8 Dry Scalp Treatments Dermatologists Swear By

Take Shorter, Cooler Showers

At the end of a long day, a hot shower can be just the thing to help you unwind. It's easy to lose track of time when you're enjoying the soothing heat of a shower, but our experts warn this can be a cause if you're experiencing scalp dryness. "Limiting time in the shower and using warm, but not hot water may help. Overly hot showers can exacerbate dry skin, including dry scalp," Marcus explains.

In addition to the temperature and length of your showers, you may also want to evaluate how often you wash your hair. "If your scalp is extremely dry, it may help to wash less frequently, maybe every other day instead of daily," Marcus shares. Consider using a shower cap to protect your scalp when you shower and don't plan to wash your hair.

Use an Oil Treatment

Dry scalps can benefit from added moisture in the form of an oil treatment. Marcus says applying an oil, like castor or coconut oil, directly to the scalp can help soften flakes and ultimately help to repair the skin barrier. Coconut oil, in particular, is deeply nourishing to both the scalp and hair. Some hair oils contain ingredients, like rosemary oil, which may also have added benefits like promoting hair growth in addition to hydration.  

If you want to maximize the benefits of an oil, Shamban recommends creating a hot oil treatment. To do this, carefully warm the oil before applying it to your scalp (make sure the temperature isn't too hot), then cover your hair with a shower cap and apply heat using a blow dryer or hot steam from the shower. Shamban recommends the Philip B Rejuvenating Oil, which she calls a "heavenly life-saver."

Philip B. Rejuvenating Oil $40.00

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Use a Gentle, Fragrance-Free Shampoo

Dryness, itching, and even flaking can be from irritation, Shamban shares. She adds that harsh products with chemicals, excessive sulfates, or fragrances can create dryness and the same effects. Marcus agrees and recommends using a gentle, fragrance-free shampoo, as this can help to repair the skin barrier if you have sensitive skin and experience irritation from harsh shampoos and common irritants.

If changing to a gentle shampoo does not improve your scalp irritation or you experience any cracking, bleeding, or scabbing, it's time to visit a board-certified dermatologist. "If it's inflamed, red, and scaly, it may be a condition beyond dry scalp. Dry scalp is often confused with dandruff or the more severe inflammatory condition known as seborrheic dermatitis," Shamban cautions.

Add a Hydrating Hair Serum

Hair serums can treat a variety of hair concerns, and Shamban says some hydrating hair serums may also benefit the scalp. Specifically, she recommends The Ordinary's Natural Moisturizing Factors + Hyaluronic Acid Scalp Serum ($14), which is designed to be applied from roots to ends. If a product's instructions don't say to apply it to the scalp, it's best to follow this, as it may contribute to buildup. While it may seem harmless, excessive product buildup can create dryness, worsening your initial problem.

The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + Hyaluronic Acid Scalp Serum $13.00

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Try a Gentle Scalp Exfoliator

Many people love scratching their scalp while shampooing, but this can make flaking worse. Scratching may help to dislodge the flakes, but the damage it causes to the skin barrier will promote the creation of more dry skin as the scalp heals. Instead of using your nails, seek out scrubs and shampoos designed to gently exfoliate the flakes away without causing further damage.

A salicylic acid shampoo can help to loosen flakes, and a gentle scalp scrub can also help to wash them away, Marcus explains. Shamban agrees and adds that using a light scrub on your scalp can help to avoid buildup. Shamban recommends the Briogeo Scalp Revival Charcoal + Coconut Oil Micro-Exfoliating Shampoo ($42), a two-in-one shampoo and scrub.

Briogeo Scalp Revival Charcoal + Coconut Oil Micro-Exfoliating Shampoo $42.00

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Try a Keravive Scalp Treatment

If dry scalp is not resolving with over-the-counter treatments, it's important to see a dermatologist to rule out a more serious diagnosis. Another benefit of consulting your dermatologist? They have access to more intensive treatments to help your condition. "A dermatologist may prescribe a topical steroid to help control flaking on the scalp," Marcus shares.

Your dermatologist will be able to rule out more serious conditions and then pursue a more rigorous regimen for your scalp dryness, which may include in-office treatments like the HydraFacial Keravive Scalp Treatment. The HydraFacial Keravive will clean the scalp, infuse moisture, and seal in nourishment to help heal and calm a dry, itchy scalp, Shamban explains.

Massage the Scalp

Massaging your scalp can provide many benefits. Scalp massage stimulates blood flow to the area, which is believed to relieve tension and potentially promote new hair growth. When it comes to dry scalp treatment, massaging can help clear buildup that may cause dryness and help loosen flakes without causing irritation. Shamban recommends that you massage your scalp with your fingertips nightly, but you can also consider an in-shower scalp massager to use when you shampoo.

Receive Red Light Therapy

LED light treatments are popular for their use on the face to treat a variety of concerns. Red light therapy has been used to treat irritation and inflammation in the face, so it's easy to see where it may be helpful for similar scalp issues as well. Shamban recommends red light treatment for the scalp, and there are both in-office and at-home options for treatment.

At-home red light therapy machines can be pricey, so consult your dermatologist before investing in one. It's important to ensure you know what you're dealing with, as certain scalp conditions require prescription medication or creams for effective treatment.

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