If you’ve found yourself here seeking life-saving Korean cooling shampoos for summer, I imagine your scalp isn’t feeling quite its best in this summer heat. There’s something particularly frustrating about how even well-maintained hair can transform into a greasy, uncomfortable situation when temperatures rise.
You know the feeling—when those oil glands decide to work overtime and suddenly you’re dealing with that sticky, flat-hair sensation that seems nearly impossible to remedy. It’s one of those universal summer struggles we all face.
What’s actually happening: summer heat causes overactive oil production on your scalp and increased sweating, which together create a perfect storm of grease, clogged pores, irritation, dandruff, and general discomfort. Your scalp is essentially responding to heat stress in ways that make everything feel unpleasant.
This is where a Korean cooling shampoo really helps. Throughout Korea, the summer heat calls for innovative Korean summer shampoo formulas that not only cool and refresh, but also help manage excess oil, sweat, and irritation.
Korean brands take a thoughtful approach to these formulas, carefully blending menthol with complementary ingredients like peppermint and eucalyptus oil to create genuine relief for troubled scalps. Many Korean cooling shampoo options also offer anti-hair loss properties—a nice bonus for summer hair care routines.
What I’ve discovered is that cooling intensity matters tremendously, and what feels refreshing to someone with an oily scalp might be overwhelming for sensitive skin. These cooling formulas work by providing that refreshing sensation through menthol or peppermint that actually reduces scalp temperature and soothes irritation.
They deeply cleanse excess sebum, sweat, and dead skin cells, regulate oiliness, stimulate scalp blood circulation, and offer antimicrobial benefits—essentially giving your overheated scalp the kindness it deserves.
Who Should Use Cooling Shampoos?
Cooling shampoos are particularly beneficial for those with oily scalps, heavy sweating, active lifestyles, or anyone living in hot, humid climates. If your scalp is prone to dandruff and irritation, a cooling Korean shampoo for dandruff and itch could help minimize symptoms.
However, it’s worth noting that stronger menthol products may irritate dry or sensitive scalps and should be used with care, especially by those with damaged hair or existing scalp conditions.
I’ve been quite thorough in researching these formulas, analyzing user experiences, and understanding what each product offers. Based on my research, I consider these 5 Korean shampoos for summer 2025 as must-tries for real relief and refreshment.
A Word About EWG Scores & Ingredient Concerns
In my recommendations below, you’ll notice some ingredients that don’t score perfectly on the EWG scale—those “Ingredients to Be Cautious Of” that I’ve carefully noted. If this worries you, I find your caution perfectly understandable. There’s quite a bit of conflicting information about ingredient safety these days.
My honest perspective: what works for your scalp is deeply personal. Some people flourish beautifully with formulas containing a few flagged ingredients, while others prefer to keep their routines as clean as possible—and both approaches are perfectly valid.
Rather than chasing perfect ingredient lists, the real goal should be finding a Korean cooling shampoo that genuinely improves how your scalp feels—one that leaves it better, not worse. So yes, by all means, read labels and stay informed, but don’t let concerns override finding something that actually works for you.
There Are the 5 Best Korean Cooling Shampoos for Summer
1. GROWUS Sea Salt Therapy Shampoo EX
$31.00 | 500g
A wonderful Korean shampoo for summer and deep scalp cleansing! GROWUS Sea Salt Therapy Shampoo EX is remarkable for its thoughtful formulation with sea salt, seawater minerals, and gentle scrub particles.
It doesn’t merely clean the surface—this Korean clarifying shampoo goes deeper to truly decongest those troublesome scalp pores, delivering that refreshing, invigorating feeling one craves. The scent is described as beautifully clean and oceanic, with fresh and earthy undertones that many find quite appealing.
Cooling Intensity:
- Moderate—provides a satisfying, fresh, deep cleaning without that overwhelming menthol intensity that can be quite shocking.
Best For:
- Those with oily, dandruff-prone scalps that have buildup; also great for sensitive people when used just 1–2 times per week.
