Is baby shampoo Good for flaky scalp?

It is normal for babies to have a dry scalp. From cradle cap to infant case of dandruff, the white powdery stuff usually disappears on its own within a few days or weeks. However, one of the easiest home remedies is to choose the best baby shampoo for dry skin. Pediatricians approve the regular use of such gentle shampoos made with care to cleanse and rinse a baby’s soft scalp.

Dr. Enrizza Factor, a board-certified dermatologist, says, “The market is replete with baby shampoos; thus, it is important to consider your baby’s skin type before choosing one. The baby shampoos for dry skin should have natural, organic ingredients with moisturizing properties and be devoid of alcohol and dyes.”

We know it is not easy to choose the right shampoo for your baby. So here is a list that will make your task easy.

Our Top Picks

Why Do Babies Have A Dry Scalp?

One of the most common reasons that causes dry scalp among babies is cradle cap. It is also known as infantile seborrheic dermatitis. Although the precise reason is unknown, cradle cap is attributed to a combination of environmental and genetic factors. Sometimes, it is also caused by the overgrowth of Malassezia fungi in sebum under the skin.

1. Best Dermatologically-Tested:Cetaphil Baby Wash & Shampoo

Two-in-one formula, this tear-free shampoo blends into a rich lather that helps gently cleanse the delicate hair and skin of your baby, leaving them clean and soft. The shampoo doesn’t dry the scalp and helps retain moisture. It is made of calendula from the marigold flower that helps soothe, moisturize, and soften the skin. Over 14,000 users have left good reviews about this shampoo on Amazon. Watch this review video to know about Cetaphil Baby Wash & Shampoo in detail.

Also Recommended By: Healthline, Whattoexpect and Parenthoodtimes have also listed the Cetaphil Baby Wash & Shampoo.[1][2][3]

Pros

• Dermatologically tested
• Hypoallergenic
• Free from mineral oils, colorants, and parabens
• Contains vitamin E and B5 along with aloe vera

Cons

• May not be completely tear-free
• May cause rashes

2. Best Natural:Bella B Bee Gone Cradle Cap Baby Shampoo

Paraben-free and hypoallergenic, this baby shampoo comes with a light, fresh scent. It is made of natural ingredients, such as organic shea butter, vitamin E, aloe vera, organic flower extracts, and oatmeal to safeguard your baby’s sensitive skin. Also, the shampoo contains pharmaceutical-grade tea tree oil that helps heal dry scalps. The shampoo has over 1,000 glowing reviews on Amazon.

Pros

• Soothes itchy, flaky scalp
• Infused with antioxidant properties
• No artificial preservatives
• Comes with a cradle cap brush

Cons

• Might make the scalp dry
• May not be tear-free

3. Best For Soothing Irritation:Happy Cappy Medicated Shampoo

The shampoo is meant to fight flaking, irritation, redness, scaling, and itching on both skin and scalp and is made for children of all ages. The shampoo contains various active ingredients, such as pyrithione zinc, safe and effective in curing dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis. The shampoo also contains natural ingredients, including licorice root extract, to help soothe redness.

Pros

• Doesn’t have an artificial fragrance
• Dermatologically tested
• Free of alcohol, paraben, sulfate, and BPA
• Helps eliminate flaking and keeps hair smooth

Cons

• May cause white flakes in the hair
• May cause mild irritation

4. Best For Itching:Wild Naturals Eczema Psoriasis Shampoo

Wild Naturals shampoo contains cehami extract, aloe vera, and other natural ingredients to offer natural relief from itching. They penetrate deep into the skin and help decrease redness. The shampoo is steroid-free and non-medicated; hence, you can use it daily. It is also devoid of fragrances, parabens, SLS, and other harsh chemicals. Have a look at this user review video to learn more about Wild Naturals Eczema Psoriasis Shampoo.

Pros

• Hypoallergenic product
• No animal testing
• Sulfate-free shampoo
• Coconut oil as light, natural foaming agent

Cons

• May not come with enough quantity
• Doesn’t lather a lot

5. Best Skin-Friendly:California Baby Shampoo

With a brisk blend of lavender and tea tree essential oils, this baby shampoo helps soothe sensitive scalps. This two-in-one shampoo cleanses hair, body, face, and sensitive areas. It gently washes out chlorine and salt while rebalancing the natural pH level of your hair. It contains certified organic, sustainably harvested soap bark along with plant-based glucosides. Check out this user review video to get a better idea about California Baby Shampoo.

Pros

• Skin-friendly shampoo
• Tested for allergies
• Can be used as a body wash too
• Enriched with organic, pure calendula extract and aloe vera

Cons

• May cause some rashes
• May not work for extremely sensitive skin

6. Best Chemical-Free:T Is For Tame Cradle Cap Shampoo

With gently lifting and rinsing flakes, this shampoo is scientifically formulated with a natural exfoliant and salicylic acid. It helps prevent and reduce cradle cap to a great extent. The presence of organic calendula helps soothing irritation linked to the scalp and skin conditions.

