13 Best Natural Shampoos For Dry Scalp (2024) – Reviews And Buying Guide
Maintain a healthy, nourished scalp with the finest natural ingredients available.
Alicia Igess is an accomplished and award-winning stylist with over two decades of experience in hair design. She is the owner and founder of Urban Tangles, a hair and makeup studio focusing on makeovers. She, along with her team, has experienced tremendous success in building an exclusive “referral-only” clientele consisting of many of the who’s who of Atlanta.
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Experience: 2 yearsOyendrila holds a master's degree in English Literature from the University Of Calcutta, West Bengal, and is a certified skin care coach. As a beauty and lifestyle writer with two years of experience, she writes about everything that the modern woman needs to know about grooming and self-care.
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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.
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Experience: 7 yearsAnjali is an associate editor at StyleCraze. She specializes in hairstyles and hair and skin care and has written over 200 articles in these domains. She has 7 years of experience, and her philosophy about hair and skin care is simple: if you love and care for it, it will be healthy.
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If you are looking for the best natural shampoo for dry scalp, we have got you covered. Dry and itchy scalp can lead to many embarrassing moments. Cleansing your hair and scalp regularly with a shampoo formulated with natural ingredients would help you get rid of the dry flakes, itch, and irritated scalp. Unlike your regular shampoo, a natural shampoo especially formulated for dry scalp would additionally help nourish your scalp with natural oils that oily scalp already has and locks in the moisture as well. To help you get started, we have enlisted the 13 best natural shampoos for dry hair for you to choose from.
In This Article
13 Best Natural Shampoos For Dry Scalp
1. Best Winter Shampoo:Maple Holistics Winter Blend Shampoo
The Maple Holistics Winter Blend Shampoo is one of the popular brands specially designed for dry hair and flaky scalp. It is infused with invigorating essential oils that nourish, revive, and revitalize dry, flaky scalp. The unique blend of peppermint, spearmint, wild bergamot mint, and eucalyptus mint oilspromotes hair growth, builds hair strength, and adds shine to your hair. The Maple Holistics natural shampoo contains jojoba oil, green tea extract, aloe vera gel, buckthorn, silk amino acids, and natural keratin.
The jojoba oil is rich in fatty acids that offera protective shield to hair follicles and seal the moisture. The vitamins and minerals maintain hair shine and add volume, texture, and hair structure by plumping the hair strands. The green tea extract is a potent antioxidant that protects each hair strand from environmental aggressors. The fatty acids in buckthorn oil keep your locks moisturized, and the silk amino acids provide sheen to your hair. This strengthening natural and gentle formula with invigorating ingredients soothes dry scalp and makes hair strong and smooth from the root to the tip. The silicone-free shampoo is suitable for all hair types, including color-treated hair. Check out this YouTuber’s review of the product to get a closer understanding through the tester’s experience.
Pros
- Paraben-free
- Sulfate-free
- Silicone-free
- Cruelty-free
- Strengthens and nourishes locks
- Fresh aroma from essential oils
- Antibacterial and antifungal
- Protects from oxidative stress
- Rejuvenates dry strands
- Best suited in winters
- Relieves itchy scalp
Cons
- Strong smell
- May cause allergies
"This shampoo has a strong but very pleasant scent that lingers on my hair for quite some time. Every time I use it, my dry and sensitive scalp feels less itchy. It makes my hair look shiny and healthy."
Pro Tip2. Maple Holistics Pure Tea Tree Oil Shampoo
The Maple Holistics Pure Tea Tree Oil Shampoo restores hair shine and hydration. This therapeutic-blend shampoo contains all the natural oils with botanical keratin to give maximum nourishment to dry, frizzy, and damaged, thick hair. Tea tree oil is the signature infused formula that has antioxidant and antiseptic properties that protect hair from bacterial infection and chemical damage.
This sulfate-free formula contains Moroccan argan, jojoba, rosemary, and lavender oils. They are rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and fatty acids that nourish and revive dry, itchy scalp. The lavender essential oil promotes hair growth. Its antibacterial properties reduce inflammation and prevent dry, itchy scalp. The soothing and calming effect of the oil relaxes nerves and heals the scalp. This sulfate- , paraben-, and silicone-free shampoo promotes scalp health and makes hair soft from the root to the tip. If you want to find out more about this product and its usage, make sure to check out this review on YouTube.
