6 Best Baby Shampoos For Dry Scalp
Care for and cleanse your baby’s scalp with these gentle, skin-friendly shampoos!
Alicia Igess is an accomplished and award-winning stylist with over two decades of experience in hair design. She is the owner and founder of Urban Tangles, a hair and makeup studio focusing on makeovers. She, along with her team, has experienced tremendous success in building an exclusive “referral-only” clientele consisting of many of the who’s who of Atlanta.
Read full bio of Alicia Igess
Experience: 4 yearsShiboli has a master’s degree in English literature from The English and Foreign Languages University, Hyderabad, and is a certified skincare coach with four years of experience. As a commerce editor, she guides her team members on the best practices to create crisp and authentic content.
Read full bio of Shiboli Chakraborti
Experience: 5 yearsAditi Naskar has a postgraduate degree in English literature from Presidency University, Kolkata, a bachelor’s degree in education from WBUTTEPA, Kolkata, and a diploma in health and wellness. She is an associate commerce editor with 5 years of experience and specializes in reviewing fitness and health products.
Read full bio of Aditi Naskar
Experience: 8 yearsArshiya Syeda is the Co-Editor-in-Chief of StyleCraze with 8 years of experience. Prior to that, she was a content writer who combined her writing and research skills to write over 200 high-performing articles on hairstyles, hair care, and skin care.
Read full bio of Arshiya Syeda
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A dry scalp may cause itching, irritation and lead to cradle cap. Cradle cap is a common baby skin care issue in some newborn infants that is painful and itchy and makes your baby fussy. So, you can try the best baby shampoo for dry scalp that is safe for newborns to treat such conditions.
Infants have soft and delicate skin prone to rashes, allergies, and irritation. So, we must be careful to select only the gentlest products. In this article, we have put together a list of the 6 best baby shampoos that will repair your baby’s dry scalp and keep it moisturized and healthy. Keep scrolling to learn all about them!
In This Article
6 Best Baby Shampoos For Dry Scalp
1. Best Hypoallergenic Formula:Bella B Bee Gone Cradle Cap Baby Shampoo
The Bella B Bee Gone Cradle Cap Baby Shampoo is one of the best baby shampoos for dry hair and scalp. It is infused with high quality and pharmaceutical-grade tea tree oil that soothes the dry scalp, unclogs hair follicles, and nourishes the roots. This hypoallergenic shampoo is gentle on baby’s skin and also contains nourishing ingredients like oatmeal, shea butter, aloe vera, vitamin E, organic flower extracts, and amino acids. Many reviewers have noticed a visible improvement in dry, itchy scalp after a few weeks and highly recommend it.
The oatmeal exfoliates and cleans the scalp thoroughly to eliminate dry flakes and baby dandruff, while shea butter nourishes and moisturizes the scalp. Aloe vera contains proteolytic enzymes that help in repairing the dead skin cells and prevents flakes on the scalp, and vitamin E reduces inflammation. The extracts of chamomile, lavender, and marigold help improve blood circulation to the scalp, reduce inflammation, clear flakes, and stimulate hair growth. This organic shampoo has a mild and refreshing fragrance and is free of parabens. Check out this video to know more about the reviewer’s experience of using this affordable baby shampoo.
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Key Ingredients: Tea tree oil, Oatmeal, Vitamin E, Organic shea butter, Aloe vera, and Organic flower Extracts
- Gentle
- Mild fragrance
- Paraben-free
- Hypoallergenic
- Contains natural and organic ingredients
- Value for money
- Not tear-free
Pro Tip
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
It has received over 6,295 rave reviews on Amazon, proving it is a mass favorite.
2. Best Vegan-Friendly:T is for Tame Gentle Foaming Shampoo
Eliminate baby dandruff and dry scalp with the T is for Tame Gentle Foaming Shampoo. The scientifically developed formula cleanses your baby’s hair and scalp and rinses away excess oil and flakes. It can help treat baby dandruff, eczema, and cradle cap.
