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What is the best shampoo for dry and itchy scalp? 6 ingredients you should look for

by Lotte Lindgren on Mar 19, 2022

Excellent Based on 3255 reviews
Dorthe Kristensen

Read through by Dorthe Kristensen

Hairdresser and former co-owner of the award-winning hairdressing chain Zoom by Zoom
With many years of experience in the hairdressing industry, Dorthe has advised many customers about hair and hair care. Dorthe has read through this blog entry to ensure high quality and professionalism. This blog post is professionally updated on September 29, 2024.

Table of contents

What should you look for when choosing a shampoo for dry scalp and hair?

Two of the biggest "crimes" you can commit when it comes to dry hair are: using shampoo and conditioner that contain certain sulfates and silicones. These two ingredients are not only out to damage your hair, but they also have good intentions, because they cleanse your hair of oil and dirt. When looking for the best shampoo for dry scalp, you should therefore avoid products with these ingredients, as they can further dry out your scalp. Read more about what sulfates and silicones are and how you can avoid them.

Dry scalp can manifest as flaky scales from the scalp that fall onto your clothes or stick to your hairbrush. It is especially when you shake or brush your hair that dandruff becomes apparent. In some cases, your scalp is not only dry but also irritating because it itches.

In this guide, we serve you six ingredients. They all aim to give your hair more moisture and care.

The reason why many suffer from a dry scalp is primarily related to the use of hair products with all kinds of chemicals. These are unhealthy chemicals that alter the natural balance of the hair roots. When your scalp becomes dry, it is because there is a lack of skin fat. This happens because your sebaceous glands do not produce sufficient amounts of natural oil. A shampoo for a dry and itchy scalp can help stimulate sebum production and provide the necessary moisture to restore balance.

We want to help you in the right direction when it comes to choosing pure and genuine ingredients in hair care products like shampoo, hair masks, etc.

Why do I get a dry scalp?

Dry scalp, also known as dandruff or seborrheic dermatitis, is a common condition that causes the skin on the scalp to become dry and scaly. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including weather conditions, hormones, stress levels, irritants in shampoos and conditioners, lack of moisture and even an overgrowth of a yeast called Malassezia.

Weather changes such as cold or dry climates can cause scalp dryness due to low humidity, which strips the skin of its natural oils. Drastic hormone fluctuations or imbalances can also cause the scalp to become dry and flaky. Stress is known to trigger or worsen many different types of skin disorders, including seborrheic dermatitis.

In addition, the use of harsh chemical-based products such as shampoos and conditioners can strip the hair of its essential oils, resulting in a dry scalp. When not enough moisture is returned to the hair, it remains dry, leading to dandruff-like symptoms. Overuse of shampoos and hair products: Too much shampooing or using products like gels and styling creams can strip your scalp of natural oils, leaving it feeling tight and flaky.

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The importance of using the best shampoo for dry scalp

Using the best shampoo for dry scalp can be a crucial factor in alleviating symptoms and improving the health of your scalp. The best shampoo for dry scalp can help restore moisture balance in the scalp, relieve itching and flakes, and reduce redness and inflammation. It is important to choose a shampoo that is specially formulated for the problem of dry scalp and contains soothing and moisturizing ingredients.

Additionally, using the best shampoo for dry scalp can be a preventive measure against future scalp problems. By using a moisturizing and soothing shampoo, you can maintain a healthy scalp, which promotes healthy hair growth and prevents further irritation. Many people experience a significant improvement in their scalp's condition just by switching to a gentler shampoo that contains nourishing ingredients that help strengthen and care for the scalp.

In addition to alleviating dryness, a good shampoo for dry scalp can also be effective against symptoms of itching and dandruff, which often occur as a result of dryness.

