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Head & Shoulders BARE Shampoo Review 2025: Our Medical Expert Weighs In

Knox Beasley, MD

Reviewed by Knox Beasley, MD

Written by Jasmine Seales

Published 06/19/2025

Updated 06/15/2025

Most dandruff shampoos either leave your hair feeling heavy or dry it out completely. If you’re dealing with flakes and looking for a lighter, gentler anti-dandruff shampoo option, this Head & Shoulders BARE review is for you.

Below, we break down two BARE formulas: Pure Clean (for oily or normal scalps) and Soothing Hydration (for dry, itchy scalps). We’ll cover each shampoo’s ingredients, how they work, and how they compare to other shampoos. Plus, insight from one of our medical reviewers board-certified dermatologist Knox Beasley, MD.

Head & Shoulders BARE is a minimalist version of the brand’s classic anti-dandruff shampoo formula. The brand offers two different BARE formulas: Pure Clean and Soothing Hydration. Both contain 1% zinc pyrithione, a clinically-proven antifungal agent that targets Malassezia, the yeast that causes scalp dandruff.

Products in the eco-friendly packaged BARE line contain just nine core ingredients:

  • Pyrithione zinc 1%

  • Lauramidopropyl betaine

  • Fragrance

  • Acrylates copolymer

  • Water

  • Sodium cocoyl isethionate

  • Polyquaternium-10

  • Sodium benzoate

  • Citric acid

The two shampoos have different ingredient strengths to match different needs:

  • Pure Clean is a lightweight formula designed to gently cleanse and tackle dandruff without leaving buildup.

  • Soothing Hydration is formulated for dry, sensitive scalps.

Both BARE shampoo formulas are dermatologist-recommended, according to the brand.

They contain zinc pyrithione, a science-backed anti-dandruff ingredient that reduces scalp yeast levels.

Studies show that most people see fewer flakes and experience less itchiness within 2–4 weeks when using pyrithione zinc shampoos.

Below, you’ll find reviews of BARE products from Dr. Knox Beasley.

Product type: Anti-dandruff shampoo

Key ingredients: Zinc pyrithione

Cost: $9.99 for a 400 ml bottle

Purpose: Claims to help reduce dandruff

  • Efficacy: ★★★★

  • Side effects: ★★★★

  • Ease of use: ★★★★★

“Zinc pyrithione can be very helpful at treating dandruff symptoms due to its anti-fungal properties,” Dr. Beasely says.

Product type: Anti-dandruff shampoo

Key ingredients: Zinc pyrithione

Cost: $9.99 for a 400 ml bottle

Purpose: Claims to help reduce dandruff

  • Efficacy: ★★★★

  • Side effects: ★★★★

  • Ease of use: ★★★★★

“This shampoo would be a good option for people with sensitive skin since there are minimal ingredients,” Dr. Beasely says.

Here are a few pros and cons about Head & Shoulders BARE.

Pros

  • Contains 1% zinc pyrithione, which is a clinically-proven anti-dandruff treatment

  • Made with just nine ingredients

  • Free of alcohol, sulfates, silicones, and dyes — making it safe for sensitive scalps and color-treated hair

  • Eco-friendly packaging uses 45% less plastic and is recyclable

Cons

  • Light fragrance may still bother ultra-sensitive scalps

  • Lightweight formula might not hydrate enough

  • Works best with regular use

  • Severe dandruff may need stronger treatment

  • Low-suds formula due to no sulfates

Both BARE shampoos retail for around $9.99 per 13.5 fl oz bottle, and you can often find deals around $20 for twin packs.

Compared to standard Head & Shoulders dandruff treatments (~$8), BARE products are a bit pricier. But these shampoos are still less expensive than many premium salon anti-dandruff products.

Most people use these shampoos with no issues. But here are a few possible side effects:

  • Scalp irritation. If you’re sensitive to fragrances, the natural scents might cause a reaction.

  • Dryness. Both formulas are free of heavy oils, so without a good conditioner, your hair or scalp might feel dry.