Pros
- Paraben-free
- Sulfate-free
- Silicone-free
- 100% vegan formula
- Gluten-free
- Contains antioxidants
- Antibacterial
- Reduces itchy flakes
Cons
- None
Pro Tip
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
With over 9,064 reviews, this product has become a fan favorite among users.
3. Best For Frizzy Hair:Maple Holistics Pure Argan Oil Shampoo
The Maple Holistics Pure Argan Oil Shampoo contains all the natural oils with botanical keratin to give maximum nourishment to dry, frizzy, and damaged hair. This sulfate-free formula contains nourishing oils like that of argan, almond, peach kernel, jojoba, and avocado oil. They are rich in vitamins A, B, D, and E, and proteins that strengthen and nourish hair. The camellia seed oil is rich in omega-9 fatty acids that help seal moisture, restore hair color, and nourish the hair follicles. The peach kernel oil nourishes curls, fortifies hair follicles, and makes thick hair easy to manage. This paraben- and sulfate-free formula promotes scalp health and makes hair soft from the root to the tip.
Pros
- Sulfate-free
- Paraben-free
- Cruelty-free
- 100% natural botanical blends
- Suitable for dry or damaged hair
- Gives best results on curly hair
- Safe for colored hair
Cons
- Expensive
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
It has received 5,360 reviews on Amazon and is a popular choice among shoppers.
| Maple Holistics Winter Blend Shampoo | Maple Holistics Pure Tea Tree Oil Shampoo | Maple Holistics Pure Argan Oil Shampoo | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hair Type | Color Treated, Dry, Curly, Normal, Straight | Oily, Color Treated, Dry, Normal, Dandruff | Oily, Dry, Curly, color treated hair;long hair;normal hair;oily hair;dry hair, Normal |
| Dimensions | 4 x 2 x 8 inches | 1.85 x 1.85 x 6.75 inches | 7.01 x 2.28 x 1.81 inches |
| Weight | 1 Pounds | 8 Ounces | 8 Ounces |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 4,681 | 9,064 | 5,360 |
| Price | $24.95 | $13.95 | $11.95 |
4. Best For Damaged Hair: Christina Moss Naturals Organic Shampoo
The Christina Moss Naturals Organic Shampoo is infused with organic coconut oil, aloe vera gel, olive fruit oil, and she a butter. These nourish dry hair strands and revive hairshine. The coconut oil is a humectant and an emollient that seals hair moisture. The oil is rich in medium-chain fatty acids that get absorbed into the hair shaft and protect hair from chemical damage.
The unique blend of aloe vera juice with coconut oil helps condition hair and reduces itchiness. The olive oil is rich in antioxidants that reverse the damage from UV radiation. They also moisturize and strengthen hair follicles. The shea butter is a by-product of organic she a nuts and is an excellent moisturizer. This deep clean shampoo contains vitamins A and E, and fatty acids, which provide nourishment from the root to the tip for healthy-looking hair.
Pros
- Paraben-free
- Sulfate-free
- 100% natural organic ingredients
- Clinically-proven formula
- Vegan
- No harmful chemicals
- Non-GMO
- Free from artificial dyes and strong scent
- Long-lasting cleanse
- Heals itchy scalp
- Nourishes hair follicles
Cons
- Expensive
Pro TipWhy We Think It's Worth Buying
There are more than 962 Amazon reviews attesting to the quality of the product and endorsing its value.
5. Best Hydrating Shampoo:Honeydew Natural Aloe Shampoo
The Honeydew Natural Aloe Shampoo is a boon to dry scalp. It is infused with succulent aloe vera that moisturizes dry scalp and heals the irritation associated with it. It is rich in vitamins, minerals, and essential amino and fatty acids that penetrate deep into the hair follicles and nourish hair roots. They also provide dryness relief along with soothing itchy and flaky scalp. This natural aloe shampoo also contains jojoba oil, sunflower seed oil, and botanical keratin but no harsh ingredients. These strengthen hair roots, prevent hair breakage, and treat split ends. The plant-derived keratin adds body and texture to dry hair.
