Have you been struggling with a dry, itchy and flaky scalp lately? Before you jump to anti-dandruff products, know that an itchy scalp and dandruff are two distinctly different issues.
To tackle the root cause of your dry scalp, here are some facts you need to know about it — symptoms, causes, and everything in between.
What is a Dry Scalp?
Dry scalps are often caused by insufficient moisture, causing the skin to dry out and flake off. Think of it as dry skin on your body, where excessive lack of hydration can lead to flaking. And though dry scalp is not a persistent hair condition, it can be triggered by overwashing, genetics, high levels of heat and sun exposure.
Also, it's important not to confuse dry scalp conditions with dandruff. Dandruff is caused by excess oil on the scalp or the presence of yeast, whereas dry scalp is due to a lack of moisture. This is why dandruff flakes are often slightly yellow and easily visible, whereas dry flakes tend to be smaller and white.
It is also possible to have both dandruff and a dry scalp together, which is why many tend to confuse one with the other.
So what can help with an itchy, dry scalp? Aside from having a suitable haircare routine for your dry scalp, maintaining a balanced diet and lowering stress levels can help.
If you are still looking for the right hair care product to treat your dry scalp, don't worry; this round-up has you covered. Keep scrolling to find the best hair care products for your dry scalp!
Briogeo - Scalp Revival Rosemary Pre-Wash Oil and Shampoo for Dry Scalp
Briogeo is a mindful hair care brand catering to diverse hair types and textures. Their award-winning products are exclusively formulated without sulfates, silicones, phthalates, parabens, DEA, or artificial dyes. These formulations have been shown to enhance hair density, strengthen strands, and alleviate dry scalp flaking.
Say hello to their latest launch, the Briogeo Scalp Revival Rosemary Pre-Wash Oil. This moisturising treatment oil delivers hydration to your scalp and is fortified with rosemary, vitamins, and lipids. With daily application, it soothes dry scalp and promotes stronger tresses. Fragrance-free and lightweight, this oil provides instant moisture and relief after just one use.
Consider adding the Scalp Revival Charcoal + Coconut Oil Micro-Exfoliating Shampoo for a more robust scalp care routine. Power ingredient Binchotan charcoal along with other plant-based exfoliators draws out any buildup and excess oil that are clogging your scalp and allows for better absorption of key minerals and vitamins. The weekly scalp scrub has been recognised to reduce 82% of the dry scalp after one use.
Want to refresh your locks while supporting your healing scalp? The Scalp Revival Charcoal + Biotin Dry Shampoo contains a mix of clay and tapioca and rice starches that absorb excess oil at the roots. As a result, your hair looks refreshed and clean. It’s also perfect for travel when you are too rushed for a hair wash!
Available exclusively at Sephora stores and online.
Aromatica Scalp Scrub Shampoo - 3-In-1 Daily Scaling Shampoo for Dry Scalp
Instead of buying three different scalp care products, try the multi-tasking hair warrior the Aromatica Scalp Scrub Shampoo. This 3-in-1 daily scaling shampoo combines the functionality of the brand’s iconic Scalp Scaling Shampoo, Scalp Scrub, and high-grade essential oils. Enriched with mineral-rich salt from Andes Lake, this hair wash product addresses scalp issues while making sure you have a gentle and irritation-free cleanse.
It contains rosemary, probiotics, and caffeine to improve your scalp condition while being silicone-free. Plus, you will see immediate results just after a single use. It’s also great for hair loss
Available exclusively at Sephora stores and online.
L’OCCITANE Intensive Repair Mask - Regenerating Hair Treatment for Dry Scalp
L’OCCITANE has been a fan-favourite for its range of hair care products for different needs, and managing a dry scalp is one of them! Add the Intensive Repair Mask to your hair routine to rehydrate and soothe your dry and flaky scalp. This silicone-free hair mask cream effortlessly glides through your hair and scalp to protect and hydrate your locks and head.
In addition to treating your scalp, this mask repairs dry, brittle, and damaged hair. Packed with 100% natural essential oils, oat amino acids, sunflower oil, and provitamin B5, it's a powerhouse of nourishment. With its unique blend of essential oils like Angelica, Ylang-Ylang, Sweet Orange, Lavender, and Geranium, your scalp will be healed, healthy, and fresh all day.
MOROCCANOIL Dry Scalp Treatment - Professional Haircare Product for Dry Scalps
If you are pressed for time, the MOROCCANOIL Dry Scalp Treatment takes just five minutes! This pre-cleansing treatment packs a punch with salicylic acid, gently exfoliating to banish flakiness and maintain a smooth scalp. But wait, there's more! Enriched with moisture-balancing ingredients like geranium, lavender, Vitamin E, and argan oil, it transforms your scalp into a vibrant hub for fuller, shinier hair.
