Top 14 Best Sodium Hydroxide Free Shampoos

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Dandruff is a common hair problem that can be caused by many things, including sodium hydroxide. Sodium hydroxide-free shampoo will help you conquer your dandruff and have healthy looking hair again! 

We’ve compiled 14 of the best sodium hydroxide free dandruff shampoos for your convenience. These reviews will provide you with all the information you need to make an educated decision about which sodium hydroxide-free shampoo is right for you. 

Here, we will discuss the risks of using sodium hydroxide in your shampoo. With this list, there’s no reason not to stop battling an embarrassing scalp condition like dandruff! So, let’s jump right in with the most basic question.

# Preview Product Rating
1 Tea Tree Oil Shampoo Sulfate Free - Cleansing Tea Tree Shampoo Scalp Exfoliator and Dry Scalp... Tea Tree Oil Shampoo Sulfate Free - Cleansing Tea Tree Shampoo Scalp Exfoliator and Dry Scalp... 12,738 Reviews
2 Vanicream Shampoo - 12 fl oz - Formulated for all Hair Types – Packaging May Vary Vanicream Shampoo - 12 fl oz - Formulated for all Hair Types – Packaging May Vary 7,569 Reviews
3 BELLA B Bee Gone Cradle Cap Baby Shampoo 8 oz - Natural Shampoo - Dry Scalp Shampoo - Cradle... BELLA B Bee Gone Cradle Cap Baby Shampoo 8 oz - Natural Shampoo - Dry Scalp Shampoo - Cradle... 5,654 Reviews
4 Vanicream Free & Clear Medicated AntiDandruff Shampoo Maximum OTC Strength Zinc Pyrithione 2%,... Vanicream Free & Clear Medicated AntiDandruff Shampoo Maximum OTC Strength Zinc Pyrithione 2%,... 4,189 Reviews
5 Puracy Natural Daily Shampoo, Sulfate-Free Formula, Safe for All Hair Types, 16 Fl Oz (Pack of... Puracy Natural Daily Shampoo, Sulfate-Free Formula, Safe for All Hair Types, 16 Fl Oz (Pack of... 1,654 Reviews
6 Sebamed Scalp Balancing Shampoo - Gentle Hair Care for Oily and Flaky Scalp (200mL) - Made in... Sebamed Scalp Balancing Shampoo - Gentle Hair Care for Oily and Flaky Scalp (200mL) - Made in... 1,249 Reviews
7 DHS Tar Shampoo, 8 Fluid Ounce DHS Tar Shampoo, 8 Fluid Ounce 935 Reviews
8 Laboratorios Babe 200 ml Pediatric Milk Crust Cradle Cap Shampoo Laboratorios Babe 200 ml Pediatric Milk Crust Cradle Cap Shampoo 868 Reviews
9 Neutrogena T/Sal Therapeutic Shampoo, Scalp Build-Up Control 4.5 oz Neutrogena T/Sal Therapeutic Shampoo, Scalp Build-Up Control 4.5 oz 776 Reviews
10 Tru Moroccan- Moroccan Oil Shampoo-Best Moroccan Oil Hair Product for Frizz Control - Sulfate... Tru Moroccan- Moroccan Oil Shampoo-Best Moroccan Oil Hair Product for Frizz Control - Sulfate... 463 Reviews
11 Artnaturals Argan Scalp 18 Shampoo, 16 Ounce Artnaturals Argan Scalp 18 Shampoo, 16 Ounce 353 Reviews
12 Ultra Hydrating Shampoo for Dry Hair - Paraben and Sulfate Free Shampoo for Color Treated Hair... Ultra Hydrating Shampoo for Dry Hair - Paraben and Sulfate Free Shampoo for Color Treated Hair... 276 Reviews
13 Cleure Shampoo for Sensitive Skin, Vegan, Hypoallergenic, Fragrance and Paraben Free, 8 oz Cleure Shampoo for Sensitive Skin, Vegan, Hypoallergenic, Fragrance and Paraben Free, 8 oz 213 Reviews
14 DHS Sal Shampoo, 4 oz DHS Sal Shampoo, 4 oz 111 Reviews
Complete List of Best Sodium Hydroxide Free Dandruff Shampoos

What is Sodium Hydroxide?