This foaming shampoo contains organic calendula that soothes redness and irritation in the scalp. It also contains salicylic acid and rice extract, natural exfoliants that prevent and reduce dry scalp, flaking, and cradle cap, and coconut oil that moisturizes the scalp. This organic and natural shampoo is gentle and hypoallergenic. It has not been tested on animals and contains no harmful chemicals.
Key Ingredients: Organic calendula, Salicylic acid, Rice extract, and Coconut oil
- Gentle
- Hypoallergenic
- Vegan
- Dye-free
- Talc-free
- Sulfate-free
- Paraben-free
- Silicone-free
- Phthalate-free
- Cruelty-free
None
Pro Tip3. Best Tear-Free Option:Baby Mee Bee Gentle Baby Wash / Shampoo
The Baby Mee Bee Gentle Baby Wash / Shampoo is made with organic and all-natural ingredients. The formula has calming, soothing, and nourishing effects on irritated and dry scalps. It contains all-natural ingredients like organic aloe vera, organic chamomile flower extract, organic calendula flower extract, rose flower water, and pure honey that soothe and moisturize the scalp and reduce dryness, flaking, itching, and cradle cap. This tear-free shampoo can also be used as a body wash and helps soothe diaper rashes and dry skin.
Key Ingredients: Organic aloe vera, Organic chamomile flower extract, Organic calendula flower extract, Rose flower water, and Pure honey
- Tear-free
- Sulfate-free
- Paraben-free
- Silicone-free
- Phthalate-free
- Cruelty-free
- Can also be used as a body wash
- Overwhelming fragrance
- Runny texture
Bella B Bee Gone Cradle Cap Baby Shampoo Best Hypoallergenic Formula | T is for Tame Gentle Foaming Shampoo Best Vegan-Friendly | Baby Mee Bee Gentle Baby Wash / Shampoo Best Tear-Free Option | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hair Type | Dry | Normal | Dry |
| Dimensions | 2 x 2 x 6 inches | - | 2.2 x 2.2 x 5.5 inches. |
| Weight | 5.6 Ounces | - | - |
| Weight | - | - | 11.3 ounces |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 6,295 | 191 | 181 |
| Price | $9.99 | $11.99 | $15.99 |
4. Best Alcohol-Free Formula:Dr. Eddie’s Happy Cappy Medicated Shampoo & Body Wash
Be it dry scalp, baby dandruff, or cradle cap, Dr. Eddie’s Happy Cappy Medicated Shampoo & Body Wash will be your go-to! This clinically tested shampoo is highly recommended by doctors. It is also known as “A Pediatrician’s Solution,” as it combats all skin and scalp concerns, including itching, scaling, flaking, redness, and irritation, for children of all ages.
This shampoo contains pyrithione zinc that relieves dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis and licorice root extract that soothes redness. The Pediatrician recommended product is dermatologically tested and gives your baby soft and manageable hair and skin. The vegan and cruelty-free formula does not contain dyes, alcohol, parabens, sulfates, fragrance, or BPA. Several reviewers have tested this product and noticed an immediate relief from itchy scalp.
Tip: For best results, leave the shampoo on the scalp for a couple of minutes before rinsing thoroughly.
Key Ingredients: Pyrithione zinc and Licorice root extract
- Gentle
- Unscented formula
- Dye-free
- Sulfate-free
- Alcohol-free
- Paraben-free
- BPA-free
- Cruelty-free
- Vegan
- Can be used as a body wash
- Suitable for children of all age groups
- Contains phenoxyethanol
"This shampoo has been great for managing dandruff and cradle cap. I've even seen noticeable improvement from initial few washes. It has been effective for my child's sensitive scalp and has also soothed my own scalp irritation,. It also offers a reprieve from dryness and itching."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
Almost 6,929 happy users have mentioned the value and quality of this product.
