We're celebrating beautiful, luscious locks of fragrance-free hair care. Step into the shower with us as we discuss our favorite fragrance-free shampoos.

For those with sensitive skin, allergies, or a preference for products sans scent, finding the right shampoo can be a game-changer. Get ready for some sudsy commentary as we share shampoos, in order of our favorites, that will leave you feeling great, your skin uninflamed, and your hair looking flawless.

Why Choose Fragrance-Free and Cleaner Shampoos? 

All of the shampoos featured on The Fragrance Free are fragrance-free, paraben-free, phthalate-free, sulfate-free, and cruelty-free. They are formulated to be gentle on the scalp, rejuvenating for the hair, and ensure a clean and refreshing wash, without the lingering scent. 

• Fragrance-Free: Many people are sensitive to natural and synthetic fragrances, which can cause allergic reactions, headaches, and skin irritation. Fragrance-free shampoos are ideal for those with sensitivities or anyone looking to avoid unnecessary chemicals in their hair care routine.

• Paraben-Free: Parabens are synthetic preservatives that can disrupt hormones and have been linked to various health concerns. Paraben-free shampoos avoid these chemicals, offering a safer option for long-term use.

• Phthalate-Free: Phthalates are chemicals often found in synthetic fragrances. They have been associated with hormone disruption and other health issues. Phthalate-free shampoos eliminate these risks, making them a safer choice for your hair and overall health.

• Sulfate-Free: Sulfates are harsh detergents that can strip your hair of its natural oils, leading to dryness and irritation. Sulfate-free shampoos provide a gentler cleanse, preserving your hair's natural moisture and shine.

• Cruelty-Free: Cruelty-free products are not tested on animals, ensuring that no harm comes to animals in the development and production of the shampoo. This ethical choice supports a more humane and compassionate approach to beauty and personal care.

For reference, I have very long, straight to slightly wavy, fine hair that tends to become oily  24-36 hours after washing. I wash my hair with a fragrance-free shampoo every other day or every two days, followed by a fragrance-free conditioner applied to the mid-lengths and ends, where moisture is needed most, never on my roots. Typically, I let my hair air dry unless the weather or timing doesn’t permit, in which case I would use a fragrance- free styling cream before blow-drying. When damp, I zhuzh my tresses to encourage bounce and volume. On days between washes, I apply a fragrance-free, powder dry shampoo, as needed.  

The Fragrance Free only recommends products we use and love. If you click an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a small commission, at no extra cost to you, that we will use to explore more amazing fragrance-free products. 

Top Picks for Fragrance-Free Shampoos

SEEN Shampoo, Fragrance-Free

Why We Love It: When I first heard about the SEEN brand of products and their fragrance-free shampoo, developed by a dermatologist with skin health in mind, I knew I had to give it a try. This brand boasts an awesome, fragrance-free hydrating shampoo that suds up for a luxurious lather and is gentle on the scalp. 

For someone like me, with long, thin hair, this shampoo provides effective cleansing and hydration. My hair feels shinier, healthier, and has an added volume and bounce after each wash. Whether air-dried or heat styled, my hair retains a fresh, clean look with enhanced vitality. 

Key Benefits:

• Sniff Test Rating: 5/5 Stars. Rating Explanation: No scent detected during the sniff test, fragrance neutral. 

• SEEN Science: The team at SEEN conducted small clinical studies that showed individuals who used the fragrance-free shampoo had 70% improvement in body acne and 52% in face acne after 8 weeks. Additionally, 93% of individuals had an improvement in dry, flaky scalp with 73% reporting a calmer scalp after 4 weeks.

Certifications/Reviews:

• EWG's Skin Deep®: Hazard score - 2, low risk based on available data

• National Eczema Association: Seal of Acceptance™

• SkinSAFE: “Good for Sensitive Skin” Trusted Choice™ 

Ingredients: 

• Water, Sodium Lauroyl Methyl Isethionate, Cocamidopropylamine Oxide, Glycerin**, Acrylates Copolymer, Glycol Distearate, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, C13-15 Alkane (plant derived), Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride, Polyquaternium-7, Bisabolol, Citric Acid, Disodium Edta, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Aminomethyl Propanol, Sodium Hydroxide, Tocopherol, Sodium Benzoate

• Full ingredient list as of July 2024

Available for purchase: SEEN Shampoo, $29 for 8.6 fl oz

Briogeo Be Gentle, Be Kind™ Aloe + Oat Milk Ultra Soothing Shampoo

Why We Love It: This is a recently added product to my hair routine. Initially, I was skeptical since this product doesn’t have “fragrance-free” branding in its name. However, after exploring other products in Briogeo’s Be Gentle, Be Kind line, I decided to give this shampoo a try - and I’m thrilled with the results. 