Sodium hydroxide is an inorganic chemical compound that can be used as a cleaning agent, such as sodium carbonate. It’s also the main ingredient in many shampoos – including dandruff shampoos like Head & Shoulders and Selsun Blue. When sodium hydroxide comes into contact with your skin, it can cause chemical burns and blisters.[1]

It is also an eye irritant that may lead to blindness if sodium hydroxide or the sodium hydroxide-containing shampoo touches your eyes – even for a few seconds! In order to avoid these risks, you should opt for sodium hydroxide free dandruff shampoos.

Why is Sodium Hydroxide added to Shampoo?

The reason why it’s added to shampoo is that sodium hydroxide has an important role in the production of soap; it helps remove dirt, oil, and impurities from the hair without damaging or drying out your scalp or strands.

On top of that, this chemical compound may help treat dandruff by removing excess skin cells and flakes on your scalp while at the same time preserving natural oils. Sodium hydroxide is not bad for your hair if it’s used in moderation and coupled with other good ingredients like some oils or moisturizers.

But beware! Too much sodium hydroxide might have some negative consequences for both you and your hair. Some examples are dryness, irritation, redness, and itching.

If you are looking for a sodium hydroxide-free shampoo, make sure to use the ones on this list as they are carefully chosen and tested by our team of experts!

Risks or side-effects of Using Shampoos having Sodium Hydroxide

There are many risks associated with using sodium hydroxide-based shampoos on your hair or skin. The first and most common is dryness from sodium hydroxides’ natural drying property or even chemical burns if you come into contact with this ingredient at too high of a concentration.

Other side effects include irritation like redness bordering around where the shampoo has been applied which can lead to sensitivity among some people. In addition, sodium hydroxide may also cause allergic reactions for those with certain skin types.

1. Free & Clear Hair Shampoo

Free & Clear Hair Shampoo is a non-medicated, mild shampoo that contains no fragrance, color, or alcohol. It gently cleanses hair without stripping natural oils so it’s ideal for daily use. It’s safe to use on permed or color-treated hair. It’s also great for baby fine hair, dry scalp, and dandruff control in adults.

This is pH balanced and free of common chemical irritants such as dyes, fragrance, masking fragrance, lanolin, parabens, formaldehyde, formaldehyde releasers, and other preservatives. It’s also sulfate-free and phosphate-free. Free & Clear is the ideal shampoo for those with allergies or sensitive skin.

It effectively cleans both hair and scalp helping you remove flaking and scaling and controls oily scalp. It also removes build-up from conditioners, hairsprays, and other hair care products and leaves your hair clean and manageable.

Overall, the result is a healthy-looking head of hair that’s soft to the touch and full of body. It is one of the best sodium hydroxide-free dandruff shampoos.

2. Dry Scalp Shampoo for Dry Hair

Dry scalp shampoo for dry hair is a clarifying shampoo that helps you wash away flakes, thanks to its special hydrate formula. It is a sulfate-free shampoo that is designed for all hair types and will leave your hair feeling soft and silky. 

The natural ingredients of this shampoo include carrot oil, lavender oil, jojoba oil and more which are rich in antioxidants that help nourish the scalp with vitamins A, E and B5. These vitamins help promote healthy hair growth while improving overall scalp health.

You can also use it as a color shampoo for curly hair or better dry hair shampoo for color-treated hair. This shampoo is a volumizing formula that helps to restore moisture and balance to dry hair.

It is formulated with certified organic ingredients including peppermint oil, tea tree oil, and rosemary extract which are known to promote healthy hair growth by naturally cleansing your scalp of dirt and dandruff flakes while hydrating the strands from root to tip.

