original formula is suitable for all hair types and can be used daily or as needed to control flare-ups. While it's effective, we recommend caution with use since coal tar can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight. It’s important to wear a broad-spectrum SPF sunscreen and limit your time in the sun. Additionally, it has a distinct smell that some may find unpleasant, thanks to the coal tar itself.

Product Details:

• Best for: Mild to moderate psoriasis
• Active ingredients: 0.5% coal tar
• Size: 8.5 ounces
• Scented: No

Fixderma 2% Salicylic Acid T-Shampoo contains several key ingredients for psoriasis relief. In addition to 2% salicylic acid, this shampoo has a high concentration of vitamin C—an antioxidant that nourishes the scalp while promoting a healthier skin barrier. It also contains hyaluronic acid for intense moisture, a natural substance commonly found in skincare products.

Together, these ingredients act as an anti-inflammatory to reduce the appearance of psoriasis and relieve itching. It's gentle enough to use daily and can even be applied to other psoriasis-prone body areas. Plus, there's no unpleasant odor with this pick.

Product Details:

• Best for: Mild psoriasis
• Active ingredients: 2% salicylic acid
• Size: 6.76 ounces
• Scented: No

Not only is Sphagnum Botanicals Psoriasis Shampoo a natural option, but it's also recognized by the National Psoriasis Foundation for its superior efficacy. This product combines peat mud, salicylic acid, and naturally derived ingredients like fulvic and humic acids. Both acids act as an exfoliator to help remove dead skin cells, while peat mud helps soothe and nourish tender skin.

This shampoo leaves your hair feeling clean and soft while promoting cell turnover and reducing scaling. It's also free from sulfates and other harsh chemicals, so it’s an excellent option for sensitive skin. However, it's a bit pricey compared to other items on our list. The price tag is worth it if you're interested in an eco-friendly, nature-inspired solution.

Product Details:

• Best for: Moderate to severe psoriasis
• Active ingredients: 3% salicylic acid, 10% peat mud
• Size: 8.45 ounces
• Scented: Yes

While we've included several salicylic acid-based shampoos on our list, Nizoral Anti-Dandruff Shampoo contains a different active ingredient: ketoconazole. This powerful antifungal agent is a standard treatment for dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis, which can both trigger psoriasis flare-ups. It can also be combined with salicylic acid products to target inflammatory skin conditions from multiple angles.

This shampoo reduces the amount of fungus on your scalp, thus calming any underlying inflammation associated with this condition. It's not as gentle as some of the other picks on our list as the active ingredient can contribute to scalp dryness, so it’s advised to begin with a small amount. Nonetheless, this shampoo is a great option when dryness isn’t a concern.

Product Details:

• Best for: Mild to moderate psoriasis
• Active ingredients: 1% ketoconazole
• Size: 7 ounces
• Scented: Yes

Sometimes your scalp needs a bit of extra moisture to combat psoriasis, which is where Dermarest Psoriasis Medicated Shampoo Plus Conditioner stands out. This two-in-one product contains one of the highest concentrations of salicylic acid (3%) in shampoo. But it also includes a rich zinc complex with anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties for nearly instant relief.

In addition, this shampoo contains a unique emollient complex to help restore moisture and prevent further scaling. Plus, unlike some other shampoos on our list, it's fragrance-free and recommended by the National Psoriasis Foundation. The only downside is that some users found it didn't leave their hair as soft and silky as expected after each wash. The high salicylic acid and zinc content may be the culprit here. Nonetheless, Dermarest took extra care to include several hydrating ingredients to combat this issue.

Product Details:

• Best for: Moderate to severe psoriasis
• Active ingredients: 3% salicylic acid
• Size: 8 ounces
• Scented: No

The Biolage Scalp Sync Anti-Dandruff Shampoo isn't just for those with color-treated hair—it's an ideal choice for anyone with mild psoriasis. This product is gentle enough to use daily, yet it still effectively reduces inflammation and helps promote a healthy scalp. The active ingredient in this anti-dandruff shampoo is pyrithione zinc, a common agent that prevents fungal overgrowth and fights flakes.

Biolage's Scalp Sync won't strip away the natural oils in your hair and will leave your color shiny and vibrant. That said, this shampoo has a strong scent (a combination of menthol, peppermint leaf extract, and added fragrance), so there may be better options if you’re sensitive to odors. But its long-standing reputation for dyed and damaged hair confirms this shampoo can tackle psoriasis without compromising your style.

Product Details:

• Best for: Mild psoriasis
• Active ingredients: Pyrithione Zinc
• Size: 13.5 ounces
• Scented: Yes

Having skin sensitivities means finding personal care products that don’t provoke irritation is often difficult. But if you have mild psoriasis, this all-natural wonder from Medovie could be the answer you've been searching for. This shampoo is free of sulfates, parabens, and artificial fragrances—all ingredients that can exacerbate psoriasis symptoms.

