8 Best Shampoos for Psoriasis in 2026

Article Summary

Do you have thick scales and itching on your scalp that refuse to go away? Or have you been diagnosed with psoriasis? Then this guide is for you. We researched and ranked eight shampoos for scalp psoriasis, from coal tar and salicylic acid formulas to gentle everyday options, based on the strength of active ingredients, price point, and whether there’s any fragrance or dyes present. You’ll learn more about psoriasis and how each ingredient plays a part in improving symptoms of the skin condition.

Full Article

If you have scalp psoriasis, you’ll know how frustrating it is to deal with thick scales stuck in your hair and an itch that’s impossible to ignore. You’re not the only one. About 7.55 million adults in the US (3.0%) have psoriasis^[1]Armstrong, A.W., Mehta, M.D., Schupp, C.W., Gondo, G.C., Bell, S.J., Griffiths, C.E.M. (2021). Psoriasis prevalence in adults in the United States. JAMA Dermatol. 157(8), 940-946. Available at: … Continue reading, and the scalp is the part of the body it affects most often.^[2]Chan, C.S., Van Voorhees, A.S., Lebwohl, M.G., et al. (2009). Treatment of severe scalp psoriasis: from the Medical Board of the National Psoriasis Foundation. J Am Acad Dermatol. 60(6), 962-971. … Continue reading In fact, one recent review found that about 80% of people with psoriasis have it on their scalp.^[3]Ghafoor, R., Patil, A., Yamauchi, P.S., et al. (2022). Treatment of scalp psoriasis. J Drugs Dermatol. 21(8), 833-837. Available at: https://doi.org/10.36849/JDD.6498

No shampoo can cure psoriasis, but some can still soften scales and ease your itching while keeping your scalp comfortable all day. However, it’s good to be savvy about checking the ingredients and formulations beforehand as many psoriasis shampoos on the market contain harsh sulfate cleansers, added fragrance and dyes, which an already-inflamed scalp doesn’t need.

Perfect Hair Health cofounded Ulo, our top pick, but we held their shampoo to the same evidence standard as every other product on this list. Below, we compare the leading psoriasis shampoos on the market with complete transparency about their formulations, cost-effectiveness, and ease of use. We’ll also explain when it’s time to stop treating the condition at home and see a dermatologist.

Ketoconazole Shampoo From our partners at Ulo

#1 Shampoo for Scalp Psoriasis

Ulo's Thickening Shampoo Plus pairs OTC-strength ketoconazole with caffeine and saw palmetto in a sulfate-free, fragrance-free formula. Choose a multi-month plan and get up to 30% plus a free gift bundle.

Free full-size gifts with 3-month+ plans No prescription needed

Claim up to 30% off + Free Gifts

KetoconazoleSupports a healthy scalp

Free gifts included with select multi-month plans while supplies last. Ulo is a partner of Perfect Hair Health; we may earn a commission on purchases. This product is a cosmetic and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Quick Look: The 8 Best Shampoos for Psoriasis

Product	Key Ingredient and Strength	How to Get It	Best For
Ulo Thickening Shampoo Plus	Ketoconazole (OTC strength)	Online, no prescription needed	Best overall: A gentle daily wash that also targets flaking and thinning hair
Pete & Pedro CONTROL Anti-Itch Dandruff Shampoo	Coal tar 0.5%	OTC, online	Low-strength coal tar with a cooling feel
Denorex Severe Itch Anti-Dandruff Shampoo + Conditioner	Coal tar 1.8% (plus 1.5% menthol)	OTC	Stronger coal tar for intense itching
Sphagnum Botanicals PsoriAid+ Psoriasis Shampoo	Salicylic acid 3%	OTC, online	Salicylic acid without SLS or SLES
Dermarest Psoriasis Medicated Shampoo Plus Conditioner	Salicylic acid 3%	OTC	Cost-effective, fragrance-free
DHS Sal Shampoo	Salicylic acid 3%	OTC	Short ingredient list
Neutrogena T/Sal+ 3% Salicylic Acid Anti-Dandruff Shampoo	Salicylic acid 3%	OTC	Fragrance-free, no lauryl or laureth sulfates
Kenkoderm Psoriasis Therapeutic Shampoo	Salicylic acid 3%	OTC, online	Fragrance-free with a matching conditioner

What Causes Scalp Psoriasis?