This gel-like shampoo is gentle on the scalp, providing a lightweight yet effective cleansing experience. The subdued level of suds cleans without the harsh chemicals often found in other sulfate-rich products. After each wash, my hair feels clean, shiny and bouncy with no irritation or dryness. One feature I particularly appreciate is the pump dispenser, which ensures I use the perfect amount - three pumps - every time I shower. 

Despite not having fragrance-free in the name, it is included on the label, and I’m finding this to be a great second-favorite fragrance-free shampoo. 

Key Benefits:

• Sniff Test Rating: 4/5 Stars. Rating Explanation:  Extremely faint scent, likely from the natural ingredients - aloe vera or oatmeal, but not noticeable unless sniffed directly and dissipates rapidly. 

• Free of essential-oils

Certifications/Reviews:

• EWG's Skin Deep®: Hazard score - 2, low risk based on available data

• SkinSAFE: 91% Top Allergen Free

Ingredients: 

• Water/Aqua/Eau, Sodium Lauroyl Methyl Isethionate*, Cocamidopropyl Betaine*, Glycerin*, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice*, Avena Sativa (Oat) Bran Extract*, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract*, Limnanthes Alba (Meadowfoam) Seed Oil*, Panthenol, Sodium Gluconate*, Citric Acid*, Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate*, Panthenyl Hydroxypropyl Steardimonium Chloride*, Tocopheryl Acetate, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Benzoate, Caprylhydroxamic Acid*, Benzyl Alcohol. *Coconut, vegetable, or plant derived.

• Full ingredient list as of July 2024

Available for purchase: Briogeo Shampoo, $28 for 8 fl oz

Phillip Adam Shampoo, Fragrance-Free

Why We Love It: Phillip Adam’s fragrance-free shampoo has been a cornerstone of my hair care routine for years. I first stumbled upon this gem during a trip to Zion National Park. In a pinch and desperate for a scent-free shampoo solution, I discovered this product at a local naturopathic boutique, saving the trip from some seriously post-hike dirty hair. 

This gentle, lightweight shampoo, is ideal for those looking for a powerful, clean wash. The apple-cider vinegar in the shampoo works wonders, helping to restore the pH balance of your scalp and hair. I turn to this shampoo when combating a bout of dandruff or am in need of some serious oil control. Post-wash, my hair feels squeaky clean and boasts a shiny, healthy finish. While this shampoo does not carry a fragrance, it is botanical driven, and could cause irritation in some with allergies to natural ingredients. Phillip Adam’s fragrance-free shampoo is suitable for all hair types, including color-treated hair, 

Key Benefits:

• Sniff Test Rating: 3/5 Stars. Rating Explanation:  Slightly detectable sweet and sour scent, likely from the natural botanicals, but not overwhelming or bothersome for most unless sniffed directly. Scent doesn’t linger and dissipates rapidly. 

Certifications/Reviews:

• EWG's Skin Deep®: Hazard score - 2, low risk based on available data

• SkinSAFE: 91% Top Allergen Free

Ingredients: 

• Purified Water (Aqua), Ammonium Cocoyl Isethionate, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Decyl Glucoside, Apple Cider Vinegar, Caprylhydroxamic Acid & Caprylyl Glycol & Glycerin, Lactic Acid, Hydrolized Pea Protein, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract, Melissa Officinalis Leaf Extract (Lemon Balm), Urtica Dioica (Nettle) Extract, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract, Salvia Officinalis (Sage)

• Full ingredient list as of July 2024

Available for purchase: Phillip Adam Shampoo, $19.99 for 12 fl oz

VANICREAM™ Shampoo

Why We Love It: If you’re on the hunt for fragrance-free shampoos, Vanicream is likely a familiar name. Dermatologists often recommend as it’s free of most common allergens, completely scent free, and helps with flaking, scaling and oil control without the prescription. Conveniently available at many local drug stores and supermarkets, Vanicream has saved me countless times when my travel shower kit didn’t make it into my suitcase, and my hair desperately needed a wash. 

