7 Best Conditioners For Dry Scalp, Hairstylist Picks (2024)
Your scalp too needs as much nourishment as your perfectly-maintained tresses!
Jill Turnbull is an internationally acclaimed freelance hairstylist, colorist, and makeup artist with over 47 years of experience. She founded her own beauty brand and her work has been featured in editorial magazines worldwide.Jill is also a highly sought-after educator, renowned for her direct, meticulous, and modern approach to hair, makeup, and styling for fashion shoots and advertising campaigns.
Read full bio of Jill Turnbull
Experience: 5 yearsMedha Deb is a commerce editor with a master's degree in applied linguistics from the University of Hyderabad, which has allowed her to develop a deep understanding of language and its application in various contexts. She specializes in the areas of beauty, health, and wellness and is committed to ensuring that the content on the website is of the highest quality.
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Experience: 4 yearsShiboli has a master’s degree in English literature from The English and Foreign Languages University, Hyderabad, and is a certified skincare coach with four years of experience. As a commerce editor, she guides her team members on the best practices to create crisp and authentic content.
Read full bio of Shiboli Chakraborti
Experience: 11 yearsRamona is an editor at StyleCraze with 11 years of experience in writing and editing. She has authored over 200 articles on skin and hair care. She graduated from the University of Calcutta, West Bengal, and did her post-graduation from the University of Kalyani, West Bengal.
Read full bio of Ramona Sinha
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Dry scalp is often a perpetual issue; however, sometimes it aggravates with regular hair treatments, coloring, weather changes, or even due to the wrong formula of conditioner. This is why you need to pick the best conditioner for dry scalp. While many think skipping the conditioner is okay, well, it’s absolutely not. It is similar to skipping a moisturizer for your skin. A conditioner keeps your hair hydrated and nourished, keeping your hair shiny and healthy. It also helps prevent your beautiful hair from drying out, prevent dandruff, quicken hair growth, and prevent hair loss.
You sure are already tempted to get the best conditioner for dry hair right now. The search can get exhausting with so many options available in the market. So, we have brought you the 7 best conditioners for dry scalp here. Scroll down and make the best choice! After all, nobody wants dull and lifeless strands after every hair wash, right?
In This Article
Top 7 Best Conditioners Of 2024 To Treat Dry Scalp!
1. Best For Fighting Dandruff: Dove DermaCare Scalp Anti-Dandruff Conditioner
Are you feeling the urge to scratch your scalp often? Then you are probably dealing with a dry scalp! And everybody knows Dove has a mild formula that guarantees satisfying results. And this anti-dandruff conditioner claims to eliminate flakes with pyrithione zinc and nourish the irritated scalp with shea butter and coconut. The soothing conditioner also offers hair follicle revitalization for achieving soft, free-flowing tresses. Are you dealing with redness and frizzy hair too? Then you’ll love this itch-relief conditioner even more, for it makes hair manageable and keeps the scalp conditioned like a charm. Give it a try! Go through this video review and the tester’s experience for a detailed understanding of the product.
Pros
- Ensures flake-free conditioning
- Soothes and hydrates intensely
- Balances the pH level of the scalp
- Offers flaky scalp treatment
- Guarantees to eliminate visible flakes with regular use
- Suitable for dry and color-treated hair
- Ideal for both men and women
Cons
- Hair may turn greasy quickly
- It may require too many rinses to wash off.
Quick Tip
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
With 2,009 positive reviews on Amazon, this product has become a bestseller.
2. Best Hydrating: Yes To Scalp Relief Conditioner
Turn your hair wash routine into a therapeutic experience with this hydrating conditioner made of 95% natural ingredients! Though natural does not necessarily mean safe, this dermatologist-tested hair conditioner for dry scalp works similar to a calming scalp moisturizer, and is also clinically tested to provide the ultimate relief from dryness and itchiness. And since it contains tea tree oil, consider dandruff taken care of! Besides this, the formula has kukui seed oil, sage oil, and sweet potato extract too for intense nourishment and to add a stunning luster post every wash. The clinically-proven anti-dandruff formula is tested to offer relief to dry and itchy scalp. You can notice clinically-proven results in 8 days. Now, why would you want to miss an experience so blissful?
Pros
- Cruelty-free product
- Guarantees relief in 8 days
- Provides intense moisture and hydrates the scalp
- Paraben-free and silicone-free
Cons
- Hair may feel slightly stiff or dry
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The product has more than 167 reviews claiming its efficacy.
3. Best Moisturizing: Neutrogena Healthy Scalp Hydro Boost Conditioner
The Neutrogena Moisturizing Healthy Scalp Hydro Boost Conditioner is gentle on your hair and sensitive scalp. The product comes with a blend of potent hyaluronic acid and a pH-balanced formula along with moisture-locking technology for intense nourishment. The moisturizing property of the conditioner helps boost moisture in your tresses while leaving your scalp feeling hydrated. The formula helps in effectively maintaining your scalp’s moisture barrier with regular use, thereby providing all-day moisture for dry scalp. To learn more about this product and the reviewer’s experience of using it, check out the video.
