11 Best Shampoos for Dry Scalp, According to Hair Experts

As for what not to put on your scalp: “Avoid hair products that may be drying, such as hair sprays and shampoos with a high alcohol content,” advises Paradi Mirmirani, MD, dermatologist and director of hair disorders for Kaiser Permanente in Northern California. “The higher up on the ingredient list, the more of the product it contains.”

Best dandruff shampoos, according to these dermatologists

Keep flakes at bay and soothe your scalp with these natural treatments, DIY tips and product picks from leading dermatologists.

Scratching your head and seeing little flames of dandruff fall onto your favorite top can spur a lot of emotion: annoyance, loathing, discouragement. For many, dandruff is a small but persistent problem in their self-care routine. Thankfully, according to the American Academy of Dermatology, it’s easily treatable with a dandruff shampoo.

Dandruff, a common condition where small pieces of dry skin flake off the scalp, is frequently used as a catch-all term for a myriad of issues; a dry scalp, oil buildup that itches and flakes, seborrheic dermatitis or psoriasis. When it comes to one’s scalp, dandruff can occur at any time of the year for a myriad of reasons, but people may experience more flaking in winter. “The external air in the wintertime tends to be drier or less humid than in warmer months, which tends to have a drying effect on our skin, including the scalp,” explained Shari Hicks-Graham, MD, a dermatologist in Columbus, Ohio.

What’s more, indoor heating systems pump out dry air, so they have a similar effect on your scalp, while hot showers can also exacerbate dryness during the colder weather season, said Hicks-Graham. “Scalp dryness can turn into flakiness when we brush our hair or rub or scratch our head,” she adds.

Dandruff, technically a mild form of seborrheic dermatitis, may also be the result of stress, or a build-up of excess oils and skin cells on the scalp. “In some cases, there is an overgrowth of a yeast — Malassezia — that normally lives on the skin but may be in excess,” says Mona Mofid, MD, a dermatologist at Sharp Grossmont Hospital in San Diego.

Whatever the cause of these pesky flakes falling from your head, there are solutions. While shopping for a dandruff shampoo or treatment, consider the following ingredients.

• Coconut oil, olive, jojoba or avocado oil: If you’re struggling with a dry scalp, these natural oils are “very good for the scalp,” says Debra Jaliman, MD, a dermatologist in New York City and author of “Skin Rules”. Coconut oil is naturally antibacterial and extremely nourishing thanks to the vitamins and essential fatty acids it contains, while olive oil is full of antioxidants that help protect the skin when applied topically. “A good trick is to apply one of those oils to the scalp overnight once a week, or even once a month, to give your scalp a hydrating treatment,” says Mofid.
• Apple cider vinegar is antibacterial and antifungal, said Jaliman, which can help with a buildup of excess oil. She recommends diluting the vinegar with water before putting it near your scalp.
• Tar or tar-based shampoos can also help too with dandruff from, said Mofid, though they can have a strong, unpleasant scent.
• Beyond natural remedies, there are plenty of shampoos targeted to treat seborrheic dermatitis. “Some ingredients to look for which can help soothe a flaky scalp include ketoconazole, salicylic acid, selenium sulfide, and 2% pyrithione zinc,” said Paul Cellura, MD, dermatologist at Tribeca Skin Center in New York City. Glycolic acid, which is commonly used in facial chemical peels, can also be very effective on the scalp when used in modest amounts, says Hicks-Graham.
• pH balance: The pH balance of the skin is 5.5, noted Jaliman. So using a product that is close to that pH will keep your skin at that pH. “A product with a very high or a very low pH would alter the pH of the skin,” she said, potentially spurring further flaking.

As for what not to put on your scalp: “Avoid hair products that may be drying, such as hair sprays and shampoos with a high alcohol content,” advises Paradi Mirmirani, MD, dermatologist and director of hair disorders for Kaiser Permanente in Northern California. “The higher up on the ingredient list, the more of the product it contains.”

Shopping How to pare and polish your cuticles

The best shampoos for a dry, flaky scalp

Take care of your dandruff with one of these dermatologist-approved shampoos. But keep this in mind: “If over-the-counter products fail to fully control the scalp irritation, it may be wise to pay a visit to a board-certified dermatologist for further evaluation,” says Cellura.

Neutrogena T/Gel Extra Strength Therapeutic Shampoo

Tar shampoos, like this option from Neutrogena, “tend to be a bit smelly,” said Mofid, but they do work. This option, which Cellura recommended, relies on 1 percent coal tar to ease flaking and scalp irritation associated with seborrheic dermatitis, dandruff and scalp psoriasis. Neutrogena says it’s gentle enough for daily use, but can be used just once to reduce symptoms for an entire week.

