Shampoo is one of the most important steps in any haircare regimen. But, as much as it’s required for providing a thorough cleanse, it can also moonlight as a treatment to target popular concerns such as a dry scalp. From dandruff to an itchy and burning sensation, having a dry scalp is one of the more uncomfortable beauty woes. Not to mention, it has lasting effects on hair health.
“Dryness of the scalp can lead to itchiness, flaking, hair brittleness, breakage, and split ends,” says Dr. Dendy Engelman, MD, FACMS, FAAD, a celebrity dermatologist whose clients include Sofia Vergara and Beyoncé’s makeup artist, Sir John. “A dry and unhealthy scalp can also inhibit hair growth,” she adds, noting that for this reason, it’s important to keep the scalp moisturized and cared for.
With this in mind, we sent our PEOPLE Tested team on an important mission to uncover the best shampoo for dry scalps. After nearly a thousand hours of testing, we narrowed it down to 11 top picks.
After testing 30 shampoos for dry scalps, we can’t say enough great things about this exfoliating formula from Briogeo. The shampoo is formulated with binchotan charcoal, coconut oil, tea tree oil, and mint oil to deeply nourish and detoxify the scalp and strands. On top of that, the shampoo includes dissolvable granules, so it moonlights as a scalp scrub and can provide gentle exfoliation to lift away dandruff and relieve the roots of dandruff.
While testing this formula, we saw nearly instant improvements, especially in the dandruff department. It provides a salon-worthy cleanse and effectively decreases dry, flaky skin thanks to moisturizing ingredients and physical exfoliation properties.
Our only hangup is the packaging. It comes in a jar — similar to a hair mask or face cream — but a pump bottle is much more functional for a shampoo formula.
Size: 8 ounces, 32 ounces | Key Ingredients: Dissolvable granules, binchotan charcoal, coconut oil, tea tree oil, mint oil | Hair Type: All hair types
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People / Amanda Stanfield
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People / Amanda Stanfield
The More You Know
“I recommend only washing hair once or twice per week if you’re experiencing dry hair because overwashing can worsen dryness in the scalp,” says Dr. Jeannette Graf, a board-certified dermatologist and assistant clinical professor of Dermatology at Mt Sinai School of Medicine. “When washing hair, use mild temperature as scalding hot water can also irritate dry scalp.”
Enriched with apple amino acids, baobab, and glycerin, this shampoo from Act+Acre is designed for all hair types and can effectively detox the scalp, removing buildup and improving hair shine and hydration levels. Since it is a detox formula, it took a little bit of time for the formula to work its magic, but it’s totally worth the wait.
When we first started testing the shampoo, our scalp appeared a lot more flaky, but after the initial two weeks, the flakiness completely subsided, and we didn’t experience any dandruff for the rest of the testing period. The shampoo also provides a deep enough cleanse that we were able to extend our wash schedule without our roots feeling greasy between rinses and repeats.
Size: 3 ounces, 10 ounces | Key Ingredients: Apple amino acids, baobab, glycerin | Hair Type: All hair types
This Dove shampoo is proof that you don’t need to spend a ton of money to find an effective shampoo for dry scalps. The anti-dandruff shampoo is a budget-friendly formula that nourishes the scalp and softens the hair with regular use.
When testing this drugstore shampoo formula, we didn’t experience its wow factor right away, but after a few washes, it was well worth the wait. By the third wash, we noticed our scalp felt much less itchy, and the dandruff cleared completely after a month of use. The application process is also super easy. Since it lathers so well, you only need a small amount to effectively cover the entire head and strands.
Size: 12 ounces | Key Ingredients: Pyrithione zinc | Hair Type: Not listed
If you deal with dandruff and want to nip it in the bud once and for all, consider trying the LivSo Moisturizing Scalp Shampoo. This shampoo formula is enriched with glycolic acid and coconut oil, so it’s ultra-nourishing and gentle on the scalp. The formula also features xylitol, which can improve skin health by balancing the overall flora to reduce dandruff, flakiness, and itchiness.
After the first wash, we were completely sold on this shampoo. Because of its ingredients, it provides instant dandruff reduction. Unlike other anti-dandruff shampoos, you don’t have to leave it on your scalp for long, either. This formula also worked just as well as some of the more luxe products in our routine for a fraction of the price, which is reason enough for us to make the switch for a dandruff-free life.
Our only hangup? After testing, we noticed some fading, so it’s not ideal for dyed strands (especially if you use a semi-permanent formula).
Size: 8.5 ounces | Key Ingredients: Xylitol, glycolic acid, coconut oil | Hair Type: Dry
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Gentle formula
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Balances the scalp
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Instant results
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Moisturizes hair
The Bumble and Bumble Seaweed Shampoo is another formula with lots of wow factor. It’s formulated with royal sugar kelp, Pacific sea kelp, and green microalgae, which are rich in potent nutrients that can support scalp health and also target dry, brittle hair.
We love this formula because it provides an all-over balancing effect. After just one wash, we saw much less dandruff, and our itchiness subsided. The shampoo formula is also so hydrating that it completely changed the texture of our hair. With regular use, the extra hydration also made our hair look less frizzy and gave it a major shine boost, too.