Ultimately, this shampoo is a great option for those who suffer from dandruff or other skin conditions on the head, as it gently removes flakes and debris while soothing the scalp.

3. Sebamed Scalp Balancing Shampoo

Sebamed Scalp Balancing Shampoo is a mild, anti-dandruff shampoo that removes visible signs of dandruff and soothes the irritated and flaky scalp. It gently cleanses the scalp without stripping off its natural oils.

Sebamed’s anti-dandruff shampoo gently cleanses and soothes irritated and flaky scalps. It removes visible signs of dandruff after just 14 days. Its active formula provides effective relief from itching, scaling, and redness.

Its active ingredients are based on the natural pH value of the skin, which guarantees healthy hair growth. It not only cleanses but also cares for your scalp and hair.

This product has been dermatologically tested and is suitable for frequent use on all hair types. The formula is based on natural ingredients and is suitable for frequent use on all hair types.

This sodium hydroxide free shampoo does not contain any substances that could injure the scalp or damage the natural protective function of the skin cells, making it ideal for those with sensitive scalps and people who are prone to allergies.

Looking at the ingredients and composition of this shampoo, it is the best match for anyone looking for a sodium hydroxide-free shampoo.

4. DHS Tar Shampoo

DHS Tar Shampoo is one of the most effective treatments for seborrheic dermatitis, psoriasis, and dandruff. The tar in DHS Tar Shampoo helps relieve itching and flaking associated with scalp dermatitis conditions such as psoriasis or seborrheic dermatitis. It also helps prevent the recurrence of these conditions.

The fragrance-free formula leaves hair soft and manageable while effectively relieving itchiness on the scalp. The shampoo’s active ingredient is coal tar extract (1% w/w). Coal tar has been used for many years to treat psoriasis and other skin problems.

DHS Tar Shampoo helps relieve itchiness, flakiness, and scaliness on the scalp due to skin problems like dandruff. It is useful for people with psoriasis and seborrheic dermatitis. 

Eventually, this shampoo can help to fight inflammation as well as combat excessive oil production to prevent acne outbreaks during puberty while others might prefer one that will gently cleanse without stripping their hair’s natural oils so it remains healthy no matter what age they are.

5. Neutrogena T/Sal Therapeutic Shampoo

Neutrogena T/Sal Therapeutic Shampoo is a medicated shampoo that helps relieve an itchy, flaky scalp. This Neutrogena shampoo with tea tree oil cleanses the hair and scalp thoroughly to remove irritating flakes and dandruff.

It also moisturizes your hair while leaving it soft, shiny, and manageable. The salicylic acid in this Neutrogena T/Sal Therapeutic Shampoo exfoliates your scalp to help prevent future breakouts of dandruff or scaling. This clear conditioning formula is free of added color, preservatives, and fragrance.

This product is not intended for daily use but rather as part of a scalp treatment plan. Overall, It’s ideal for treating itchy, flaky scalp caused by dandruff or psoriasis. The shampoo gently cleanses the scalp to remove flakes and buildup while providing relief from itching and irritation.

6. Tru Moroccan- Moroccan Oil Shampoo

The Moroccanoil brand was born in the heart of Marrakesh, Morocco. The company started as a small artisanal atelier where local women hand-crafted the original Moroccanoil products using traditional recipes and time-honored techniques.

Tru Moroccan- Moroccan Oil Shampoo is a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo that is great for all hair types including color-treated weakened hair, chemical processed hair, or heat styled damaged hair.

Tru Moroccan uses all-natural ingredients which are safe for all skin types including sensitive skin. This product is not tested on animals (cruelty-free).

This shampoo provides shine and softness to hair. It is different than other natural hair products, this shampoo is a perfectly balanced Moroccan oil organic shampoo with natural ingredients and contains no Parabens, Pabas, or Harmful Sulfates. 

