Skin problems in horses, such as itching, dandruff, redness, or weeping sores, are not uncommon—and can be a real burden for the affected animals. A common question from horse owners is therefore:
Which shampoo is really suitable for skin problems?

Why choosing the right shampoo is so important

A horse's skin is particularly sensitive—it is thinner than human skin, reacts more quickly to external factors, and has its own microflora that needs to be protected.

Using the wrong shampoo with harsh ingredients can disrupt the skin's natural balance, dry it out, or even cause new irritation.

Therefore, not every shampoo is suitable for every horse. Especially when skin problems are present, it is crucial to use a gentle, mild cleanser that is gentle on the skin.

Here's what to look for when choosing a shampoo

 Gentle, skin-friendly ingredients

• pH-neutral for horses' skin

• Free of artificial fragrances, colors, and preservatives

• No sulfates or parabens

 Effective yet natural ingredients

• Milk proteins or antibodies to soothe the skin

• Plant-based oils (e.g., coconut or jojoba) to restore moisture

• Moisturizers such as aloe vera or glycerin

You should avoid these mistakes

• Do not use human shampoo —it is not formulated for the needs of a horse's skin.
• Don't wash too often —it can dry out your skin and damage its protective barrier.
• Avoid harsh cleansers —they further irritate the skin and can cause inflammation.

Did you know? Washing less often leads to healthier skin and better results than washing frequently.

Doderm—for healthy skin and a shiny coat

Our Alpaca Shampoo Bar is specially formulated for horses and Icelandic horses with sensitive and irritated skin. This mild and nourishing soap contains alpaca keratin. The keratin derived from alpaca fleece is hypoallergenic, moisturizing, and rich in essential nutrients that nourish and strengthen the skin. This makes the soap suitable for irritated skin and skin prone to eczema