The 12 Best Fragrance-Free Shampoos That Won’t Irritate Your Scalp
If you have a sensitive scalp, these gentle formulas belong in your shower.
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When you have sensitive skin, you need to be careful about what products you're using from head to toe. As you probably know, pesky flare-ups can arise for many different reasons, but the formulas and ingredients your body is exposed to daily can have a huge impact on the state of your skin. Thankfully, there are plenty of beauty products that accommodate such sensitivities, like the best body washes for sensitive skin, makeup products for sensitive skin, and deodorants for sensitive skin. As for our hair, we have fragrance-free shampoos.
Fragrances in products can cause irritation, redness, and dryness, so a formula that doesn’t have them is usually safer for sensitive skin. “Fragrance-free means that no fragrance materials—either natural or synthetic—or masking scents are used in the product,” explains David Adams, certified trichologist and co-owner of Fourteen Jay Salon. According to Adams, if the bottle says fragrance-free, you can generally trust that it is. However, since fragrances used in cosmetics aren’t exactly regulated, you might find that brands interpret the term “fragrance-free” in different ways. For example, some formulas may avoid synthetic fragrances but contain essential oils. Because essential oils can be sensitizing and cause adverse reactions, you should check labels for them before hitting the checkout button.
Our top picks for the best fragrance-free shampoos of 2024
We interviewed Adams and combed through countless reviews to find the 12 best fragrance-free shampoos experts and customers can’t stop raving about. Keep scrolling and read our guide to learn more.
Pros
- Sulfate-free
- Works to hydrate and strengthen hair
- Super gentle
Cons
- May not be suitable for very dry hair
Adams notes that this formula is designed to be particularly gentle. It was originally created for the founder’s wife, who was undergoing chemotherapy at the time.
Key ingredients: Amaranth protein, glycerin, chamomile
Hair type: All
Size: 8.45 fl. oz.
Amazon rating: 4/5 stars
Our expert says: “Philip Kingsley’s fragrance-free, hypoallergenic formula sweeps away dirt and impurities to leave hair looking shiny and smooth. Its dose of glycerides deliver moisture to the source while improving manageability.”—David Adams
Pros
- Sulfate-free
- Safe for colored hair
- Accepted by the National Eczema Association
Cons
- Some reviewers noted leaky lid
If you have hyper-sensitive skin, Seen is here to help. The formula has the National Eczema Association’s Seal of Acceptance, making it a safe option for those with eczema.
Key ingredients: Hemisqualane, bisabolol
Hair type: All
Size: 8.6 fl. oz.
Amazon rating: 4.4/5 stars
Our expert says: “Developed by a dermatologist, this shampoo features good-for-your-hair (and skin) ingredients and removes hidden irritants and pore-clogging oils. Its gentle yet effective plant-derived, sulfate-free surfactant provides a luxurious lather that rinses easily without leaving the hair or scalp feeling stripped. It’s suitable for all skin types as well as color- and keratin-treated hair. Plus, you’ll see less frizz and smoother strands.”—David Adams
The Ordinary Sulphate 4% Cleanser for Body and Hair
Pros
- Color-safe
Cons
- May not be suitable for very dry hair
Sulfates (or sulphates) may have gotten a bad rap over the years, but don’t let that deter you from trying this shampoo from The Ordinary. The formula features a milder sulfate, so it isn’t as stripping as other formulas that contain sulfates. Plus, it thoroughly cleanses while maintaining the integrity of your strands and color.
Key ingredients: Sulphates
Hair type: All
Size: 8.1 fl. oz.
Sephora rating: 3.8/5 stars
A Sephora reviewer says: “Love this so much. My hair feels so clean, and it feels very pure. A little goes a long way.”
Pros
- Suitable for sensitive skin
Cons
- Some may dislike smell of formula
Kristen Ess formulated this line so that she could offer options that performed well but accommodated sensitive skin. The shampoo in the collection is also sulfate-, paraben-, and silicone-free. Reviewers rave about its lather and how clean their strands and scalp feel after use.
Key ingredients: Glycerin, aloe leaf juice, coconut oil
Hair type: All
Size: 33.8 fl. oz.
Amazon rating: 4.3/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: This is the best no-fragrance shampoo on Amazon. I’ve tried them all, and none of them leave my hair feeling clean and soft. I’ve purchased multiple times. Even my husband uses it now.”