Pros
- Hydrating formula
- pH-balanced formula
- Color-safe formula
- Paraben-free
- Phthalate-free
- Sulfate-free
Cons
- None
"This product effectively manages the oiliness and prevents buildup in my scalp. It also enhances hair softness and tames my frizzy hair. The formula is thick but it does not cause any greasiness and rinses out easily."
Pro Tip Dove DermaCare Scalp Anti-Dandruff Conditioner Best For Fighting Dandruff | Yes To Scalp Relief Conditioner Best Hydrating | Neutrogena Healthy Scalp Hydro Boost Conditioner Best Moisturizing | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hair Type | Dry | Dry | Aging |
| Dimensions | 3.02 x 1.92 x 8.47 inches | 2.3 x 2.3 x 7.8 inches | - |
| Weight | 12 Ounces | 12 Ounces. | 12 Ounces |
| Package Dimensions | - | - | 5.28 x 4.37 x 1.77 inches |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 2,009 | 167 | - |
| Price | $0.41 | $8.57 | $9.52 |
4. Best For Reducing Scalp Irritation: As I Am Dry & Itchy Scalp Care Conditioner
What’s great about this conditioner? It’s formulated with 1% active pyrithione zinc to fight dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis. So, if you are dealing with severe itchiness, irritation, or flaking, then this conditioner should be your ultimate go-to. Infused with tea tree oil (dandruff-buster!) and olive oil for deep cleansing and moisturizing, the product claims to give you flake-free results with every use! Give this 2-in-1 option a try to witness the difference. Take a look at this video review to learn more about the product and how it will cleanse and nourish the hair at the same time.
Pros
- Hair strengthening formula for a healthy scalp
- Detangles, adds shine, and restores suppleness
- Relieves scalp dryness, redness, and irritation
- It repairs and moisturizes the damaged hair too.
- Not tested on animals
Cons
- Thick consistency
- Strong fragrance
"After a long battle with dryness and flaky scalp, it's refreshing to find a product that effectively works on these issues. I have been using it once or twice a week and it worked well. It easily fits into my usual hair care routine. The tea tree oil is extremely beneficial for the scalp and helps with my itchy scalp."
5. Best Non-Greasy: LivSo Moisturizing Conditioner
Don’t mind loosening the purse strings to protect your hair and scalp? Then this dermatologist-tested conditioner would be a great pick. Why? Because of the many, many benefits it offers! From protecting against heat damage and providing intense nourishment to relieving dry and itchy flakes, its wonders are unlimited. The product offers scalp exfoliation benefits that aid in the removal of dead skin cells and proper scalp cleansing. The formula is made of antioxidant-rich ingredients such as Abyssinian oil, which is high in omega-3 fatty acids that lock in moisture to eliminate dryness. Glycolic acid and hydrolyzed oat protein, on the other hand, prevent breakage and increase suppleness to give your hair a gorgeous and lustrous shine. The conditioner works its magic with every use to improve your hair texture and keep the scalp healthy. Yep, worth a try, we think!
Pros
- Ultra-moisturizing natural formula
- Non-greasy and lightweight conditioner
- Travel-friendly and easy-to-use
- Detangles and restore natural moisture
- Improves elasticity and manageability
- Gently exfoliates with Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA)
Cons
- Expensive
- AHA may make your hair and scalp sensitive to the sun.
"After facing challenges with a dry scalp and the accompanying flakiness, this conditioner has effectively helped me. It moisturizes the scalp and provides relief from itchiness. It also leaves my hair softer and the fragrance is mild too. A good option for those struggling with similar issues."
Pro Tip6. Best Gentle: Avlon Keracare Anti-Dandruff Moisturizing Conditioner
Has frequent coloring turned your scalp dry and itchy? Then here’s a solution that might work for you! This moisturizing conditioner is formulated with advanced technology to deeply nourish and rebuild fiber to prevent hair breakage while protecting your hair color. The calming product also offers scalp irritation reduction. It works more like a soothing balm for your scalp to rejuvenate and be healthy again, this conditioner is ideal for permed, curly, and natural hair too. Also, it will combat dandruff while giving your scalp the best nourishment. Do not skip!
Pros
- Ultra-moisturizing formula
- Provides intense hydration
- Relieves dryness and irritation
- Gentle enough for frequent washes
- Free from animal testing
Cons
- Expensive
- Hair might turn greasy quickly
7. Best For Daily Use: Head and Shoulders Hair & Scalp Conditioner
Lastly, this Head & Shoulders’ dry scalp treatment formula along with fighting dandruff and dry scalp, will moisturize too! Yep, its dual-action power and sweet fragrance are making people fall in love with their hair all over again. Infused with almond oil, which ensures intense nourishment to the scalp, this lightweight scalp conditioner also protects the hair from future damage and dryness. And the best part— your hair feels soft, beautiful, and flaunt-worthy with every use.
