The 25 Best Shampoos and Conditioners for Dry Scalp
Products
Considered
Hours
of Research
Reviews
Examined
A dry scalp is itchy and flaky.
Who wants to be scratching their head and brushing flakes of their clothes all day long?
Not me.
Not you, either.
Let’s look at the best shampoos and conditioners for dry scalp.
We’ll find the solutions you need to look and feel better.
Derma E Scalp Relief Conditioner
- Infused with vitamins and minerals
- Prevents damage and breakage
- Encourages natural hair growth
Head and Shoulders Shampoo and Conditioner, Moisture Renewal
- Inexpensive shampoo for color-treated hair
- Free of sulfates and other chemicals
- Specially made for curly and coily hair
Head and Shoulders Deep Moisture Masque Conditioner Treatment
- Safe for color-treated hair
- Has dandruff-fighting pyrithione zinc
- Smells fresh and clean
What Causes Dry Scalp?
There are several reasons why you might have a dry scalp.
It could be that you normally have dry skin, or your environment is making things worse.
Winter weather is notorious for this.
On the other hand, it could be dandruff, psoriasis, eczema, or an allergic reaction (1).
Also, it’s surprising how often hair care products strip essential moisture from the scalp.
The solution could be as simple as swapping your shampoo and conditioner for ones without sulfates (2).
Let’s jump to the reviews where I’ll describe how each product can treat dry scalp.
1. Derma E Scalp Relief Conditioner
Product Overview
The Derma-E conditioner clears away flakes with salicylic acid. At the same time, it calms irritation and stops itching with tea tree and menthol.
Also, it prevents tangles with organic argan oil, aloe, and sweet almond oil.
- Avoids sulfates and harsh chemicals
- Contains glycerin
- Infused with ginseng and caffeine
- Crucial nutrients and vitamins
Furthermore, the vegan formula is free of sulfates, mineral oil, parabens, lanolin, gluten, and GMOs.
If you can only make one change to your hair care routine, this product is worth the investment.
Pros
- Improves blood circulation
- Doesn’t dry out your skin
- Stimulates hair growth
The Cons
- Doesn’t work great with super oily scalps
2. Head and Shoulders Shampoo and Conditioner, Moisture Renewal
Product Overview
Who knew that the best shampoo for dry scalp and color-treated hair was so inexpensive?
Head and Shoulders developed a line called Royal Oils specifically for curly and coily hair.
Both the shampoo and conditioner restore moisture to strands and scalp.
- Plenty of beneficial nutrients
- 17 natural DHT blockers
- Vitamins and minerals
- Tea tree extract, aloe vera and niacin
And the tasty coconut fragrance makes them delightful to use. Even if you don’t wash your hair every day, these products reduce odor.
Both formulas are free of drying sulfates, dyes, and parabens.
Pros
- Deeply cleanses and removes all the flakes
- Doesn’t dry out your skin
- Delivers beneficial nutrients for your scalp
The Cons
- Causes loosening in your curls
3. Head and Shoulders Deep Moisture Masque Conditioner Treatment
Product Overview
For extra conditioning, apply the Deep Moisture hair mask. It has a dandruff-fighting ingredient called pyrithione zinc.
As a result, it relieves itching and gets rid of flakes.
- Does great with thin hair
- Balances dryness and moisture
- Uses keratin and other strengthening ingredients
- Hydrates and smoothes
Like the shampoo and conditioner, the mask is free of sulfates, parabens, and dyes. It also has a coconut scent.
Pros
- It’s safe for color-treated hair
- Helps with itching and flaking scalps
- Moisturizes and fights dried out skin
The Cons
- Has sulfates
4. Dove DermaCare Scalp Coconut & Hydration Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
Product Overview
When I’m asked what shampoo is good for itchy scalp, my usual response is to recommend a dandruff shampoo.
Dove’s DermaCare has pyrithione zinc to soothe itching and stop flaking. You only need to use it twice a week to maintain a clear, healthy scalp.
- Suitable for color-treated hair
- Free of parabens and sulfates
- Makes your hair easier to style
- Plenty of nutrients
Moreover, it doesn’t dry out the hair.