It also shields your scalp from future disruptions and imbalances.
And let's talk about the scent — prepare to be whisked away by the natural aroma of a deeply relaxing lavender and geranium blend.
The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA for Scalp - Powerful Haircare to Heal Dry Scalps
The Ordinary Multi-Peptide Serum for Hair Density is an affordable serum that treats dry scalps. Its milky, vegan, and lightweight formula supports and hydrates the scalp, helping to alleviate discomfort caused by dryness.
By combining ingredients that are similar to the function of natural moisturising factors with hyaluronic acid and squalane — naturally produced within the skin. Suitable for all skin types, this soothing serum supports the scalp's barrier without leaving residue on your hair or weighing it down.
Aesop Sage & Cedar Scalp Treatment - Pre-Shampoo Haircare Product with Botanical Oils
Another fantastic pre-shampoo treatment option is the Aesop Sage & Cedar Scalp Treatment. It works wonders for your dry and distressed scalp in just a few days. This compact bottle is infused with botanical oils renowned for their purifying, soothing, and hydrating properties. With a refreshing herbaceous and woody aroma, it contains key ingredients like Rosemary Leaf, Cedar Atlas, and Sage Leaf.
If you like lightweight serums, the Aesop Sage & Cedar Scalp Treatment is the perfect solution for a dry scalp. Just massage one pipette dose into your scalp, and you are good to go!
RYO Hair Loss Expert Care Shampoo For Normal To Dry Scalp - Nourishing Hair Treatment with Ginseng Extract
Another remedy to consider is the RYO Hair Loss Expert Care Shampoo For Normal To Dry Scalp. This nourishing shampoo is super budget-friendly and gently cleanses and treats your dry scalp with mugwort and duckweed extract. The unique formula also includes whole ginseng extract to boost your root strength.
Experience relief from scalp irritation with the shampoo, featuring a special patented Korean formula. It is infused with Ginsen9EX and targets nine scalp and hair issues with advanced technology. Watch as your hair transforms into a healthier, hydrated, smoother, and stronger version of itself.
Three Scalp & Hair Orderange Conditioner - Moisturising Hair Treatment for Dry Scalp
A conditioner can make or break any hair regime, and this especially applies to those with dry scalps. The Three Scalp & Hair Orderange Conditioner not only restores scalp health but also safeguards against colour fading, UV damage, and more. Its rich emulsion texture deeply moisturises the scalp and hair, restoring their natural beauty and shine.
Fragrance-free and enriched with essential oils, this haircare product safeguards your hair from damage while ensuring moisture reaches every strand, from root to tip.
Living Proof Scalp Care Dry Scalp Treatment - Soothing and Hydrating Formula
The Living Proof Scalp Care Dry Scalp Treatment has all the makings for a must-have in your hair routine. This powerful solution is formulated to revive and soothe irritated, itchy scalps. It deeply hydrates, replenishes moisture levels and provides relief to the scalp.
Featuring a Vitamin B3-based microbiome, it restores natural oil balance, leaving your hair healthy. Free from parabens, phthalates, and silicone, this product is safe for chemically treated hair and is cruelty-free. Apply some to your damp scalp after shampooing and conditioning, massage evenly, and leave it in — use 3-4 times a week for the best results.
KEVIN.MURPHY SCALP.SPA.WASH - Moisturising Shampoo for Dry Scalp
Finding a suitable hair care product for a dry scalp is not easy but with the KEVIN.MURPHY SCALP.SPA.WASH, you know you are in good hands. The shampoo is created with micellar water and celery seed extract to soothe and cleanse the scalp, leaving your head and hair refreshed and clean. The coconut oil inside the shampoo deeply combats and balances the dryness in your scalp.
Suitable for all hair types, this unique formula won't strip colour from dyed hair, ensuring vibrant locks with every wash.
KÉRASTASE Genesis Anti Hairfall Shampoo for Dry Scalp - Deeply Moisturising
If you are battling dry scalp troubles, the KÉRASTASE Genesis Anti Hairfall Shampoo for Dry Scalp is worth a look. Its rich, creamy formula deeply moisturises your scalp while fortifying your locks to prevent hair fall caused by breakage.
This simple yet effective shampoo will quickly become your holy grail for a healthier scalp and shinier hair. All you need to do is apply a coin-size amount, massage, and rinse. Lather and shampoo again to get fresh-smelling locks and a hydrated scalp in minutes.