When I first developed severe fragrance allergies, this shampoo was a lifesaver. It didn’t trigger my already irritated immune system and got the job done. While it may not offer the most luxurious shampooing experience, it leaves your hair clean and manageable. However, it’s not in my daily routine - it can be quite drying, even for the healthiest of hair, necessitating a sizable quantity of conditioner to smooth out my tangled locks. Post-wash, my hair often takes on a soft, puffed look - perfect if you’re aiming for that retro 80’s poodle do. This can be easily tamed with a bit of styling, but it requires more work than my typical air-dry routine. Despite some shortcomings, Vanicream’s reliability and availability earns it a spot  on our list of top fragrance-free shampoos. 

Key Benefits:

• Sniff Test Rating: 5/5 Stars. Rating Explanation:  No detectable scent at all. 

• Free of botanical extracts and essential oils

Certifications/Reviews:

• EWG's Skin Deep®: Hazard score - 1, low risk based on available data

• SkinSAFE: 100% SkinSAFE, best for sensitive skin

Ingredients:

• Water, lauryl glucoside, coco-glucoside, acrylates copolymer, sodium cocoyl glutamate, sodium cocoyl glycinate, glycerin, sucrose cocoate, panthenol, pentylene glycol, 1,2-hexanediol, disodium EDTA, caprylyl glycol, sodium hydroxide, sodium chloride

• Full ingredient list as of July 2024

Available for purchase: VANICREAM Shampoo, $11.99 for 12 fl oz

Newer Fragrance-Free Shampoos We’re Excited to Try

Cleure for Sensitive Skin, Shampoo 

• Full Ingredient List as of July 2024: Purified Water, Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate, Disodium Cocoamphodiacetate, Caprylhydroxamic Acid, Glyceryl Caprylate, Glycerin, Polyquaternium-7, Polyquaternium-10, Sodium Chloride 

• $20 for 12.0 fl oz

  
  

Necessaire, The Fragrance-Free Shampoo

• Full Ingredient List as of July 2024: Aqua/Water/Eau, Sodium Lauroyl Methyl Isethionate, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Sodium Methyl Oleoyl Taurate, Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, Propanediol, Niacinamide, Sodium Hyaluronate, Panthenol, Apium Graveolens (Celery) Seed Extract, Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Oil, Glycerin, Disodium Cocoyl Glutamate, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Citric Acid, Caprylhydroxamic Acid, Sodium Chloride, 1,2-Hexanediol, Caprylyl Glycol, Sodium Benzoate

• $28 for 8.4 fl oz

Odele Beauty, Ultra Sensitive Shampoo

• Full Ingredient List as of July 2024: Water, Sodium Lauroyl Methyl Isethionate, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Propanediol, Acrylates Crosspolymer-4, Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine, Glycerin, Aminomethyl Propanol, Glycol Distearate, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Extract, Amaranthus Caudatus Seed Extract, Hydrolyzed Rice Protein, Hydrolyzed Quinoa, Cetrimonium Chloride, Polyquaternium-10, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Ethylhexylglycerin, Phenoxyethanol, Sodium Benzoate, Sodium Hydroxide, Citric Acid

• $11.99 for 13 fl oz

  
  

Toweling Off…

Finding a fragrance-free shampoo can be challenging, but these stand out as our top favorites: SEEN Shampoo Fragrance-Free, Briogeo Be Gentle, Be Kind™ Aloe + Oat Milk Ultra Soothing, Phillip Adam Shampoo Fragrance-Free, and VANICREAM™ Shampoo. They’re also paraben-free, phthalate-free, sulfate-free, cruelty-free, and pass our sniff test, making them ideal choices for sensitive skin and clean beauty enthusiasts. 

While these products work for us, if you have allergies or sensitivities, always ensure the ingredients are safe for your usage by reviewing the product label, conducting a patch test, or consulting with a doctor. Additionally, always be on the lookout for changes in formulations when restocking, as a trusted product could have ingredients that change over time. 

Stay tuned as we test out some of the newer fragrance-free shampoos and report back in a Fragrance-Free Shampoos 2.0 post. We’ll be dropping insights on the Blog, so make sure to sign up for our newsletter and join our community on instagram @TheFragranceFree for the latest updates.