For best results, massage it into the scalp and let it sit for a couple of minutes before rinsing thoroughly. Then follow up with the conditioner below.
Pros
- Creates rich, luxurious foam
- Cleanses all the impurities and moisturizes
- Adds volume and shine
The Cons
- Can dry out your hair
5. DOVE HAIR Dermacare Scalp Soothing Moisture Anti-Dandruff Conditioner
Product Overview
It seems like most women don’t have a problem using conditioner whereas men tend to see it as a hassle. In any case, don’t skip the conditioner when you have a dry scalp!
This product is pH-balanced and mild. It’s also cheap.
- Uses biotin
- Perfect for daily usage
- Effective for all types of hair
- Packed with amino acid-rich proteins
Give it a try for a month before you give up on it.
Pros
- Adds thickness and volume
- Moisturizes your scalp and leaves no flakes
- Uses bamboo fiber and wheat protein
The Cons
- Can cause hair falling
6. Garnier Fructis 1-Minute Hair Mask with Papaya Extract for Shine and Scalp Health
Product Overview
Here’s another drugstore conditioner for dry scalp. Garnier’s papaya mask treats both the scalp and hair.
It adds moisture to the skin and smooths the cuticle of the hair. But it does so without weighing down your locks with silicone.
- Packed with beneficial nutrients and vitamins
- Contains argan oil and horse chestnut
- Free of parabens and harsh chemicals
- Plant-based formula with lots of advantages
You can use it as a deep conditioner right after you wash or as a leave-in conditioner on your ends.
Pros
- Promotes a healthy-looking hair
- Removes all the impurities
- Leaves your scalp and hair hydrated
The Cons
- Doesn’t have the best smell
7. SheaMoisture African Black Soap Dandruff Control Shampoo
Product Overview
SheaMoisture has several good choices for dry hair and scalp. I selected the classic black soap shampoo as it clears up mild dandruff.
It uses willow bark, the source of salicylic acid, to clear away dead skin.
- Formulated with natural ingredients
- Gentle cleanse and perfect lather
- Uses UV protectors
- Works great with fragile hair
There is also tea tree oil, which is naturally antimicrobial. It stops the fungus that causes some types of dandruff.
Finally, aloe soothes and moisturizes the skin.
Pros
- Moisturizes and nourishes your hair
- Works best with dried out scalps
- Protects against sun and heat-styling
The Cons
- Doesn’t work for oily and normal hair
8. Aveeno Scalp Soothing Oat Milk Blend Shampoo
Product Overview
Aveeno’s shampoo balances moisture and relieves dryness with oat milk.
- Smells fantastic
- Calming effect on your skin
- Uses argan oil and linden bud extract
- Beneficial nutrients and vitamins
It’s made for all hair types, and it’s mild enough for washing daily. It doesn’t have dyes, sulfates, or parabens, so it’s safe for color-treated hair.
Pros
- Moisturizes and cleanses your skin
- Leaves your hair nice and soft
- Improves your hairs manageability and body
The Cons
- Works bad with oily hairs
9. Aveeno Scalp Soothing Rose Water and Chamomile Blend Conditioner
Product Overview
If you have sensitive skin and fine or fragile hair, try Aveeno’s Rose Water Conditioner.
- Works great with tired, dull hair
- Amazing peony scent
- Gentle cleansing and moisturizing
It’s especially calming and nourishing for dry scalps.
Pros
- Provides immediate comfort for dried out scalps
- Leaves an amazing peony scent
- Leaves your hair bouncy and lustrous
The Cons
- Doesn’t smell at all
10. OGX Healing Plus Vitamin E Shampoo and Vitamin E Conditioner
Product Overview
Here’s another daily shampoo that repairs damaged hair and moisturizes the scalp. Try it if you have split ends.
It’s packed with Vitamin E, which is very healing to the skin.
- Beneficial vitamins and fatty acids
- Nourishing effect
- Uses caffeine to block DHT
- Instant hydration
With regular use, your tresses will be shiny once more.