Psoriasis is a long-term autoimmune skin condition experienced by many women and men worldwide. It’s caused by a mix of genetics, environment and the immune system, which result in red to salmon-pink plaques (raised patches of skin) covered in silvery scales, accompanied by intense itching and flaking.^[4]Ghafoor, R., Patil, A., Yamauchi, P.S., et al. (2022). Treatment of scalp psoriasis. J Drugs Dermatol. 21(8), 833-837. Available at: https://doi.org/10.36849/JDD.6498

These scales get trapped in your hair and scalp instead of naturally shedding. In some cases, plaques can also spread onto your forehead, ears, or the back of your neck.

Many people with scalp psoriasis also experience hair loss, which doctors call psoriatic alopecia. The good news is that in most cases the hair grows back, although rare scarring cases have been reported.^[5]George, S.M., Taylor, M.R., Farrant, P.B. (2015). Psoriatic alopecia. Clin Exp Dermatol. 40(7), 717-721. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1111/ced.12715 But if you’re already dealing with thinning hair, a scalp that stays inflamed for months won’t help.

Which Shampoo Ingredients Have Evidence?

When you shop for a specially formulated shampoo for psoriasis, you’ll most likely be choosing between two medicated ingredients. These two, coal tar and salicylic acid, are the only options that the FDA allows in OTC (over the counter) psoriasis shampoos at set strengths^[6]US Food and Drug Administration. 21 CFR 358.710: Active ingredients for the control of dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis, or psoriasis. Code of Federal Regulations (Legal Information Institute). … Continue reading:

• Coal tar, 0.5% to 5%: This has been used to treat psoriasis for a long time. Labels list relief of itching, scaling, flaking and redness.
• Salicylic acid, 1.8% to 3%: This loosens scales and helps plaques lift and wash away. It can also help other scalp treatments reach the skin underneath.^[7]Lebwohl, M. (1999). The role of salicylic acid in the treatment of psoriasis. Int J Dermatol. 38(1), 16-24. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1046/j.1365-4362.1999.00500.x

Study: The 2016 Cochrane Review

A 2016 Cochrane review of 59 randomized trials with 11,561 people found that those using a prescription steroid on their scalp were 82% more likely to reach clear or almost clear skin compared to those using a product with vitamin D.^[8]Schlager, J.G., Rosumeck, S., Werner, R.N., et al. (2016). Topical treatments for scalp psoriasis. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2(2), CD009687. Available at: … Continue reading

Results

• For about every eight people treated with a steroid instead of vitamin D, one more person’s scalp cleared.
• Adding vitamin D to a steroid only gave a small extra benefit compared to just using the steroid.
• People using steroids were 78% less likely to stop treatment because of side effects than people using vitamin D.^[9]Schlager, J.G., Rosumeck, S., Werner, R.N., et al. (2016). Topical treatments for scalp psoriasis. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2(2), CD009687. Available at: … Continue reading

However, most of the trials lasted less than six months, and only one ran for a full year.^[10]Schlager, J.G., Rosumeck, S., Werner, R.N., et al. (2016). Topical treatments for scalp psoriasis. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2(2), CD009687. Available at: … Continue reading The researchers also noted that it’s hard to judge coal tar and salicylic acid from the trial results.^[11]Schlager, J.G., Rosumeck, S., Werner, R.N., et al. (2016). Topical treatments for scalp psoriasis. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2(2), CD009687. Available at: … Continue reading We recommend thinking of OTC shampoos as support for mild psoriasis and a way to soothe flare-ups.

Psoriasis, Dandruff, or Both?

When diagnosing scalp psoriasis, another condition doctors need to rule out is seborrheic dermatitis.^[12]Ghafoor, R., Patil, A., Yamauchi, P.S., et al. (2022). Treatment of scalp psoriasis. J Drugs Dermatol. 21(8), 833-837. Available at: https://doi.org/10.36849/JDD.6498 Seborrheic dermatitis usually causes greasy, yellowish flakes and redness. Psoriasis is characterized by thicker, drier plaques with sharp edges. Some people have features of both, which dermatologists often refer to as sebopsoriasis.

