The 6 Best Shampoos For Dry Scalp To Banish Flakes For Good

Changes in weather can wreak havoc on our skin, so it’s no surprise that our scalp is equally vulnerable (it is an extension of our face, after all). While we turn to hydrating hair serums and nourishing oils to infuse our strands with moisture, tackling the stubborn side effects of a dry scalp requires a bit more effort.

So, how do you balance your scalp and banish pesky dandruff for good? It all starts in the shower - namely, with a shampoo designed to suit you and your dry, flaky scalp. There are a few things to look out for when shampoo shopping, but deciphering an INCI list - stood, clueless, in the aisles of Boots - can feel like navigating a jargon-filled minefield.

Ahead, industry experts shed light on the causes of a dry scalp, the symptoms to look out for, how to know if a shampoo is right for you and how else to care for this delicate skin. Plus, we share the ELLE-approved dry scalp shampoos for you to shop now.

Meet The Experts

• Anabel Kingsley, brand president and consultant trichologist at Philip Kingsley.
• Mark Blake, globally-recognised trichologist.

What Causes A Dry Scalp?

'Dry scalps occur when the top layer of skin (the epidermis) lacks moisture. It is commonly due to environmental factors, such as weather. However, it is more likely to occur when your scalp is not producing enough, or adequately replacing, sebum (oil),' Kingsley explains. 'The scalp is a highly sebaceous environment, which means it contains more oil glands and therefore produces more oils than most other parts of the body.'

You might notice that your scalp feels drier as you get older (as the body's ability to produce and replace sebum declines), or perhaps during the summer if you've experienced sun damage to this area. Other major causes of a dry scalp can be 'infrequent shampooing, stress, hormonal issues, dehydration, not rinsing your shampoo out properly' says Blake, and even, 'white wine, prosecco or champagne. These are the alcohols most likely to agitate your scalp, while Tequila is the least likely.'

Full-fat dairy, cheese, cream and sugar are other known agitators of the scalp (bad news for the sweet treat-lovers like myself). Dark chocolate is the exception, however, so go wild!

Furthermore, shampoos that have been open for too long can cause scalp sensitivity. 'Most shampoos contain Linalool, which is good for your scalp when fresh, but if the shampoo is old the Linalool can oxidize and produce allylic hydroperoxides, causing irritation to the scalp,' Blake warns. Reminder: always check the shelf life of your beauty products!

What Are The Symptoms Of Having A Dry Scalp?

Dandruff is often mistaken for a dry scalp. However, dandruff is an oily scalp condition, while a dry scalp is caused by a lack of moisture. If you're experiencing a dry scalp, you might instead notice itchiness and sensitivity, which can then cause flakes of dry skin or dandruff, but there is a difference.

What To Look For In A Dry Scalp Shampoo

'Your scalp contains a yeast-like fungus called Malassezia and over-production leads to scalp irritation and flakiness. Therefore, you'll want a shampoo that will reduce the amount of yeast on your scalp,' Blake explains.

'Use a daily shampoo containing an anti-microbial active, such as piroctone olamine. This ingredient specifically targets the yeast responsible for dandruff and rebalances your scalp's microflora,' says Kingsley. You should also look out for ingredients like salicylic acid, mint, niacinamide and pyrithione zinc, as these are all suitable for keeping a dry scalp in good condition.

As discussed above, dandruff should not be mistaken for a dry scalp. You might think an anti-dandruff shampoo would be suitable to treat your irritated scalp (and you wouldn't be far wrong), but 'anti-dandruff shampoos are not specifically for those who suffer from a dry scalp. However, they do have properties that can help, such as moisturisation that soothes dryness and itching,' Kingsley clarifies.

'In my opinion, everyone should have an anti-dandruff shampoo in their rotation of shampoos and use it a couple of times a month, even if you don't have scalp problems. They're fantastic for the scalp,' adds Blake.

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Tips For Caring For A Dry Scalp

Here are a few ways to care for your dry scalp beyond the shower.

• Use a daily re-hydrating scalp toner. Look for ingredients such as sodium salicylate (an anti-imflammatory and anti-irritant active that helps to sooth the scalp).
• Twice a week, apply a moisturising scalp mask containing ingredients like aloe vera and mild exfoliants, such as betaine salicylate.
• Hydrate from within by drinking enough water.
• Try a scalp serum. Philip Kingsley's Overnight Scalp Serum works with your skin's natural circadian rhythm while you sleep, when transepidermal water loss is at its highest. This serum helps the skin to retain moisture, regulates oil production and gently exfoliates to create a balanced scalp environment.
• Don't be afraid to wash the hair frequently (every 1-3 days).
• After using dry shampoo, make sure to wash the hair that evening.

'However, if these methods don't provide any relief, it would be best to see a Trichologist to discuss any factors which may be influencing the issue, as well as conduct a blood test to determine possible nutritional deficiencies,' advises Kingsley.

The Most Effective Dry Scalp Shampoos To Shop Now