CeraVe Oil Control Balancing Shampoo – Self-Care Shampoo for Humid-Season Scalp Detox and Calm Evenings
CeraVe Oil Control Balancing Shampoo – Self-Care Shampoo for Humid-Season Scalp Detox and Calm Evenings
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Why you'll love it
- 72-hour oil control reduces how often they need to wash, saving time
- Dermatologist-developed formula from the #1 derm-recommended skincare brand builds trust over indie alternatives
- Fragrance-free, sulfate-free, paraben-free formula is safe for sensitive scalps and color-treated hair
- Ceramides plus hyaluronic acid hydrate while clarifying, avoiding the dry, stripped feeling of traditional clarifying shampoos
- pH-balanced and allergy-tested formula minimizes irritation risk compared to harsher clarifying shampoos
Perfect for
- Daily shampoo for oily scalp to extend time between washes
- Post-workout refresh to remove sweat and excess oil without stripping
- Clarifying wash for color-treated hair without fading dye
- Humidity-season hair routine to combat flat, greasy roots
- Sensitive scalp cleansing that preserves the skin barrier
Haircare Reinvented with Dermatologists
Introducing the next generation of scalp and hair care, formulated without common irritants and allergens like sulfates, MIT, dyes, parabens, phthalates, and fragrance.
Gentle Formulas, Clinically Proven
Why do we formulate our products without Fragrance?
Fragrance chemicals can be irritating and may cause allergic reactions in some people’s skin. Because of this, many dermatologists recommend using fragrance-free products, and we formulate without fragrance for this reason.
What is MIT and why do we formulate our products without it?
Methylisothiazolinone (MIT) is a synthetic preservative used in consumer products to inhibit bacterial growth. Used at certain concentrations, MIT has been known to cause allergic reactions in some people, and we formulate without MIT for this reason.
Made with Your Scalp Barrier in Mind
CeraVe's scalp and hair care gently cleanses and nourishes without disrupting the scalp's moisture barrier, leaving hair healthy, soft, and nourished. Key ingredients include:
Suitable for All Hair Types
Clinically tested and pH balanced, CeraVe's allergy-tested scalp and hair care is gentle enough for sensitive scalps and suitable for all hair types, curl patterns, and color-treated hair.
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The CeraVe story began in 2005 after experts noticed that many skin conditions such as acne, eczema, psoriasis and dry skin all had one thing in common: a compromised skin barrier. Developed with dermatologists, CeraVe offers a complete line of skincare & haircare products that contain three essential ceramides enhanced with a revolutionary delivery system to help restore the skin & scalp's natural protective barrier.
Small changes in product size & weight lead to lower carbon emissions.
We created Compact by Design to identify products that, while they may not always look very different, have a more efficient design. With the removal of excess air and water, products require less packaging and become more efficient to ship. At scale, these small differences in product size and weight lead to significant carbon emission reductions.
