To add an exfoliating element while using this shampoo, Adam Federicohairdresser and R+COAmazon’s vice president of technical education suggests using a scalp massager before showering to loosen dead skin cells. This will make it easier to wash once you shower.
Best Dandruff Shampoo: Jupiter Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
If you are looking for a dandruff shampoo that is really effective, but not too harsh on your hair, this is the perfect solution. It’s vegan, sulfate- and paraben-free, and in addition to containing zinc pyrithione, it also contains nourishing ingredients to keep your scalp from feeling tight and dry.
One of these ingredients is squalane, which works to add moisture to the strands and strengthen them so that they are less prone to breakage. It also nourishes with coconut oil and uses sea kelp known for its antimicrobial properties to prevent further flaking.
Best shampoo for itchy scalp: Neutrogena Anti-Dandruff Shampoo for Itchy Scalp
Not only does this shampoo contain salicylic acid and menthol—both of which work to soothe irritation—but it smells like mint and musk, which will leave you feeling alert and refreshed. The salicylic acid in this formula acts as a gentle exfoliator that removes dead skin cells from a flaky scalp, as well as product buildup that may cause clogged pores. Plus, it’s great at breaking down oil without stripping your skin. All of these factors will prevent you from experiencing more irritation and itching later.
Best exfoliating shampoo for dry scalp: Kiehl’s Amino Acid Scalp Scrub
Kiehl’s formula is great because it contains both chemical and physical exfoliants. Salicylic acid acts as a chemical exfoliant by removing dead skin and refining the pores underneath, while sea salt acts as a natural exfoliant that also helps balance the scalp’s pH.
To prevent dryness, the formula also contains coconut and seed oils, which keep the scalp from drying out after washing away dead cells. Use this product once a week (lest you want a sensitive scalp) instead of your regular shampoo and be sure to focus on massaging it into the scalp and rinsing it well.
Best shampoo for fine hair: R+Co DALLAS Biotin Thickening Shampoo
If you’re experiencing hair loss, Alexiadis suggests looking for a shampoo that contains biotin. This product is great because it contains not only this ingredient, but also a lot of other ingredients that promote scalp health. “If someone has a dry scalp, it is essential to look for ingredients that provide hydration, soothe irritation and keep the scalp healthy, while avoiding those that can cause further dryness or irritation,” Federico adds.
This formula contains Provitamin B5, which provides hydration by coating strands and locking in moisture. Provitamin B5 can also act as a protective element for hair strands when using shampoos containing harsher ingredients. The coconut oil and saw palmetto berry extract present in the formula will also nourish your hair and add volume to it.
Best moisturizing shampoo for dry scalp: IGK Legendary Moisturizing Shampoo
Especially if you have dry hair, you want to make sure you’re not constantly washing your hair with harsh chemicals that can cause further damage. Frank IzquierdoThe hairstylist and co-founder of IGK Hair Care notes that one problem he typically sees when styling people with dandruff or dry scalp is that they tend to over-medicate with dandruff shampoo every time they wash their hair. “This can actually lead to more skin problems and reactions by over-treating or drying out the scalp,” says Izquierdo.
He advises people to choose physical exfoliants once a week, and notes that this could include a scalp massage or combing your hair well before showering to break down dead skin cells. “This will allow the cleaning process to remove any residue and dandruff,” says Izquierdo. This shampoo improves scalp health with ingredients including microbiome prebiotics, which will help balance the pH of the scalp so it is healthier overall. It’s also infused with red sea algae, which moisturizes strands so they can recover from medication-heavy shampoos.
Best purifying shampoo for dry scalp: Virtue Labs Purifying Clarifying Shampoo
Those with an oily scalp may think that a clarifying shampoo will help alleviate their problem, but in reality, these shampoos can actually weigh down your hair, and can actually contribute to more even hair. More oily scalp. But, for someone with a dry scalp, a clarifying shampoo can help get rid of excess hair product buildup while keeping your head nice and nourished. Not only is charcoal an excellent hair purifying ingredient, it also works as a natural and gentle exfoliant on all hair types. The purifying ingredient in this formula is hops extract, a natural astringent that purifies the scalp without leaving it too dry. To add some moisture, the formula includes a blend of coconut and incredibly gentle fatty acids.