Ultimately this shampoo gives the fresh citrus fragrance that will leave your hair and senses feeling invigorated. It is best if you are pre-conditioning your hair before shampoo.

The best time to use this product is in the shower when you are fully rinsed. This will help keep your scalp balanced all year long!

7. Artnaturals Argan Scalp 18 Shampoo

Artnaturals Argan Scalp 18 Shampoo is a deep cleansing shampoo that helps to stop itching, scaling, and scratching associated with dry scalp. This powerful yet gentle formula combines all-natural ingredients known for their hydrating and healing properties.

The essential oil extracts help to repair split ends and restore dry damaged hair to its original glow. This shampoo is formulated with a unique blend of natural ingredients that will gently cleanse the scalp and hair while improving the overall health of your hair.

The unique formula of this shampoo contains guar hydroxy propyltrimonium chloride, which is an ingredient extracted from guar beans that helps to improve the look and feel of hair. [2]

The shampoo also contains argan oil, which has been used for centuries in Morocco to help strengthen damaged hair. It also contains rosemary extract, which helps to promote healthy circulation and stimulate growth at the follicle level.

Artnaturals Argan Scalp 18 Shampoo is a blend of natural ingredients that are known to stimulate hair growth, reduce dandruff and prevent hair loss. In simple terms, this is one of the best shampoos for all your hair care.

8. Tea Tree Oil Shampoo Sulfate Free

Tea Tree Oil Shampoo is a clarifying shampoo for oily hair that helps remove build-up and excess oil from the scalp to give you beautiful, healthy-looking locks. This tea tree oil shampoo for greasy hair naturally cleanses your scalp of built-up dirt and oil with no harsh chemicals.

This sulfate-free shampoo for dry scalp removes all of the grease and grime from your hair without stripping it of its natural oils. This Shampoo has been formulated with pure tea tree oil to leave your scalp feeling refreshed after each use.

The tea tree oil shampoo will not only clean your hair but also soothe the scalp with its natural anti-fungal properties. This sulfate-free shampoo for dandruff is perfect to use if you suffer from dry, itchy, or flaking scalps as the tea tree oil in this formula helps relieve symptoms of these issues that are common during winter months.

It’s also a great remedy for those who have experienced an increase in oily skin caused by hormonal changes at puberty or menopause; this tea tree oil shampoo can help regulate sebum production which may alleviate breakouts on the face and body!

For best results, rub this gently onto wet or dampened hair as if you were using conditioner; lather well then rinses thoroughly out to get rid of excess oils and buildup.

9. DHS Sal Shampoo

DHS Sal Shampoo is a medicated shampoo that helps control the symptoms of dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis, and psoriasis. It contains salicylic acid that penetrates deep into your scalp to help block the formation of skin cells that can lead to flaking and itching.

Sal Shampoo also has conditioning agents (cocamidopropyl betaine) that strengthen hair follicles, so they are less likely to be affected by these conditions in the first place.

Sal Shampoo is formulated with mild cleansers, soothing botanicals, and essential oils that leave hair shiny and healthy. DHS Sal Shampoo is a medicated shampoo that contains salicylic acid. It is used to treat scalp conditions like psoriasis, dandruff, and seborrheic dermatitis.

DHS Sal Shampoo contains 2% salicylic acid which is clinically proven to be effective in breaking down crusty, flaky build-up. The formula also includes menthol which helps alleviate itching and flaking from the scalp.

The benefits of using a sulfate-free product include increased moisture, smoother texture, and more manageable locks. Sulfates strip away natural oils from your scalp leaving it dry or greasy; this prevents hairs from growing to their full potential.

By avoiding these chemicals you allow yourself to enjoy healthier-looking tresses without sacrificing volume!

10. Cleure Shampoo for Sensitive Skin

Cleure Shampoo for Sensitive Skin is a mild, sulfate-free formula that helps balance moisture levels in the scalp and hair. It’s perfect for all hair types, including color-treated hair. This gentle shampoo gently cleanses to remove impurities while soothing and calming your sensitive scalp.