How to choose the best shampoo for dry scalp

When choosing the best shampoo for dry scalp, there are some important factors to consider. Here are some tips to help you find the right shampoo:

  1. Look for shampoos that contain natural soothing ingredients such as aloe vera, chamomile or oat extract, as these can relieve itching and soothe the scalp.
  2. Avoid shampoos with harsh chemicals such as sulfates and parabens, as these can strip the scalp of natural oils and exacerbate dryness issues.
  3. Choose a shampoo that is specially formulated for dry scalp or dandruff, as these often contain active ingredients that can target dryness and relieve the symptoms.
  4. Also consider your hair type and needs when choosing a shampoo for dry scalp. If you have colored hair or a sensitive scalp, choose a shampoo suitable for these specific needs.
  5. Read reviews and ratings from other consumers to get an idea of the effectiveness of the shampoo and whether it suits your needs.

How to use shampoo for dry scalp correctly

Once you have chosen the right shampoo for dry scalp, it is important to apply it correctly to achieve the best results. By using the best shampoo for dry and itchy scalp in the right way, you can ensure that the scalp is optimally moisturized and itching is reduced. Here are some steps to follow when using shampoo for dry scalp:

  1. Wet your hair and scalp thoroughly with warm water.
  2. Apply an appropriate amount of shampoo to the palm of your hand and massage it into the scalp in gentle circular motions. Remember to focus on the areas that are most dry or irritated.
  3. Leave the shampoo on for a few minutes to give the active ingredients time to work.
  4. Rinse thoroughly with plenty of warm water to remove all shampoo from the hair and scalp. Ensure that no product residue is left, as this can clog the pores and worsen dryness or itching.
  5. Repeat if necessary, depending on the instructions on the shampoo or your own experience with the product.

It is important to avoid using too hot water as it can dry out the scalp. It is also recommended to avoid using your fingernails or coarse towels to scrub the scalp, as this can further irritate the skin.

After rinsing out the shampoo, you can apply a conditioner or hair mask specially designed for dry scalp to further care for and moisturize the hair and scalp. A good conditioner for dry and itchy scalp can help seal in moisture and keep your scalp healthy. It may also be a good idea to avoid using heat styling tools like hairdryers, flat irons, or curling irons, as the heat can further dry out the scalp and hair.

Woman washes her hair

6 ingredients to look for in the best shampoo for dry scalp

If you want to avoid dry hair and dry scalp or are currently struggling with dry hair, the following six ingredients can work wonders for your hair and scalp health. When looking for the best shampoo for dry scalp, it is beneficial to choose products that contain these ingredients as they can help alleviate itching, reduce dryness, and restore the scalp's natural balance.

Turmeric

Turmeric is the first ingredient you will meet. At first glance, turmeric may look like ginger, but inside it has an energetic, orange color. Turmeric is rich in curcumin, which has anti-inflammatory properties, making it ideal for use in shampoos for dry and itchy scalp. Turmeric is a wonder in food, tea, supplements, and cosmetic products.

Effect against dry hair

Do you feel that your hair is as dry as sandpaper? Turmeric is created for you who want fresh and energetic hair. When turmeric is used in shampoo for dry and itchy scalp, it can help reduce inflammation and irritation while promoting a healthy scalp. Turmeric also helps you who have delicate hair strands. Delicate hair strands are characterized by breaking when you: wash it, style it, and brush it.

Turmeric's natural anti-inflammatory effect is particularly useful for people with sensitive or itchy scalp as it can relieve redness and irritation. This makes it an essential ingredient in shampoos designed to combat dryness and itchiness in the scalp.

Aloe vera

Aloe vera is a clear gel that comes from the aloe vera plant. The clear gel comes from the center of the leaf and has long been used for the skin. Aloe vera is most often mixed into creams and ointments, especially for the cooling element that the natural gel contains.

Aloe vera is full of good properties. And what kind of powerful properties are these? These are: enzymes, minerals, amino acids and several types of different vitamins.

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Effect against dry scalp

Aloe vera's properties rhyme with moisture, care and shine. Aloe vera is complete when it comes to solving various hair problems. Greasy hair, dry hair, frizzy hair, irritable and red scalp, etc. To maintain a healthy scalp, aloe vera can help you maintain the normal PH value, which should be 4.5-5.5.