Pros
- Reduces inflammation and irritation
- Leaves your hair silky smooth
- Prevents hair loss and encourages hair growth
The Cons
- Makes your hair frizz
11. Burt’s Bees More Moisture Baobab Shampoo and Conditioner
Product Overview
Burt’s Bees makes a very pleasant natural shampoo and conditioner for dry scalp.
They feature exotic baobab, avocado oil, and other rich moisturizers.
- Free of sulfates and parabens
- Based on botanicals and natural plants
- pH balanced formula
- Infused with aloe vera
Obviously, neither bottle contains harsh sulfates, artificial fragrances, or parabens.
Pros
- Has an antimicrobial and healing effect
- Protects and nourishes the scalp
- Helps keeping a natural balance of the scalp
The Cons
- There’s no smell
12. Castor Oil Shampoo and Conditioner by Shiny Leaf
Product Overview
Castor oil isn’t tasty to consume by mouth, but your hair and scalp will love it.
Not only does it promote hair growth, but it also detoxifies and repairs. Castor oil is packed with nutrients and emollients that are essential for healthy skin.
- Uses argan oil
- Caffeine and saw palmetto
- Infused with biotin
- Has castor and coconut oil
The vegan formula is gentle enough to use every day.
Pros
- Blocks DHT and promotes blood circulation
- Moisturizes the scalp
- Ensures natural hair growth
The Cons
- Overwhelming perfume
13. Mane ‘N Tail Combo Shampoo and Conditioner
Product Overview
Did you know that Mane N’ Tail shampoo was developed to bathe horses? It’s also good for shampooing dogs.
Somewhere along the way, someone discovered that it promotes healthy hair in humans, too. Fans say that it prevents tangles and leaves their locks extra shiny and smooth.
- Gentle shampoo and conditioner
- Deeply cleaning and moisturizing effect
- Packed with herbs and vitamins
- Nataural, delicious smell
It also provides plenty of hydration for the scalp.
In case you’re wondering, it smells like apples.
Pros
- Boosts shine and moisturize
- Doesn’t leave inflammation untreated
- It is mild enough to be used every day
The Cons
- Has sulfates and artificial fragrance
14. ArtNaturals Organic Moroccan Argan Oil Shampoo and Conditioner
Product Overview
One of the best natural shampoos for dry scalp contains argan oil from Morocco. It’s cold-pressed from the kernels of the tree.
Argan oil is all-round useful. It fixes brittle hair and rejuvenates dry skin.
- Has honey and vanilla
- Developed with potent botanicals
- Free of parabens, sulfates and artificial fragrances
- Uses jasmine for extra fragrance
Both the shampoo and conditioner from ArtNaturals come with a money-back guarantee.
Pros
- Perfectly moisturizes and nourishes your skin
- It’s safe for color-treated hair
- Works great with sensitive skin
The Cons
- Doesn’t cleanse very thick hair
15. Avlon Keracare Dry Itchy Scalp Moisturizing Shampoo & Conditioner
Product Overview
The Avlon shampoo and conditioner start improving dry scalp and itchiness after only one use.
They fight seborrheic dermatitis and dandruff, but there’s no problem using them on a plain old dry scalp.
The slight herbal scent won’t override your perfume, either.
- Uses pro-vitamin B5
- Perfect for very dried out skin
- Infused with quinoa proteins
- Sunflower seed extract and amino acids
Instead of sodium lauryl or sodium laureth sulfate, the shampoo contains ammonium laureth sulfate, a milder surfactant. This means that it still lathers up nicely but won’t strip moisture from your hair and skin.
Meanwhile, the conditioner has silicone to smooth the cuticle.
Pros
- Does great with frizziness
- Works great with over-dried scalps
- Protects against sun and heat damage
The Cons
- Not the best smell
16. Yes To Naturals Tea Tree & Sage Oil Scalp Relief Shampoo for Dry & Itchy Scalp
Product Overview
Tea tree and sage are very good for dry, itchy scalps.
Clinical tests found that this shampoo relieved symptoms within a week.
- Pleasant rose scent
- Contains silicone to clean build-ups
- Repairs damaged hairs
- Contains biotin and other nutrients
It feels tingly as you wash with it. Then your skin will thank you for the extra moisture from sweet potato and Kukui seed oil.
