CeraVe Clarifying Shampoo – Post-Hike Refresh for Sweaty Scalps and Open-Air Adventures
CeraVe Clarifying Shampoo – Post-Hike Refresh for Sweaty Scalps and Open-Air Adventures
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- 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
Is the 12 oz bottle travel-friendly enough for carry-on or gym bag use?
The 12 oz size exceeds the TSA 3.4 oz carry-on limit, so it's best for checked luggage or gym bags. For air travel, consider decanting into a smaller TSA-approved bottle. For road trips, camping, and gym lockers, the full size is convenient and durable.
Does the formula hold up in hot, humid outdoor conditions without separating or thinning?
The formula is stable across typical temperature ranges encountered during travel and outdoor activities. As with any shampoo, avoid leaving it in direct sunlight or in a hot car for extended periods to preserve ingredient integrity.
Can I use this after swimming in a pool or ocean to remove chlorine and salt buildup?
Yes. The clarifying properties help lift chlorine, salt, and mineral residue without stripping hair the way harsher shampoos can. The added ceramides and hyaluronic acid help counteract the drying effects of pool chemicals and saltwater.
Is it effective for post-hike or post-run sweat removal when I'm away from home?
Absolutely. The sulfate-free cleansing system is designed to remove sweat and excess oil efficiently. Many users pack it specifically for trail runs, beach workouts, and gym showers where a quick, effective wash is essential.
Will the fragrance-free formula attract fewer bugs during outdoor use?
Fragrance-free products are generally less attractive to insects than heavily scented alternatives. While no shampoo is fully bug-proof, going fragrance-free is a smart choice for camping, patio lounging, and other open-air settings.
Is this a good shampoo to bring on a tropical vacation for humidity control?
Yes. The 72-hour oil balance claim is especially useful in humid climates where hair typically gets greasy faster. Travelers to tropical destinations often rely on this formula to keep roots feeling fresh between washes.
Can I use this at a campsite or outdoor shower without worrying about eco-impact from the runoff?
CeraVe's formula is free of parabens, phthalates, and dyes, which reduces the environmental load of rinse-off. For true eco-conscious camping, follow Leave No Trace principles and dispose of wash water at least 200 feet from natural water sources.
How does this compare to travel-size clarifying shampoos from brands like Briogeo or Living Proof?
Travel-size options from premium brands often come at a higher cost per ounce. CeraVe's full-size bottle can be decanted into a reusable travel container, giving you the same clarifying performance at a more accessible price — and less packaging waste.
Will the bottle hold up in a gym locker or beach tote without leaking?
The bottle has a secure flip-top cap designed to resist leaking under normal conditions. For extra protection in a gym bag or suitcase, place it in a sealed plastic bag or wrap the cap with a small elastic band.
Is this shampoo effective for post-festival or post-concert hair when I'm showering in a non-home setting?
Yes. The clarifying action helps remove product buildup, sweat, and environmental pollutants accumulated during long outdoor events. The gentle formula means you can use it even if your scalp is already irritated from heat or sweat.
Does the bottle's design make it easy to use with wet or sandy hands at the beach?
The wide, easy-grip cap is functional even with wet hands, though sand can make any bottle slippery. Rinsing your hands briefly before dispensing helps. For beach use, many people decant into a pump bottle for one-handed application.
Is this a good choice for a shared cabin or rental house shower where space is limited?
Yes. The slim 12 oz bottle fits easily on narrow shower shelves and in caddies. Its multi-functional design means you only need one shampoo for all hair types in the group, simplifying packing for shared accommodations.
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.