11 Best Shampoos for Dry Scalp, According to Hair Experts

Those flakes and itchiness? Dandruff may not be at the root of the problem after all.

By Jacqueline Saguin Published: Sep 27, 2023

When scalp flakiness and itchiness hit and a dandruff shampoo hasn’t slowed the light dusting, the root of the problem may be something else entirely. Often confused for dandruff, dryness on the scalp presents with similar symptoms, but the underlying causes are slightly different and thus need altogether different treatments.

While both dandruff and dry scalp can lead to itching and tightness, dandruff typically presents as white or yellowish flakes of dead skin while dry scalp produces flakes that are often smaller and drier, says Isfahan Chambers-Harris, M.P.H., Ph.D., a trichologist and the creator of Alodia. The causes of dry scalp can range from skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis, hormonal fluctuations and weather, says Dr. Chambers-Harris. Other things like dehydration to how much shampoo you squeeze out can lead to dryness and irritation.

Our top picks:

Best Overall Shampoo for Dry Scalp

Aveeno Skin Relief Soothing Shampoo 300ml

Best Value Shampoo for Dry Scalp

Dove DermaCare Anti Dandruff Shampoo

Best Shampoo for Dry Scalp and Hair

Herbal Essences Bio:Renew Hydrating Shampoo

Best Shampoo for Dry, Sensitive Scalp

Vanicream Shampoo

Best Soothing Shampoo for Dry Scalp

Philip Kingsley Flaky Scalp Shampoo

Best Shampoo for Dry Scalp and Color-Treated Hair

Pureology Hydrating Shampoo

Best Shampoo for Dry Scalp and Thick Hair

INNERSENSE Hydrating Cream Hairbath Shampoo

Best Shampoo for Dry Scalp and Curly Hair

KERASTASE Symbiose Anti-Dandruff Shampoo Crème

Best Shampoo for Dry Scalp and Dandruff

Head and Shoulders Smooth and Silky Shampoo

Best Exfoliating Shampoo for Dry Scalp

Briogeo Scalp Revival Scrub

To help soothe and hydrate dry scalp, we searched for the best shampoos for dry scalp, getting insight from a number of hair experts, including professional trichologists and beauty scientists in the Good Housekeeping Institute. Other recommendations include rave online reviews backed by IRL results. To really get into the nitty gritty of dry scalp concerns, read on for what ingredients to look for — as well as treatment tips — at the end of this guide.

Aveeno Skin Relief Soothing Shampoo 300ml

Aveeno Skin Relief Soothing Shampoo 300ml

Pros

• Gentle formula
• May benefit those with eczema

Cons

Aveeno is known for having sensitive-skin friendly formulas dosed with soothing ingredient collodial oatmeal that can help to nourish skin and hair . Dr. Chambers-Harris recommends the soap-free formula that aims to be non-stripping and gentle on severely dry, sensitive scalps. Given its sheerer texture, the brand says it’s best suited for people with thin, fine hair.

“This has worked wonders on my husband’s really dry scalp,” an Amazon shopper wrote. “After a year of thinking he had dandruff and treating his head for this, our hairdresser recommended this product and said it’s not dandruff, which is now obvious. Started working after about four washes.”

Dove DermaCare Anti Dandruff Shampoo

Dove DermaCare Anti Dandruff Shampoo

Pros

• Affordable
• Includes hydrating and anti-inflammatory ingredients

Cons

Delivering a one-two punch, Dove’s shampoo uses coconut and shea butter to hydrate parched scalps, and anti-inflammatory active pyrithione zinc to target dandruff — all for $5. Dove haircare consistently performs in our Beauty Lab tests, with its Nutritive Solutions Intensive Repair Shampoo earning a 2023 GH Beauty Award for its repairing and nourishing benefits.

“The zinc has really calmed the eczema patches and reduced/eliminated the areas on my scalp that are angry, red and bleeding,” according to an Amazon user with eczema. “This shampoo is perfect for dry scalp. It doesn’t cost a fortune and works perfectly,” another added. The scent left reviewers divided: Some appreciated the “hypoallergenic fragrance” while others found it smelled odd.

Herbal Essences Bio:Renew Hydrating Shampoo

Herbal Essences Bio:Renew Hydrating Shampoo

Pros

• Proven hydrating and conditioning effects
• Great lather

Cons

Rated as the best shampoo for dry hair based on our GH Beauty Lab’s moisturizing shampoo tests, the coconut extract and aloe Herbal Essences shampoo and matching conditioner boasted the highest level of conditioning. It impressed in the lathering and cleansing departments, too. “My dry hair was much more moisturized,” a tester marveled.

