It might sound a little extra, but I genuinely treat my scalp the same way I treat my skincare routine. Just like facial skin, scalps can be dry, oily, or combination, which is exactly why choosing the right shampoo and conditioner matters so much. Thankfully, more brands are now recognising that a healthy, balanced scalp is the foundation of healthy hair. From targeted shampoos to professional scalp facials, there are more options than ever to keep your scalp feeling calm and refreshed. I’ve personally dealt with a combination scalp for years, but today I’m zooming in on dryness. A dry scalp often comes with itchiness, flakes, or an overall lack of moisture in the hair. One of the easiest ways to manage these symptoms is by switching to a shampoo designed specifically for dry scalps. But with so many choices out there, knowing what actually works can feel overwhelming. To clear things up, I spoke to Dr Pyal, a dermatology GP and Head & Shoulders ambassador, to better understand dry scalps and identify what truly makes a shampoo effective. Below, you’ll find everything you need to know, along with a carefully curated edit of the best shampoos for dry scalp sufferers.
What Causes a Dry Scalp?
Much like dry skin on the face or body, a dry scalp is often the result of a weakened skin barrier. According to Dr Pyal, this can be triggered by cold weather, indoor heating, harsh hair products, or washing the hair too frequently. These factors strip away natural moisture, leaving the scalp irritated, tight, and flaky. Seasonal changes, especially winter, tend to make these symptoms even more noticeable.
How Can Shampoo Help With a Dry Scalp?
Shampoo does far more than simply cleanse the hair. Dr Pyal explains that formulas containing proven active ingredients, such as piroctone olamine, help support the scalp’s microbiome and reduce flaking. Using these shampoos consistently, alongside leave-in scalp moisturisers between washes, can significantly improve comfort. The right shampoo works to calm irritation, maintain hydration, and prevent flakes before they start.
What to Look for in a Shampoo for a Dry Scalp
When shopping for a dry scalp shampoo, ingredients matter. Dr Pyal recommends looking for piroctone olamine, ceramides, salicylic acid, and niacinamide. Together, these ingredients help protect the scalp barrier, gently exfoliate flakes, and restore lost moisture. A well-balanced formula should cleanse without stripping, soothe irritation, and support long-term scalp health.
Aveeno Daily Moisture+ Oat Milk Blend Shampoo
Best for daily use
This gentle shampoo from Aveeno is formulated with colloidal oats to soothe and hydrate dry, itchy scalps. It cleanses effectively without disrupting the scalp’s natural balance, making it suitable for frequent use.
Head & Shoulders Dermaxpro Shampoo
Best affordable option
Recommended by Dr Pyal, this budget-friendly shampoo contains aloe vera, ceramides, and piroctone olamine to restore moisture and reduce itchiness. It’s designed to strengthen the scalp barrier while tackling dryness and flakes.
Oribe Gold Lust Repair and Restore Shampoo
Best luxury shampoo
This high-end shampoo combines nourishing oils and botanical extracts to hydrate both scalp and hair. It cleanses gently while restoring softness and shine, making it ideal for dry, dull hair.
Vichy Dercos Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
Best for sensitive scalps
Formulated with piroctone olamine, salicylic acid, and bisabolol, this shampoo targets flakes while soothing irritation. It lathers into a light exfoliating foam that helps remove visible dryness.
Necessaire Rosemary Shampoo
Best scented shampoo
This creamy gel shampoo restores the scalp barrier using ceramides and plant-based proteins. Infused with rosemary and botanical extracts, it delivers a refreshing and spa-like experience.
Philip Kingsley Flaky/Itchy Scalp Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
Best for itchy scalps
This targeted shampoo gently removes buildup and provides fast relief from itching thanks to piroctone olamine. It can be used regularly without drying out the scalp.
E45 Dry Scalp Relief Shampoo
Best for all hair types
Designed specifically for dry scalps, this soap-free shampoo gently cleanses while relieving itchiness and flaking. It contains pro-vitamin B5 to help maintain moisture and comfort.