Key Ingredients
- Capryloyl Salicylic Acid (LHA): Provides gentle exfoliation for a smoother, clearer scalp
- Dexpanthenol (Provitamin B5): Offers deep hydration and calming for the scalp, supporting its natural moisture and recovery
- Glycolipids, Gluconolactone: The mildest, most naturally derived cleansers and hydrators
- Menthol: Provides cooling and soothing relief, improves blood flow, detoxifies, and balances scalp oils
- Niacinamide (Vitamin B3): Restores and strengthens the scalp’s natural barrier, improves skin tone, and provides anti-inflammatory benefits
- Salicylic Acid (BHA): Exfoliates, dissolves dead skin cells, and controls excess oil—excellent for dandruff and clogged pores
- Sea Salt, Apricot Seed Powder, Microcrystalline Cellulose, Walnut Shell Powder: Natural exfoliants that gently remove dead skin and unclog pores
- Seawater: Delivers minerals to soothe, hydrate, and balance
Ingredients to Be Cautious Of
- Alpha-Isomethyl Ionone, Fragrance, Limonene, Linalool, Menthol: May cause irritation or allergic reactions in sensitive people.
PROS
- The cleansing is truly amazing; it removes oil, buildup, and dead skin beautifully
- Many users notice their flakes diminishing with regular use
- The scent has won over so many hearts, with some users saying it’s reminiscent of Jo Malone’s Wood Sage & Sea Salt Cologne
- It creates the richest lather with just the smallest amount of product
- Many users have mentioned reduced hair loss
CONS
- It can be drying to the hair—thorough conditioning is essential
- Some find the scent a bit strong or “masculine” for their preference
- Salt particles can irritate the eyes
- It’s not intended for daily use
- Too intense for very dry or damaged scalps
Bottom Line:
This is genuine scalp therapy with impressive deep-cleansing results—simply make sure you follow with a moisturizing conditioner.
2. LABO-H Scalp Cooling & No-sebum Shampoo
$42.000 | 750ml
When you want Korean scalp care for summer and oily hair, LABO-H Super Cooling & No-sebum Shampoo brings a heavy hit of menthol and peppermint, chasing away grease and sweat—making it an ideal Korean mint shampoo for hot, humid seasons.
The scent is described as distinctly minty and menthol-like, fresh and clean, though reviews suggest it’s rather divisive: some adore the invigorating “ice-cool” sensation, while others find it medicinal.
Cooling Intensity:
- Strong—one of the most noticeable I’ve found, with a wonderfully long-lasting icy feeling.
Best For:
- Oily, greasy, or sweaty scalps struggling with buildup or that dreadful sticky feeling.
Key Ingredients
- Menthol, Peppermint Oil, Eucalyptus Leaf Oil: Intense cooling for hot, oily scalps
- Lactobacillus Ferment Lysate, Ceramide NP, Hydrogenated Lecithin (Scalp Barrier 218 Technology): Strengthen the scalp’s natural barrier and support proper moisture balance
- Caffeine, Ginseng Root, Ginger Root: Support scalp health; mainly benefit the scalp environment, with subtle hair-loss effects
- Sea Salt, Microcrystalline Cellulose: Natural exfoliants for thorough cleansing
- Aloe Vera, Green Tea, Viola Odorata: Soothe and hydrate
Ingredients to Be Cautious Of
- Eucalyptus Leaf Oil, Peppermint Oil, Menthol, Sodium Sulfite, Chromium Hydroxide Green, Disodium EDTA: May cause irritation or allergic reactions in sensitive people.
PROS
- Prolonged, intense cooling sensation is remarkable
- It works amazingly well for oily, greasy scalps and product buildup
- Creates a lightweight, “squeaky clean” finish that many appreciate
- It’s vegan and pH-balanced, with advanced scalp barrier technology
- Registered as a “functional hair loss cosmetic”
CONS
- It leaves both hair and scalp rather dry—proper conditioning is essential
- Cooling sensation might be too much for sensitive or irritated scalps
- The scent is highly subjective
- The hair-loss benefit remains modest and indirect
Bottom Line:
Choose this for an intense scalp “renewal” and icy relief. Do follow with hydrating conditioner, and perhaps try before purchasing if you’re sensitive to strong scents or cooling!