This is where ketoconazole comes in. Seborrheic dermatitis is linked to a yeast called Malassezia, which ketoconazole targets. A Cochrane review that pooled eight trials found that treatment was 31% less likely to fail with 2% ketoconazole than with a placebo after four weeks, though the researchers rated the evidence as low quality.^[13]Okokon, E.O., Verbeek, J.H., Ruotsalainen, J.H., Ojo, O.A., Bakhoya, V.N. (2015). Topical antifungals for seborrhoeic dermatitis. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. (5), CD008138. Available at: … Continue reading Ketoconazole is not designed to be a psoriasis treatment. But if some of your flaking comes from seborrheic dermatitis, a ketoconazole shampoo can help.

With that in mind, here are our eight picks for scalp psoriasis, starting with the best overall.

Best Shampoos for Psoriasis

#1 Best Overall: Ulo Thickening Shampoo Plus

Pros	Cons
✓ Sulfate-free base (no SLS or SLES)	✗ Premium pricing
✓ OTC-strength ketoconazole for flaking, linked to seborrheic dermatitis
✓ No added fragrance
✓ Panthenol for soothing moisture
✓ Caffeine, saw palmetto and other ingredients that can help with thinning hair
✓ 365-day money-back guarantee

Medicated shampoos and prescriptions treat psoriasis plaques. But on the days in between, you’re still washing an inflamed scalp, and that’s where the Ulo Thickening Shampoo Plus comes in.

Rather than sodium lauryl or laureth sulfate, the formula relies on gentler cleansers (sulfoacetate, sulfosuccinate and olefin sulfonate). Classic sulfates and other harsh cleansers can weaken your skin barrier, leaving the scalp dry and itchy.^[14]Ananthapadmanabhan, K.P., Moore, D.J., Subramanyan, K., Misra, M., Meyer, F. (2004). Cleansing without compromise: the impact of cleansers on the skin barrier and the technology of mild cleansing. … Continue reading You won’t find added fragrance on the label either, although the essential oils contain a scent compound called limonene that has a subtle, fresh scent. OTC-strength ketoconazole is also included. While it doesn’t clear psoriasis, it does tackle seborrheic flaking, which is backed by a 2016 Cochrane review.^[15]Okokon, E.O., Verbeek, J.H., Ruotsalainen, J.H., Ojo, O.A., Bakhoya, V.N. (2015). Topical antifungals for seborrhoeic dermatitis. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. (5), CD008138. Available at: … Continue reading

But the Ulo Thickening Shampoo Plus really shines when tackling thinning hair. A 1998 study found that in men with pattern hair loss, 2% ketoconazole shampoo improved hair density and size about as much as a minoxidil regimen, although the researchers said larger trials are needed.^[16]Piérard-Franchimont, C., De Doncker, P., Cauwenbergh, G., Piérard, G.E. (1998). Ketoconazole shampoo: effect of long-term use in androgenic alopecia. Dermatology. 196(4), 474-477. Available at: … Continue reading On top of ketoconazole, the formula has caffeine, saw palmetto, rosemary, biotin, niacinamide and hydrolyzed keratin. For caffeine, a six-month trial of 210 men found that a 0.2% leave-on liquid increased growing hairs by 10.59%, while 5% minoxidil increased them by 11.68%.^[17]Dhurat, R., Chitallia, J., May, T.W., et al. (2017). An open-label randomized multicenter study assessing the noninferiority of a caffeine-based topical liquid 0.2% versus minoxidil 5% solution in … Continue reading To get the best results possible, pair the shampoo with a proven treatment like topical finasteride.

We recommend rinsing after one to three minutes. One month costs $35, which drops to $25 a month with a 12-month package. You’ll pay more than you would for a drugstore coal tar shampoo, but you won’t find gentle scalp care and thinning support together anywhere cheaper on this list.

Bottom Line: The Ulo Thickening Shampoo Plus is our #1 choice for an everyday shampoo if you’re experiencing scalp psoriasis, and even seborrheic flaking or thinning hair. Alternate this shampoo with a medicated shampoo for best results. 