Pros
- Enhances hair growth with different nutrients
- Leaves your hair smelling nice and fresh
- Deeply cleanses and moisturizes your skin
The Cons
- It makes your hair flat
17. Yes To Naturals Tea Tree & Sage Oil Scalp Relief Conditioner
Product Overview
Follow-up each wash with this itch-relieving conditioner. Like the shampoo, it has potent natural moisturizers for the scalp and hair.
- Creamy and delicious
- Pumpkin and argan oils
- Smells great
- Perfect for dry damaged hair
It’s also free of silicone and parabens and 95% natural.
Pros
- Cleans your hair and makes it better-looking
- Moisturizes and nourishes your scalp
- Provides all the nutrients for a healthy scalp and hair
The Cons
- Doesn’t work well with thick hair
18. Dr. Witch Aloe Shampoo and Conditioner
Product Overview
Here’s the best shampoo for dry scalp and hair loss.
Dr. Witch’s two-bottle set is ready to do magic for you.
It pampers color-treated, dry, and curly hair as it’s free of sulfates and pH-balance.
- Plenty of vitamin E
- Extreme healing effects
- Perfect for daily usage
- Works perfect with hard water
It stimulates hair growth and relieves sensitivity and itching on the scalp.
The products are vegan and made in USA. They come with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
They are based on aloe, not water. Other key ingredients include cehami, cassava root, coconut, and orange peel.
Pros
- Moisturizes your scalp
- Fixes split ends and broken hairs
- Helps with itchy, flaking scabs
The Cons
- Not the best choice for dry hair
19. Honeyskin Hair Growth Shampoo and Conditioner Set for Itchy and Dry Scalp
Product Overview
Honeyskin’s shampoo and conditioner relieve dandruff for adults and children. It won’t disrupt the natural pH balance of your skin, as that’s one of the main reasons your scalp is dry.
It’s also free of irritants like gluten, sulfates, and parabens.
- Free of irritants and glutens
- Fights dandruff and flakes
- Contains manuka honey
- Infused with aloe vera
Instead, it nourishes skin and hair with Manuka honey, aloe, and cehami. This last ingredient is botanical extract that stimulates hair growth and reduces inflammation.
Pros
- Stimulates hair growth
- Reduces inflammation
- pH-balanced formula
The Cons
- Can over oil your hair
20. MAJESTIC PURE Shea Butter Shampoo and Conditioner Set
Product Overview
Majestic Pure’s Shea Butter set contains one of the best moisturizers for sensitive skin. Shea butter won’t cause oiliness or weigh down the hair.
On the contrary, it rejuvenates dry skin and strands.
- Perfect for sensitive skin
- Contains shea butter
- Free of chemicals and other parabens
- Packed with natural extracts
Like other products from this company, both bottles are free of parabens and packed with natural extracts. The shampoo is also free of sulfates.
Pros
- Rejuvenates dry skin and strands
- Doesn’t weight down the hair
- Moisturizes your skin and hair
The Cons
- Can be too oily
21. Pantene Shampoo and Conditioner Kit, Soothing Rose Water
Product Overview
Pantene’s Rosewater shampoo and conditioner are free of sulfates and parabens. They are safe for chemically-treated hair.
The conditioner is also free of silicone and mineral oil.
- Free of silicone and mineral oil
- Safe for chemically-treated hair
- Good bargain
Together, they revive dry scalp and hair.
If you prefer to stick with trusted name brands, these are a good bargain.
Pros
- Revive dry scalp and hair
- Rejuvenates hair follicles
- Makes your scalp nourished
The Cons
- Can be to oily
22. Herbal Essences, Shampoo and Conditioner Kit, Hello Hydration
Product Overview
Yes, this shampoo has sulfates, so why recommend it?
Sulfates are surfactants that lather away excess oil and dirt. They can also strip moisture from the skin like dish detergent does to hands. The end result is drier scalp and hair.