Cleure’s SLS-free formula is made with natural ingredients like white tea, argan oil, coconut oil, aloe vera, and shea butter to cleanse your scalp without stripping away its natural oils.

Packed with naturally derived, locally sourced, nourishing ingredients like glycerin which locks moisture into the outer layer of hair, and panthenol (Provitamin B5) which strengthens and softens hair, this gentle shampoo has the formula to wash away impurities and help calm your sensitive, itchy scalp.

Cleure’s formula is made with natural ingredients that give you a fresh scalp and shiny locks. This shampoo rinses easily without stripping or drying out your hair. It also smells great. This shampoo will leave you with beautiful voluminous hair while still being gentle on your sensitive scalp.

11. Puracy Natural Daily Shampoo

Puracy Natural Daily Shampoo is a sulfate-free natural shampoo with coconut-based cleansers that create rich, luxurious foam. Puracy’s unique formula is made with organic ingredients and essential oils to gently cleanse hair, leaving it full of body and bounce.

The special blend of nourishing ingredients in this shampoo includes vitamins E & B5, olive oil-based squalene, beet sugar extract, and citric acid that leave your hair feeling soft, moisturized, and clean without tangles.

It contains a blend of natural ingredients, including organic aloe vera leaf juice, rosemary extract, and tea tree oil to cleanse the scalp and hair without stripping natural oils.

Puracy Natural Daily Shampoo is ideal for all hair types, especially color-treated or chemically processed hair. Its pH-balanced formula will leave your hair looking healthy and feeling great!

Puracy uses a proprietary coconut-based cleanser to create rich, luxurious foam that gently removes dirt and buildup without stripping away essential oils.

Puracy Natural Daily Shampoo is the #1 natural shampoo recommended by dermatologists. It’s safe for daily use and contains no harsh chemicals or sulfates that can dry, strip and irritate your scalp.

12. Vanicream Free & Clear Medicated Anti-Dandruff Shampoo

Vanicream Free & Clear Medicated Anti-Dandruff Shampoo is a maximum strength, over-the-counter medicated shampoo that is mild and gentle for those who need or want, a dandruff shampoo that is free of common chemical irritants.

The sulfate-free formula cleanses gently without stripping the hair of its natural oils. Use this anti-dandruff shampoo to soothe dry scalp and relieve your itchy feeling while getting rid of flakes! 

This shampoo is helpful to control dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis symptoms with maximum strength zinc pyrithione 2% to help fight fungal activity and reduce flaking.

This dermatologist-tested formula contains no harsh fragrances or colors and is gentle enough for everyday use on all hair types – even color-treated hair. It’s also free of parabens, formaldehyde, sulfate detergents, and gluten.

This Shampoo has a pH-balanced formula with maximum OTC and reduces the symptoms of dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis. Ultimately you can use it daily for relief from itching and flaking. This ultra-gentle formula won’t dry your scalp out as other harsh shampoos do!

13. Laboratorios Babe

Laboratorios Babe is a skincare company that produces natural, safe, and highly effective products. The company’s skincare line is specially formulated to treat the most common skin problems such as acne, eczema, and psoriasis.

Laboratorios Babe’s Anti-Dandruff Shampoo gently cleanses and protects the scalp, eliminating dandruff, flakes, and crusts. The formula is based on a pH that increases the effectiveness of eliminating dandruff.

It also provides shine and softness to hair while respecting its natural balance. This shampoo is suitable for all hair types, even those most delicate ones (such as colored or chemically treated).

The product has been tested under strict pediatric and dermatological control. It cares for and delicately respects the hair and scalp. It also provides shine and softness to hair while respecting its natural balance.

It also provides relief from dandruff, dry skin, and other scalp conditions. Its products are made with 100% natural ingredients that are derived from plants and herbs.