#2 Pete & Pedro CONTROL Anti-Itch Dandruff Shampoo

Pros	Cons
✓ 0.5% coal tar, formulated for scalp psoriasis	✗ Lower percentage of the coal tar range
✓ Menthol and peppermint oil for a cooling feel	✗ Essential oils may not suit a very sensitive scalp
✓ No parabens or silicones	✗ Not cost-effective, at about $3 an ounce

At 0.5%, the Pete & Pedro CONTROL Anti-Itch Dandruff Shampoo has the lowest coal tar strength the FDA allows on an OTC psoriasis label^[18]US Food and Drug Administration. 21 CFR 358.710: Active ingredients for the control of dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis, or psoriasis. Code of Federal Regulations (Legal Information Institute). … Continue reading, making it a gentle first product if you’ve never used coal tar before. Pete & Pedro markets it for scalp psoriasis, seborrheic dermatitis and dandruff.

The addition of peppermint oil, tea tree oil, and menthol can provide some temporary relief and a cooling feel for itchy scalps. But one downside is that the full list of inactive ingredients isn’t on the product page, so there’s no way to see which cleanser is used. You also won’t find a recommended leave-on time, while most other labels here suggest several minutes.

It’s $23 for an 8-ounce bottle on the Pete & Pedro site.

Bottom Line: Want to try coal tar without going too strong? The Pete & Pedro CONTROL Anti-Itch Dandruff Shampoo is a good starting point, as long as you enjoy a cooling sensation on your scalp.

#3 Denorex Severe Itch Anti-Dandruff Shampoo + Conditioner

Pros	Cons
✓ 1.8% coal tar, more than three times Pete & Pedro’s strength	✗ TEA lauryl sulfate base with alcohol and fragrance
✓ 1.5% menthol for a cooling feel on itchy skin	✗ Contains Red 40 dye
✓ Shampoo and conditioner in one bottle	✗ Label warns of sunburn risk for 24 hours after use

When itching is keeping you awake and low-strength coal tar isn’t cutting it, it might be time to move up to 1.8%. That’s what the Denorex Severe Itch Anti-Dandruff Shampoo + Conditioner offers, along with 1.5% menthol, and it’s labeled for psoriasis, seborrheic dermatitis and dandruff. However, there’s limited research on whether higher coal tar strength can clear scalp plaques faster.

Denorex markets it as free of SLS, SLES and parabens. But keep in mind that its main cleanser, TEA lauryl sulfate, is closely related to SLS, and the formula also has alcohol, fragrance and Red 40 dye. The label also states to avoid combining this shampoo with UV therapy or prescription psoriasis medication, so consult with your doctor if you’re concerned.

The Denorex site lists a 10-ounce bottle for $10.

Bottom Line: With the strongest coal tar on this list, the Denorex Severe Itch Anti-Dandruff Shampoo + Conditioner is our pick for itch relief, provided your scalp is fine with fragrance and a sulfate base.

#4 Sphagnum Botanicals PsoriAid+ Psoriasis Shampoo

Pros	Cons
✓ 3% salicylic acid, the maximum OTC strength	✗ Contains sodium coco-sulfate
✓ No SLS or SLES	✗ Juniper oil and limonene add scent compounds which may irritate
✓ National Psoriasis Foundation Seal of Recognition	✗ Not as cost-effective at $25, more than most drugstore options

Carrying the National Psoriasis Foundation’s Seal of Recognition is the Sphagnum Botanicals PsoriAid+ Psoriasis Shampoo. This shampoo is a peat-based formula with 3% salicylic acid, the highest strength in the FDA range.^[19]US Food and Drug Administration. 21 CFR 358.710: Active ingredients for the control of dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis, or psoriasis. Code of Federal Regulations (Legal Information Institute). … Continue reading Menthol, panthenol and allantoin are also included. It’s a smart pick if thick scale is your main concern and classic sulfates irritate your scalp.

You won’t find SLS or SLES here, but sodium coco-sulfate is the second cleanser listed. Fragrance isn’t on the label, though juniper oil and limonene do add a scent. As for the peat, we see it as more of a cosmetic bonus, since salicylic acid is the ingredient doing the scale-loosening.^[20]Lebwohl, M. (1999). The role of salicylic acid in the treatment of psoriasis. Int J Dermatol. 38(1), 16-24. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1046/j.1365-4362.1999.00500.x

US buyers can find it on Amazon, where 8.45 ounces costs about $25.

Bottom Line: For maximum-strength salicylic acid without SLS or SLES, the Sphagnum Botanicals PsoriAid+ Psoriasis Shampoo is a sensible option.