Even more, it has the National Psoriasis Foundation seal of approval, signifying it's safe and effective for mild psoriasis. The active ingredients include three herbal remedies: Lonicera japonica, Rheum tanguticum, and Rehmannia glutinosa. Together, these extracts break down dead skin cells, promote moisture, and activate healthy scalp and hair growth.

Product Details:

• Best for: Mild psoriasis
• Active ingredients: Lonicera japonica, Rheum tanguticum, Rehmannia glutinosa
• Size: 5.07 ounces
• Scented: No

Fragrances aren't just triggering for those with sensitive skin (and noses); they also have no real benefit to your scalp or body. Don't forget the physical symptoms some users experience when using fragranced products, which include headaches and sinus discomfort. Gladskin's unique Shampoo Bar is fragrance-free and uses minimal ingredients to promote a healthy, balanced scalp.

This shampoo bar is also hypoallergenic. But the real star of the show is its microbiome-friendly formula. The skin's natural combination of bacteria, viruses, and fungi is essential for protecting against harmful pathogenic microorganisms, so Gladskin designed this product to help nurture your scalp’s natural microbiome balance. With only eight ingredients, all of which are psoriasis-friendly, it’s an excellent alternative for those wanting to avoid irritants, including fragrances.

Product Details:

• Best for: Mild psoriasis
• Active ingredients: Avena sativa (oat) kernel oil
• Size: 3.88 ounces
• Scented: No

This duo contains maximum-strength salicylic acid to lift away flakes and debris, but it's also packed with vitamins, minerals, and other nutrient-rich ingredients to keep psoriasis symptoms at bay. Plus, since it's free of artificial fragrances, parabens, sulfates, and dyes, it's gentle enough for most sensitive scalps.

Aside from the salicylic acid content, the green tea extract and vitamins C, E, and B5 give your scalp the added boost to thoroughly condition and protect the hair. The result? A lightweight option that doesn't weigh down your hair but instead leaves it full of volume with just the right amount of shine.

Product Details:

• Best for: Mild to moderate psoriasis
• Active ingredients: 3% salicylic acid
• Size: 11 ounces
• Scented: Yes (natural fragrances)

As another salicylic acid-based option, this shampoo is specially formulated to clear scalp plaques and scaly skin caused by skin conditions like psoriasis. This pick comes directly recommended by Melinda Asfaw, PA-C, a physician assistant at Novant Health’s Northlake Dermatology in Huntersville, North Carolina. Asfaw, who treats psoriasis regularly, recommends this shampoo to her patients with mild psoriasis because severe cases often require a prescription.

However, those with severe psoriasis can also benefit from a maximum-strength salicylic acid shampoo like this one. Severe cases often require multiple treatments to clear scalp plaques and reduce discomfort, and this shampoo can be used in conjunction with other therapies—including prescription ones. It's important to discuss treatment options with your doctor to determine whether this product is right for you.

Product Details:

• Best for: Mild to severe psoriasis
• Active ingredients: 3% salicylic acid
• Size: 4.5 ounces
• Scented: No

Do those flaky white specks have you feeling self-conscious? Chances are you're experiencing dandruff, which is often the result of a fungus known as Malassezia. Luckily, Selsun Blue has been creating anti-dandruff products for decades, many of which you can score at local retailers like Walmart, Target, and CVS. The selenium sulfide in this formula targets fungal growth, while aloe vera moisturizes the scalp and eases discomfort.

We chose this product over the original formula because it's enriched with moisturizing ingredients to keep your scalp at its best. Plus, aloe has strengthening properties to further enhance strong, vibrant tresses. This shampoo is also one of our most affordable picks. At under $10, it's hard to pass on if you have mild psoriasis and dandruff.

Product Details:

• Best for: Mild psoriasis
• Active ingredients: 1% selenium sulfide
• Size: 11 ounces
• Scented: Yes

The Health team spoke to expert dermatologists and reviewed numerous psoriasis shampoos to determine which products were worth recommending. We looked for products that contained one of the FDA-approved over-the-counter active ingredients for psoriasis: salicylic acid and coal tar.

We also looked for products with the National Psoriasis Foundation Seal of Recognition, a seal of approval given to products independently tested for efficacy by the foundation. The organization currently recognizes five shampoos for psoriasis, all of which are included on this list. Additionally, we looked for shampoos that contained beneficial ingredients like emollients, natural oils, and vitamins to help nourish the scalp.

Experts we spoke to include:

• Brendan Camp, MD, FAAD, a double board-certified dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology in New York
• Melinda Asfaw, PA-C, a physician assistant at Novant Health’s Northlake Dermatology in Huntersville, North Carolina
• Alain Michon, MD, CCFP-EM,the medical director at the Ottawa Skin Clinic, a medical aesthetics and skincare clinic in Ottawa, Ontario
• Quynh-Giao Sartor, MD, FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist at Westlake Dermatology in Houston, Texas

What to Know About Shampoos for Psoriasis

What is Scalp Psoriasis?