The main benefits of this shampoo is that it delicately respects the hair and scalp. Provides shine and softness. This shampoo is free from hair damaging elements like fragrance, Preservatives (paraben-free), alcohol, colorants, and phthalate, making it an ideal shampoo to use on a daily basis.

14. BELLA B Bee Gone Cradle Cap Baby Shampoo

Bella B Bee Gone Cradle Cap Baby Shampoo is a gentle, foaming cleanser that helps to remedy cradle cap, a common condition for newborns.

It’s made with all-natural ingredients like organic shea butter and baby-safe essential oils. This organic baby shampoo is made with oatmeal and tea tree oil to heal dry scalps. It’s the best way to cleanse your little one’s hair and scalp without stripping away natural oils or causing irritation.

This safe and gentle shampoo contains no harsh chemicals like parabens or SLS (Sulfates). Instead, it uses organic ingredients such as aloe vera, shea butter, olive oil which are known for their healing properties. 

With an active herbal blend, this sodium hydroxide-free shampoo provides relief for dry scalp while keeping your hair looking healthy and shiny.

The sulfate-free, hypoallergenic formula contains a bioactive botanical complex of Burdock Root extracts that work naturally on the head’s sensitive area without drying out their hair or causing irritation.

This gentle shampoo is designed specifically for kids who suffer from dandruff caused by eczema and psoriasis. It has soothing ingredients like aloe vera, chamomile extract which can help calm inflammation and promote healing in those areas most affected by these conditions.

I must strongly recommend this shampoo if you are looking for a natural solution to your baby’s crusty cradle cap and want a formula that works with your skin to help restore a healthy scalp.

Conclusion

We hope this article has been helpful in understanding the side-effects of using shampoos that contain sodium hydroxide, as well as helping you to find a shampoo without it. 

In case you’re still wondering how we came up with the list of 14 best shampoos for your hair type and scalp condition at the bottom, just know that our team spent hours researching various sources to bring you only safe products! 

You can rest assured knowing that every item on this list is 100% guaranteed free from any harmful ingredients such as Sodium Hydroxide or Sulfates. So what are you waiting for? Check out any one  of them now and give your scalp some much needed relief today!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is sodium hydroxide bad for your hair?

Sodium hydroxide is bad for your hair because it can cause hair to become dull and break off.

The chemical half-life of a typical shampoo depends on factors like pH level, water hardness, etc., but the ordinary life of a shampoo is around six months before the chemicals will deteriorate to the point that they are not useful for an effective wash.

2. Is sodium hydroxide bad in shampoo?

Yes. Sodium hydroxide is a strong chemical that can damage the hair, scalp and skin which makes it unsafe for use in shampoo products.

Sodium hydroxide is also known to form toxic white fumes when mixed with water, this is not something you want drying onto your skin or hair! Putting sodium hydroxide in shampoo could lead to serious health concerns so avoid using anything with this ingredient.

3. Does all shampoo have lye?

Not all shampoo have lye but most of the shampoos have sodium lauryl sulfate or another cleansing agent. The difference between a shampoo without lye and one with is that the latter has less cleansing agents, making it more gentle on your hair, as well as the environment.

4. Is lye in shampoo dangerous?

The lye found in shampoo is sodium hydroxide, which is not as strong as the lye that was used for soap-making in the past. However, people having skin issues should avoid shampoos with lye.

5. Is Baby Shampoo sulfate-free?

Yes, baby shampoos, which usually do not contain SLS, are good examples of sulfate-free formulas. These milder formulations keep the skin and eyes healthy.

6. What is the benefit of sulfate-free shampoo?

There are three main benefits of sulfate-free shampoos. The first is that it leaves your hair feeling manageable and silky without any dryness or frizziness.

Second, the shampoo won’t strip your color too fast so you can enjoy beautiful hair color for longer periods.

Thirdly, if you have sensitive skin then this type of product will be much safer to use because there are no harsh chemicals in them like sodium hydroxide which irritates and burns the scalp when applied directly to it.

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