10 Best Shampoos for Accutane Users

If you’re currently on Accutane, chances are your scalp is feeling pretty dry and flakey.

And while there’s no shortage of dandruff shampoos on the market, not all of them cater to Accutane users.

Some anti-dandruff shampoos can be harsh and can lead to even more severe inflammation, itchiness, and dryness in the long run.

This is why you have to opt for a product that’s gentle, non-irritating, and contains ingredients that will nourish the scalp instead of masking the issue and eventually leading to a more severe problem.

So, if you have been looking for the best shampoo for Accutane, you’re in the right place.

In this article, I’ve rounded up the ten best shampoos for Accutane users that are gentle enough for dry, sensitive scalps, and they’ll help keep your flakes and dandruff at bay.

The Body Shop – Ginger Scalp Care Shampoo – $6

Best affordable shampoo for Accutane dandruff.

While there are many anti-dandruff shampoos on the market, The Body Shop Ginger Scalp Care Shampoo is the best affordable shampoo for Accutane-induced dandruff.

Containing ginger, which is a circulation-boosting component that can aid in hair growth, this shampoo turns into a rich lather when in contact with water, even when you use the tiniest bit of product.

Additionally, it’s also affordable, so for $6 a bottle, it is definitely something you should consider trying if you are experiencing an increase in dandruff after starting Accutane.

The Ordinary – Sulphate 4% Shampoo Cleanser for Body & Hair – $8

 Best shampoo for sensitive, flakey scalp while on Accutane.

The Ordinary Sulphate 4% Shampoo Cleanser for Body & Hair is an excellent option for Accutane users with sensitive and flakey scalps.

The shampoo is sulfate-free, which many people have reported does a better job of leaving the hair clean and the scalp relieved of itching while on Accutane.

It is also affordable, costing only $8 for a large bottle.

Additionally, the shampoo barely foams, and while you may find this frustrating at first, remember that it’s only because it doesn’t contain sulfates.

Vanicream – Dandruff Shampoo – $12

Best shampoo for sensitive, itchy scalp while on Accutane.

Vanicream products are a consistent favorite for people who are using tretinoin (a prescription-strength topical retinoid) as well as isotretinoin, which is Accutane.

Their formula, starting from their cleanser and heavy-duty moisturizer, is super gentle and focuses on strengthening and repairing the skin barrier that weakens due to constant retinoid dryness.

They have also created the Dandruff Shampoo, which is specially formulated for extremely sensitive and inflamed scalps, either due to Accutane or something we know as seborrheic dermatitis, a scalp condition with symptoms such as itchiness, redness, and flakiness.

The Dandruff Shampoo also contains Pyrithione Zinc 2%, an ingredient known for its ability to reduce yeast growth on the scalp.

Nizoral – Anti-Dandruff Shampoo – $15

Best shampoo for itchy scalp while on Accutane.

Nizoral Anti-Dandruff Shampoo is another classic when it comes to conditions such as seborrheic dermatitis and excessively itchy and flakey scalp, and it is also commonly used as a mask treatment by people who are dealing with fungal acne.

The main active ingredient in the Anti-Dandruff shampoo is Ketoconazole, an antifungal agent that effectively reduces yeast growth on the scalp and is efficient in controlling flaking, scaling, and itching associated with dandruff.

Paul Mitchell – Tea Tree Special Shampoo – $17

Best shampoo for mild dandruff while on Accutane.

The Paul Mitchell Tea Tree Special Shampoo is one of the most popular options for anti-dandruff shampoos.

It has a refreshing scent and is formulated with the famous Tingle Complex—a blend of tea tree, peppermint, and lavender that leaves a cooling, “tingling” sensation on the scalp.

The shampoo doesn’t contain any active ingredients such as Ketoconazole or Pyrithione Zinc, so it’s best used for mild cases of dandruff or as a preventative measure.

MALIN + GOETZ – Peppermint Shampoo – $22

Best hydrating shampoo while on Accutane.

The MALIN + GOETZ Peppermint Shampoo is an excellent invigorating option for people struggling with an itchy, flakey scalp while on Accutane.

It’s formulated with 2% peppermint extract with amino acid-based cleansing agents to effectively purify and balance all hair and scalp types without drying, stripping, or leaving buildup.

