Recently, users have realised the importance of scalp care in their haircare routines, and one common issue that we all want to eradicate is dryness! A dry scalp is often confused or intermixed with dandruff or other hair conditions because of similar symptoms (cc: itchiness, flakiness, and redness), but it shouldn’t. Dryness essentially means that there is a dry layer of skin that sits on top of our scalps and potentially causes flakiness, whereas dandruff is produced due to the extra oil on the scalp or because of the fungus Malassezia. Switching your shampoo is one of the easiest yet significant changes you can make to deal with a dry scalp. Here are the eight best shampoos to treat the root cause.
8 Best Shampoos For Dry Scalp That Soothe, Nourish, And Reduce Flakiness
Anomaly Hydrating Shampoo
Priyanka Chopra's Anomaly is making waves in the haircare industry. Their products are really effective, and this hydrating shampoo is packed with coconut oil, aloe vera and enzymes. All of these ingredients provide a boost of moisture, are soothing and gently cleanse the scalp without stripping natural oils. What we love is that it comes in 100% recyclable packaging!
User Rating: 4/5
Pro-Tip: Check out our in-depth review here.
Aveeno Skin Relief Soothing Shampoo
Specifically made for dry and sensitive scalps, Aveeno Skin Relief Shampoo is a total star. It gently cleanses the scalp while also calming and protecting it for lasting comfort. It contains finely milled oatmeal, which relieves itching, and we highly recommend it for sleek-fine hair.
User Rating: 4.5/5
Bare Anatomy Anti Dandruff Shampoo
Salicylic acid is great for dry scalp; it helps to get rid of dry skin, exfoliates, and avoids any build-up. This Shampoo from Bare Anatomy has the goodness of salicylic acid along with piroctone olamine and epilobium angustifolium extract, which reduces sebum production and, in turn, helps with dandruff. Other ingredients like biotin (vitamin B7) and pentavitin moisturise the scalp, improving scalp vitality.
User Rating: 4.2/5
Dove Hair Therapy Dry Scalp Care Shampoo
Dove is an OG shampoo brand, and this shampoo of theirs significantly helps with dry, itchy, and flaky scalp. It repairs hair at a cellular level and is packed with niacinamide, which moisturises and retains hydration and helps with dryness. We love how gentle yet efficacious it is when it comes to removing any build-up or dandruff.
User Rating: 4.3/5
Moroccanoil Hydrating Shampoo
Moroccanoil Hydrating Shampoo is one of the best hydrating shampoos out there. It has argan oil, vitamin E, and red algae, which is rich in antioxidants, helps maintain natural hair balance, and protects the hair cuticle from dryness. Users say that this shampoo also makes the hair more manageable.
User Rating: 4.2/5
Kérastase Genesis Bain Nutri-fortifiant Shampoo
A favourite brand of professionals worldwide, Kerastase Nutri-fortifiant Shampoo minimises hair fall and adds moisture to the scalp. The formulation consists of ginger root and Edelweiss Native Cells, a potent combination known to increase the strength of the hair fibres, thereby reducing breakage.
User Rating: 3.8/5
SP Balance Scalp Shampoo
If budget is not an issue, then this SP Balance scalp shampoo is a great option for dry scalp. It actively soothes and conditions the scalp and is formulated with a skin-friendly pH value. Its D-panthenol moisturises the scalp, and bisabol brings in the anti-inflammatory effect.
User Rating: 4.3/5
Luster Argan Oil Shampoo
This Luster Argan Oil Shampoo is a super underrated and inexpensive product that works wonders for a dry scalp. It has all the scalp-nourishing ingredients like sweet almond oil, argan oil, and vitamin E. We love that it's free of any harsh chemicals and maintains a pH balance to keep the scalp super hydrated. It even claims to offer a subtle shine and glow to the hair.
User Rating: 3.6/5
Pro Tip
Here are some expert tips on scalp care and our guide to scalp exfoliation to achieve your hair goals this year!