#5 Dermarest Psoriasis Medicated Shampoo Plus Conditioner

Pros	Cons
✓ 3% salicylic acid	✗ Ammonium lauryl sulfate and sodium laureth sulfate base
✓ No fragrance	✗ Four plant extracts and oils that may cause irritation
✓ Cost-effective

At about $7 for 8 ounces, the Dermarest Psoriasis Medicated Shampoo Plus Conditioner is the most affordable way on this list to get maximum OTC-strength salicylic acid. Both scalp psoriasis and seborrheic dermatitis are covered on the label.

One thing to consider is the cleansing base, as the presence of ammonium lauryl sulfate and sodium laureth sulfate can strip your scalp and cause irritation. Panthenol, zinc PCA, kukui nut oil and a handful of plant extracts are also included in the formula which may provide added benefits.

Bottom Line: If your scalp isn’t overly sensitive to sulfates, the Dermarest Psoriasis Medicated Shampoo Plus Conditioner is worth trying, with 3% salicylic acid and no added fragrance.

#6 DHS Sal Shampoo

Pros	Cons
✓ 3% salicylic acid	✗ Contains sulfate (sodium laureth sulfate)
✓ Minimal formula, with only seven inactive ingredients	✗ Not as cost-effective
✓ No fragrance or dyes	✗ No conditioning ingredients

The DHS Sal Shampoo keeps things very simple. Besides 3% salicylic acid, it has just seven inactive ingredients: water, two cleansers, a sultaine, a thickener, EDTA and sodium hydroxide. There are no botanicals, fragrance or dyes, which is reassuring if your skin reacts to almost everything.

Because the formula is so bare, though, you won’t get anything to soften your hair. It also still uses sodium laureth sulfate.

On the DHS site, a 4-ounce bottle is about $11.

Bottom Line: For reactive skin, the DHS Sal Shampoo offers salicylic acid with as few extras as possible.

#7 Neutrogena T/Sal+ 3% Salicylic Acid Anti-Dandruff Shampoo

Pros	Cons
✓ 3% salicylic acid, formulated for psoriasis	✗ No amounts given for its extra ingredients
✓ Fragrance-free, with no dyes or alcohol	✗ Not as cost-effective
✓ No sodium lauryl or laureth sulfate

If you used to buy Neutrogena’s T/Gel, you may have noticed it’s gone from the brand’s site, so the Neutrogena T/Sal+ 3% Salicylic Acid Anti-Dandruff Shampoo is now its psoriasis pick. It has 3% salicylic acid and is labeled for dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis and psoriasis.

Piroctone olamine, panthenol and vitamin E appear on the inactive list, though Neutrogena doesn’t give amounts. The brand says it’s made without alcohol, dyes, fragrance or preservatives.

An 8-ounce bottle is about $12.

Bottom Line: The Neutrogena T/Sal+ 3% Salicylic Acid Anti-Dandruff Shampoo is a solid fragrance-free salicylic acid option from a brand most drugstores stock.

#8 Kenkoderm Psoriasis Therapeutic Shampoo

Pros	Cons
✓ 3% salicylic acid	✗ Not as cost-effective at $3.75 an ounce
✓ No fragrance or colorants	✗ Product page doesn’t list the inactive ingredients
✓ Matching sensitive-skin conditioner available

Developed by a dermatologist, Kenkoderm is a small psoriasis line with products that specifically target psoriasis. The Kenkoderm Psoriasis Therapeutic Shampoo contains 3% salicylic acid, the top of the FDA range^[21]US Food and Drug Administration. 21 CFR 358.710: Active ingredients for the control of dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis, or psoriasis. Code of Federal Regulations (Legal Information Institute). … Continue reading, and is labeled for dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis as well as psoriasis.

Our main concern is that Kenkoderm doesn’t list the inactive ingredients on its product page. That means you can’t check which cleanser it uses before buying.

The shampoo is $14.99 for 4 ounces, and the matching conditioner for sensitive hair and skin costs $12.99.

Bottom Line: If paying more per ounce isn’t an issue, the Kenkoderm Psoriasis Therapeutic Shampoo is a fragrance-free salicylic acid option with a conditioner to match.

How Often to Use a Psoriasis Shampoo

Most of the brands on this list that offer medicated shampoos for psoriasis recommend using the product at least twice a week, or as your doctor directs. They also say to leave the lather on for several minutes before rinsing.