Pros
- Natural ingredients
- Paraben-free
- Sulfate-free
- Pleasant aromatic formula
- Cruelty-free
- Tames frizz
- Adds moisture to dry scalp
- Relieves itchy scalp
- No harsh chemicals added
- Plumps up hair
- Safe for color-treated hair
- Hypoallergenic
- Mild and gentle for daily use
Cons
- May not be suitable for sensitive scalp
- Strong smell
"This shampoo clarifies and soothes the scalp while adding shine and body to my fine hair. I use it thrice a week as it reduces flakiness on my scalp. Its neutral scent does not trigger headaches. It also works well for normal to oily hair."
6. Best Anti-Inflammatory:Avlon Keracare Anti-Dandruff Moisturizing Shampoo
This is a soothing, gentle shampoo that heals dry and itchy scalp. It makes your scalp and hair clean while removing flakiness. This 100% natural shampoo contains nettle extract, pine, burdock extract, chamomile, marigold, rosemary, and arnica flower extract to soothe dry scalp symptoms. Burdock flower is an ancient natural solution to prevent hair loss and promote hair growth. The arnica montana flower is anti-inflammatory and antibacterial in nature. It reduces the stubborn dandruff and helps achieve healthy looking hair.
Pros
- Minimizes scalp irritation
- Paraben-free
- 100% natural
- Moisturizes hair strands
- Relieves dry and itchy scalp
Cons
- None
7. Best For Everyday Use:Puriya Sulfate-Free Tea Tree Oil Shampoo
The Puriya Sulfate-Free Tea Tree Oil Shampoo is a plant-based moisturizer comprising of clinically-tested ingredients that is effective in reducing scalp itchiness, dryness, and the stubborn dandruff. This purifying scalp-loving shampoo is blended with the highest quality botanical extracts of arnica, sage, and rosemary along with tea tree oil that work synergistically to purify, strengthen, and heal the scalp.
The shampoo is a pH-balanced formula that is gentle enough for daily use. The arnica oil in the shampoo is a holistic treatment for dandruff. It is antibacterial and anti fungal in nature and reduces scalp inflammation, redness, and irritation. It effectively clears sebum oils and removes debris for a clean and healthy scalp. The sage and tea tree oils are antiseptic in nature. The doctor-approved formula heals the scalp and protects it from environmental aggressors. This paraben-free shampoo penetrates deep into the hair follicles, moisturizes each hair shaft, and nourishes dry hair.
Pros
- Best for curly and kinky hair
- Paraben-free
- Sulfate-free
- Free from mineral oils
- Cruelty-free
- Safe for scalp diseases
- No added artificial fragrances
- Color-safe
- Prevents hair breakage and split ends
- Clarifying anti-dandruff shampoo
- Safe for daily use
Cons
- None
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
This product has made it to our top favorite list with more than 3,266 rave reviews on Amazon.
8. Best Antifungal Properties:Botanic Heart Tea Tree Shampoo Set
Experience the blend of cooling aloe vera extract with hydrating tea tree oil that gently cleanses your scalp, providing restorative care to the hair and scalp. The Botanic Heart Tea Tree Shampoo soothes and deeply nourishes the hair. It contains 100% tea tree oil that has antimicrobial, antifungal, antibacterial, and antioxidant properties. These reduce itching, irritation, and other dandruff symptoms while protecting hair strands from environmental and chemical damage.
The set comes with a tea tree conditioner as well. It contains aloe vera, orange fruit extract, and silk protein. Bring your scalp and hair to a healthy balance with this weightless and invigorating blend of premium and organic ingredients.
Pros
- Paraben-free
- Sulfate-free
- Cruelty-free
- Safe for both men and women
- A gentle cleanser
- Suitable for all hair types
- Safe for colored hair
- Hydrating formula
Cons
- Not suitable for curly hair
- Thin consistency
"This tea tree shampoo and conditioner duo has been working well for my dry scalp. It relieves dryness and the unwanted itchiness from my scalp. It truly leaves my scalp feeling better. It also adds shine and my hair looks healthy, every time I use it."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The product has more than 14,472 reviews and is a top choice all around the world.