Paula's Choice All Over Hair Shampoo & Body Wash
Pros
- Should effectively hydrate and cleanse
- Soothing
Cons
- Contains sulfates
Your lazy BF might be onto something with his two-in-one shampoo and body wash combos, but this one is made specifically for sensitive skin types. The fragrance-free formula features panthenol and soybean oil to keep hair and skin moisturized while lifting away impurities. Plus, there’s aloe vera for an extra soothing touch.
This shampoo contains sodium laureth sulfate, so it may be best to skip it for those with very dry, damaged hair or especially sensitive skin.
Key ingredients: Panthenol, soybean oil
Hair type: All
Size: 14.5 fl. oz.
Amazon rating: 4.2/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “No more itchy skin. I was apparently allergic to more of my bath products than I thought. I use this for body and hair, and I’m a shampoo snob. It’s kind of like washing your hair with baby shampoo. My hair is very straight and oily, and I usually have to wash it a lot in the summer, but with this I can get away with every other day and I feel really clean. As a bonus, it is a great body wash.”
Briogeo Be Gentle, Be Kind Aloe + Oat Milk Shampoo
Pros
- Sulfate-free
- Made to target irritated skin
- Hypoallergenic
Cons
- May not be suitable for very oily skin
With soothing aloe vera and antioxidant-rich green tea, this fragrance-free lather is designed to ease redness and irritation. Additionally, the product contains oat milk, which is rich in fatty acids, nourishes from root to tip, and improves skin barrier function.
Key ingredients: Oat milk, green tea, oat milk
Hair type: All
Size: 8 fl. oz.
Sephora rating: 3.9/5 stars
A Sephora reviewer says: “I’ve been struggling through so many shampoos and conditioners because my eczema is really bad. Any allergen or ingredient can trigger a rash on the back of my neck. This is the only formula that has not only stopped the rashes but also soothed my scalp. And, my hair is so soft.”
Pros
- Sulfate-free
- Made to boost shine and refresh the scalp
Cons
- May not be suitable for very dry hair
True to its name, Curlsmith offers hair care for curly and coily hair types. Free of harsh sulfates, parabens, and potentially sensitizing essential oils, this formula is designed to gently cleanse the hair without overdrying. Also featured is a blend of natural extracts made to boost shine and citric acid, which balances pH levels for healthier skin and smoother, more hydrated strands.
Key ingredients: Glycerin, citric acid, jasmine flower extract
Hair type: Curly
Size: 12 fl. oz.
Amazon rating: 4.2/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “This is a no-frills shampoo. There truly is no smell at all, which is fantastic if you have a sensitive nose or scalp. It lathers well but still leaves hair feeling very soft and moisturized. If you have fine hair or an oily scalp, you may find that your hair doesn’t stay clean-looking for quite as long, but this is great for tighter curls and dry/damaged hair.”
Pros
- Affordable
- Should be soothing and help prevent frizz
Cons
- Contains sulfates
DHS’ clear shampoo is made without parabens, scents, or added dyes to purify the scalp without irritation. And thanks to citric acid, it’s crafted to help calm inflammation while warding off flakes and frizziness. The lightweight formula is suitable for various hair types, but according to customers, it’s especially great for people with fine hair.
Key ingredients: Citric acid, coconut-based surfactant
Hair type: Oily, dry, chemically-treated, normal, damaged
Size: 8 fl. oz.
Amazon rating: 4.6/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “As I’ve gotten older, my fine curly hair has become straight, fine oily hair, and I had a hard time finding the right shampoo that isn’t too heavy or irritating. I love it. No irritation, no dander, no bumps. Not drying and no need for conditioner. It’s perfect for all ages. Even my 84-year-old mother’s dermatologist recommends using no other shampoo but this one.”
The Honest Company 2-in-1 Cleansing Shampoo + Body Wash
Pros
- Sulfate-free
- Super gentle
- Should be soothing and nourishing
- Affordable
Cons
- Small pump design disperses less product
Another shampoo and body wash combo, this one from Jessica Alba’s clean, affordable beauty brand is designed to be even gentle enough for babies. It’s free of fragrance, sulfates, and parabens, and includes hydrating coconut extract, anti-inflammatory calendula extract, and soothing aloe vera.