For mild scalp psoriasis, a simple routine could look like this:

• Use your coal tar or salicylic acid (medicated) shampoo two or three times a week.
• On the other wash days, use a gentle shampoo like the Ulo Thickening Shampoo Plus.
• Let the shampoo soften the scales and avoid scratching or picking at them.
• Massage the lather into your scalp rather than through the lengths of your hair.
• Don’t change formulas too often so you can see what’s helping. Give a new shampoo a few weeks to work.

If you also use a prescription treatment, ask your dermatologist how to fit your shampoo and other hair care products around it. Salicylic acid is often used before a steroid, as it can soften thick scales and help the steroid get through.^[22]Lebwohl, M. (1999). The role of salicylic acid in the treatment of psoriasis. Int J Dermatol. 38(1), 16-24. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1046/j.1365-4362.1999.00500.x

Why the Shampoo Base Matters

In a shampoo, the medicated ingredient usually gets all the praise and attention. But the base formula is just as important as it’s directly exposed to your scalp with every use. Harsh cleansers can unnecessarily strip or damage skin proteins and fats, and a 2004 review linked this damage to tightness, dryness, irritation and itching after washing.^[23]Ananthapadmanabhan, K.P., Moore, D.J., Subramanyan, K., Misra, M., Meyer, F. (2004). Cleansing without compromise: the impact of cleansers on the skin barrier and the technology of mild cleansing. … Continue reading

On the other hand, a mild cleansing shampoo base will cling to the skin less^[24]Ananthapadmanabhan, K.P., Moore, D.J., Subramanyan, K., Misra, M., Meyer, F. (2004). Cleansing without compromise: the impact of cleansers on the skin barrier and the technology of mild cleansing. … Continue reading, so if your scalp is extra sensitive, it’s worth giving a fragrance and dye-free formula a go. We ranked fragrance-free formulas and those with short ingredient lists higher, since every extra ingredient is one more thing an inflamed scalp could react to. On our list, the Denorex Severe Itch Anti-Dandruff Shampoo + Conditioner is the only product with fragrance and it also contains Red 40.

Safety, Side Effects, and When to See a Dermatologist

For the general population, OTC psoriasis shampoos are generally safe to use. However, coal tar does come with a few potential side effects, including making your skin more sensitive to sunlight for up to 24 hours. We recommend covering up or avoiding long sun exposure after use. Labels also say not to combine it with UV light therapy unless your doctor approves.

Some coal tar products carry a California Proposition 65 cancer warning, but a study that followed people with psoriasis or eczema over time found no increased cancer risk after coal tar treatment.^[25]Roelofzen, J.H.J., Aben, K.K.H., Oldenhof, U.T.H., et al. (2010). No increased risk of cancer after coal tar treatment in patients with psoriasis or eczema. J Invest Dermatol. 130(4), 953-961. … Continue reading

Products containing salicylic acid often have labels that advise asking a doctor first if your psoriasis covers a large area of your body. The DHS Sal Shampoo label gives the same advice if you’re sensitive or allergic to salicylic acid.

We recommend seeing a dermatologist if:

• Your scalp hasn’t improved after a few weeks of regular use (labels say to stop using the shampoo and ask a doctor).
• Your plaques are thick, painful, bleeding or spreading past your hairline.
• You’re losing hair as well as flaking.
• You also have psoriasis on other parts of your body.

You may need stronger treatments from a dermatologist, like prescription steroids in scalp-friendly forms (such as foam), or vitamin D products and steroid and vitamin D combinations.^[26]Schlager, J.G., Rosumeck, S., Werner, R.N., et al. (2016). Topical treatments for scalp psoriasis. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2(2), CD009687. Available at: … Continue reading For severe scalp psoriasis, dermatologists can also recommend light therapy, oral medicines, and injections.^[27]Chan, C.S., Van Voorhees, A.S., Lebwohl, M.G., et al. (2009). Treatment of severe scalp psoriasis: from the Medical Board of the National Psoriasis Foundation. J Am Acad Dermatol. 60(6), 962-971. … Continue reading

Ketoconazole Shampoo From our partners at Ulo

#1 Shampoo for Scalp Psoriasis

Ulo's Thickening Shampoo Plus pairs OTC-strength ketoconazole with caffeine and saw palmetto in a sulfate-free, fragrance-free formula. Choose a multi-month plan and get up to 30% plus a free gift bundle.