The formula is mildly foaming, which some might find a little frustrating, but it’s also residue-free and leaves the hair soft and scalp conditioned.

It’s also a good option for colored or treated hair.

Christophe Robin – Purifying Shampoo With Jujube Bark Extract – $29

Best shampoo for inflamed, itchy, flakey scalp while on Accutane.

The Christophe Robin Purifying Shampoo is a higher-end product that helps relieve inflammation, itchiness, and flakiness from scalps going through Accutane or conditions such as seborrheic dermatitis.

Enriched with a natural origin active ingredient derived from jujube bark, it permanently eliminates dandruff, regulates excess sebum, and calms itchiness after as little as a couple of washes.

Having used this shampoo myself, I can confidently vouch for its effectiveness as someone dealing with seborrheic dermatitis that tends to flare up in winter; this has made my scalp as healthy as it’s ever been before.

If you feel like splurging on a high-quality product that’s super effective, the Christophe Robin Purifying Shampoo is definitely one to consider.

Briogeo – Super Moisture Shampoo for Damaged Hair – $38

Best hydrating shampoo while on Accutane.

The Briogeo Super Moisture Shampoo for Damaged Hair is a good option for those whose scalp doesn’t necessarily get itchy and flakey but instead experience dry, brittle, and damaged strands after starting Accutane.

This shampoo is formulated with a blend of six oils—coconut, argan, macadamia, sweet almond, jojoba, and avocado—to deeply hydrate and nourish the hair.

It also contains hair-loving ingredients such as growth-inducing biotin, hydrating glycerin, and soothing panthenol.

Accutane can definitely take a toll on your hair, so if you’re struggling with dryness and breakage, give the Briogeo Super Moisture Shampoo a try.

Although it might look like it’s up there with the price, the bottle it comes in is huge, so you will definitely be using this for a while after purchasing.

Briogeo – Scalp Revival Charcoal + Coconut Oil Micro-Exfoliating Shampoo – $42

Best exfoliating shampoo to gently remove dandruff flakes caused by Accutane.

Briogeo Scalp Revival Charcoal + Coconut Oil is a micro-exfoliating shampoo infused with Binchotan charcoal to draw impurities from the scalp and hair follicle and provide a foundation for optimal scalp health.

Vegetable-derived micro-exfoliators remove dead skin cells and product build-up from the scalp to support a clean, balanced, and healthy scalp.

A cooling blend of peppermint and spearmint oils reduces scalp itchiness, and tea tree oil has anti-septic and healing properties that reduce scalp irritation and inflammation.

Coconut oil provides superior moisturization to the scalp to combat and prevent dryness and flakiness.

Super-vitamin panthenol provides essential nutrients to strengthen the hair roots and shaft.

Philip B. – Anti-Flake Relief Shampoo Lite – $48

Best shampoo for dry, itchy scalp while on Accutane.

The Philip B. Anti-Flake Relief Shampoo is a lighter version of the original and specially formulated to relieve dry, itchy scalps struck by the Accutane ickies.

This formula uses Oleosomes to seal moisture under the surface of the hair, so it gets softer with every wash, while a potent L-Amino Acid complex strengthens the hair, making it glossier and shinier.

Additionally, the Anti-Flake Relief Shampoo is also powered by eco-friendly therapeutic botanicals, including antiseptic tea tree oil, calming aloe vera, strengthening juniper, and soothing chamomile extract to help relieve inflammation and treat itchy and flakey scalps.

Does Accutane Cause Hair Loss?

Accutane can cause hair loss in some cases; however, this side effect is considered rare.

It also further proves that everyone takes to Accutane differently and that besides some of the most commonly reported side effects, such as dryness, peeling, flaking, and sun sensitivity, you can’t predict the side effects you would be experiencing before taking the medication.

Therefore, if you are concerned about hair loss from Accutane, you can speak to your dermatologist about prescribing you an alternative treatment or look into improving everyday things such as your diet, vitamin supplementation, physical activity, and haircare habits.

Does Accutane Cause Dandruff?

Accutane is known for causing dandruff due to shrinking the sebaceous glands and reducing the amount of skin-lubricating oil.

While this is effective in keeping acne at bay, reduced oil production can lead to dry skin all over the body, including the scalp, which can become flaky, itchy, and prone to dandruff.

How to Treat Dry Scalp From Accutane?

