Hair loss and scalp tenderness are among the most visible and emotional side effects of chemotherapy. When treatment ends, many people look forward to their hair regrowing - only to find their scalp feels tight, itchy, sore, or painfully sensitive. 

When treatment ends, recovery begins - but your scalp may still be telling a story of sensitivity. If washing your hair has become uncomfortable, painful, or worrisome since chemotherapy, you’re not alone. Many people in the UK experience ongoing scalp irritation long after their final cycle.

If you’re searching for a post-chemotherapy shampoo in the UK that’s gentle on a sensitive scalp, this guide will help you understand what’s happening and offer support for caring for your scalp after chemotherapy. 

In this guide, we’ll cover:

• Why your scalp changes after chemotherapy
• Common symptoms you might be experiencing
• What ingredients to avoid (and why)
• A gentle, fragrance-free formula that could help
• How to build a recovery routine that supports healing and regrowth
• FAQs based on NHS and UK cancer care advice

Why your scalp changes after Chemotherapy treatment

Chemotherapy works by attacking rapidly dividing cells, which includes hair follicles. While your hair will regrow, your scalp’s barrier can remain fragile for weeks, months or sometimes indefinitely.

According to the NHS, “Hair loss can happen with chemotherapy. It may start within two to three weeks of beginning treatment.” The skin underneath often becomes dry, tight, or tender, especially as hair starts to shed. NHS, Chemotherapy Side Effects

Cancer Research UK adds: “Your scalp may feel tender or sore when your hair falls out or begins to regrow.” Cancer Research, UK Hair Loss Guide

This sensitivity is usually temporary, but caring for it properly makes a huge difference in comfort and recovery.

Common post-chemotherapy scalp sensitivity symptoms

Macmillan Cancer Support notes: “If you lose your hair, your scalp may feel tender or sore. Use mild shampoo and avoid perms or colouring.”

What ingredients to avoid in a post-chemotherapy shampoo (and why)

Chemotherapy leaves the skin’s protective barrier vulnerable. Common shampoo ingredients like harsh sulfates, parabens, and fragrance can cause burning or itching.

Velindre NHS advises: “Use a mild shampoo (not baby shampoo). Use lukewarm, not hot water. Pat your hair dry gently with a soft towel.” (Velindre NHS Hair Loss Advice)

The key is to avoid harsh detergents (like sodium lauryl sulphate), perfume, and strong preservatives while your scalp rebuilds its natural defences. It's a good idea to look for a hypoallergenic shampoo that: 

• Fragrance-Free and Hypoallergenic: to reduce irritation
• Free From Harsh Sulfates and Paraben-Free: to prevent dryness and stinging
• Dermatologically Tested: proven safe for sensitive skin
• Balanced pH (5–6): supports the scalp barrier
• Minimal Ingredients: less risk of reaction, more nourishment
• Backed by Allergy Experts: supported by those informed about allergens and irritants.

“Moisturise the skin on your scalp using gentle, unscented and mild products.” (Lymphoma Action).

A gentle fragrance-free, pH-Balanced Shampoo for sensitive scalps

That’s where Olsson Scandinavia® Sensitive Shampoo or STHUR® Mild Shampoo could* provide a solution.

Developed in Denmark with dermatologists (and leading stylists), both brands are strong contenders that offer a gentle shampoo option for cancer recovery, which are clinically tested for sensitive scalps, fragrance-free, colourant-free and backed by allergy experts, Asthma Allergy Nordic and Allergy UK, who have scrutinised the formula and provided approvals. 

These products benefit from the following; 

• Gently cleanses without stripping moisture from the scalp
• Restores comfort to tight or itchy scalps through its emollient formula
• Supports barrier repair and natural hydration
• Reduces risk of stinging or redness
• Fragrance-free for those who can’t tolerate any known irritants.

*Note: Why do we say 'could'? While our formulas have been carefully developed to support even the most sensitive scalps, everyone’s skin is unique. Factors such as sensitivities, allergens, individual DNA, and personal triggers mean that no product can be guaranteed to suit all. We’ve done everything possible to make our products as gentle and inclusive as science allows, and we always recommend carrying out a patch test (which we offer free, click here to access one) before first use if you wish to explore further. 

How to build a gentle post-chemotherapy haircare routine

• Wait until your scalp feels comfortable before your first wash.
• Use lukewarm (not hot) water.
• Start by using your new formula sparingly, massage gently with fingertips or use a scalp brush.
• Rinse thoroughly and pat dry.
• Use cool heat if you use a hairdryer.
• Avoid fragrance, colouring, and alcohol-based styling products.

Marie Curie recommends: “Use gentle, unscented and mild products to moisturise and protect your scalp as it recovers.” 

Hair regrowth and recovery timeline after chemotherapy

According to Cancer Research UK, hair usually starts to grow back 3–6 months after chemotherapy and continues improving over the next year. (Cancer Research, UK Regrowth Guide)

Macmillan adds: “About three to six months after treatment ends, your head will probably have a covering of very short hair.” (Macmillan Hair Regrowth)

Even as hair returns, the scalp can remain hypersensitive for some time after. Consistent use of a non-irritating shampoo helps restore comfort and balance to the scalp. 

How Olsson Scandinavia® and Stuhr® Mild align with expert advice at a glance.

The world's first haircare brand approved by allergen experts in Denmark, Norway, Sweden and UK.