Product Information
72-HR Oil Balance With Refreshed Roots & Hydrated Hair*: Developed for oily hair & scalp, this shampoo for women & men removes excess oil and effectively cleanses. Purifies without stripping or disrupting the scalp barrier, leaving hair fresh & hydrated
Gentle on Scalp & Hair: pH-balanced formula features three essential ceramides plus zinc PCA and hyaluronic acid to restore your scalp's natural barrier. Purifies oily scalp while delivering hydration to ends for balanced moisture from roots to tips
Suitable for All Hair Types and Textures: Works on straight, wavy, curly, or color-treated hair. This sulfate free, fragrance free shampoo is non-comedogenic, allergy-tested & safe for sensitive scalps, making it ideal for daily use
Lightweight Hydration: Instantly removes excess oil while providing moisture that won't weigh hair down. Wash hair using CeraVe Oil Control Balancing Shampoo. Apply Oil Control Balancing Conditioner to wet hair, working through ends. Rinse thoroughly
Developed With Dermatologists: This shampoo for oily hair pairs with CeraVe Oil Control Balancing Conditioner for complete oily hair care. Gentle yet effective formula restores balance for Normal to Oily scalps
*In a consumer test. Cleanses to remove excess oil so that the scalp feels not too oily, not too dry
Transform your oily hair with CeraVe Oil Control Balancing Shampoo, from the #1 dermatologist recommended skincare brand*. Balance excess oil while maintaining healthy hydration. This clarifying shampoo features ceramides, zinc PCA, and hyaluronic acid and purifies your scalp while leaving hair feeling hydrated. Instantly remove excess oil and residue without disrupting your scalp barrier. Unlike traditional clarifying shampoos that can leave hair feeling dry or stripped, this hydrating shampoo delivers moisture without weigh-down. Gentle enough for daily use and ideal for post-workout refreshes, humid climates, and anyone tired of midday greasiness. Suitable for women and men with all hair types including curly, straight, wavy, and color-treated hair, this fragrance-free shampoo is free of phthalates, sulfates, dyes, parabens and MIT. The pH-balanced, hypoallergenic formula is allergy-tested and works on sensitive scalps without causing irritation. Simply apply in the shower to wet hair, focusing on scalp. Rinse. Follow with CeraVe Oil Control Balancing Conditioner to create a routine that helps restore balance while maintaining healthy, hydrated hair. *IQVIA, ProVoice Survey, rolling 12-month data as of March 2025
Items Details
Features & Specs
Item Form: Liquid
Hair Type: All
Scent Name: Unscented
Other Special Features of the Product: Unscented
Product Benefits: Hydrating, Oil Control
Suitable Hair Color: All Hair Colors
Frequently Asked Questions
Will the fragrance-free formula still feel calming and spa-like during my evening wash routine?
Yes. CeraVe Oil Control Balancing Shampoo is fragrance-free, so the calm comes from the formula itself rather than added scent. The ceramides and hyaluronic acid leave hair feeling hydrated and soft, which many users describe as a soothing, sensorial reset after a long day — perfect for a mindful wind-down shower.
Does the hyaluronic acid actually help my hair feel less stripped and dry after washing?
Hyaluronic acid is a well-known humectant that draws in moisture. Paired with three essential ceramides, it helps maintain the scalp's natural moisture barrier during cleansing, so hair feels hydrated rather than tight or straw-like — a common complaint with traditional clarifying shampoos.
Can I use this shampoo as part of a weekly scalp-care ritual instead of every day?
Absolutely. Many users rotate CeraVe Oil Control Balancing Shampoo into a weekly clarifying ritual while using a gentler shampoo in between. The 72-hour oil balance claim means even less-frequent washes can keep roots feeling fresh, which fits a low-effort self-care schedule.
Is the formula gentle enough for a post-yoga or post-meditation hot shower without irritating my scalp?
Yes. The pH-balanced, allergy-tested, sulfate-free formula is designed to cleanse sweat and oil without disrupting the scalp barrier. Hot water can amplify irritation, but the ceramides help protect against that, making it suitable for steamy, restorative showers.
Will using this regularly help me feel less anxious about greasy second-day hair?
Many users report that extended oil control reduces the mental load of planning hair around wash days. With up to 72 hours of balanced roots, you can relax your routine and let your hair take care of itself between washes.
Is this a good shampoo to pair with a scalp massage for a wellness ritual?
Yes. Its gentle, low-foam sulfate-free lather spreads easily, making it ideal for slow, mindful scalp massage in the shower. The lightweight rinse-off won't leave residue, so you can focus on the relaxation benefits of the massage itself.
Does the dermatologist-developed background add peace of mind for someone with a sensitive, reactive scalp?
CeraVe is the #1 dermatologist-recommended skincare brand, and this formula was developed with that same clinical rigor. For wellness-minded buyers who research ingredients, the brand heritage offers reassurance that the shampoo is both effective and gentle.