3. RYO ROOT:GEN Oil Balancing Shampoo
￦18,900 | 515ml | Currently available only on Amore Mall and Olive Young Korea
This makes for an excellent choice if you want a mild summer Korean shampoo for oily yet sensitive scalps. It removes excess oils and buildup while leaving the scalp feeling naturally fresh and comfortable, making it a suitable Korean shampoo for oily scalp that’s also prone to irritation.
The cooling is wonderfully gentle, and that minty-citrus fragrance appeals to those who prefer subtler scents over medicinal notes.
Cooling Intensity:
- Mild to moderate—much less intense than those extreme menthol products that can be overwhelming.
Best For:
- Oily scalps that need effective, frequent cleansing without harshness, and those who prefer a subtle, citrus-mint scent.
Key Ingredients
- Caffeine: May help scalp blood flow, hair growth, and provide DHT blocking benefits
- Camellia Japonica Extract: Moisturizes, strengthens, and protects both scalp and hair
- Dexpanthenol (Provitamin B5): Hydrates and calms the scalp
- Houttuynia Cordata Extract: Anti-inflammatory and antibacterial; excellent for sensitive or oily scalps
- Hydrolyzed Vegetable Protein: Penetrates hair for strength, moisture, and resilience
- Menthol: Provides cooling, improves blood flow, detoxifies, and balances oils
- Sodium Cocoyl Alaninate: A gentle, mild cleanser
Ingredients to Be Cautious Of
- Benzyl Salicylate, Disodium EDTA, Fragrance, Peppermint Oil, Menthol, Phenoxyethanol, Piroctone Olamine, Sodium Salicylate, Sodium Sulfite: May cause irritation or allergic reactions in sensitive people.
PROS
- It deep cleans oil, sweat, and buildup beautifully
- The mild cooling is perfect for sensitive scalps
- The citrus-mint fragrance is generally well-liked and quite pleasant
- It leaves the scalp feeling fresh without any uncomfortable tightness
- Has official certification for scalp health support
CONS
- The milder cooling may disappoint those desiring strong menthol sensations
- It can dry hair somewhat; proper conditioning is recommended
- It’s slightly more expensive with a smaller bottle than some others
Bottom Line:
Absolutely ideal for gentle, effective oil control with a pleasant scent and no overwhelming menthol intensity!
4. Dr.FORHAIR Folligen Deep Clean Cooling Shampoo
$26.00 | 300ml
A favorite scalp cooling shampoo from Korea, this formula has been thoughtfully designed for scalp heat, excess oil, and sweat problems. Featuring pure Icelandic Glacier Water and a powerful cooling blend, it excels at quickly lowering scalp temperature while providing that clean, healthy sensation one desires.
Cooling Intensity:
- Very strong—gives spa-like, immediate cooling. Limit use if your scalp tends to be sensitive.
Best For:
- Oily, combination, or heat-prone scalps, particularly those troubled with seborrheic dermatitis, scalp acne, mild inflammation, or sweat issues.
Key Ingredients
- Aloe Vera: Hydrates and soothes
- Biotin: Supports stronger, thicker hair growth
- Ceramide NP: Strengthens the scalp’s natural barrier
- Cone Mint, Eucalyptus Leaf: Cooling and antibacterial effects
- Dexpanthenol: Moisturizes, repairs, and soothes
- Erythritol, Lemongrass: Support moisture retention and provide antioxidant benefits
- Niacinamide: Brightens, strengthens, and soothes
- Salicylic Acid: Exfoliates, reduces dandruff
- Saw Palmetto Fruit Extract: Traditionally used for scalp health and hormone balance
Ingredients to Be Cautious Of
- Citral, Disodium EDTA, Fragrance, Hexyl Cinnamal, Limonene, Linalool, Menthol, Phenoxyethanol: May cause irritation or allergic reactions in sensitive people.
