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7 Best Shampoos for Smelly Hair 2024

by  Mila M.Cosmetologist

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Are you tired of dealing with hair that seems to take on a life of its own, regardless of how often you wash it? Believe it or not, even with regular washing and conditioning, smelly hair can still be an issue due to causes such as excessive sweating or product buildup.

This blog post is here to help – we’ve rounded up the best shampoos in 2024 effective in combating smelly hair. Get ready for a breath fresh air – let’s dive into a world where your locks always smell lovely!

  • Excessive sweating can lead to smelly hair due to bacteria breaking down sweat proteins and producing an unpleasant odor. Use shampoos with natural ingredients like tea tree oil, eucalyptus oil, or apple cider vinegar for effective results.
  • Scalp conditions like seborrheic dermatitis or fungal infections can contribute to smelly hair. Look for shampoos with antimicrobial properties and ingredients like tea tree oil or eucalyptus oil to combat these scalp issues and reduce odors.
  • Product buildup from regular use of hair products can trap dirt, bacteria, and sweat, causing a foul smell. Choose clarifying shampoos with ingredients like apple cider vinegar or tea tree oil to effectively remove product residue and keep your hair fresh-smelling.

Best Shampoos for Smelly Hair 2024

Here are some of the best shampoos for smelly hair that can effectively eliminate odor and leave your hair feeling fresh and clean.

OGX Extra Strength Refreshing Scalp + Teatree Mint Shampoo

OGX Extra Strength Refreshing Scalp + Teatree Mint Shampoo is a powerful solution for smelly hair and scalp. Infused with tea tree oil, eucalyptus oil, and mint, this shampoo effectively eliminates odor-causing bacteria while providing a refreshing sensation.

The natural ingredients in this shampoo have antimicrobial properties that combat scalp issues and leave your hair feeling clean and revitalized. Not only does it help control odor, but it also deeply cleanses the scalp to remove product buildup and excess oils.

With its sulfate-free formula, OGX Extra Strength Refreshing Scalp + Teatree Mint Shampoo is suitable for all hair types, including oily hair. Say goodbye to smelly hair with this invigorating shampoo!

Neutrogena T/Sal Therapeutic Shampoo

Neutrogena T/Sal Therapeutic Shampoo is a highly recommended option for addressing a smelly scalp. Its key feature is its therapeutic formula that helps to treat and prevent scalp conditions like seborrheic dermatitis and psoriasis, which can contribute to unpleasant odors.

The active ingredient in this shampoo is salicylic acid, known for its deep cleansing properties that help remove excess oil and product buildup. It also contains natural ingredients like chamomile extract which soothes the scalp and reduces irritation.

Neutrogena T/Sal Therapeutic Shampoo offers a refreshing solution to combat odor while leaving your hair feeling clean and revitalized.

Ryo Scalp Deep Cleansing & Cooling Shampoo

Ryo Scalp Deep Cleansing & Cooling Shampoo is a great option for those dealing with smelly hair. This shampoo is specially formulated to deeply cleanse the scalp and provide a cooling sensation, leaving your hair feeling refreshed.

It contains natural ingredients like tea tree oil and mint that help combat odor-causing bacteria on the scalp. With its clarifying properties, this shampoo helps remove product buildup and excess oil, making it an effective solution for addressing smelly hair issues.

Avalon Organics Scalp Treatment Shampoo

Avalon Organics Scalp Treatment Shampoo is a great option if you’re looking for a shampoo that can effectively address the issue of smelly hair. This shampoo contains natural ingredients like tea tree oil and eucalyptus oil, which have antimicrobial properties to combat odor-causing bacteria on the scalp.

It also helps to deeply cleanse the hair and moisturize the scalp, leaving your hair feeling refreshed and smelling great. With its sulfate-free formula, Avalon Organics Scalp Treatment Shampoo is gentle yet effective in eliminating odor and promoting a healthier scalp.

New York Biology Apple Cider Vinegar Shampoo

New York Biology Apple Cider Vinegar Shampoo is a highly effective option for those dealing with smelly hair. This shampoo contains apple cider vinegar, known for its clarifying properties and ability to remove product buildup and excess oil from the scalp.

It also helps balance the pH of the scalp, reducing odor-causing bacteria. The natural ingredients in this shampoo make it gentle on the hair while providing a deep clean that leaves your hair feeling refreshed and revitalized.

