Bare Pure Clean Sulfate-Free Dandruff Shampoo
Bare Pure Clean Sulfate-Free Dandruff Shampoo
Product Description
Product overview
A minimalist anti-dandruff shampoo with only 9 carefully selected ingredients. Sulfate-free, silicone-free, and dye-free, this gentle formula delivers clinically proven dandruff protection powered by 1% Zinc Pyrithione while leaving oily hair and scalp feeling clean and refreshed with a light coconut water scent.
Clinically Proven Dandruff Protection
1% Zinc Pyrithione targets and eliminates the Malassezia fungus at the root cause of dandruff, preventing flakes and itching from returning.
Texture & feel
SENSORYClinically Proven Dandruff Protection
1% Zinc Pyrithione targets and eliminates the Malassezia fungus at the root cause of dandruff, preventing flakes and itching from returning.
Minimalist 9-Ingredient Formula
Each of the 9 ingredients fills a specific role in dandruff protection. No fillers, no extras — just the bare essentials your scalp needs.
Oil-Fighting Deep Clean
Plant-derived sulfate-free cleansers (Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate and Lauramidopropyl Betaine) remove excess oil without stripping your hair.
Eco-Friendly Ecobottle
Packaged in an innovative rollable bottle made with 45% less plastic. Lightweight, easy to squeeze, and designed so you use every last drop.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEZinc Pyrithione has minimal systemic absorption from topical use and is generally considered low risk during pregnancy and breastfeeding when used as directed. However, no controlled human studies exist. Consult your OB-GYN before use.
Zinc Pyrithione is antifungal and actively fights Malassezia — the same yeast responsible for fungal acne. This formula contains no ferments, fatty acids, esters, or polysorbates that feed fungal acne.
Contains no oils, heavy emollients, or pore-clogging ingredients. Comedogenic rating of 0/5 — extremely unlikely to cause breakouts on the scalp or hairline.
Sulfate-free and silicone-free formula is gentle enough for color-treated, chemically processed, or gray hair without stripping color.
Dermatologically accredited by the Skin Health Alliance. Free of sulfates, silicones, dyes, and parabens. Light fragrance is coconut-derived and nature-inspired.
Zinc Pyrithione has been restricted in cosmetic (leave-on) products in the EU since 2022. This is a rinse-off shampoo sold in the US market where ZPT remains FDA-approved and widely used.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSZinc Pyrithione (Pyrithione Zinc) 1%Proven
The star active ingredient — an FDA-approved antifungal and antimicrobial compound that targets the Malassezia yeast responsible for dandruff. It goes deep to the scalp to stop flaking and itching at the source.
- Mechanism: Inhibits fungal growth by disrupting iron-sulfur protein clusters and increasing cellular copper levels in yeast cells.
- Clinical Evidence: Decades of clinical data supporting efficacy at 1% concentration for dandruff control. FDA-approved since the 1960s.
- Usage: #1 dermatologist-recommended anti-dandruff active ingredient in the United States.
Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate SurfactantGentle Cleanser
A plant-derived, sulfate-free surfactant responsible for creating the rich lather. Known as one of the mildest cleansing agents available, it removes dirt and oil without stripping the scalp of its natural moisture.
- Source: Derived from coconut oil and isethionic acid.
- Benefit: Provides thorough cleansing with excellent mildness — often called the "baby surfactant" for its gentleness.
Lauramidopropyl Betaine Co-SurfactantGentle Cleanser
A mild, plant-derived amphoteric surfactant that works alongside Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate to boost foam and cleansing power while reducing any potential irritation from the primary cleanser.
- Source: Derived from lauric acid (coconut/palm).
- Benefit: Improves foam quality and viscosity while acting as a skin-conditioning agent.
Polyquaternium-10 ConditioningPlant-Derived
A polymer detangler derived from cellulose (plant-based) that provides the silky-smooth, moisturized feel after washing. Replaces the role that silicones play in traditional shampoos.
- Source: Derived from plant cellulose.
- Benefit: Reduces static, improves wet and dry combing, and adds softness without weighing hair down.
Citric Acid pH AdjusterAHA
A naturally occurring alpha hydroxy acid found in citrus fruits. Used here to balance the formula's pH to align with your scalp's natural pH, ensuring optimal product performance and scalp comfort.
- Function: pH balancer ensuring the shampoo is gentle and compatible with the skin's acid mantle.
- Bonus: Mild exfoliating properties as an AHA may help with gentle scalp surface renewal.
Sodium Benzoate PreservativeParaben-Free
A mild preservative that keeps the formula fresh and safe throughout its shelf life. A gentle alternative to parabens — commonly found in food and cosmetics at safe concentrations.