To treat a dry scalp, dry scalp shampoos and hair serums with aloe vera can be of great help. Aloe vera both moisturizes and cools the skin on the scalp, and can also keep the scalp moist. In addition, aloe vera can also relieve itching and can reduce inflammation.

It's obvious why your hair loves aloe vera. When you choose hair care with aloe vera in it, you welcome healthy, shiny and delicious hair.

Amino acid

Amino acids are the building blocks of the body. They are involved in the formation of proteins. These can help strengthen the body and maintain cells and bones. In hair care, amino acids play an important role as they strengthen the hair from within by repairing damaged hair fibers and helping maintain the hair's structure. It is fundamental for all people to get amino acids as not all types of amino acids can be produced naturally by the body.

Effect against dry scalp

You can use amino acids to treat a dry scalp. Amino acids are known for their moisturizing properties, making them ideal for helping restore a dry and damaged scalp. Your hair will be strengthened, and the surface of the hair strands will be repaired. For the scalp, amino acids can help repair damaged skin and promote a healthy scalp, which is particularly important when using shampoo for dry scalp. Additionally, amino acids provide nutrients to the cells in both your skin and hair follicle. This contributes to a healthier scalp and improved hair growth.

Pyrus malus (apple) fruit extract

In the majority of all Danish homes you will find apples in the fridge or in the fruit bowl. And there's a reason for that: apples are healthy for you. They have a positive influence on your body. Whether it comes to weight loss, better digestion, healthier teeth, stronger hair, apples may be the answer you need to turn to. But when it comes to caring for your hair in the best way, there must be apple extract in the product.

Pyrus malus is a fruit extract that comes from apples. This fruit extract is rich in antioxidants, which can protect the skin and add strength and smoothness to the skin.

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Effect against dry scalp

To treat a dry scalp, you can look for shampoo with apple fruit extract. The apple juice is both moisturizing and softening, so it conditions (cools) your scalp. The natural fruit acids gently exfoliate the scalp so that dead skin cells are removed.

Mango Butter

You will find it in poke bowls, salads, spring rolls, ice cream, dry snacks, smoothies - and in hair care. Mango is an exotic and aromatic fruit which is the main ingredient in many dishes. In India, the fruit has been given the royal title of "king of fruits". That says something about the quality and popularity of the mango.

Effect against dry scalp

Shea butter, cocoa butter and mango butter all have effective properties against dry hair. Hair care enriched with Mango Butter gives your hair strands moisture, strength - and activates new hair strands.

Oil from sachi inchi - Inca inchi oil

From the seed of the Sacha inchi plant, which originates from Peru, comes nourishing inca inchi oil. The oil can be characterized as Gourmet oil, due to the high content of Omega 3. You will find, among other things, Omega 3 in fish oil capsules or fish (salmon, mackerel, herring and tuna) and in flaxseed, pumpkin seeds, walnuts, rapeseed oil and more.

Effect against dry scalp

Hair care equipped with Inca Inchi oil repairs fragile and dry hair. After continuous use, your hair will be supplied with plenty of moisture, which nourishes your hair. And makes your hair look soft and well-groomed.

3 ingredients you should avoid in your shampoo for dry scalp

When you have a dry scalp, it is important to choose a shampoo that not only provides moisture but also avoids ingredients that can worsen the problem. Certain ingredients commonly found in hair care products can irritate the scalp and make it even drier and itchier.

Parabens

Parabens are a preservative that has been used in cosmetic and care products for longer shelf life. Parabens have since been classified as endocrine disruptors, meaning they can interfere with the body's natural hormone balance. Due to their chemical properties, they can penetrate the skin, raising concerns about their potential negative health effects. For people with dry or sensitive scalps, parabens can also lead to irritation and worsen existing problems such as dryness or itching. Therefore, it is important to avoid parabens when choosing a shampoo for dry scalp to protect both hair and scalp from further irritation.