Key ingredients: Coconut and calendula extract, aloe vera
Hair type: All
Size: 10 fl. oz.
Amazon rating: 4.7/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “Finally, a shampoo that doesn’t have a perfume and actually works as advertised. I used it for hair/scalp and face. It’s all good, clean, and soft, with no irritation. It’s on the top of my essential list.”
Pipette Baby Shampoo/Wash
Pros
- Sulfate-free
- Nourishing
- Super gentle
Cons
- Some users say it’s not the most hydrating option
Also designed for tots but suitable for adults, Pipette’s ultra-gentle formula features squalene, glycerin, and glycolipids to safely nourish and cleanse sensitive skin. Plus, it doubles as a body wash.
Key ingredients: Glycerin, squalene, glycolipids
Hair type: All
Size: 11.8 fl. oz.
Target rating: 4.6/5 stars
A Target reviewer says: “I love this shampoo! I have issues with atopic dermatitis, and this shampoo does not irritate my scalp.”
Vanicream Shampoo for Sensitive Skin
Pros
- Sulfate-free
- Should help limit excess oiliness and flakes
Cons
- Includes sodium chloride, so may be drying on some hair types
Formulated for sensitive skin types, Vanicream’s formula is made to gently remove buildup and balance the scalp’s pH to help control excess oiliness and flakes. With 8,600 four- and five-star reviews on Amazon, customers say it effectively helped control their dandruff.
Key ingredients: Glycerin, panthenol
Hair type: All
Size: 12 fl. oz.
Amazon rating: 4.5/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “I’ve tried hundreds of shampoos to try to decrease my scalp itching, dandruff, and now, dry hair. I used this shampoo for the first time today and am amazed! My scalp doesn’t itch! I had no tangles in my hair! I can’t believe what a difference this shampoo makes! If you have sensitive scalp issues, try this shampoo!”
Nécessaire The Shampoo
Pros
- Sulfate-free
- Should refresh and rehydrate the hair and scalp
Cons
- May not be suitable for very sensitive scalps
A cocktail of hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and panthenol deeply hydrate and strengthen both the skin and hair in this creamy shampoo. The fragrance-free lather also has balancing citric acid and a blend of plant-based surfactants for a non-irritating yet effective wash.
Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, panthenol
Hair type: All
Size: 8.4 fl. oz.
Sephora rating: 4.4/5 stars
A Sephora reviewer says: “I have really dry hair and psoriasis on my scalp, and this has helped a ton. It’s super hydrating and made my hair feel bouncy and look super healthy. I would repurchase this again and again. I also love that it’s fragrance free.”
Meet the Expert
David Adams is a certified trichologist, colorist, and co-owner of Fourteen Jay Salon in New York, NY.
What’s the difference between “fragrance-free” and “unscented” products?
“Unscented generally means that while fragrance materials are not used to impart a scent, a product may contain chemicals that neutralize or mask the odors of other ingredients,” says Adams. On the other hand, fragrance-free products should be free of any chemicals that commonly cause irritation.
If you plan to choose a product with fragrance, Adams suggests options featuring naturally derived essential oils, which tend to be safer on skin than those with synthetic fragrances, like fragrance oils. The latter is a “vague description of man-made aromas using chemicals with no directive from the FDA,” he explains. “Furthermore, the fragrance should not inhibit the performance of the product, so it’s always better to use ‘natural’ products.”
As a general rule of thumb, Adams says that the cheaper the product, the higher the chance it could contain a chemical fragrance.
Are fragrance-free shampoos safe for all hair types?
“Absolutely. In fact, some people swear they are better than fragranced products,” says Adams. “If you have a sensitivity or an allergy to products with a fragrance, you would probably want to use fragrance-free products all the time,” he adds.
Why Trust ELLE Beauty
As a leading publisher of fashion, lifestyle, and beauty content, ELLE.com is committed to highlighting the best products in various categories by personally testing the latest and most innovative products, interviewing countless experts, and vetting customer-loved items. For this piece, editor Sam Peters spoke with a hair expert about facial hair. She and beauty writer Carol Lee also searched the internet for the best fragrance-free shampoos, consulted other editors, perused reviews for dozens of popular options, and evaluated each on their features and customer reviews.
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