- Function: Prevents microbial growth to ensure consistent performance from first wash to last.
- Safety: Generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use in food and cosmetics.
9 ingredients
Active Ingredient: Pyrithione Zinc 1%
Inactive Ingredients: Water, Lauramidopropyl Betaine, Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, Fragrance, Acrylates Copolymer, Polyquaternium-10, Sodium Benzoate, Citric Acid
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse at least twice a week for best results, or as directed by a doctor. Can be used daily for oily scalps. Apply to wet hair, lather, and rinse. Follow with a conditioner on lengths and ends.
How to use
HOW TO USEShake & Wet
Shake the bottle well before use. Thoroughly wet your hair and scalp with warm water.
Apply & Massage
Squeeze a generous amount into your palm and massage directly onto your scalp using your fingertips. Work into a rich lather.
Let It Work
Leave the lather on your scalp for 2–3 minutes to allow Zinc Pyrithione to penetrate and treat the scalp. This contact time is key for dandruff control.
Rinse & Repeat
Rinse thoroughly with warm water. Repeat if desired for extra cleansing on very oily scalps. Follow with conditioner on mid-lengths and ends.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have dandruff with an oily scalp or greasy hair
- You prefer minimal, clean-beauty ingredient lists
- You want sulfate-free dandruff protection that still lathers well
- You have a sensitive scalp or skin allergies
- You have color-treated or chemically processed hair
- You want an eco-conscious product with less plastic packaging
- You struggle with fungal acne on the scalp or hairline
Consider alternatives if:
- You have severe or stubborn dandruff (may need ketoconazole-based shampoo like Nizoral)
- You have very dry hair that needs heavy conditioning
- You prefer a completely fragrance-free formula
- You are looking for a shampoo + conditioner 2-in-1 (sold separately as BARE 2-in-1)
- You live in the EU where Zinc Pyrithione is restricted in certain product categories
Scalp type compatibility
SKIN TYPESSpecifically formulated for oily hair and scalp. Removes excess oil and sebum while fighting dandruff without over-stripping.
Gentle enough for daily use on normal scalps. Maintains a healthy scalp balance while preventing dandruff recurrence.
Dermatologist-tested and Skin Health Alliance accredited. Minimal ingredients reduce irritation risk, though fragrance may affect very reactive scalps.
Designed for oil control, so it may feel drying on already dry scalps. Consider H&S BARE Soothing Hydration variant instead, and always follow with a conditioner.
Core purpose of this product. Clinically proven 1% Zinc Pyrithione delivers reliable dandruff prevention with regular use at least twice per week.
Results timeline
MONTH 2+Immediate Freshness
Hair and scalp feel noticeably cleaner. Oil is removed and the light coconut water scent leaves hair feeling fresh. Some users report reduced itching after the very first wash.
80% noticed cleaner feelReduced Flaking & Itching
Visible flakes begin to diminish as Zinc Pyrithione starts controlling the Malassezia fungus. Scalp itching decreases significantly with consistent use at least twice a week.
70% noticed less flakingClinically Visible Improvement
Most users see significant dandruff reduction. Scalp feels healthier, balanced, and less irritated. Hair appears shinier and more manageable without silicone buildup.
85% noticed major improvementOngoing Dandruff Prevention
Continued use prevents dandruff from returning. Scalp microbiome stays balanced. Many users report they can reduce frequency to 2–3 times per week for maintenance.
90% maintained clear scalpRatings by platform
3K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Only 9 ingredients — one of the cleanest anti-dandruff formulas available
- Sulfate-free, silicone-free, dye-free without sacrificing lather quality
- Pleasant, light coconut water scent (no medicinal smell)
- Effective for mild to moderate dandruff and itchy scalp
- Safe for color-treated and chemically processed hair
- Eco-friendly rollable Ecobottle uses 45% less plastic
- Dermatologist recommended and Skin Health Alliance accredited
- Affordable price point for a clean-formula anti-dandruff shampoo
Criticized
- Ecobottle packaging can be awkward — doesn't pop back into shape
- May not be potent enough for severe dandruff or seborrheic dermatitis
- No matching standalone conditioner in the BARE line (2-in-1 only)
- Contains fragrance — not suitable for those with fragrance sensitivities
- Some users report it doesn't lather as richly as the original H&S
- Only available in 13.5 oz size — no larger or travel-size options widely available
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESAlso uses Pyrithione Zinc 1% as the active ingredient. Contains more ingredients including moisturizers like shea butter and coconut oil. Not sulfate-free and not as minimal, but very effective and affordable.
