I found this shampoo gently clarifies my scalp, stops itching, and keeps hair fresh for days.

2026-01-17 Shampoo reviews Categroy：Women's Views：64

As a user with persistent scalp issues, this shampoo has transformed my routine by clarifying gently, eliminating itch, and maintaining hair lightness for over a week, all with a refreshing scent.

This is a review from Amazon.com about product:

Neutrogena Exfoliating Healthy Scalp Clarify & Shine Shampoo for Oily Hair and Scalp, Anti-Residue Shampoo with Pink Grapefruit, pH-Balanced, Paraben & Phthalate-Free, Color-Safe, 12oz

My Clarifying Shampoo Solved Itchy Scalp for Good

I have been taking better care of my scalp and hair since my last baby three years ago. I noticed my hormones made my head itchy and highly uncomfortable. I would scratch but it wouldn’t stop. I would check for lice and nothing was found. I tried so many shampoos from anti fungal to head and shoulders. The head and shoulders works most of the time but after awhile, it doesn’t do its job. That’s when I use this product. A clarifying, residue stripping, gentle cleanse that starts my head back at fresh again. It’s such a game changer for me. It smells amazing, works like a charm at removing months of build up and keeps my scalp from the dreaded itch. I only wish I knew about this sooner. The way I use it is once every month or two. I can tell when my hair starts becoming more oily, heavy and not its lightweight puffy mane. Whenever it begins to feel unreasonably itchy, I use this for my hair washing (sometimes twice in a shower!) and follow with my regular H&S conditioner. Then, I don’t have to wash my hair for at least 7-10 days. Which is a true testament to how well this formula works. It doesn’t dry my hair out at all. It is the most gentle formula I’ve ever tried and again, the citrus smell is my favorite. I firmly believe this has high value for money as one bottle lasts me half a year. I haven’t yet had any issues with the bottle leaking but I’m not exactly traveling with it either. If I must travel, I’ll either shower with it the day before or use a small travel bottle. So I cannot speak in the bottle leakage bit. Overall, I will be coming back for more. As for you, I honestly don’t know. But I had a great experience and it would be worth trying if you had any of the issues I did.

Shampoo Basics & Tips

Understanding Itchy Scalp and Clarifying Shampoo Benefits

An itchy scalp, as described in the review, can stem from various factors like hormonal changes, product buildup, or skin conditions. Hormonal fluctuations, especially post-pregnancy, can alter scalp oil production, leading to discomfort. Clarifying shampoos are designed to deeply cleanse by removing residue from hair products, hard water, or natural oils. They typically contain stronger surfactants that strip away buildup without overly drying the hair, which is why the user found relief after trying anti-fungal options and Head & Shoulders. Regular shampoos may not address deep-seated issues, but clarifying formulas reset the scalp, preventing itch and promoting a healthy environment.

How Clarifying Shampoos Work

Clarifying shampoos often include ingredients like citric acid or sulfates that break down residue. They should be used sparingly, as overuse can lead to dryness—hence the user's monthly routine. This aligns with hair care advice to avoid daily clarifying, preserving natural oils. The review highlights gentleness, indicating a balanced pH formula that cleanses without irritation, a key for sensitive scalps.

General Shampoo Knowledge and Common Issues

Shampoos vary by type: clarifying, moisturizing, or medicated. Choosing depends on scalp needs—for instance, oily hair benefits from clarifying washes, while dry scalps require hydration. Common problems include dandruff, often confused with itchiness, which medicated shampoos target. Washing frequency affects scalp health; overwashing can strip oils, causing rebound oiliness, while underwashing leads to buildup. The user's experience of washing less frequently post-use demonstrates how effective cleansing reduces need.

Tips for Scalp Care

To maintain results, combine clarifying shampoos with conditioners to avoid dryness, as the user does with Head & Shoulders conditioner. Also, consider water quality—hard water exacerbates buildup. For travel, use sealed containers to prevent leaks, though the review notes no issues. Overall, investing in quality shampoos with high value, like lasting six months, supports long-term hair health.