Think about your hair concerns
You don't have to be fighting flakes in order to use a salicylic acid shampoo. But if you do have dandruff, then you might want to consider getting a salicylic acid shampoo with medicated antifungals (like Sachajuan Scalp Shampoo), which will work alongside salicylic acid to help to control your scalp's yeast production.
Those with dry scalps can also find relief from a salicylic acid shampoo, as chemical exfoliants help wash away flakes and debris. If a dry scalp is your main concern, then make sure any shampoo you buy includes soothers, like glycerin, to help with itch, as well as moisturizers, like shea butter, to hydrate your skin. A prime example: Oribe Serene Scalp Anti-Dandruff Shampoo.
Check out the ingredients
Along with salicylic acid (duh), the best salicylic acid shampoos tend to include moisturizers and soothers that'll help to calm inflammation and hydrate your skin, whether you're dealing with a dry scalp or dandruff (or both!). And while anyone with dry scalp concerns—like dermatitis or eczema—should probs avoid harsh ingredients such as sulfates and artificial fragrance, some people can actually benefit from using sulfated detergents.
FTR, those with oil-prone hair may actually love sulfates because of how deeply they can cleanse the hair. Sulfates tend to give the strongest cleanse, but there are plenty of sulfate-free surfactants that also do their job really, really well. Check out a surfactants list if you wanna see which surfactants are harsh, mild, or gentle before buying a shampoo—and consider skipping the sulfate formulas if you have damaged, dry, or curly hair (think: types 3a to 4c).
Look at the salicylic acid strength
Typically, you'll wanna choose a formula that contains at least 3 percent salicylic acid to really reap the benefits. But since salicylic acid pairs well with other exfoliators, you can go with a shampoo that only offers 2 percent salicylic acid...as long as that formula contains other acidic and clarifying ingredients to work alongside it. For instance, Ouai Anti-Dandruff Shampoo only contains 2 percent salicylic acid, but it also contains citric acid, an alpha-hydroxy acid.
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