Best Salicylic Acid Shampoos of 2025

Charlotte Powell Avatar
Charlotte Powell
Last Updated: 10 Feb 2025

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Salicylic acid shampoos are a type of hair care product that is designed to address various scalp issues such as dandruff, psoriasis, and seborrheic dermatitis. Salicylic acid is a beta-hydroxy acid that helps to exfoliate the scalp and remove dead skin cells, which can clog hair follicles and cause irritation. These shampoos are also effective in reducing oiliness and improving hair texture. They come in different strengths and formulations, so it is advisable to seek professional advice to determine the best one for your hair and scalp type.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Sea Magik Salicylic Acid Shampoo for Scalp Health Cover #TOP 1
Sea Magik Salicylic Acid Shampoo for Scalp Health
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Neutrogena T/Gel Anti-Dandruff Shampoo for Oily Scalp Cover #TOP 2
Neutrogena T/Gel Anti-Dandruff Shampoo for Oily Scalp
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Neutrogena T/Gel Shampoo for Sensitive Scalp Cover #TOP 3
Neutrogena T/Gel Shampoo for Sensitive Scalp
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Salicylic Acid Shampoos

Sea Magik Salicylic Acid Shampoo for Scalp Health

300 ml (Pack of 1)
Sea Magik Salicylic Acid Shampoo for Scalp Health Cover
Sea Magik - Salicylic Acid Shampoo, Scalp & Psoriasis Treatment, Anti Dandruff, Antibacterial Folliculitis Shampoo with Piroctone Olamine & Minerals - Organic, Vegan and Cruelty Free (300ml)

The Sea Magik Shampoo is designed to provide ultimate hair health by remineralising, cleansing, and hydrating both your hair and scalp. It helps to remove dirt and grime, leaving your hair feeling soft and silky. With over 40 years of experience, Sea Magik has perfected the infusion of mineral salts into their products, ensuring effective relief from various skin concerns. This powerful shampoo contains active ingredients like Salicylic Acid and Organic Seaweed, which work together to soothe and protect your hair and skin.

What We Like
Remineralises and hydrates hair
Effective for scalp conditions
Organic, vegan, and cruelty-free
Suitable for all hair types

Neutrogena T/Gel Anti-Dandruff Shampoo for Oily Scalp

96378
250 ml (Pack of 1)
Neutrogena T/Gel Anti-Dandruff Shampoo for Oily Scalp Cover
Neutrogena T/Gel Anti Dandruff Shampoo for Oily Scalp and Hair (1x 250ml), Daily Anti-Dandruff Shampoo with Salicylic Acid, Cleansing Shampoo to Remove Excess Oils and Fight Dandruff from First Wash

Neutrogena T/Gel Shampoo is designed for daily use on oily scalps, effectively removing excess oils and combating dandruff from the first wash. You will appreciate the reduction in flaking and oiliness, leaving your hair feeling fresh and clean. With a gentle melon and jasmine fragrance, it makes the washing experience enjoyable. The shampoo contains Piroctone Olamine and Salicylic Acid, which work together to fight dandruff without stripping away your scalp's natural oils.

What We Like
Fights dandruff effectively
Reduces oiliness
Fresh and pleasant fragrance
Gentle on scalp

Neutrogena T/Gel Shampoo for Sensitive Scalp

36224
150 ml (Pack of 1)
Neutrogena T/Gel Shampoo for Sensitive Scalp Cover
Neutrogena T/Gel Anti Dandruff Shampoo for Sensitive Scalp (1x 150ml), Daily Anti-Dandruff Shampoo with Salicylic Acid, Fragrance-Free Shampoo for Sensitive Skin to Fight Dandruff from First Wash

The Neutrogena T/Gel Shampoo is designed for those with sensitive scalps, providing a gentle and effective solution to combat dandruff. Its unique formula contains Salicylic Acid and Piroctone Olamine, which work together from the first wash to break down dead skin cells and alleviate irritation. You will appreciate how it cleanses your hair while relieving dryness and tightness caused by external factors. Additionally, 93% of users have reported relief from itching, making it a reliable choice for tackling dandruff discomfort.

