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Beauty/Hair/Styling Products & Treatments/Scalp Treatments

Top 10 Dry Scalp Treatments

The 10 Best Dry Scalp Treatments For Happy, Healthy Hair And A Flake-Free Scalp

Image credits: sephora

Summer is on its way, and with it comes sunlight, sweat, and pool water—a combination that can strip your scalp of its natural oils, leaving you with flat hair and discomfort. However, you don’t need to cut back on the fun in order to resolve this issue, because there’s a product out there designed to provide gentle exfoliation and deep hydration without weighing you down: scalp treatments.

Typically available in the form of scrubs, serums, sprays, or cleansers, scalp treatments are an extra step worth adding to your hair routine if your current shampoo isn’t doing a good enough job of breaking down buildup. And while there may not be an abundance of scalp treatments lining the shelves of your local drugstore, we’ve got you covered, because we've rounded up a list of the all-time best dry scalp treatments you can buy. 

How We Found The Best Scalp Treatments

As is true for all of our Top 10 lists, the products below were selected by our data-powered ranking algorithm. Using reviews, best-seller lists, industry reports, and more, this tool scours the web to find and score the top-rated products in a given category. That means you get unbiased, data-backed recommendations, and we get the satisfaction of knowing we’re connecting you to the best scalp treatments available on the internet. 

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April 11, 2023

Written By:Sierra Rogers

Product Expert:Georgia Jones

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Top 10 Lists serve as unbiased shopping guides to the most trusted product recommendations on the internet. Products are scored and ranked using an algorithm backed by data consumers find most valuable when making a purchase. We are reader-supported and may earn a commission when you shop through our links.

The Rankings


10
Image credits: ulta
Rank & Style Approved

ulta

Drunk Elephant T.L.C. Happi Scalp Scrub

Overall Score

4.3

10

Drunk Elephant T.L.C. Happi Scalp Scrub

4.04

1985 User Reviews

3.2

Best Seller

5

Industry Recognition

0

Social Buzz

About Our Scoring System

In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.

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Best Dry Scalp Treatment For Sensitive Skin

WHAT IT DOES
The T.L.C. Happi Scalp Scrub works to break down, dissolve, and gently rinse away dead skin cells and product buildup from your scalp. 

FORMULA FACT
Celebrity hairstylist Chris McMillan is the brain behind this best-selling scalp treatment. Its formula includes an AHA Blend that can take down dandruff in minutes, as well as moisturizing marula and mongongo oil.  

Cruelty Free

Cruelty Free

Clean Beauty

Clean Beauty


Paul Mitchell Tea Tree Hair And Scalp Treatment

Overall Score

4.4

09

Paul Mitchell Tea Tree Hair And Scalp Treatment

4.6

4333 User Reviews

3.3

Best Seller

4

Industry Recognition

0

Social Buzz

About Our Scoring System

In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.

Best Affordable Dry Scalp Treatment

WHO IT'S FOR
The Tea Tree Hair And Scalp Treatment is approved for all hair types and textures, as well as those with color-treated strands. And because of the tingling sensation of the tea tree oil, those who experience itchiness will particularly enjoy this product.

HOW TO USE IT
For the best results, use this scalp treatment once a week on clean, damp hair. Administer a dollop of product on your palm, then massage it into your scalp and let it sit for up to five minutes before rinsing.

Cruelty Free

Cruelty Free


Nécessaire The Scalp Serum

Overall Score

4.45

08

Nécessaire The Scalp Serum

4.66

463 User Reviews

2.8

Best Seller

3

Industry Recognition

3

Social Buzz

About Our Scoring System

In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.

Best Thickening Dry Scalp Treatment

WHO IT'S FOR
Wishing upon a star for thicker hair? Make your dreams come true with The Scalp Serum, a daily scalp treatment for hair growth. Not only does this product minimize hair thinning, but it also relieves itchiness and dryness thanks to the addition of hyaluronic acid and green tea extract in the formula. 

FORMULA FACT
This product is great for those with sensitive skin because of its status as a hypoallergenic, dermatologist-tested, non-comedogenic serum. 

Cruelty Free

Cruelty Free


Aveda Invati Advanced Scalp Revitalizer

Overall Score

4.5

07

Aveda Invati Advanced Scalp Revitalizer

4.38

2071 User Reviews

5

Best Seller

0

Industry Recognition

4

Social Buzz

About Our Scoring System

In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.

Best Luxury Dry Scalp Treatment

WHAT IT DOES
Combining aromatherapy with deeply-penetrating hydration, Aveda's Scalp Revitalizer is designed to support your hair's natural keratin production. Beloved for its hair-thickening abilities, this scalp treatment will wrap you up in a floral blend of lavender, rosemary, and geranium.

REVIEW HIGHLIGHT
Worried about hair loss? Based on the reviews, this product may be right for you: "I wanted to review this because the Invati system changed my hair. I'm 40 and my hair was really starting to thin out. Every time I would take a shower, I'd see the amount of hair on the drain and want to cry. You could even start to see my scalp through my hair. I knew this stuff was expensive but I was willing to try it. I'm so glad I did because, by the second day, there was barely any hair on the shower drain!"