  • Allergic reactions. Always check ingredient labels. If you’re allergic to anything listed, you could have a reaction.

If you notice irritation, stop using the shampoo and see a dermatologist for guidance.

Both are effective dandruff fighters, but they differ in their active ingredients:

BARE contains zinc pyrithione, while Selsun Blue relies on sulfate or selenium sulfide to combat dandruff — these also target the yeast that causes dandruff.

BARE is sulfate-free and fragrance-light, while some describe Selsun Blue’s scent as medical.

“Both Head & Shoulders BARE and Selsun Blue can be effective against dandruff. However, some people may find that one works better than the other for their scalp. BARE is a good option if you have sensitive skin or want a product with fewer ingredients,” says Dr. Beasley.

Does BARE shampoo actually get rid of dandruff?

Yes. BARE products contain 1% zinc pyrithione, a proven anti-dandruff ingredient that’s been in use for decades.

Most people see visible results within 2–4 weeks.

Can I use BARE every day?

Yes. The Soothing Hydration product, in particular, is gentle enough for daily use. Use Pure Clean every other day to avoid drying out your scalp.

Is BARE safe for color-treated hair?

Yes. Both formulas are sulfate-free and silicone-free, so they’re gentler on color-treated hair than traditional clarifying shampoos. But, it’s a good idea to test on a small section of hair or check with your stylist before use.

Which formula is better, Pure Clean or Soothing Hydration?

It depends on your scalp. Pure Clean is formulated for normal to oily scalps with dandruff. Soothing Hydration may be a better choice for dry or itchy scalps that need more moisture.

Is a fragrance-free option available?

Not yet. Currently, BARE products have a light, natural scent. If you’re sensitive to fragrance, try a patch-test or explore fragrance-free, anti-dandruff alternatives.

If BARE isn’t a fit for you, these alternatives also deliver strong dandruff care:

Hims Dandruff Detox Shampoo

Backed by dermatologists, Hims Dandruff Detox Shampoo uses 1% zinc pyrithione to fight dandruff, plus avocado and argan oils to keep your scalp hydrated. This gentle cleanser is designed to remove buildup and reduce flaking without harsh additives.

Nizoral A-D

Nizoral contains ketoconazole, an antifungal ingredient that treats the root cause of dandruff. Like BARE, it tackles both flaking and itching. But you don’t need to use it every day. Using it just twice a week can make a difference.

Selsun Blue Natural Dandruff Shampoo

Selsun Blue is a well-known anti-dandruff brand. The shampoo contains selenium sulfide, which is slightly more potent than zinc pyrithione. It’s a good pick for those with moderate-to-severe dandruff. But it might be more drying than other dandruff shampoos.

Let’s recap our thoughts on Head and Shoulder BARE shampoos:

  • Head & Shoulders BARE shampoos effectively tackle dandruff. The shampoos contain only nine ingredients, plus 1% zinc pyrithione.

  • Each formula has its strengths. Pure Clean is best for oilier scalps and Soothing Hydration is a better choice for those with dryness.

  • There are alternatives to Head & Shoulders BARE. These include Hims Dandruff Detox Shampoo, Nizoral, and Selsun Blue.

Need help navigating your dandruff treatment options? Hims can connect you with a licensed provider who can give you a personalized plan for fighting flakes.

8 Sources

  1. Barak-Shinar D, et al. (2018). Scalp seborrheic dermatitis and dandruff therapy using a herbal and zinc pyrithione-based therapy of shampoo and scalp lotion. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5788265/
  2. Godse G, et al. (2024). Safety, efficacy and attributes of 2.5% selenium sulfide shampoo in the treatment of dandruff: A single-center study. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38681430/
  3. How and when to use ketoconazole. (2024). https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/ketoconazole/how-and-when-to-use-ketoconazole/
  4. Jourdain R, et al. (2016). Exploration of scalp surface lipids reveals squalene peroxide as a potential actor in dandruff condition. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4796319/
  5. Leong C, et al. (2021). Effect of zinc pyrithione shampoo treatment on skin commensal Malassezia. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32785575/
  6. Saxena R, et al. (2021). Longitudinal study of the scalp microbiome suggests coconut oil to enrich healthy scalp commensals. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8012655/
  7. Schwartz JR. (2016). Zinc pyrithione: A topical antimicrobial with complex pharmaceutics. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26885780/
  8. Tucker D, et al. (2024). Seborrheic dermatitis. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK551707/
Editorial Standards

Hims & Hers has strict sourcing guidelines to ensure our content is accurate and current. We rely on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. We strive to use primary sources and refrain from using tertiary references. See a mistake? Let us know at [email protected]!