Pros
- Oil-infused hydrating formula
- Guarantees 100% flake-free results
- Gentle and restores ideal pH balance
- Clinically and dermatologically tested
- Mild and suitable for daily use
- Relieves itchiness, dryness, and irritation
- Safe to use on normal, dry, chemical-treated, and colored hair
Cons
- Strong fragrance
"I've noticed my dry scalp condition improve after using this conditioner. The effective formula has been effectiveis suitable for my hair type, offering moisture and relief from itchiness. The scent is mild and the conditioner doesn't weigh down my hair."
There you go, those are the 7 best conditioners that you must check out if you have a dry scalp. If you are still wondering which one will suit you the best or how to use it, scroll on to read our buying guide below.
Buying Guide – Best Conditioner for Dry Scalp
How to Choose the Best Conditioner for Dry Scalp?
Following are some of the things you must consider before choosing the conditioner:
Relieving and nourishing formula: Choose a hair treatment formula that not only relieves dryness and itchiness but also nourishes and strengthens the scalp to combat future hair problems. Though most conditioners have dual-action power, it’s advisable to check before buying. Opt for dermatologist-recommended or specialist-approved products.
Moisturizing ingredients: Dry scalp is often caused by natural moisture loss. In some cases, frequent coloring or using a styling product can lead to dryness and itchiness. So, pick a hydrating conditioner that contains ultra-moisturizing herbs and hydrating ingredients that will suit your scalp and help lock in the natural moisture. Look for nourishing ingredients that aid in restorative care and offer healthy hair.
Hair type: The conditioner must suit your hair type. Not necessary, a conditioner for normal or coarse hair will work on color-treated hair and vice-versa. So before buying, inspect if it is suitable for your hair. Similarly, if you have a curly hair type, check if the formula of the deep moisturizing conditioner works on curly hair.
Consistency: Usually, conditioners with thick consistency may not wash off easily, whereas those with thin consistency may not be advisable for thick hair. So, according to your conditioning needs, pick an ideal one!
Other benefits: Opt for conditioners that can also offer UV protection for the scalp and provide environmental stress protection; this will help in achieving lustrous tresses and improve your overall hair condition.
How to Use Conditioner for Dry Scalp?
It’s simple. Here are the steps that you can follow:
- After thorough cleansing with clarifying or anti-dandruff shampoo, gently squeeze out all the excess water from the hair
- Next, take a generous amount of conditioner and massage it from roots to tips
- Leave it for 2-3 minutes and then wash it off thoroughly
Infographic: Key Ingredients To Look For In Conditioners For Dry Scalp
Dealing with a dry scalp just got easier with the list of conditioners above. They are enriched with potent ingredients that fortify your scalp, moisturize your hair, and restore its natural shine. Check out the infographic below to learn what key ingredients to look for before buying a conditioner.
Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
The Bottom Line
Just what your scalp deserves— salon-like nourishment at home! The best conditioners are formulated with ingredients that penetrate the scalp, delivering essential hydration and nourishment. The Dove DermaCare Scalp Anti-Dandruff Conditioner has a mild, color-safe formula that helps balance the scalp pH and combats frizz, while the Neutrogena Healthy Scalp Hydro Boost Conditioner helps maintain the moisture barrier in your scalp all day long. With the 7 best conditioners offering therapeutic experiences to relieve dryness, itchiness, and redness, taking care of the scalp can’t get easier than this. So, what are you waiting for? Pick your favorite shampoo from our list and flaunt silky smooth hair now.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can You Use Conditioner on A Dry Scalp?
An ultra-moisturizing scalp conditioner will help restore the pH scale, intensely nourish, and lock in the natural moisture. So yes, you can use a conditioner on a dry scalp.
Does Using Conditioner on Scalp Help Dandruff?
Conditioners have moisturizing ingredients that help the scalp restore natural moisture and suppleness and eliminate dryness. And since dryness is one of the root causes of dandruff, these conditioners can help eliminate flaking to a great extent.
What Can I Use to Moisturize My Dry Scalp?
If you are dealing with a dry scalp, then you must add a scalp conditioner to your hair wash routine. Using this conditioner twice a week can help the scalp return to its natural state and strengthen your hair quality.
What Causes Dry Scalp?
There are several reasons why you must be suffering from a dry scalp. Excess use of chemicals, coloring, styling, or the shampoo must be unsuitable or infused with sulfate and alcohol that is stripping away the natural oils.
Is conditioning good for a dry scalp?
Yes. Conditioning boosts the natural moisture of your scalp and strengthens the hair, thus investing in a strengthening dry scalp conditioner can improve your overall hair condition.
Is applying conditioner to roots and scalp alright if you have a dry scalp?
Yes. Apply a small amount of conditioner to your hair roots if you have a dry scalp. However, using too much conditioner on the scalp may weigh down your hair and make it look greasy.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
The author, Medha Deb, is passionate about hair care and curates the list of best hair care products for her readers. She conducts research online by browsing various platforms and analyzing the users’ feedback and reviews. The conditioners listed nourish your dry scalp, eliminate flakes, prevent dandruff, keep hair shiny, and promote hair growth. They are also suitable for color-treated hair.
Read full bio of Jill Turnbull
Read full bio of Medha Deb
Read full bio of Shiboli Chakraborti
Read full bio of Ramona Sinha
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