Cruelty Free

Cruelty Free


Amika Reset Pink Charcoal Scalp Cleansing Oil

Overall Score

4.55

06

Amika Reset Pink Charcoal Scalp Cleansing Oil

4.67

1787 User Reviews

3.2

Best Seller

4

Industry Recognition

3

Social Buzz

About Our Scoring System

In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.

Best Cleansing Dry Scalp Treatment

WHO IT'S FOR
If you're dealing with a dry, flaky scalp, this treatment is ideal for you. Packed with natural exfoliants like pink clay and charcoal, Amika's Reset Cleansing Oil instantly soothes and rinses away buildup and dandruff. 

HOW TO USE IT
Unlike some of the other scalp treatments on this list, you're supposed to apply this one to dirty, unwashed hair. Once a week, section your hair and apply this product to your roots. Massage it in, then let it set for up to five minutes before following up with your usual shampoo routine. 

Cruelty Free

Cruelty Free


OUAI St. Barts Scalp & Body Scrub

Overall Score

4.7

05

OUAI St. Barts Scalp & Body Scrub

4.73

3031 User Reviews

3.3

Best Seller

5

Industry Recognition

3

Social Buzz

About Our Scoring System

In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.

Best Multitasking Dry Scalp Treatment

WHO IT'S FOR
OUAI's St. Barts Scalp & Body Scrub is best for those with a dry scalp. In lieu of shampoo, apply this scrub to your scalp in the shower until it lathers.

FORMULA FACT
The combination of sugar crystals, glycerin, and coconut oil in this scrub is what makes it great for gentle exfoliation. Also, the "St. Barts" name refers to its scent, which is comprised of notes of dragon fruit, orange blossom, tuberose, and Baltic amber. 

Cruelty Free

Cruelty Free


Briogeo Scalp Revival Charcoal + Tea Tree Scalp Treatment

Overall Score

4.7

04

Briogeo Scalp Revival Charcoal + Tea Tree Scalp Treatment

4.24

1608 User Reviews

5

Best Seller

4

Industry Recognition

3

Social Buzz

About Our Scoring System

In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.

Best Dry Scalp Treatment For Hair Growth

WHAT IT DOES
Formulated with biotin (the vitamin that makes your hair, skin, and nails look flawless) and detoxifying charcoal, this cooling serum draws out impurities from the scalp and hair follicles to remove buildup and provide the perfect foundation for optimal scalp health.

REVIEW HIGHLIGHT
According to this review, this is a great scalp treatment for psoriasis: "This is a holy grail product for me! I have extremely dry and flaky scalp psoriasis, and this is one of the few products that help hydrate my scalp and stop the itching. It does not leave any oily residue. This is probably my 4th bottle. I will always repurchase this. I wish it came in a bigger size!"

Cruelty Free

Cruelty Free

Clean Beauty

Clean Beauty


MoroccanOil Dry Scalp Treatment

Overall Score

4.75

03

MoroccanOil Dry Scalp Treatment

4.4

1434 User Reviews

5

Best Seller

4

Industry Recognition

4

Social Buzz

About Our Scoring System

In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.

Best Dry Scalp Treatment On Amazon

WHAT IT DOES
The word "oil" may sound a little intense, but rest assured, MoroccanOil uses only the good kind. With antioxidant-rich argan oil as well as lavender and geranium essential oils, this comforting scalp treatment instantly nourishes and soothes irritation, while salicylic acid gently exfoliates to minimize flakiness. 

HOW TO USE IT
Before showering, apply this treatment and let it sit for at least 10 minutes to really soak up the scalp-purifying benefits, then proceed with your usual shampoo routine.


Living Proof Dry Scalp Treatment

Overall Score

4.85

02

Living Proof Dry Scalp Treatment

4.5

1359 User Reviews

5

Best Seller

4

Industry Recognition

4

Social Buzz

About Our Scoring System

In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.

Best Dry Scalp Treatment For Itchiness

WHO IT'S FOR
As you might have guessed by the name, this scalp treatment addresses the causes of dry, flaky scalps. It's safe for those with color- and chemical-treated hair and is said to provide long-lasting relief from dandruff and discomfort.

FORMULA FACT
The key ingredient behind Living Proof's Dry Scalp Treatment is a vitamin B3-based microbiome balancing complex that helps rebalance your scalp's natural ecosystem for lasting relief.

Cruelty Free

Cruelty Free


Christophe Robin Cleansing Purifying Scrub With Sea Salt

Overall Score

4.85

01

Christophe Robin Cleansing Purifying Scrub With Sea Salt

4.53

706 User Reviews

5

Best Seller

5

Industry Recognition

3

Social Buzz

About Our Scoring System

In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.

Best Dry Scalp Treatment Overall

WHO IT'S FOR
While this ultra-soothing, cult-favorite scrub works well for all scalp issues and hair types, it's a particularly great choice for those that color their hair—it instantly calms all that tingling and itching that happens after treatments.

HOW TO USE IT
Once a week, replace your shampoo with this scalp treatment. Apply a dollop to wet hair, massage it into a lather, then rinse and follow up with a hydrating conditioner.

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