What Is The Best Dry Scalp Shampoo On The Market?
Contents
Do you suffer from an irritated scalp? Are you embarrassed by unsightly dandruff? If you find yourself not wanting to take off your hat due to a flaky scalp, then I am here to help!
A dry scalp and dandruff can cause itchiness and aggravation and it can often be hard to find relief. On top of all of that discomfort, it can be downright mortifying!
If you're not sure where to start to fix this problem, then take a look at these products below. I have done the hard work for you and found 5 of the best dry scalp shampoos to help eliminate all the unpleasantness that comes with a dry scalp.
First, a quick note on causes. Plain dry skin causes small, dry flakes, while dandruff (a mild form of seborrheic dermatitis) causes oily, yellowish or white scales. MedlinePlus lists dandruff shampoo ingredients such as ketoconazole, coal tar, selenium sulfide, zinc and salicylic acid.
Nizoral Anti Dandruff Shampoo
This thick, lathering shampoo feels just like any other luxurious shampoo and is safe to use on colored, greying and treated hair.
It contains ketoconazole 1% which helps get rid of the irritation, flakiness and discomfort caused by dandruff. It costs more than many shampoos, but ketoconazole is one of the standard antifungal ingredients for dandruff.
The Nizoral label directs adults and children 12 and older to use it every 3 to 4 days for up to 8 weeks, then only as needed. Ask a doctor before using it on children under 12, and don't use it on broken or inflamed skin.
Avalon Organics Tea Tree Mint Shampoo
The Avalon Organics brand offer a natural shampoo with organic ingredients. The brand says it is free from parabens, synthetic colors and harsh sulfates. Fewer additives may mean less irritation, but anyone can react to plant oils.
The carefully balanced blend of mint, chamomile, tea tree and eucalyptus gently cleanses your hair and leaves it feeling fresh.
Avalon Organics Tea Tree Mint Shampoo is a gentle, affordable choice for a dry scalp, and it smells good too. It isn't a medicated dandruff shampoo, so stubborn flakes may need one of the options above.
Argan Oil Shampoo and Conditioner Set
If you are looking for a combination of shampoo and conditioner for a dry scalp then this set is perfect.
Argan oil is a natural moisturizer that can help hair and a dry scalp feel softer. Botanical ingredients can still irritate some people, so patch test first.
The maker says it is free from parabens, harsh sulfates and added dyes.
Together, this shampoo and conditioner can moisturize a dry scalp and add shine. It is not a medicated dandruff treatment, and claims that it promotes hair growth are not proven.
Neutrogena T/Gel Shampoo
Neutrogena T/Gel Shampoo is a medicated shampoo made with coal tar, one of the standard ingredients for dandruff.
It is meant for flaking and itching from dandruff and related scalp conditions. Use it as the label directs, and note that coal tar can stain light or color-treated hair.
It helps control flakes with regular use.
Maple Holistics Hydrate Shampoo
Maple Holistics Hydrate Shampoo is a botanical shampoo for a dry scalp. It contains lavender, parsley seed and keratin. Claims that these ingredients boost circulation or hair growth are not proven.
It isn't a medicated dandruff shampoo, so it is best for plain dryness.
It lathers nicely so you won't feel like you are using a special treatment shampoo, and the natural scent is much more calming than many other artificially scented products. Almond oil and jojoba make it a moisturizing option for a dry scalp.
Conclusion
There you have it, 5 of the best dry scalp shampoos you can find.
Pick a medicated shampoo (ketoconazole or coal tar) for dandruff, and a gentle, moisturizing one for plain dryness.
If flakes don't improve after a few weeks of self-care, or your scalp becomes very red, painful, crusted or starts to drain, see a doctor or dermatologist.
Sources
- Seborrheic dermatitis, MedlinePlus
- Nizoral (ketoconazole) shampoo label, DailyMed (NIH)
