A dry, itchy scalp can be very uncomfortable — and if you constantly have the urge to scratch your head every few minutes, then it's probably time to switch your shampoo.
Shampoos for dry scalps "help stabilize and rebalance the scalp microbiome, which leads to a healthier head of hair," says Dr. Emily Wood, a board-certified dermatologist.
Sometimes, having a dry scalp can be confused with having dandruff — but they actually aren't the same. According to board-certified dermatologist Dr. Angela Lamb, dandruff is an "allergic reaction to a natural yeast that lives on the scalp’s surface, whereas a dry and itchy scalp doesn’t necessarily warrant flaking," she explains. You can, however, develop flakes from a dry, itchy scalp.
Typically, people with less sebum production tend to have a dry scalp — and they can spread out washes a bit more. "Dry hair typically refers to the lack of oil (or hydration) along the hair shaft. A dry scalp refers to the skin on your scalp lacking moisture," explains board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michelle Henry.
To better understand the ingredients to look out for, we asked dermatologists for some tips and favorite shampoos to treat dryness.
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Shampoo ingredients to look for
According to Wood, the best ingredients to look while choosing a shampoo for a dry scalp are "ketoconazole, pyrithionezinc and/or selenium sulfide."
"All of these ingredients work to rebalance the scalp microbiome and prevent yeast overgrowth, which is known to cause flaking and dry scalp," She says.
Scalp skin can be hydrated by using "a gentle shampoo free of dyes, fragrances and sulfates because these ingredients can sometimes cause skin irritation and dryness," says board-certified dermatologist Dr. Brendan Camp.
"Shampoos designed for dry scalps clean the scalp and hair without removing an excess amount of natural oils. Harsh shampoos could otherwise contribute to dry scalp and associated symptoms, like itch and flaking," emphasizes Camp.
Some other ingredients to look for, according to Henry, are "oils like coconut oil, argan oil or jojoba oil to help lock in moisture and restore the scalp’s barrier."
“Ingredients like pyrithione zinc or salicylic acid are great additions if there’s associated flaking or mild seborrheic dermatitis,” Henry continues.
Certified trichologists Mandy Buechner says to also look for ingredients that "help to soothe the scalp," which include glycerin, aloe vera or panthenol (B5).
Best shampoos for a dry scalp, according to experts
Fragrance free: Vanicream Hair Shampoo
- Great for sensitive scalps
- Stops itchiness
- A little drying
Size: 12 oz. | Key ingredients: Lauryl glucoside
This shampoo is "formulated without dyes, fragrances and a number of preservatives, which is ideal for those with sensitive or dry scalps," says Camp. While some users experience dry strands after use, the product is effective at cleaning the scalp and removing any signs of flakiness.
Reduce build-up: CeraVe Anti-Dandruff Hydrating Shampoo
- Hydrates the scalp
- Doesn't irritate
- Doesn't provide volume
Size: 12 oz. | Key ingredients: Coconut oil
Pyrithione zinc is the main ingredient in this CeraVe shampoo, which helps control the symptoms of a dry scalp and dandruff. This shampoo is a dermatologist's favorite for its effectiveness in reducing itchy sensations and clearing the scalp from buildup. Plus, it contains hyaluronic acid for a more nourished and smooth look.
Mint sensation: Head & Shoulders Bare Itchy Scalp Relief Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
- Cooling sensation
- Feels refreshing
- Strong smell
Size: 13.5 oz. | Key ingredients: Pyrithione zinc 1%
Wood and Henry recommend this shampoo and say it is one of their favorites because it doesn't have dyes or parabens. The formula contains mint essential oil for a cooling relief and plant-derived ingredients that help to wash away flakes and oil. Shoppers also say the formula feels hydrating and has a thick texture, which lathers well. Another reviewer said this shampoo offers a flake-free experience with no irritation.
Dry no more: LivSo Moisturizing Shampoo
- Non-irritating
- Delightful scent
- Some experience grasiness
Size: 8.5 oz. | Key ingredients: Xylitol, glycolic acid and coconut oil
"Designed with kinky or curly hair in mind, this shampoo contains hydrating coconut oil and exfoliating glycolic acid," shares Camp. The formula is ideal for those who experience dry hair and scalp as well as those who need extra moisture. The combination of coconut oil, glycolic acid and xylitol helps to strengthen the follicle while reducing flaking.
Organic scents: Ongaro Beauty Hydrating Shampoo
- Provides shine
- Controls frizz
- Mixed reviews on scent
Size: 12 oz. | Key ingredients: Aloe vera, apple stem cell and probiotic technology
Buechner recommends this one because it's infused with aloe vera, probiotics, and peptides. "It hydrates and soothes the scalp while promoting healthy hair growth. Free from sulfates and harsh chemicals, ideal for sensitive, dry scalps," she says.