Pros

• Foaming pump dispenser for easy application
• Helps prevent irritation
• Formulated with natural and USDA certified organic ingredients
• No harmful chemicals

Cons

• May have a strong smell
• May not wash adequately

7. Best Tear-Free:Mee Beauty Baby Wash Kids Shampoo

With organic and natural ingredients, this shampoo helps calming and soothing sensitive skin. It also nourishes, protects, and soothes irritated skin. The tear-free shampoo works wonders on dry scalp, cradle cap, and eczema.

Pros

• Pump dispenser for ease of use
• Includes 32 vitamins and minerals
• Comes with 75 nutrients and hundreds of active enzymes
• Moisturizes the skin

Cons

• May have some irritants
• Fragrance could be too strong

How To Choose The Right Baby Shampoo For Dry Scalp?

While choosing the right baby shampoo for dry scalp, keep these factors in mind.

1. Ingredients: Ensure the shampoo doesn’t contain any harmful or harsh chemicals and ingredients. It should be enriched with naturally sourced extracts to make it safe for the baby.
2. Hypoallergenic: You should go with a hypoallergenic shampoo to ensure that your baby doesn’t face any reactions or allergies.
3. Artificial fragrances or dyes: You should make this a thumb rule to read the label and check everything the shampoo contains. The product should not have any artificial fragrance or dyes as they can cause allergies to sensitive skin.
4. Tear-free: Choosing a shampoo that features a tear-free formula is recommended. This will allow you to wash the baby’s scalp thoroughly without any fear of itchy and irritating eyes.

Why Trust MomJunction?

Vibha Navarathna, our inhouse writer and reviewer of baby products, has compiled this list of the best baby shampoos for dry scalp after evaluating different products and considering the user reviews and ratings from numerous websites. Keeping your baby’s requirements and safety in mind, she has handpicked each and included the detailed specifications. Vibha has also included a buying guide to help you choose the right baby shampoo for dry skin.

1. Can regular baby shampoo help with dry and irritated scalp?

A dry scalp is more common in babies, but the dryness generally goes away after a couple of washes. If your baby is experiencing scalp itchiness, it may be due to some underlying cause. It needs immediate medical attention.

2. Is there a difference between a cradle cap and a dry scalp?

A cradle cap is usually oily patches on the scalp that cause itchiness and pain. These are thick and hard to remove. Usually, cradle caps are not itchy (1). Dry scalp may be rough to the touch. It may sometimes be flaky, possibly a cause of dandruff.

3. Can I leave coconut oil on the baby’s scalp overnight?

Coconut oil would be beneficial for cradle caps. But it is not recommended to leave the oil overnight on the scalp as it can clog the oil glands and worsen the condition.

4. Is baby shampoo better than regular shampoo, and is it suitable for adults?

Yes, it is. Baby shampoos are gentler on the scalp and hair. They are formulated free of harmful chemicals and allergens. However, it is worth keeping in mind that baby shampoos cannot clean an adult scalp as desired.

5. How do I get rid of my baby’s dry scalp?

Dry scalp in babies needs immediate care. Wash your baby’s scalp and hair thoroughly to get rid of it. Use gentle shampoos that are hypoallergenic. Avoid shampoos that aggravate scalp dryness.

6. Is a dry scalp the same as dandruff?

Dry scalp and dandruff in babies both make the scalp look dry. A dry scalp can be due to loss of hydration. Dandruff makes the scalp flaky besides causing dryness. If dandruff is untreated, it may cause other serious conditions like cradle cap.

Your baby’s dry scalp requires an extra dose of nourishment, and some baby shampoos have proven themselves to be excellent sources of that. Baby shampoos are formulated to be gentle and tear-free and help moisturize, soothe, and soften your little one’s skin. In addition, the best baby shampoos for dry scalp are dermatologically tested and free of harmful toxins that can irritate your baby’s sensitive skin. When choosing a shampoo for your baby, make sure to check the ingredients for any allergens or fragrances that might not suit your baby.

References:

MomJunction's articles are written after analyzing the research works of expert authors and institutions. Our references consist of resources established by authorities in their respective fields. You can learn more about the authenticity of the information we present in our editorial policy.

1. Cradle cap
   https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/cradle-cap/symptoms-causes/syc-20350396

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Vibha is a coder turned content writer. She holds a Masters degree in Computer Applications from Osmania University, Hyderabad and a certificate in 'Introduction To Child Psychology'. Her passion for writing fresh and informative content made her a full-time writer. Holding certifications in content writing and creative writing, she writes on electronics, baby and health products for MomJunction. Apart from...

Dr. Enrizza Factor obtained her medical degree from the De La Salle University Health Sciences Campus in 2007 and completed dermatology residency at Skin and Cancer Foundation Inc. She worked as a clinical dermatologist at Los Baños Doctors Hospital and Medical Center in Los Baños, Laguna, The Medical City of South Luzon, Carmona Hospital and Medical Center, Unihealth Southwoods Hospital...
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