Size: 8.5 ounces, 33.3 ounces | Key Ingredients: Royal sugar kelp, Pacific sea kelp, green microalgae | Hair Type: All hair types
People / Lisa Pezzuto
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Doubles as a scalp scrub
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Sloughs off dead skin buildup
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Deep cleans without stripping
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Reduced flakiness after one wash
If you need a deep cleanse, opting for an exfoliating shampoo can work wonders. We tested the Ceremonia Papaya Scalp Scrub Shampoo and were thoroughly impressed by how well it treated our dandruff and improved hydration, too. The shampoo features Bolivian mountain salt and doubles as a scalp scrub to buff away dandruff flakes and provide a deep cleanse without stripping the skin.
When testing this shampoo formula, we saw a difference right away. After the initial wash, it lifted away dry skin and reduced flakiness so that the nourishing ingredients could better penetrate our scalp. In addition to sloughing off dead skin cells, the shampoo made our actual hair feel much cleaner, which can help extend a cleansing schedule.
Although this shampoo formula is highly effective, it’s worth noting that it’s not a permanent solution. When we stopped using this shampoo, the flakiness returned. So, we recommend using this as a deep cleaning treatment and then incorporating another anti-dandruff shampoo in between uses.
Size: 8 ounces | Key Ingredients: Bolivian mountain salt, papaya enzymes, prickly pear extracts | Hair Type: All hair types
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People / Chantia Murphy
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People / Chantia Murphy
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Excellent consistency
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Lathers well
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Provides a fresh feeling
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Reduces itchiness
If you’re on the hunt for a moisturizing shampoo that can refresh the scalp and provide deep nourishment, look no further. The Davines Nounou Shampoo is formulated with Fiaschetto tomato extract, which is rich in vitamin C and other antioxidants that can energize the scalp. The formula also lathers well and has a fantastic consistency, so it’s easy to apply all over for an effective cleanse.
Since the shampoo is so hydrating, it’s great for soothing the scalp and reducing itchiness. And, while it wasn’t as effective on the hair, we did notice that our strands felt a lot more manageable at the end of the testing period.
Size: 2.5 ounces, 8.4 ounces | Key Ingredients: Fiaschetto tomato extract | Hair Type: Not listed
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Fantastic lather
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Exfoliating formula
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Instant results
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Reduces flakiness
For instant results, check out the Goop G.Tox Himalayan Salt Scalp Scrub Shampoo. This exfoliating scrub shampoo is formulated with Himalayan pink salt that gently sloughs off dead skin cells to reduce dandruff and allow haircare formulas to penetrate the scalp deeper. Because of this, we noticed a significant reduction in dandruff, including after a sweaty workout, when we usually see increased flakiness.
In addition to providing instant anti-dandruff results, the formula also features a fantastic lather. This makes the application process super easy and allows you to get enough coverage for an effective deep cleanse. On top of that, the shampoo features nourishing oils — including moringa oil and rosehip oil — to deeply nourish strands and provide a burst of hydration.
Size: 6.7 ounces | Key Ingredients: Himalayan pink salt, cold-pressed moringa oil, rosehip oil | Hair Type: All hair types
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Easy to apply on thick strands
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Cleanses without stripping
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Provides deep nourishment for a shampoo
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Calms the scalp
For textured hair types, reach for the Mizani Scalp Care Anti-Dandruff Shampoo. This formula is a fantastic choice for thicker, curly strands and is easy to apply all over the scalp without using a ton of product. Since it’s formulated with cucumber extract, peppermint oil, and menthol, it also calms the scalp and helps soothe itchiness.
In addition to its impressive soothing properties, the formula provides the scalp and strands with an effective cleanse but is still gentle enough for regular use. And, with regular use, our hair felt softer and appeared shinier, too.
Size: 16.9 ounces | Key Ingredients: Cucumber extract, peppermint oil, menthol | Hair Type: All hair types
The Ouai Anti-Dandruff Shampoo is one of our favorite formulas. While it takes a couple of weeks to see results, the shampoo’s salicylic acid formulation helps decrease flakiness (though it doesn’t fully get rid of dandruff) and reduces itchiness.
In addition to targeting the effects of a dry scalp, the shampoo is also highly effective at targeting frizz for a smoother, silkier finish. It’s also super lightweight, so it’s a great choice for oily scalps because it can refresh the roots without weighing strands down.
Size: 10 ounces | Key Ingredients: Salicylic acid, propanediol caprylate | Hair Type: All hair types
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Doesn’t strip strands
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Targets itchiness
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Hydrates scalp
For a gentle cleanse, consider the Sachajuan Scalp Shampoo, which is formulated with lots of noteworthy ingredients like rosemary oil, menthol, ginger extract, Piroctone Olamine, Climbazole, lactic acid, and salicylic acid. We’ll be honest: When we first started using this shampoo, we didn’t notice much of a difference. But, after a week of regular use, the chronic itchiness we experience — one of the biggest dry scalp woes — completely subsided and began reducing flakiness.