5. Best Moisturization:California Baby Tea Tree & Lavender Shampoo & Body Wash
The California Baby Tea Tree & Lavender Shampoo & Body Wash contains tea tree and lavender oils that calm and soothe your baby’s dry and sensitive scalp as they have anti-inflammatory properties. It is also enriched with nourishing ingredients like aloe vera and organic calendula extract to soothe and moisturize the skin. This baby shampoo for dry scalp derives its cleansing powers from organic soap bark and plant-based glucosides that cleanse the scalp without drying or irritating it.
This two-in-one shampoo and body wash tackles all skin concerns – dry scalp, allergies, sensitive skin, and rashes. It has a mild, calming fragrance and does not contain oats, dairy, gluten, and soy. It is also free of harsh chemicals, including parabens, sulfates, and formaldehyde carriers.
Key Ingredients: Tea tree oil and Lavender essential oil
- Gentle
- Gluten-free
- Soy-free
- Oats-free
- Dairy-free
- Nut-free (except coconut)
- Paraben-free
- Sulfate-free
- Tear-free
- Allergy-tested
- Artificial fragrance-free
- No formaldehyde carriers
- Can be used as a shampoo and body wash
- May make the hair brittle
6. Best pH-Balanced Formula:Cetaphil Baby Shampoo and Body Wash
Cetaphil Baby Shampoo and Body Wash is a 2-in-1 product ideal for parents looking for a better, gentler, and more effective hair-cleansing solution for their little ones. This mild shampoo is specifically designed to cater to infants and children’s delicate and sensitive skin. It is free from harsh chemicals and ingredients that could irritate or dry out a baby’s skin, making it a great choice for dealing with eczema, cradle cap, or other skin sensitivities. It is a tear-free formula that won’t sting or burn your baby’s eyes during bath time. The baby shampoo for cradle cap also contains a soap-free, pH-balanced formula, which helps maintain the skin’s natural protective barrier. This helps to keep the skin hydrated and healthy while also preventing dryness and itching.
The product can be used to cleanse both the hair and body of your baby, making it a convenient and practical solution for parents. The formula is gentle enough for everyday use and can help to leave your baby’s skin feeling clean, soft, and refreshed.
Key ingredient: Calendula, Aloe vera, and Glycerin
- pH-balanced
- Soap-free
- Paraben-free
- Non-irritating
- Organic formula
- Paraben-free
- Gentle on skin
None
Many people are confused between a dry scalp and a cradle cap. While both look similar and are associated with flaky skin on the scalp, they are different.
Dry Scalp Vs. Cradle Cap
Dry scalp occurs when the scalp is stripped of its natural moisture. This results in dry, flaky skin on the scalp and baby dandruff. The skin turns yellow and feels itchy and scaly or rough to touch.
Cradle cap is also known as seborrheic dermatitis and is very common amongst babies. You might notice redness, scaly patches, and crusty, greasy bumps on the scalp. This condition might also affect the eyebrows. Cradle cap is slightly more severe, but it does not itch. Alicia Igess Jones, Hair Stylist, advises, “Do not scratch up the cradle cap or any buildup that may appear on your baby’s scalp. Put the shampoo on and leave it on for a few minutes before gently massaging the buildup away.”
Scroll down to the next section to understand what causes dry scalp in babies.
Why Do Babies Have A Dry Scalp?
Many factors can cause a dry scalp in babies. They are:
- Weather Conditions: Changes in the weather or any transition in the climate from too hot to too cold could be one of the major reasons for your baby’s scalp to dry out.
- Using Hot Water For The Baby’s Bath: Yes! Using hot water for bathing your baby for too long can lead to a dry and itchy scalp. This is because prolonged exposure to hot water strips off the natural moisture from the scalp.
- Wrong Choice Of Shampoo: Not every shampoo is ideal for a baby’s sensitive skin. Shampoos with ingredients and chemicals that are too strong for your baby’s skin may cause product buildup and reactions like itching, dryness, flaking, and rashes.
- Not Thoroughly Rinsing: Failing to fully rinse the shampoo off your baby’s hair can cause the scalp to become itchy and dry. The shampoo residue left behind might irritate your baby’s skin and lead to flakes, dry scalp, and itchiness.
When it comes to picking the best baby shampoo for dry scalp, there are a few things you should consider.