PROS
- Powerful, immediate cooling sensation
- It deep cleanses oil, impurities, and dead skin thoroughly
- The elegant mint scent is generally well-liked
- It genuinely helps with scalp acne and seborrheic dermatitis
- Clinically recognized for hair-loss prevention
- Creates rich lather; a little goes a long way
CONS
- It may prove drying to hair—proper conditioning is essential
- Strong cooling may not suit those with sensitive scalps
- Not intended for daily use on dry or ultra-sensitive scalps without patch testing
Bottom Line:
Outstanding for oily, sweaty, and troubled scalps. For best results (particularly if you have dry or sensitive skin), do follow with conditioning and avoid daily use!
5. MINOXELL Dandruff Scalp Cooling Shampoo
$26.00 | 300ml | Only available in Korea — recommend using a Korean proxy shopping service
This Korean shampoo for dandruff and itch comes from the well-known Hyundai Pharm, specially designed to relieve dandruff, itchiness, and scalp heat. Clinical studies show it can lower scalp temperature by an amazing 7°C!
With exfoliating and sebum-controlling ingredients including apple cider vinegar, lemon extract, and piroctone olamine, it offers the most refreshing menthol and eucalyptus scent. The sulfate- and silicone-free formula proves less irritating, and it has certification for helping with hair loss symptoms.
Cooling Intensity:
- Very strong—delivers immediate and long-lasting cooling sensation, reliably reducing scalp temperature.
Best For:
- Those who need dandruff and itch relief, cooling for oily scalps, or support for early-stage hair loss symptoms.
Key Ingredients
- Vinegar: Exfoliates, balances pH, controls sebum production
- Eucalyptus Leaf Oil: Cooling and antibacterial properties
- Lemon Extract: Exfoliates, manages sebum, provides antioxidants
- Menthol: Strong cooling, soothes itch and irritation, improves circulation
- MINOXELL Complex: Hyundai Pharm’s proprietary scalp health blend
- Piroctone Olamine: Fights dandruff, supports overall scalp health
Ingredients to Be Cautious Of
- Disodium EDTA, Eucalyptus Leaf Oil, Fragrance, Hexyl Cinnamal, Limonene, Linalool, Menthol, Phenoxyethanol: May cause irritation or allergic reactions in sensitive people.
PROS
- Strong cooling effect and scalp refreshment
- Many users praise improvement in dandruff, itchiness, and flakiness
- It’s clinically proven to lower scalp temperature
- Creates rich lather with fresh and lasting scent
- Effective against early hair loss symptoms
- The lingering scent is appreciated by many users
CONS
- Intense cooling may feel harsh on dry or sensitive scalps
- Some consider the fragrance rather strong
- It may leave hair somewhat stiff—conditioning afterward is essential
- Not ideal for daily or long-term use; best used seasonally or as needed
Bottom Line:
Absolutely perfect for oily or troubled scalps requiring strong cooling and relief from flakes, itch, or early hair loss symptoms. For sensitive or dry scalps, do alternate with conditioning treatments and use only as needed!
My Final Thoughts
Cooling shampoos aren’t merely some summer trend—they can genuinely provide the most blessed relief and refreshment for your scalp when chosen with wisdom and care. Korean cooling shampoos, in particular, are formulated with thoughtful attention to address diverse scalp types and cooling preferences.
Do remember that using cooling shampoos merely 2-3 times weekly during summer, alongside gentle daily cleansing, helps maintain that perfect scalp balance and comfort without the troublesome overdrying.
The true benefit shows when you embrace targeted summer scalp care with precisely the right cooling shampoo—it prevents dandruff, irritation, and oil buildup, supports the healthiest hair growth, and provides protection against heat-related damage such as sunburn and microbiome imbalance.
I do hope you find yourself blessed with the most comfortable, refreshed scalp throughout this entire summer season!
Joey is the voice behind Goguma Cider, where she shares honest, first-hand reviews, breaks down Korean beauty trends into clear, practical advice, and spotlights underrated local brands worth knowing.
