The best acne treatments for your scalp and hairline

NBC Select independently determines what we cover and recommend. When you click on or buy through our links, we earn a commission. Learn more.Hair CareThe best scalp acne shampoos and treatments, according to dermatologistsSalicylic acid, tea tree oil and benzoyl peroxide are key ingredients to look for in a product. Updated July 10, 2026, 1:23 PM EDTNicole SaundersAshley MorrisAssociate SEO ReporterSkip to table of contentsWe rounded up expert-recommended scalp acne shampoos from Dove, Neutrogena and more.Kara Birnbaum / NBC NewsIn this articleOur top picksThe best scalp acne shampoos and treatments of 2026How to shop for scalp acne shampooFrequently asked questionsMeet our dermatology expertsWhy trust NBC Selected?See 3 MoreWhen it comes to acne, nowhere on your body is safe — breakouts can appear on your scalp or hairline, felt, but not seen. Scalp acne consists of whiteheads and blemishes directly on the scalp caused by excess sebum, says board-certified dermatologist Dr. Steven Shapiro, founder of Shapiro MD hair care line.We interviewed dermatologists and hair experts about the best ways to treat and prevent scalp acne, including which ingredients to look out for and avoid, along with our go-to product recommendations.Updated May 2026 to reflect new testing and product availability.Selected.Our top picksBest for dry scalpsNeutrogena T/Sal Therapeutic Shampoo$undefined$9.89TargetLearn moreBest scalp acne treatmentDifferin Acne Treatment Gel$13.48$14.99AmazonLearn moreBest splurgeOuai Anti Dandruff Shampoo $undefined$38.00AmazonLearn moreRelatedselectedselectedScalp massagers may promote hair growth — here are the best ones to shopWant more from NBC Selected? Sign up for our newsletter, The Selection, and shop smarter.The best scalp acne shampoos and treatments of 2026All of the products below come recommended by experts and are made with common pimple-fighting ingredients, including salicylic acid and glycolic acid. Regardless of which product you use, you may...