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. The information contained herein is not a substitute for and should never be relied upon for professional medical advice. Always talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of any treatment. Learn more about our editorial standards here.

Knox Beasley, MD

Education

Training

Certifications

Medical Licenses

  • Dr. Beasley is licensed in all 50 states

Affiliations & Memberships

Specialties & Areas of Focus

  • Hair Loss, Dermatology

Years of Experience

  • 10 years of clinical practice as a Dermatologist

Previous Work Experience

  • Medical Director - YouHealth Medical Groups, 2025–

  • Private practice, 2024–

  • Chief of Dermatology - , 2023–2024

  • Chief of Dermatology - , 2019–2023

Chief of Dermatology - , 2015–2019

Publications

  • Wilson, L. M., Beasley, K. J., Sorrells, T. C., & Johnson, V. V. (2017). Congenital neurocristic cutaneous hamartoma with poliosis: A case report. Journal of cutaneous pathology, 44(11), 974–977.  

  • Banta, J., Beasley, K., Kobayashi, T., & Rohena, L. (2016). Encephalocraniocutaneous lipomatosis (Haberland syndrome): A mild case with bilateral cutaneous and ocular involvement. JAAD case reports, 2(2), 150–152.  

  • Patterson, A. T., Beasley, K. J., & Kobayashi, T. T. (2016). Fibroelastolytic papulosis: histopathologic confirmation of disease spectrum variants in a single case. Journal of cutaneous pathology, 43(2), 142–147.  

  • Beasley, K., Panach, K., & Dominguez, A. R. (2016). Disseminated Candida tropicalis presenting with Ecthyma-Gangrenosum-like Lesions. Dermatology online journal, 22(1), 13030/qt7vg4n68j.

  • Kimes, K., Beasley, K., & Dalton, S. R. (2015). Eruptive milia and comedones during treatment with dovitinib. Dermatology online journal, 21(9), 13030/qt8kw141mb.

  • Miladi, A., Thomas, B. C., Beasley, K., & Meyerle, J. (2015). Angioimmunoblastic t-cell lymphoma presenting as purpura fulminans. Cutis, 95(2), 113–115.

  • Beasley K, Dai JM, Brown P, Lenz B, Hivnor CM. (2013). Ablative Fractional Versus Nonablative Fractional Lasers – Where Are We and How Do We Compare Differing Products?. Curr Dermatol Rep, 2, 135–143.

  • Siami P, Beasley K, Woolen S, Zahn J. (2012). A retrospective study evaluating the efficacy and tolerability of intra-abdominal once-yearly histrelin acetate subcutaneous implant in patients with advanced prostate cancer. UroToday Int J, June 5(3), art 26.

  • Siami P, Beasley K. (2012). Dutasteride with As-Needed Tamsulosin in Men at Risk of Benign Prostate Hypertrophy Progression. UroToday Int J, Feb 5(1), art 93. ​​https://www.urotoday.com/volume-5-2012/vol-5-issue-1/48691-dutasteride-with-as-needed-tamsulosin-in-men-at-risk-of-benign-prostatic-hypertrophy-progression.html

Why I Practice Medicine

  • Dr. Beasley began doing telemedicine while serving in the U.S. Army, providing dermatologic care for soldiers stationed around the world. This experience sparked his passion for telemedicine and inspired his commitment to expanding access to healthcare for patients across the United States. 

Hobbies & Interests

  • In his free time, Dr. Beasley enjoys cooking, reading, and trips to the beach with his wife and two kids (with sunscreen of course).

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