13 best shampoos to treat dry scalp

A “dry scalp” is caused by the loss of natural oils in the scalp. Dr. Rodney explains this can happen for a multitude of reasons. She says factors can include a change in your environment (possibly the weather), stress, aging, excessive bathing, contact dermatitis (reaction to a product) or skin conditions such as eczema or psoriasis. Cohen notes that the scalp is typically drier during the winter, so opting for moisturizing, hydrating products during the colder months is always a good idea.

Dr. Frey explains that a dry scalp is often attributed to seborrheic dermatitis, aka our worst enemy: dandruff. Dandruff is basically caused by a yeast called malassezia that shows up on your scalp and eats up healthy oils, leaving you with a dry and scaly scalp.

Dr. Rodney says we can take some precautions to make sure the scalp stays hydrated and healthy. She recommends drinking plenty of water, controlling your stress levels, avoiding harsh hair products, using a humidifier to add moisture back into your environment, and if irritation persists. continues or something is unusual, see a dermatologist.

Cohen recommends choosing something gentle and avoiding strong sulfates that strip your hair of oil and shine. “Most shampoos in this country use detergent-based surfactants like sulfates or PEGs,” she said. “This type of cleaning system is what you saw in the 90s shampoo commercials – foaming too much and feeling clean. I know it can make you feel super clean, but it strips your scalp of all its good and healthy oils in the process. I recommend a system of naturally derived surfactants for cleaning”.

Frey recommends looking for shampoos that contain zinc pyrithione, which helps prevent dandruff from occurring and removes excess flakes. Rodney prefers formulas with salicylic acid, which “promotes cell turnover, reducing flaking and redness.” Salicylic acid and other exfoliants like glycolic acid can help remove buildup on your scalp so you can start fresh. Rodney also recommends avocado oil, argan oil, aloe vera, pantothenic acid, and oatmeal for an extra boost of hydration.

“It’s important to keep the scalp hydrated and nourished — just like a garden, you want to take care of the soil to keep the environment growing,” says Cohen. She recommends choosing a scalp serum with hyaluronic acid for extra moisture, and trying menthol or tea tree oil for dry, itchy scalps. You can simply apply the oil to your scalp as a spot treatment to reduce irritation.