With regular use, you can say goodbye to smelly hair and hello to fresh, clean locks.

Neutrogena Soothing & Calming Healthy Scalp Shampoo

Neutrogena Soothing & Calming Healthy Scalp Shampoo is a great option for those dealing with scalp odor. This shampoo contains ingredients like tea tree oil and eucalyptus oil, which help to eliminate unpleasant odors while soothing the scalp.

The formula is also sulfate-free, making it gentle on the hair and scalp. With regular use, this shampoo can leave your hair feeling fresh and clean, without any lingering smells. It’s a perfect choice if you’re looking for a refreshing shampoo that promotes a healthy scalp.

Key Features to Look for in a Shampoo for Smelly Hair

When choosing a shampoo for smelly hair, look for key features such as antimicrobial properties, deep cleansing, moisturizing, and natural ingredients.

Antimicrobial properties

Shampoos with antimicrobial properties can be highly effective in addressing smelly hair and scalp concerns. These shampoos contain ingredients that help eliminate bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms that may contribute to unpleasant odors.

Tea tree oil, eucalyptus oil, and mint are natural ingredients known for their antimicrobial properties. They work by cleansing the scalp and hair follicles, reducing any buildup of odor-causing bacteria or fungi.

By incorporating a shampoo with antimicrobial properties into your hair care routine, you can enjoy fresher-smelling hair and a cleaner scalp.

Deep cleansing

To effectively combat smelly hair, it’s important to choose a shampoo that provides deep cleansing. Look for a shampoo that can thoroughly remove product buildup, excess oil, and dirt from the scalp and hair strands.

A deep cleansing shampoo will help eliminate odor-causing bacteria and leave your hair feeling refreshed and revitalized. Opt for shampoos that contain clarifying ingredients like tea tree oil, eucalyptus oil, or mint, as these natural extracts have antimicrobial properties that can help control scalp odor.

By using a deep cleansing shampoo regularly, you can maintain a clean and fresh-smelling scalp while keeping your hair looking healthy and shiny.

Moisturizing

A moisturizing shampoo is essential for smelly hair because it helps to nourish and hydrate the scalp and hair follicles. Dryness can contribute to an unpleasant odor, so using a shampoo that moisturizes effectively can make a significant difference.

Look for shampoos that contain ingredients like argan oil, shea butter, or coconut oil, as these natural oils provide deep hydration without weighing down the hair. Moisturizing shampoos also help to prevent breakage and improve overall hair health, leaving your locks soft, shiny, and smelling fresh.

Natural ingredients

Natural ingredients such as tea tree oil, eucalyptus oil, and mint are often found in shampoos for smelly hair. These ingredients have antimicrobial properties that help combat scalp odor and refresh the hair.

Tea tree oil, in particular, is known for its ability to cleanse and clarify the scalp while reducing unpleasant odors. Eucalyptus oil provides a soothing and cooling effect on the scalp, helping to eliminate odor-causing bacteria.

Mint has a refreshing scent that can leave your hair smelling clean and fresh. By choosing a shampoo with these natural ingredients, you can effectively address smelly hair concerns while enjoying their additional benefits for your scalp and overall hair health.

Causes of Smelly Hair

Smelly hair can be caused by excessive sweating, scalp conditions like seborrheic dermatitis or fungal infections, and product buildup.

Excessive sweating

Excessive sweating significantly contributes to smelly hair. When your body experiences high temperatures or stress, it releases sweat as a cooling mechanism. This perspiration often extends to your scalp, dampening and saturating the hair roots.

Sweaty scalps create a warm, moist environment — ideal conditions for bacteria to thrive in! These bacteria break down the sweat’s protein into acids, producing an unpleasant odor in your hair and scalp.

Moreover, excessive sweating can lead to oily hair that attracts dirt and pollutants more easily; these elements further intensify the foul smell if not washed frequently with appropriate shampoos specifically designed for odor control such as Paul Mitchell’s Tea Tree Shampoo or Aveeno Apple Cider Vinegar Blend Shampoo which are known for their effective results due to natural ingredients like tea tree oil, eucalyptus oil or apple cider vinegar they’re infused with.

Scalp conditions (such as seborrheic dermatitis or fungal infections)

Scalp conditions, like seborrheic dermatitis or fungal infections, can contribute to smelly hair. These conditions disrupt the natural balance of the scalp and allow odor-causing bacteria to thrive.