Online reviewers appreciated that it left the scalp feeling equally hydrated, especially when frigid temps took affect. “The winter is a dreadful time for my hair: My scalp gets dry, my hair gets dry and I can never find something to really help my hair look alive and healthy,” a Walmart shopper wrote. “I have been using the Bio:Renew Coconut Milk Shampoo for two weeks, and my hair is LOVING it. My hair has shine, my scalp doesn’t itch and the scent is just amazing.” Take note that some online reviewers report the rich shampoo left a film on their hair after using.

Vanicream Shampoo

Vanicream Shampoo

Pros

• Suitable for sensitive skin
• Effective cleansing

Cons

Those who suffer from sensitive skin may know Vanicream for its famed mild-yet-effective skincare and haircare. Many think its line of no-frills, fragrance-free formulas make an ideal non-drying match for those with skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis. One GH editor with dry, sensitive skin used Vanicream as a “reset” when winter months flared their eczema.

“This shampoo will really clean your hair without stripping it,” an Amazon reviewer said. “I am sensitive to fragrances, and I can use this shampoo after I have been out and it removes all accumulated scents and fragrances that my hair has picked up. If you are sensitive to fragrances, you know what I mean.” Just note that select reviews added that it didn’t suds up and lather as well, which is the norm for sulfate-free shampoo formulas, but off-putting for some nonetheless.

Philip Kingsley Flaky Scalp Shampoo

Philip Kingsley Flaky Scalp Shampoo

Pros

• Great for those with dermatitis
• Helps reduce itchiness

Cons

Trichologists and GH staffers alike like this shampoo for dry scalps, thanks to a aloe and castor oil formula that “instantly soothes and calms,” according to Kerry E. Yates, founder of Colour Collective, which teams with beauty industry professionals to help conceptualize products. “I used to have the worst dry, flaky and itchy scalp, and this shampoo completely fixed the problem!” adds one GH senior analyst.

“I have fought my scalp psoriasis for as long as I can remember,” a user wrote on the Philip Kingsley website. “It’s been an endless battle. This has been an absolute game changer! I’ve noticed a significant reduction in itch and flakes.” It’s pricey, but our senior analyst says, “After trying nearly every remedy out there, this shampoo is 100% worth the investment.”

Pureology Hydrating Shampoo

Pureology Hydrating Shampoo

Pros

• Contains hydrating ingredients
• Great for medium to thick hair types

Cons

Color-treated hair requires a bit of maintenance; you’ll want to keep your ‘do vibrant and nourish strands, but you can still be left with a dry scalp. This Pureology shampoo and its conditioner contain hydrating jojoba oil designed to moisturize color-treated hair and green tea to promote a healthy scalp.

Given its thicker and creamier texture, it’s most ideal for thicker hair types. “My hairdresser recommended this to me because I have a very dry scalp,” one Amazon reviewer said. “For the price, it is worth it . my hair has transformed!”

INNERSENSE Hydrating Cream Hairbath Shampoo

INNERSENSE Hydrating Cream Hairbath Shampoo

Pros

• Creamy, rich lather
• Hydrating ingredients pentrate coarse, curly hair types

Cons

Innersense gives parched scalps a creamy, rich lather that “instantly hydrates,” says Yates. She recommends the shampoo for alleviating tightness and improving manageability. Recommended for thick, coarse hair, the ultra-nourishing combination of shea butter, avocado and tamanu oil penetrate strands.

“I have short, coarse hair, usually extremely dry. This shampoo gently cleanses, a little goes a long way,” an Amazon shopper raved. “My hair is gradually becoming more hydrated after each use.” Quite a few people noted its powerful floral scent — some enjoyed it while others would’ve gone without.

KERASTASE Symbiose Anti-Dandruff Shampoo Crème

KERASTASE Symbiose Anti-Dandruff Shampoo Crème

Pros

• Also great for treating dandruff
• Luxurious-feeling formula

Cons

Curly hair tends to need some TLC when it comes to beating flakes and irritation as they tend to be drier than other hair types. When her hair is going through an itchy spell, one GH Deputy Editor cycles this shampoo in for a few washes to nix any flakes, dryness or discomfort.

“Anti-dandruff shampoos can feel very clinical and un-glamorous, but I love how elegant this bottle looks in my shower, and how luxe the product feels (and smells!),” she said. Plus, it’s made with proven dandruff-fighting ingredient pyrithione zinc. The shampoo lathers well, rinses clean and leaves my hair soft and manageable,” one reviewer wrote online. “I found it didn’t irritate my scalp and actually has made it less dry and itchy.” It’s pricey, but a little goes a long way.