Uses Zinc Pyrithione 2% (double the concentration). Free of dyes, fragrance, masking fragrance, lanolin, parabens, and formaldehyde. Better for very sensitive scalps but uses sulfates for cleansing.
Uses Pyrithione Zinc 1% in a 2-in-1 formula with built-in conditioner. Contains sulfates and more ingredients. Good for those wanting a single-step wash but not as clean a formula.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEH&S BARE Pure Clean
Vanicream Free & Clear Medicated Shampoo
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store at room temperature in a cool, dry place. Shake well before each use as the formula may settle.
Innovative rollable Ecobottle made with 45% less plastic. Lightweight, squeezable, and recyclable (bottle and cap).
No — 13.5 fl oz (400 mL) exceeds the 3.4 oz / 100 mL carry-on liquid limit. Transfer to a travel-size container for flights.
Frequently asked questions
FAQZinc Pyrithione has minimal systemic absorption when used topically as a rinse-off shampoo, and is generally considered low risk during pregnancy and breastfeeding. However, there are no controlled human studies, and the FDA has not formally assigned a pregnancy category. Most dermatologists consider it compatible with pregnancy when used as directed. Always consult your OB-GYN or healthcare provider before use during pregnancy or while nursing.
Yes. This shampoo is fungal acne safe and actually helps fight it. Zinc Pyrithione is an antifungal that directly targets Malassezia — the same yeast responsible for both dandruff and fungal acne. The formula contains no ferments, fatty acids, esters, or polysorbates that could feed Malassezia. Many people use ZPT shampoos as a contact mask on their face and body to treat fungal acne.
Yes. Since this is a rinse-off shampoo that is washed out of your hair, it will not interact with leave-on scalp treatments or skincare products like retinol, vitamin C, AHAs, or BHAs. Zinc Pyrithione has no known drug interactions with common topical skincare actives. If you use a scalp serum with active ingredients, simply apply it after shampooing and drying.
BARE Pure Clean is specifically formulated for oily hair and scalp with dandruff. It excels at removing excess oil and sebum while fighting flakes. If you have a dry or flaky scalp without oiliness, consider the BARE Soothing Hydration variant instead, which is designed for dry scalps and features an orchid and aloe scent.
Most people notice visible results within 2–4 weeks of regular use (at least twice per week). Some users report reduced itching after the very first wash. For best results, leave the lather on your scalp for 2–3 minutes before rinsing to allow the Zinc Pyrithione to work. Consistent use is essential — stopping treatment can allow dandruff to return.
Use it as your first step — the shampoo. Apply to wet hair, massage into scalp, leave on 2–3 minutes, then rinse. Follow with a conditioner on mid-lengths and ends (the BARE line also offers a 2-in-1 option). Then proceed with any scalp serums, leave-in treatments, or styling products as usual.
No. This shampoo has a comedogenic rating of 0/5. It contains no oils, heavy emollients, or known pore-clogging ingredients. The formula is also fungal acne safe. Since it's a rinse-off product, the risk of clogging pores on your face or body is minimal — just make sure to rinse thoroughly, especially around your hairline and neck.
The estimated shelf life is 12 months after opening (12M PAO) when stored at room temperature. Shake well before each use, as the minimal formula may settle over time. The Sodium Benzoate preservative keeps the formula fresh and safe throughout its usage period. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
Verdict: Head & Shoulders BARE Pure Clean is a standout choice for anyone seeking effective dandruff protection with a truly minimal ingredient list. With only 9 ingredients, it delivers where it matters — clinically proven 1% Zinc Pyrithione fights flakes at the source — while ditching sulfates, silicones, and dyes that many consumers want to avoid. It's ideal for oily, dandruff-prone scalps and works well for sensitive skin and color-treated hair. The innovative Ecobottle is a nice sustainability touch, though the packaging takes some getting used to. Where it falls slightly short: it may not be powerful enough for severe dandruff or seborrheic dermatitis (consider Nizoral in that case), and the inclusion of fragrance means it isn't fully hypoallergenic. Overall, it's an excellent everyday anti-dandruff shampoo that proves you don't need a complicated formula to get the job done.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skin’s own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Anti-Aging from 1 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 1 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 1 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 |
Zinc Pyrithione
Antiseborrhoeic, Preservative
|
|
|
| 0 |
Parfum
Masking, Perfuming
|
|
|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 0 |
Acrylates Copolymer
|
|
|
| 2 |
Citric Acid
Masking, Fragrance, Chelating Agent, Ph Adjuster, Buffering Agent
|
Brightening
Anti-Aging
Promotes Wound Healing
Texture
Pores
|