What We Like
Gentle on sensitive scalps
Fights dandruff from first wash
Clinically proven results
Fragrance-free formula
Relieves itching effectively

Neutrogena T/Gel Scalp Relief Anti-Dandruff Shampoo

904084
Clear
250 ml (Pack of 1)
Neutrogena T/Gel Scalp Relief Anti-Dandruff Shampoo Cover
Neutrogena T/Gel® Scalp Relief Anti-Dandruff Shampoo (1x250ml) With 3% Salicylic Acid, Clinically Proven Formula Fights Dandruff from First Wash

Neutrogena T/Gel Shampoo is designed to combat dandruff effectively from the very first wash. It has a clinically proven formula that helps to relieve and prevent dryness and itchiness associated with dandruff. You will find that it effectively fights flakes, ensuring your scalp feels comfortable. Additionally, with regular use, this shampoo can prevent dandruff from reappearing for up to 24 hours, giving you peace of mind throughout the day.

What We Like
Fights dandruff from first wash
Relieves scalp dryness and itchiness
Prevents flakes with regular use
Contains purifying salicylic acid
#TOP 5

OUAI Anti-Dandruff Shampoo for Itchy Scalp

Ouai
2632826
OUAI Anti-Dandruff Shampoo for Itchy Scalp Cover
OUAI Anti-Dandruff Shampoo - Soothing Salicylic Acid Shampoo for Flaky, Dry and Itchy Scalp - Reduces Itching, Redness and Irritation - Sulfate Free Scalp Care - 300ml

OUAI Anti-Dandruff Shampoo is designed to combat flakes and soothe your scalp. Formulated with Salicylic Acid, it helps fight dandruff effectively, giving you a healthier scalp. You will appreciate the soothing relief provided by propanediol caprylate, which tackles irritation and dryness. In a clinical study, all participants reported less flaking and itching after just 28 days of use. This shampoo is sulfate-free, making it a gentle choice for your hair care routine.

What We Like
Reduces flaking effectively
Soothes itchy, dry scalp
Sulfate-free formula
Easy to use
Clinically proven results
#TOP 6

Dr Oz Anti-Fungal Hair Care Shampoo

Dr Oz
400 ml (Pack of 1)
Dr Oz Anti-Fungal Hair Care Shampoo Cover
Dr Oz Shampoo with Tea Tree & Salicylic Acid. Folliculitus Shampoo, Psoriasis Shampoo, Dandruff Shampoo, Seborrheic Dermatitus Shampoo, Itchy Scalp Shampoo.

Dr Oz Shampoo is a premium product from the North East of England, designed to tackle common scalp issues. It boasts anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties that help combat infections such as folliculitis, psoriasis, and dandruff. By promoting a healthy environment on your scalp, this shampoo encourages stronger, shinier hair growth. Its unique tri-formula, which combines the power of Tea Tree Oil, Salicylic Acid, and Sodium Hypochlorite, ensures that you receive maximum benefits for your hair and scalp care routine.

What We Like
Premium quality ingredients
Effective against various scalp conditions
Promotes healthy hair growth
Supports scalp cleansing
#TOP 7

Clever Soap Anti-Dandruff Shampoo with Salicylic Acid

200 ml (Pack of 1)
Clever Soap Anti-Dandruff Shampoo with Salicylic Acid Cover
Clever Soap 1% Piroctone Olamine Anti-Dandruff Shampoo With Salicylic Acid - Suitable For Seborrheic Dermatitis, Psoriasis & Itchy, Sensitive Scalps - For Men & Women - Sulphate-Free & Vegan-Friendly

The Clever Soap Anti-Dandruff is designed to combat dandruff effectively. With 1% Piroctone Olamine, it fights bacteria while soothing your scalp, leaving your hair clean and free from visible flakes. The inclusion of 0.5% Salicylic Acid helps to exfoliate your scalp, removing excess oil and loosening dry skin for a healthier feel. This shampoo is also suitable for those with flaky, red, and irritated scalps, making it a great choice for individuals suffering from seborrheic dermatitis, psoriasis, or eczema.