It’s important to address these underlying scalp issues with specialized shampoos that have antimicrobial properties and can effectively cleanse the scalp. Look for shampoos that contain ingredients like tea tree oil or eucalyptus oil, as they have natural antibacterial properties that can help combat these scalp conditions and reduce unpleasant odors.

By using the right shampoo targeted towards specific scalp conditions, you can successfully tackle smelly hair at its source.

Product buildup

Using hair products regularly can lead to product buildup on the scalp and hair strands. This buildup can trap dirt, bacteria, and sweat, causing an unpleasant odor. To combat this issue, look for a shampoo that has clarifying properties.

Clarifying shampoos are specifically designed to remove product residue from the hair and scalp, leaving them clean and refreshed. Look for shampoos that contain ingredients like apple cider vinegar or tea tree oil as they help break down product buildup effectively.

Using a clarifying shampoo once or twice a week can help eliminate odors caused by product buildup and keep your hair smelling fresh.

How to Use Shampoo for Smelly Hair

To use shampoo for smelly hair, simply follow the instructions on the bottle. Massage it into your scalp and leave it on for a few minutes before rinsing thoroughly.

Follow the instructions on the bottle

To effectively use a shampoo for smelly hair, it’s important to follow the instructions on the bottle. Each shampoo may have specific guidelines for optimal results. By carefully reading and following these instructions, you can ensure that you’re using the product correctly and maximizing its effectiveness in combatting odor.

Whether it’s massaging into the scalp, leaving on for a few minutes, or rinsing thoroughly, adhering to the recommended steps will help you get the most out of your chosen shampoo and leave your hair feeling refreshed and odor-free.

Massage into the scalp and leave on for a few minutes

Massage the shampoo into your scalp with gentle circular motions, ensuring that it reaches all areas. This allows the active ingredients in the shampoo to penetrate deeply and effectively combat any odor-causing bacteria or fungi on your scalp.

Leaving the shampoo on for a few minutes gives it enough time to work its magic and thoroughly cleanse your hair and scalp. This step is crucial in maximizing the effectiveness of the shampoo in eliminating odors and leaving your hair smelling fresh and clean.

Afterwards, simply rinse out the shampoo thoroughly to reveal revitalized and odor-free locks.

Rinse thoroughly

After massaging the shampoo into your scalp and leaving it on for a few minutes, it’s important to rinse thoroughly. This step ensures that all the product buildup, excess oil, and dirt are completely removed from your hair and scalp.

Rinsing thoroughly also helps to eliminate any lingering odors, leaving your hair smelling fresh and clean. So make sure to take the time to rinse your hair well with lukewarm water until no traces of shampoo remain.

Conclusion

Choose the best shampoo for smelly hair to combat odor and refresh your scalp. Look for shampoos with natural ingredients like tea tree oil, eucalyptus oil, or mint to eliminate odors and leave your hair smelling fresh.

Don’t let smelly hair hold you back – try one of these recommended shampoos today!

FAQs

1. What is the best shampoo for smelly hair?

The best shampoo for smelly hair can be a refreshing scalp shampoo, an odor-reducing or odor control type like eucalyptus oil or tea tree oil shampoos.

2. Can anti-odor hair care products help with my oily and dull hair problems?

Yes! If you have oily and curly hair, using a balancing or deodorizing shampoo can refresh your scalp and reduce any odor while not harming your curls.

3. Are there sulfate-free and dye-free options available in these types of shampoos?

Absolutely! There are many safe options such as sulfate-free, dye-free, fragrance free hair products that also effectively act as an odor-eliminating shampoo.

4. How does a scented cleansing shampoo eliminate bad smells from my hair?

A scented cleansing shampoo works by introducing fresh-scented elements to your locks while washing away factors causing odors, acting as both a refresher and deodorizer for your hair.

5. I have sensitive skin; are these anti-smell solutions suitable for me?

Indeed they are! In addition to being potentially beneficial to those with specific conditions – there are refreshing cleansers specially designed for people who prefer fragrant free solutions that still offer effective smell control.

7 Best Shampoos for Smelly Hair 2024
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Mila, the veteran beauty cosmetics professional and author of this thisisbeautymart.com article, while cutting and styling the hair of her client

Hi! I’m Mila M. I share my 44 year-experience as a Cosmetologist & Beauty Professional in this blog. This content is for educational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Consult your trusted Beauty Professional for your personal beauty needs.

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