11 Best Shampoos for Dry Scalps of 2024, According to Experts
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. Luckily, the best shampoos for dry scalp can help alleviate and improve symptoms.
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.
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.
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1
Best Overall
Aveeno Skin Relief Soothing Shampoo 300ml
ProsGentle formulaMay benefit those with eczemaConsNot ideal for thicker hair types
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.”
2
Best Value
Dove DermaCare Anti Dandruff Shampoo
ProsAffordableIncludes hydrating and anti-inflammatory ingredientsConsShoppers had divided opinions on the scent
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 (or $20 for a three-pack on Amazon). 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.
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3
Best dry Hair
Herbal Essences Bio:Renew Hydrating Shampoo
ProsProven hydrating and conditioning effectsGreat latherConsMay be too rich for some
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.
4
Best for Sensitive Scalps
Vanicream Shampoo
Now 21% Off
Credit: VanicreamProsSuitable for sensitive skinEffective cleansingConsNot as good a lather
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.
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6
BEST CLARIFYING
OUAI Detox Shampoo
ProsWashes away product buildup without drying scalpLeaves hair feeling very clean but not overly dryConsNot meant for every wash day
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.
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7
Best for Color-Treated Hair
Pureology Hydrating Shampoo
ProsContains hydrating ingredientsGreat for medium to thick hair typesConsNot as ideal for thin hair
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!”
8
Most Soothing
Philip Kingsley Flaky Scalp Shampoo
ProsGreat for those with dermatitisHelps reduce itchinessConsPricey
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.”
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9
Best Exfoliating
Briogeo Scalp Revival Scrub
ProsMicro-exfoliant helps to lift flakesMade with hydrating coconut oil Great for oily hair typesConsStrong peppermint smell
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.
10
Best for Thick Hair
INNERSENSE Hydrating Cream Hairbath Shampoo
ProsCreamy, rich latherHydrating ingredients pentrate coarse, curly hair typesConsSome reviewers noted a strong scent
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.
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11
Best for Curly Hair
KERASTASE Symbiose Anti-Dandruff Shampoo Crème
ProsAlso great for treating dandruffLuxurious-feeling formulaConsExpensive
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.
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.
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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.
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Meet the experts
Isfahan Chambers-Harris, M.P.H., Ph.D., is a professional trichologist and the founder of Alodia HaircareKerry E. Yates is a hair expert and the creator of Colour Collective
Why trust Good Housekeeping?
Jacqueline (she/her) covers all things e-commerce in beauty, lifestyle and beyond for the Good Housekeeping Institute. Before joining GH in 2021, she was a style and beauty reviews fellow at Insider, testing viral trends, reviewing sustainable brands and more. She’s a graduate of the University of Florida’s School of Journalism, with a specialty in magazines and mass communication.
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