How To Choose The Best Baby Shampoo For Dry Scalp
- Organic And Natural Ingredients
Organic products do not contain any harsh chemicals or harmful ingredients, making them safe for your baby. They are enriched with naturally sourced extracts that are gentle on the baby’s scalp and soothe irritation and dryness. Look for shampoos enriched with vitamins like provitamin B5, which helps nourish, moisturize, and hydrate the baby’s scalp and hair.
- Hypoallergenic
Go for a hypoallergenic and dermatologist-recommended shampoo to ensure there are no allergies or reactions to the product. Ensure it does not contain parabens, sulfates, phthalates, and formaldehyde carriers.
- No Artificial Dyes Or Fragrances
Make this a thumb rule while shopping for any product for your baby. Read the label and check what the product contains and research what is safe and what is not. Check the ingredients list and make sure there are no artificial dyes or fragrances as they can cause allergic reactions.
- Tear-free Formula
Having a no-tear or tear-free formula shampoo is highly recommended. This will not only be a great option if you feel the shampoo might end up in your baby’s eyes but also efficient to be carefree and wash the shampoo thoroughly from the baby’s scalp.
Here are a few effective ways to treat your baby’s dry scalp.
Tips For Treating Your Baby’s Dry Scalp
- Adjust The Shampoo Sessions: Shampooing often might lead to extreme loss of natural moisture and oils from the scalp, further drying the scalp. Babies and toddlers have delicate hair strands that do not have the strength to hold on to the natural oils. Hence, shampoo your baby’s hair once a week or once in two weeks.
- Use Medicated Or Organic Shampoos: If adjusting the shampoo frequency does not help, you might have to switch shampoos. It is likely that your baby’s delicate skin is reacting to a few ingredients in your shampoo. Shift to medicated or organic shampoos as they are formulated to address specific scalp concerns of babies. Also, the natural ingredients help in reducing or eliminating dry scalp. If you are using a medicated shampoo, leave it on your baby’s scalp for at least two minutes to allow the ingredients to work their magic.
- Do Oil Massages: Oil massage is one of the easiest and sure-shot ways of dealing with dry scalp. They help loosen dry flakes stuck on the scalp and prevent their recurrence. Gently massage oil onto your baby’s scalp and let it sit for 15 minutes. Let the oil seep into the scalp to loosen the flakes and moisturize the scalp from within before you shampoo. Follow this procedure each time before shampooing, and you will see visible results within a few weeks. Once the flakes start to reduce, you can reduce the frequency of oiling. You can pick any mineral oil, olive oil, or coconut oil to massage.
- Consult The Doctor: If none of these remedies seem to work, consult a doctor for appropriate treatment.
The Bottom Line
Your toddler’s skin and hair are delicate, and they need some extra TLC. You definitely do not want your baby pea to suffer cradle cap or such painful scalp issues. That is why the best baby shampoos for dry scalp are a must-have for every newborn. The products mentioned in our list are enriched with potent botanical, nourishing ingredients like tea tree oil, shea butter, coconut oil, and chamomile extract that offer restorative care, hydrate the scalp, and relieve itching or irritation. The Bella B Bee Gone Cradle Cap Baby Shampoo has a gentle formula that helps prevent flaking, while the Dr. Eddie’s Happy Cappy Medicated Shampoo & Body Wash is clinically-tested and provides a mild foaming lather. For babies with sensitive skin, try the California Baby Tea Tree & Lavender Shampoo & Body Wash. They are chemical-free and gentle on baby skin. However, avoid shampoos that make the hair brittle or are not tear-free. Remember to conduct a patch test before using these shampoos to make sure it does not irritate your baby’s skin.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
The author, Shiboli Chakraborti, is a hair care enthusiast and loves to write reviews about various hair care products. She has carefully listed these baby shampoos for dry scalp based on user reviews and feedback available on multiple online forums and brand websites. These are soft and delicate on your baby’s skin. They repair your baby’s dry scalp and keep it moisturized and healthy.
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