"Scalp psoriasis usually presents with a red, silvery scaly, well-defined plaque, not to be confused with dandruff which appears as a scaly, red, or greasy patch on the scalp from having a high concentration of oil-producing glands," explains Alain Michon, medical director at the Ottawa Skin Clinic, a medical aesthetics and skincare clinic in Ottawa, Ontario.

While the exact cause of scalp psoriasis is unknown, the condition is believed to be an autoimmune disorder where your immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells. It's generally treated with shampoo, topical creams, and light therapy. While an over-the-counter shampoo can help manage scalp psoriasis symptoms, it's critical to consult a dermatologist or skin expert if you have a persistent or severe case.

Ingredients to Look for and Avoid

Look for the following ingredients in a psoriasis shampoo:

• Salicylic acid: This active ingredient helps reduce the thick, scaly patches associated with psoriasis by promoting skin shedding. It can also help ease itching and irritation.
• Coal tar: Coal tar is a black substance derived from coal that has been used for centuries to treat various skin conditions, including psoriasis. It works by reducing inflammation, flaking, and itching.
• Selenium sulfide: This active ingredient helps reduce the excessive buildup of cells with dandruff and psoriasis.
• Lactic acid: This naturally-occurring acid helps reduce flaking and scaling while providing anti-inflammatory benefits.
• Emollients: Emollients are moisturizing agents that help soothe dry, irritated skin. Natural oils like argan oil and almond oil can be beneficial as emollients.

It's just as important to know what ingredients to avoid. Sulfates, fragrances, and parabens can be overly drying and irritating for people with psoriasis and should be avoided. Additionally, products that contain alcohol can also dry out the scalp. If you have any questions or concerns about the ingredients in a particular shampoo, it's best to consult a dermatologist with experience treating psoriasis.

Severity of Symptoms

The severity of your scalp psoriasis symptoms will help determine which shampoo you should use. The following explains the stages of scalp psoriasis and the best ingredients to look for in a shampoo, depending on your individual needs:

• Mild Psoriasis: Often involves sections of scales (called plaques) with little or no inflammation
• Moderate Psoriasis: Scaly plaques accompanied by moderate inflammation
• Severe Psoriasis: Thick, inflamed scaly plaques that may cause extensive discomfort

If you have mild to moderate symptoms, look for a gentle cleansing formula with emollients to help soothe and moisturize the scalp. Lower concentrations of salicylic acid (up to 2%) may help reduce the appearance of scales and inflammation.

For more moderate to severe cases, shampoos containing at least 2% salicylic acid can help reduce inflammation and scale buildup. Using a combination of ingredients such as salicylic acid and coal tar may be the most effective but could further irritate those with sensitive skin. In many cases, those with moderate to severe psoriasis should see a dermatologist for a thorough evaluation and possible prescription medications to manage the condition.

If you have sensitive skin, avoid shampoos with harsh chemical ingredients such as sulfates, parabens, phthalates, and artificial fragrances. Instead, opt for a gentle shampoo containing natural oils and vitamins like coconut oil, vitamin C, vitamin E, or aloe vera. It's also important to remember that shampooing too frequently can strip the scalp of its natural oils and worsen psoriasis symptoms, so it's best to stick to a few times per week when possible.

Hair Type

Your hair type plays a role in your shampoo selection. Those with oily or greasy scalps should look for products designed specifically to address these issues while targeting psoriasis symptoms. Shampoos with tea tree oil, menthol, and coal tar can help reduce grease while treating the psoriasis scales.

For dry scalps, look for shampoos with emollients like mineral or other natural oils. These ingredients can help soothe and moisturize the scalp while reducing psoriasis symptoms. Vitamin E is also a great ingredient as it helps nourish and protect the hair follicles from further damage.

Does psoriasis shampoo actually work?

It depends on your individual case, but for many, psoriasis shampoos help reduce the symptoms of mild to moderate cases, including scaling, itching, and inflammation. However, those with moderate to severe psoriasis should consult a dermatologist about treatment options. Severe cases often require a combination of over-the-counter and prescription products to manage symptoms long-term.

What shampoos should you avoid if you have psoriasis?

There's no one particular shampoo a person with psoriasis should avoid, according to Quynh-Giao Sartor, MD, FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist at Westlake Dermatology in Houston, Texas. Dr. Sartor recommends avoiding shampoos with harsh chemical ingredients, such as sulfates and parabens, as those can trigger or worsen existing scalp inflammation. Further, shampoos with ketoconazole can be overly drying for some, so it's best to begin with a minimal amount or avoid it altogether if you have excessive dryness already.

How often should you wash your hair if you have psoriasis?

While wash frequency depends on your hair type and lifestyle, those with psoriasis should not shampoo more often than every other day. Dr. Sartor recommends washing every two to three days. Frequent washing can strip the scalp of its natural oils and cause dryness and irritation.

Who We Are

Lindsay Modglin is a nurse and journalist with expertise in purchasing products for wellness. As a health and commerce writer, her byline has been featured in global publications like Forbes, Insider, Verywell, and more. Her goal is to help readers make actionable and informed decisions about the products and services they use to improve their lives.