Can I use this in a cold-rinse final step to support a healthy scalp barrier?
Yes. The pH-balanced formula is friendly to cool rinses, and pairing it with a cool final rinse can help seal the cuticle and support the moisture barrier the ceramides are working to repair.
Is this clarifying shampoo gentler than traditional clarifying shampoos I might use in a wellness routine?
Traditional clarifying shampoos often use harsh sulfates that strip the scalp and leave hair feeling dry. CeraVe's version uses ceramides and hyaluronic acid to clarify while preserving hydration, making it a noticeably gentler option for repeated use.
How does CeraVe compare to salon-grade clarifying shampoos for a home spa ritual?
Salon-grade clarifiers can be effective but are often more stripping and pricier. CeraVe Oil Control Balancing Shampoo delivers clarifying performance with added barrier-supportive ingredients, all at a drugstore-friendly price point — making it easy to replicate a salon-quality wash at home.
Will I need to use a separate conditioner to keep my hair from feeling dry after washing?
While the shampoo is hydrating thanks to ceramides and hyaluronic acid, most hair types — especially long or color-treated hair — benefit from a follow-up conditioner on the lengths and ends. The shampoo is designed to cleanse without leaving the scalp tight, so conditioning is a personal preference rather than a requirement.
Is the 12 oz bottle enough to last through a month of self-care Sundays?
For most users washing two to three times per week, a 12 oz bottle typically lasts six to eight weeks. If you're using it as a daily wash, expect closer to four to six weeks. The concentrated formula means a little goes a long way.
How do I use CeraVe Oil Control Balancing Shampoo for best results?
Wet hair thoroughly, apply a small amount to the scalp, and massage gently with your fingertips. Rinse and repeat if desired. For oily scalps, focus the lather at the roots. Follow with a conditioner on the lengths and ends if needed.
How often should I use this shampoo?
You can use it daily if needed, but most users find that 2–3 washes per week is enough thanks to the 72-hour oil balance claim. If your hair is color-treated, you may be able to extend time between washes even further.
Can I use this shampoo as a clarifying treatment once a week instead of every day?
Yes. Many users use it as a weekly clarifying wash and a gentler shampoo in between. The formula is mild enough for frequent use but effective enough to remove buildup when used less often.
Is this shampoo compatible with all hair types — straight, wavy, curly, and coily?
Yes. CeraVe Oil Control Balancing Shampoo is formulated for all hair types and textures, including straight, wavy, curly, and coily hair. The pH-balanced, sulfate-free formula works without disrupting curl patterns or natural texture.
Is this shampoo compatible with leave-in conditioners, hair oils, or styling products?
Yes. The clarifying action actually helps remove old product buildup, making it an excellent first step before applying leave-in treatments, oils, or styling products. It won't interfere with the performance of compatible haircare products.
What's included in the box when I order this shampoo?
You receive one 12 oz bottle of CeraVe Oil Control Balancing Shampoo with a flip-top cap. No additional accessories are included. For best results, you'll want to pair it with a conditioner suited to your hair type, sold separately.
Is this shampoo safe for daily long-term use without damaging my hair?
Yes. The pH-balanced, sulfate-free formula with ceramides and hyaluronic acid is designed for regular use. Unlike harsher clarifying shampoos, it supports the scalp barrier over time rather than compromising it.
Will this shampoo cause my hair to fall out or shed more than usual?
No. Some shedding after switching shampoos is normal and usually reflects hair in its natural resting phase, not the product itself. CeraVe's gentle formula is not associated with increased hair shedding.
What's the difference between a clarifying shampoo and a regular shampoo?
Clarifying shampoos are designed to remove heavier buildup from oils, styling products, hard water minerals, and pollutants. Regular shampoos focus on daily cleansing. CeraVe Oil Control Balancing Shampoo functions as both — a daily cleanser and a clarifying treatment, which is why it's suitable for everyday use.