Sulfates

Sulfates are a form of sulfuric acid often used in shampoos to cleanse the scalp and create lather. They help remove dirt and oil from the hair, but unfortunately, they can also remove the natural oils that are needed to keep both hair and scalp hydrated. Sulfates can therefore dehydrate and dry out both the hair and the scalp, often leading to irritation and itching. This makes sulfates particularly problematic for those who already suffer from a dry scalp. To avoid an irritated, dry, and itchy scalp, it is best to choose a sulfate-free shampoo, which can cleanse your hair gently without stripping away the necessary natural oils.

Silicone

Silicone is a polymer that is water-repellent and chemically stable. In shampoos, silicone can create a barrier that prevents moisture from penetrating the hair and scalp. This means that although the hair may initially feel smoother and softer after using a shampoo with silicone, it can actually exacerbate dryness over time.

Silicone can also prevent nourishing ingredients like moisturizing oils and vitamins from reaching the dry areas of the scalp, hindering their ability to repair and care for the skin. Therefore, it is best to avoid shampoos with silicone, especially if you struggle with a dry and itchy scalp, as it can block the moisture your scalp needs.

Shampoo against dry scalp: Try Grow and Glow

If you suffer from a dry scalp, you should try Grow and Glow. This sulfate- and silicone-free shampoo contains fruit extract, which with natural fruit acid gives you a mild exfoliation on the scalp. Grow and Glow is a shampoo against dry and itchy scalp.

The shampoo contains amino acids, which moisturize your scalp and add good nutrients for cells in the hair follicle. Aloe vera gives your scalp care and adds moisture to your scalp. It is also the best shampoo for dry hair as your hair is infused with moisture from the aloe vera.

Grow and Glow is also enriched with olive oil and turmeric, where the turmeric makes a big effort when it comes to strengthening your hair. Strong hair stops your hair from breaking along the way and splitting.

Hair mask and hair serum against dry scalp: Repair and Shine Hair Serum and Intensive Repair and Growth Hair Mask

Inca Inchi oil kicks off your hair's natural production of oil, at the same time as it works with the "damage" that your hair has received. You will find Inca inchi oil in our Repair and Shine Hair Serum and Intensive Repair and Growth Hair Mask.

Our hair mask from Repair and Care is also provided with mango butter. When your dry hair and scalp get the pleasure of a shampoo against dry scalp, which, among other things, is stuffed with mango butter, your hair will appear from a new and better side. You will find that your hair shines.

Good products for dry scalp

Step-by-step guide for using shampoo for dry scalp and hair

To get the best out of your shampoo for dry scalp, make sure to use the shampoo correctly.

  • Rinse all product out: It is always important to ensure that all the shampoo for dry scalp is rinsed thoroughly from the hair. Shampoo residues can stick to the scalp and cause irritation.
  • Use lukewarm water instead of hot water: Your hair and scalp get dried out when you bathe in hot water. Therefore, make sure to wash your hair with lukewarm or cold water instead.
  • Avoid dandruff shampoo unless you actually have dandruff: We recommend that you avoid dandruff shampoo unless you have dandruff. Dandruff shampoo often contains formulas that dry out the scalp. Hence, we do not recommend using it for dry scalp. If you suffer from both dandruff and dry scalp, you can find specific shampoos for dandruff and dry scalp.

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FAQ about shampoo for dry scalp

Can I use regular shampoo for dry scalp?

It is recommended to use a shampoo specially formulated for dry scalp, as it contains active ingredients that can help relieve dryness and itchiness of the scalp. Regular shampoos can contain harsh chemicals and sulfates that can worsen scalp dryness. It is best to choose a mild and moisturizing shampoo specially designed for dry scalps to achieve the best results.

How should I wash my hair if I have a dry scalp?

When you wash your hair with a dry scalp shampoo, it's important to gently massage your scalp with your fingertips to stimulate blood circulation and remove product residue and excess oil. Avoid using your fingernails or rough towels to scrub the scalp as this can further irritate the skin. Rinse thoroughly with plenty of water to remove all shampoo and conditioner.

Can I use a dry scalp shampoo every day?

Yes, you can use dry scalp shampoo every day as long as it doesn't irritate your scalp.

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