What We Like
Effective against dandruff
Soothes irritated scalps
Exfoliates and cleanses
Sulphate-free and vegan-friendly
#TOP 8

Neutrogena T/Gel Anti Dandruff Shampoo for Dry Hair

96380
250 ml (Pack of 1)
Neutrogena T/Gel Anti Dandruff Shampoo for Dry Hair Cover
Neutrogena T/Gel Anti Dandruff Shampoo for Dry Hair (1x 250ml), Daily Anti-Dandruff Shampoo with Salicylic Acid, Cleansing Shampoo to Help Repair Dry Damaged Hair and Fight Dandruff from First Wash

The Neutrogena T/Gel Shampoo is specially formulated to tackle dandruff from the very first wash. This dermatologically-tested product not only helps to eliminate flakes but also soothes the itchiness associated with dandruff. It contains powerful ingredients like Piroctone Olamine and Salicylic Acid, which effectively combat hair flakiness without stripping the scalp of its natural oils. Additionally, this moisturising shampoo works to repair dry and damaged hair, leaving it feeling nourished and protected after each use.

What We Like
Effective against dandruff
Soothes itchy scalp
Repairs dry hair
Does not strip natural oils
Easy application

Briogeo Salicylic Acid Anti-Dandruff Shampoo

2538924
Briogeo Salicylic Acid Anti-Dandruff Shampoo Cover
Briogeo 8.4 oz Salicylic Acid 3% Anti-Dandruff Shampoo for Dry Scalp - 248ml

The Briogeo Anti-Dandruff Shampoo is perfect for anyone struggling with scalp flaking, itchiness, or redness caused by dandruff, psoriasis, or seborrheic dermatitis. It gently cleanses your hair and scalp without removing essential moisture, ensuring your locks remain hydrated. This shampoo features 3% salicylic acid and hydrating lactic acid to effectively exfoliate and soothe your scalp. Safe for all hair types, including colour-treated and chemically-treated hair, it helps maintain a healthy scalp while enhancing overall hair vitality.

What We Like
Effective against dandruff and irritation
Hydrates while cleansing
Safe for all hair types
Contains soothing tea tree oil
#TOP 10

Neutrogena T/Gel Anti-Dandruff Shampoo for Oily Hair

250 ml (Pack of 1)
Neutrogena T/Gel Anti-Dandruff Shampoo for Oily Hair Cover
Neutrogena T/Gel Oily Hair Shampoo (250ml), Daily Use Anti-Dandruff Shampoo for Oily Hair, Shampoo with Salicylic Acid and Piroctone Oamine Developed by Dermatologists

Neutrogena T/Gel Shampoo is designed for daily use, effectively combating dandruff from the very first wash. Its anti-dandruff action deeply cleanses the scalp, removing excess oil and helping you achieve a fresh feeling. Formulated with salicylic acid and pyroctone olamine, it reduces flaking, making it perfect for those with a sensitive scalp. You will notice visible results immediately, as this shampoo leaves your hair healthy and revitalised, ensuring a clean and dandruff-free appearance.

What We Like
Effective anti-dandruff action
Reduces scalp flaking
Developed with dermatologists
Visible results from first use
Deeply cleanses oily hair
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What does salicylic acid do in shampoo?

Salicylic acid works in shampoo by breaking down dead skin cells. This is scientifically proven to help treat conditions that affect the scalp, like seborrheic dermatitis and psoriasis.

2. Can I wash my hair with salicylic acid?

Most of the time, salicylic acid is used in relatively small quantities as part of a hair health and dandruff prevention shampoo. Use it as frequently as you would a normal shampoo to free up and wash away excess skin sebum to keep your hair and scalp in optimal condition.

3. Does salicylic acid affect hair?

Thus, salicylic acid could cause a detachment of the cornified cells on the surface of the skin and in the hair follicles.

Editor's Notes

During our salicylic acid shampoo research, we found 88 salicylic acid shampoo products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 28,541 customer reviews through our big data system to write the salicylic acid shampoos list. We found that most customers choose salicylic acid shampoos with an average price of £6.79.

The salicylic acid shampoos are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of salicylic acid shampoos, including Sea Magik, Neutrogena, Ouai, Dr Oz, Clever Soap. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 177 consumers with an average rating of 4.8.

Written by
Charlotte Powell Avatar

Charlotte Powell is a dermatologist and a licensed cosmetologist from Westminster, London. However, she was first a cosmetologist from London Beauty Training School. According to Charlotte, she needed better insight into the human skin, hence the dermatology degree. Long before she acquired her degree, she wrote and edited articles, eBooks, and editorials for companies and websites. Charlotte combines her skill and knowledge in providing DIY Beauty tips amongst other fashion related topics.