Dry scalp is a common side effect of Accutane and occurs due to decreased oil production. This can cause irritation, itchiness, flakiness, and dandruff on the scalp.

Here’s how to treat dry scalp caused by Accutane:

• Oil treatments: Regularly massage your scalp with natural oils such as argan or rosehip oil to soften and lubricate the skin.
• Gentle shampoo: Use a shampoo that contains hydrating and skin-softening ingredients like aloe vera, tea tree oil, and chamomile.
• Dietary changes: Incorporate omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin E into your diet to support the production of skin-softening lipids that can help combat dry scalp.
• Avoid heat styling: Heat can further dry out your scalp. Therefore, to avoid dryness and discomfort, let your hair dry naturally whenever possible.
• Avoid processing your hair: Strong chemical processes like hair dyes, bleaches, and perms can cause your scalp and hair to become dry and brittle.

How to Relieve Itchy Scalp From Accutane?

Itchy scalp is another common side effect of Accutane and can be caused by prolonged dryness, eventually leading to scalp irritation.

Here’s how to relieve an itchy scalp from Accutane:

• Gentle shampoo: Stay away from shampoos that make your hair squeaky clean, as chances are these are too harsh for your skin and are causing inflammation, which is what leads to itchiness and discomfort. Use a gentle shampoo that nourishes your hair and scalp.
• Oil treatments: Regularly massage your scalp with hydrating and softening oils, and avoid using anything that’s too fragrant, as fragrance can cause inflammation that exacerbates itchiness.
• Don’t wash your hair too frequently: Washing your hair too often can strip the very little natural oils from your scalp, which can make it dry and itchy. Aim to wash your hair no more than once or twice a week.
• Use a humidifier: Dry air can cause dryness and itchiness, so using a humidifier in your bedroom at night can be extremely helpful in keeping your skin hydrated.
• Be patient: In many cases, a dry, itchy scalp is a symptom that lasts for a short period while your body gets used to the medication. So, try to be patient as your skin adjusts, and continue using nourishing and gentle hair care products.

5 Haircare Tips While on Accutane

Here are five hair care tips that will help protect your hair from thinning, breaking, and falling out while on Accutane:

Moisturize Dry and Brittle Hair

Your hair becoming dry and brittle is another (albeit less common) side effect of taking Accutane.

This is why moisturizing your hair is crucial, as this will help strengthen and protect your strands from further damage.

There are a few ways you can do this:

• Use a deep conditioning treatment once a week.
• Use a leave-in conditioner or hair oil daily.
• Wash your hair less frequently (no more than twice a week.)

Only Use Shampoo on the Scalp

When shampooing your hair, only apply the product to your scalp and massage it gently.

This will help avoid stripping away any moisture from your strands, especially the ends that get super dry with harsh shampoos.

To do this, consider using one of those silicone scalp massage brushes, as these will focus on cleansing the scalp while leaving the rest of the hair alone.

Avoid Processing Your Hair

Strong chemical processes like hair dyes, bleaches, and perms can cause the hair to become dry and brittle, which can exacerbate hair loss.

Therefore, try to find another solution to maintain your hair while on Accutane.

A few of these include dyeing your hair in a low-maintenance color, using gentle and non-damaging dyes, wearing your hair in a protective hairstyle, and using clips instead of hair bands to prevent pulling and breaking.

Don’t Brush Your Hair While it’s Wet

Wet hair is more fragile than dry hair, so avoid brushing it while in this state.

If you must brush it, use a wide-toothed comb and start from the bottom, working your way up.

Be extra careful with tangles, as they can cause breakage.

Additionally, you can also consider spraying a few spritzes of a good detangler that will help you brush through wet hair without damaging it further.

Protect Your Hair From Heat

Heat styling can also cause damage to the hair, so avoid using hot tools as much as possible while you’re on Accutane.

If you must use them, make sure you’re using a heat protectant and keeping the heat low.

You should also avoid putting your hair up in tight styles like buns or ponytails, as this can put unnecessary strain on the strands and cause them to break.

Wearing your hair down or in loose styles will be much kinder to your strands while on Accutane.

Lastly, try not to expose yourself to strong sun during the day, as this could also cause the hair to thin and break.

If you really must do this, wear a hat and put your hair up. This will also protect your face from burning and UV damage, so it’s really something you should consider, especially if you live in a warmer climate.