Clear the path: Jupiter Balancing Shampoo
- Controls irritation
- Leaves her silky
- Difficult to wash out
Size: 14 oz. | Key ingredients: Pyrithione zinc 1%
Camp recommends this balancing shampoo because it has antifungal properties and can treat symptoms such as scaling and itching. Even shoppers said that this shampoo helps clear up the buildup after several uses. "I’ve had dandruff for 20 years and moving to a dry climate just made it even worse. This shampoo improved my symptoms significantly in just a few washes," said one shopper.
Clarity is power: Jooy Clarify Shampoo
- Great scent
- Decent size
- Not enough lather
Size: 11.8 oz. | Key ingredients: Algae, peppermint oil and tea tree oil
This formula is made with "fermented ingredients making it safes safe for chemical and color-treated hair to treat dandruff and product buildup," says Camp. The mixture of peppermint oil, aloe, ginger, algae and tea tree oil restores balance while strengthening the hair strands.
Best shampoos for a dry scalp, according to editors
Away with flakiness: Dove Damage Therapy Derma Shampoo Dryness + Itch for Flaky Scalp
- Calms itchiness
- Feels moisturizing
- Needs conditioner
Size: 12 oz. | Key ingredients: Coconut oil
I use this Dove shampoo whenever I need an extra cleanse on my scalp. I have a very dry scalp and tend to get white flakes, so washing my hair multiple times a week helps. This shampoo delivers a clean scalp and encapsulates a hydrating ingredient like coconut oil. Unlike other shampoos that make your strands feel dry, this one feels soothing and leaves my hair smelling fresh.
Exfoliate deeply: Biotera Intensives 2:1 Scalp Scrub
- The nozzle is great for scalp
- Leaves a clean texture
- Hard to lather throughout
Size: 6 oz. | Key ingredients: Coconut yogurt and ginseng
Associate editor Lauren Witonsky's mom previously used this shampoo and said it helps with build-up and itchiness. "I like the tiny grains in it that exfoliate the scalp. I also like the idea of pre- and probiotics for the skin microbiome [as well as] the nozzle on the packaging that helps you direct the soap onto your scalp. I had never seen that innovation before," she adds.
Thicken the strand: Dr. Groot Scalp Revitalizing Solution Hair Thickening Shampoo
- Nourishing ingredients
- Light smell
- Mild sulfate-free surfactants
Size: 13 oz. | Key ingredients: Biotin and prebiotics
Associate editor Shannon Garlin says this thickening shampoo provides so much scalp nourishment and volume. "I'm in love with the whole system. It has all the key ingredients for thicker hair, too, including rosemary and caffeine. My hair feels so soft and lush after each use."
Custom formula: Prose Custom Hair Care
- Great lather
- Clean sensation
- Only sold at their website
Size: 13 oz. | Key ingredients: Biotin and prebiotics
Associate editor Kamari Stewart has been using this brand for about a year and loves how clean her scalp feels after each use. "When I use the shampoo, my scalp feels clean and isn’t left feeling super dry. Similarly, my strands feel clean without getting to that squeaky clean point but have a good slip after the shampoo is used," says Stewart.
One thing to note is that the brand customizes every product. "To start, you take a very in-depth quiz that asks about everything from your zip code to your workout habits. I didn't understand why it needed the zip code until it showed stats about where I live, including the pollution levels and hard water levels," adds Stewart.
All in the scent: Ouai Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
- Relieves itchiness and flakes
- Leaves hair soft
- Lightly scented
Size: 10 oz. | Key ingredients: Salicylic acid
Associate social media editor Dani Musacchio has used Oaui for over a year for its non-stripping formula and pleasant scent. Camp also approves this formula for its salicylic acid, a beta-hydroxy acid with exfoliative properties. "It helps facilitate the removal of dead skin cells from the scalp. Some medicated dandruff shampoos contain salicylic acid to help with the appearance of flakes and scale," says Camp.
“I’m a huge fan of Ouai’s shampoo, so when I found out that the brand had a dandruff shampoo, I knew I had to try it,” says Musacchio. “I’m almost down to the bottom of the bottle and can say that I’ve noticed barely any flakes in my hair since using it regularly. It also has a pleasant, gentle scent that I love.”
How we chose
The Shop TODAY team rounded up the best shampoos for dry scalps by enlisting the recommendations of hair experts as well as board-certified dermatologists. We also added a couple of editor-tested favorites that help with dandruff and overall scalp health.
Meet the experts
- Dr. Emily Wood is a board-certified dermatologist at Westlake Dermatology.
- Dr. Angela Lamb is a board-certified dermatologist at Mount Sinai.
- Mandy (Mandy B. Beauty) Buechnerisa certified trichologist at Thairapy Wellness Center in Crescent City, California.
- Dr. Michelle Henry, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist and and dermatologic surgeon. She has previously talked to Shop TODAY about summer skin care and an anti-aging skin care routine.
- Dr. Brendan Camp is a double board-certified dermatologist in dermatology and dermatopathology at MDCS Dermatology: Medical Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery. He has previously talked to Shop TODAY about crow's feet and how to layer skin care.