Free full-size gifts with 3-month+ plans No prescription needed

Claim up to 30% off + Free Gifts

KetoconazoleSupports a healthy scalp

Free gifts included with select multi-month plans while supplies last. Ulo is a partner of Perfect Hair Health; we may earn a commission on purchases. This product is a cosmetic and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Final Verdict

Overall, our top pick for scalp psoriasis is the Ulo Thickening Shampoo Plus. It’s a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo that won’t replace your medicated shampoo or prescription. But it doesn’t claim to. Instead, it’s a good base layer to build your psoriasis hair-care routine around. The addition of OTC-strength ketoconazole for seborrheic flaking and added support for thinning hair are extra benefits that the others on this list don’t offer.

If you’re looking for a medicated shampoo to use a few times a week, the Pete & Pedro CONTROL Anti-Itch Dandruff Shampoo is a good low-strength coal tar to start with. If you prefer salicylic acid, the Sphagnum Botanicals PsoriAid+ Psoriasis Shampoo and the Neutrogena T/Sal+ 3% Salicylic Acid Anti-Dandruff Shampoo both skip lauryl and laureth sulfates. And if you’re on a budget, give the Dermarest Psoriasis Medicated Shampoo Plus Conditioner a go.

FAQs

Can a shampoo cure scalp psoriasis?

Even a highly specialized shampoo formulated for psoriasis will not be able to cure the condition.^[28]Ghafoor, R., Patil, A., Yamauchi, P.S., et al. (2022). Treatment of scalp psoriasis. J Drugs Dermatol. 21(8), 833-837. Available at: https://doi.org/10.36849/JDD.6498 For milder symptom relief and itching, coal tar and salicylic acid shampoos have been approved for use^[29]US Food and Drug Administration. 21 CFR 358.710: Active ingredients for the control of dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis, or psoriasis. Code of Federal Regulations (Legal Information Institute). … Continue reading, but if you have moderate or severe scalp psoriasis, this usually requires a detailed check-up and treatment from a dermatologist.^[30]Schlager, J.G., Rosumeck, S., Werner, R.N., et al. (2016). Topical treatments for scalp psoriasis. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2(2), CD009687. Available at: … Continue reading

Is coal tar or salicylic acid better for scalp psoriasis?

There’s no strong head-to-head evidence to pick a winner.^[31]Schlager, J.G., Rosumeck, S., Werner, R.N., et al. (2016). Topical treatments for scalp psoriasis. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2(2), CD009687. Available at: … Continue reading Salicylic acid is better at lifting thick scale^[32]Lebwohl, M. (1999). The role of salicylic acid in the treatment of psoriasis. Int J Dermatol. 38(1), 16-24. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1046/j.1365-4362.1999.00500.x, while coal tar labels focus on relief of itching and scaling. Many people alternate between the two.

Does scalp psoriasis cause hair loss?

Yes, it can. While hair loss from psoriasis usually happens around where the plaques are located, in most cases the hair will grow back.^[33]George, S.M., Taylor, M.R., Farrant, P.B. (2015). Psoriatic alopecia. Clin Exp Dermatol. 40(7), 717-721. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1111/ced.12715 Rubbing in topical treatments too hard can also cause some hair loss, so be gentle with your scalp.^[34]George, S.M., Taylor, M.R., Farrant, P.B. (2015). Psoriatic alopecia. Clin Exp Dermatol. 40(7), 717-721. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1111/ced.12715

Can I use ketoconazole shampoo for psoriasis?

You can, but ketoconazole isn’t primarily used for psoriasis treatment. Ketoconazole has been shown to help with seborrheic dermatitis^[35]Okokon, E.O., Verbeek, J.H., Ruotsalainen, J.H., Ojo, O.A., Bakhoya, V.N. (2015). Topical antifungals for seborrhoeic dermatitis. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. (5), CD008138. Available at: … Continue reading, a condition which can overlap with scalp psoriasis. We recommend using a gentle, everyday shampoo like the Ulo Thickening Shampoo Plus alongside a coal tar or salicylic acid shampoo for best results. To learn more about ketoconazole, check out our guide to the best ketoconazole shampoos and our explainer on shedding after starting ketoconazole.