Head and Shoulders Smooth and Silky Shampoo

Head and Shoulders Smooth and Silky Shampoo

Pros

• Pleasing scent
• Creamy lather
• Includes dandruff-fighting pyrithione zinc

Cons

• Some online users feel it left a residue even after rinsing

A tried-and-true anti-dandruff shampoo, Head and Shoulders deploys key ingredient pyrithione zinc to specifically treat dandruff. GH beauty pros complimented the shampoo’s fresh fragrance, a major plus for dry scalp shampoos since some of them can have a medicinal scent. “I love the creamy texture of the shampoo and the dense lather it creates,” adds our beauty review analyst.

“I used to have dry and frizzy hair, and this shampoo works pretty well,” a satisfied Amazon reviewer commented. “It leaves your hair silky, smooth and 100% dandruff free. The best part about this shampoo is you require very little amount and it works superb.” It’s worth noting that a few users on the brand’s site experienced a waxy-like film on hair after washing.

Briogeo Scalp Revival Scrub

Briogeo Scalp Revival Scrub

Pros

• Micro-exfoliant helps to lift flakes
• Made with hydrating coconut oil
• Great for oily hair types

Cons

Give flakes the boot with a scrub that gets right down to business. This exfoliator combines stimulating tea tree and peppermint oil that gives scalp a tingling sensation and aims to reduce congested hair follicles while coconut oil moisturizes.

“I do not wash my hair regularly and experience quite a bit of buildup on my scalp. No shampoos have made my scalp feel the way this shampoo does,” a Sephora reviewer wrote. “It gives me an extremely deep clean without harshly stripping my scalp [or] leaving it red, sore and itchy.” You’ll get strong whiff of peppermint with the scrub, so keep in mind if you prefer less potent-smelling formulas.

OUAI Detox Shampoo

OUAI Detox Shampoo

Pros

• Washes away product buildup without drying scalp
• Leaves hair feeling very clean but not overly dry

Cons

Uniquely formulated with apple cider vinegar, this OUAI shampoo gets rid of dirt and grime according to our Lab pros who personally found it washed away styling product buildup without over-drying. Other detoxifying shampoos may leave hair feeling brittle and straw-like, but on assistant editor said, “a small amount of this shampoo leaves my hair feeling super clean without leaving it dry.”

“My scalp gets sooo dry and irritated in the winter and is very sensitive, and this shampoo works so well for me,” a Sephora shopper wrote. “It smells so good and lathers well, too. I do make sure to do a deep condition of my hair afterwards. Yates recommends using sparingly: Washing with clarifying shampoos too often can cause dryness and tightness on the scalp, so use sparingly.

How we chose the best shampoo for dry scalp

Our editors created this comprehensive list of picks by considering haircare brands consistently vetted by GH Beauty Lab pros, recommendations from professional trichologists and favorites from GH staffers who personally struggle with dry scalps. When testing shampoos, GH Beauty Lab scientists typically evaluate products based on cleansing and conditioning performance, how well they soften and hydrate hair, whether they weigh down strands and ease of use, including dispensing, lathering, rinsing, scent and irritation. While the Beauty Lab hasn’t formally tested shampoos for dry scalp, we kept these factors in mind when slimming down our list to the very top picks.

What to consider when shopping for the best shampoo for dry scalp

It’s crucial to look for specific ingredients that can help moisturize and soothe the scalp while avoiding ingredients that can exacerbate dryness or irritation. Scan the back of shampoo bottles for these key ingredients, as recommended by Dr. Chambers-Harris:
✔️ Hyaluronic acid: Known as a gentle hydrator that’s commonly used in skincare serums
✔️ Aloe vera: The plant derivative soothes and relieves irritation while moisturizing dry patches
✔️ Colloidal oatmeal: Anti-inflammatory ingredient often found in soothing body lotions and lotions for eczema
✔️ Jojoba oil: Also frequently formulated in conditioners to combat dryness and breakage, the multi-tasking oil is coveted for its deeply hydrating benefits

What else can you do for really dry scalp?

✔️ Don’t over wash: Fight the urge to scrub out flakes — washing your hair too frequently can strip the scalp of its natural oils. “Try to space out your washes and only shampoo as often as necessary,” advised Dr. Chambers-Harris.

✔️ Prep for cold weather: A hat or a scarf can serve a greater purpose than accessorizing your ‘fit — they protect your scalp from the harsh, drying effects of cold air and wind that strip skin of moisture.

✔️ Maintain a healthy lifestyle: “Eat a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals that promote healthy skin, hair and scalp,” said Dr. Chambers-Harris. “Omega-3 fatty acids, biotin and zinc can be beneficial.” Drink plenty of water to maintain overall skin hydration, including your scalp. Even certain medications can impact overall scalp health, so check in with your doctor or dermatologist accordingly.