In addition to reducing itchiness, the shampoo is an excellent choice for sensitive scalps because it provides a gentle yet effective cleanse that doesn’t strip away natural oils or cause irritation. The shampoo also has an excellent lather, so it’s easy to apply it all over without needing excess formula.
Size: 3.4 ounces, 8.4 ounces, 33.5 ounces | Key Ingredients: Rosemary oil, menthol, ginger extract, Piroctone Olamine, Climbazole, lactic acid, salicylic acid | Hair Type: All hair types, especially dry and oily
You’ll Also Need
Leonor Greyl Massaging Scalp Brush
Amazon
To relieve your scalp of dry skin and ensure your shampoo can penetrate deeper, consider adding a scalp brush such as this one from Leonor Greyl. We tested tons of different scalp brushes, and this was our top pick for its soft silicone bristles, comfortable handle, and easy application. While using this brush, we also noticed our shampoo penetrated our scalp and hair better when using the brush vs. our fingers.
Mielle Organics Rosemary Mint Scalp and Hair Strengthening Oil
Ulta
Promote stronger strands with this rosemary oil from Mielle. We tested lots of different hair growth oils, and this was our top pick thanks to its budget-friendly price and ultra-nourishing ingredients. Because this formula includes rosemary oi,— a natural anti-inflammatory herb, it also nourishes dry, itchy scalps.
What to Know About Shampoo for Dry Scalps
Moisturizing Ingredients
When shopping for shampoos for dry scalps, Dr. Engelman says to prioritize products formulated with moisturizing ingredients like aloe vera, coconut oil, argan oil, jojoba oil, or tea tree oil, “which help nourish and hydrate the scalp and hair.”
For an ultra-nourishing shampoo formula, consider the Davines Nounou Shampoo. This shampoo formula features Fiaschetto tomato extract, which is rich in vitamin C and other antioxidants that invigorate the scalp and support hydration.
Exfoliation Properties
While it’s not entirely necessary, exfoliating shampoos can also improve dry scalp conditions. “Look for a shampoo that will gently exfoliate the scalp, as removing product buildup and dead skin cells from this area will help restore the scalp microbiome and allow moisturizing products to penetrate,” says Dr. Engeleman. Through these exfoliation benefits, an exfoliating shampoo can further help alleviate dryness.
For the best exfoliating shampoos, consider the Ceremonia Papaya Scalp Scrub Shampoo and Goop G.Tox Himalayan Salt Scalp Scrub Shampoo. Both of these formulas feature physical exfoliants that gently and effectively slough off dry skin cell buildup on the scalp.
Behind the Scenes
To find the best shampoo for dry scalps, we researched dozens of formulas before selecting 30 shampoos for a 12-week test period. Throughout this time, we spent 972 hours testing each formula for its cleansing abilities, effectiveness, hydration, and application.
- Cleansing Ability: During the testing period, we initially looked at each formula’s cleansing abilities and carefully considered important factors like whether or not they are gentle enough to use on dry, irritated scalps, how well they cleansed without stripping strands of natural oils, and what the rinsing experience was like.
- Effectiveness: We also considered the overall efficacy, including how well it cleansed our scalp after the initial wash, whether or not we experienced instant results, and whether the product was compatible with our hair types and textures.
- Hydration: The hydration factor can make a major difference in shampoos for dry scalps, so we paid close attention to the moisturizing properties. In addition to the scalp, we also considered how the shampoo impacted hair health, including how well it worked at reducing frizz and damage.
- Application: When considering the application, we made note of how well each formula lathered, how much we needed to get an effective cleanse, and whether or not the shampoo was gentle enough to use on irritated scalps.
After extensive field research, we compiled our notes together and scored each formula for its efficacy. From there, we narrowed our list down to the top 11 best shampoos for dry scalps.
Why Trust PEOPLE?
Jessie Quinn is a contributing commerce writer for PEOPLE and has written for publications such as Byrdie, InStyle, The Spruce, NYLON, and more. When covering the best shampoos for dry scalps, Jessie first reviewed the PEOPLE Tested team’s insights and made note of the formulas with the top ratings, plus the team’s experiences and results. She also connected with top dermatologists, Dr. Jeannette Graf and Dr. Dendy Engelman, to learn more about what to look for in shampoos for dry scalps. As a result, she curated this list of the best moisturizing and anti-dandruff shampoos.
Our Expert Panel
- Dr. Jeannette Graf is a board-certified dermatologist and assistant clinical professor of Dermatology at Mt Sinai School of Medicine.
- Dr. Dendy Engelman, MD, FACMS, FAAD, is a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist and Mohs surgeon at Shafer Clinic in New York City.
What Is PEOPLE Tested?
We created the PEOPLE Tested seal of approval to help you find the very best products for your life. We use our unique methodology to test products in three labs across the country and with our network of home testers to determine their effectiveness, durability, ease of use, and so much more. Based on the results, we rate and recommend products so you can find the right one for your needs.
But we don’t stop there: We also regularly re-review the categories in which we’ve awarded the PEOPLE Tested seal of approval — because the best product of today might not be the best of tomorrow. And by the way, companies can never buy our recommendation: Their products must earn it, fair and square.
In short, PEOPLE Tested provides recommendations you can trust — every day, every purchase.