- Doesn’t cause damage
- Plenty of moisturizers
- Can get away oil and dirts
On the other hand, if the formula counterbalances the drying sulfates with moisturizers, the shampoo cleanses well without causing damage.
While I wouldn’t recommend this set to most people with dry scalp, it might be worth a try if you love the brand.
Pros
- Doesn’t cause any damage
- Lathers very well
- Gets the oils and dirts away
The Cons
- Not for the dry scalps
23. MG217 Psoriasis 3% Salicylic Acid Therapeutic 2 in 1 Shampoo and Conditioner
Product Overview
People with psoriasis benefit from salicylic acid on their scalp. It loosens the scales and reduces inflammation.
- Contains 3% salicylic acid
- Fights dandruff and psoriasis
- Helps prevent flare-ups
This shampoo/conditioner helps prevent flare-ups. It also calms irritation and itching.
Pros
- Loosens the scales
- Reduces inflammation
- Calms irritation and itching
The Cons
- Can be over drying
24. Puracy Natural Shampoo and Conditioner Set
Product Overview
People with sensitive, dry skin love these products.
Puracy offers a 100% satisfaction guarantee on their shampoo and conditioner. They were developed by chemists in collaboration with hair care experts.
- 100% satisfaction guarantee
- Free of chemicals, parabens or perfumes
- Contains citrus, peppermint and eucalyptus
- Infused with shea butter and sunflower seed oil
Try them for at least two weeks to stabilize your hair and scalp and restore them to health.
Both formulas are free of allergens like perfumes, parabens, and sulfates. The conditioner doesn’t have dimethicone, either.
But they aren’t just good for your body; they’re also biodegradable and cruelty-free.
The shampoo washes away impurities with a coconut-based cleanser. It also has potent moisturizers like squalane and beet sugar. The fresh scent comes from citrus, peppermint, and eucalyptus.
Then, the conditioner prevents tangles with plant-based ingredients like shea butter and sunflower seed oil.
Pros
- Deeply hydrates and moisturizes
- Uses only plant-based ingredients
- Leaves a fresh, citrus scent
The Cons
- Can be too moisturizing
25. Free & Clear Set
Product Overview
Doctors recommend Free and Clear shampoo and conditioner to people with eczema because they lack all the harsh chemicals that irritate the skin.
In fact, the list of ingredients is shorter than the list of things they leave out.
- Helps with skin problems
- Fights dandruff and and psoriasis
- Helps with eczema
- Has no harsh chemicals
If every other product has failed you, these are the ones to get.
They have gentle surfactants and some of the best moisturizers science has to offer.
Pros
- Helps with inflammation
- Doesn’t irritate your skin
- Hydrates and moisturizes
The Cons
- Can dry your hair out
Home Remedies for Dry Scalp
Along with changing your shampoo and conditioner, you might have success with these home remedies.
They treat dry scalp and dandruff naturally.
- Apple cider vinegar– restores the acid balance, clears away flakes, but don’t use it on broken skin
- Avocados– mash them up and massage into your scalp for deep hydration
- Tea tree oil– treats dandruff, always dilute with a carrier oil like coconut oil
- Coconut oil– work it into the roots of your hair, then put on a shower cap for half an hour before washing
Try any of these treatments before washing and conditioning your hair as usual.
If your dry scalp persists, speak to your doctor about prescription treatments.
Conclusion
Heal and hydrate your dry scalp with the best shampoos and conditioners for your situation.
Be patient, as it may take a couple of weeks to undo the damage.
If you discovered products today that are working wonders for your hair and skin, tell us about them in the comments below.
Derma E Scalp Relief Conditioner
Infused with vitamins and minerals
Prevents damage and breakage
Encourages natural hair growth
Aida
Founder & Hair Beauty Specialist
I’m Aida and this is my blog where I write mostly about beauty and make up related stuff, but I like to spice it up a bit with lifestyle and photography posts. Or with whatever that comes to my mind. Hope you will enjoy the reading enough that we will ‘see’ each other more often!
Sources:
1. https://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/features/other-causes#1 by Matt McMillen, accessed December 4, 2019
2. https://www.aad.org/itchy-skin/relieve-scalp-itch accessed December 4, 2019