9. Best Scalp Treatment:Avalon Organics Scalp Treatment Tea Tree Shampoo
The Avalon Organics Scalp Treatment Tea Tree Shampoo is a medley of nourishing ingredients comprising tea tree oil, oat bran, aloe, quinoa, chamomile flower extract, and vitamin E. These work together to cleanse the scalp, balance moisture levels, and soothe irritated scalp. Oat bran contains a plethora of vitamins and minerals that strengthen the scalp, support the hair follicles, and offer gentle exfoliation for dead skin removal. The amino acids in quinoa protein repair any damage to hair shaft. The tea tree oil with chamomile flower extract treats itchiness, removes dandruff flakes, and protects hair from free radical damage. If you need further convincing, check out this YouTuber’s review which explains the reviewers’ experience of testing the product.
Pros
- 100% natural ingredients
- Gently cleanses and heals dry scalp
- Paraben-free
- Free from harsh ingredients
- Free from harsh chemicals
- No added preservatives
- No artificial fragrances
- Vegan
- Protects from environmental aggressors
Cons
- No lather formation
- Strong smell
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The product has received 3,659 positive Amazon reviews from its users, stating its numerous benefits.
10. Best For Brittle Hair:Davines Nourishing Shampoo
The Davines Nourishing Shampoo hydrates dry scalp and treats brittle hair. It is infused with grape seed oil that is an antioxidant. The oil is rich in polyphenols that hydrate dull, dry scalp. It also protects hair from chemical damage.
Pros
- A gentle cleanser
- Grape seed oil antioxidants
- Leaves hair smooth and soft
- Strengthen hair shafts
- Protects from environmental damage
- Soothes scalp irritation
Cons
- Hair may look greasy
"This shampoo is gentle and quite nourishing for my dry scalp. I use a small amount but that's enough to clean my hair without stripping its natural moisture. It also tames frizz well."
11. Best For Daily Use:Nature’s Gate Moisturizing Daily Shampoo
The Nature’s Gate Moisturizing Daily Shampoo is a gentle cleanser meant for a dry, flaky scalp. It is ideal for thick, coarse hair. It is a unique blend of natural aloe vera with macadamia oil, jojoba seed oil, borage seed oil, nettle extract, and avocado fruit extract. The macadamia oil blended with aloe vera is rich in essential fatty acids that work more efficiently than any other mineral oil. They bind to each hair shaft and strengthen it. The antioxidants in this luxurious oil protect hair strands from environmental damage. The emollient properties of macadamia oil give your hair a silky smooth appearance.
The borage seed oil is antiseptic in nature. The sulfate-free shampoo nourishes damaged and dry hair follicles and its omega-6 fatty acids influence hair growth. The nettle extract reduces inflammation in the scalp, neutralizes free radical damage, and blocks DHT to prevent hair loss. The natural jojoba seed oil repairs each hair strand and restores hair elasticity and manageability.
Pros
- Paraben-free
- Sulfate-free
- Phthalate-free
- 100% vegan formula
- Non-GMO
- Soy-free
- Free from EDTA, butylene glycol
- Free from artificial colors
Cons
- None
"This shampoo has clean ingredients along with a fresh scent that does not overpower the senses. The gentle formula is perfect for my dry hair. It is quite moisturizing and does not seem to weigh down my hair."
12. Best OTC Shampoo:Head & Shoulders Dry Scalp Care Daily Shampoo
The Head & Shoulders Dry Scalp Care Daily Shampoo is American’s No. 1 dermatologist-recommended shampoo, clinically proven to provide 100% dandruff protection. It treats dry, irritated, and itchy scalp. The nourishing ingredients provide faster relief from dry scalp symptoms and leaves the hair shaft healthy. The active ingredient in the shampoo is 1% pyrithione zinc infused with sweet almond oil. These restore the scalp’s moisture. The shampoo is a clinically proven formula that has antibacterial, antimicrobial, and anti fungal properties. This clinical strength shampoo kills fungus and provides relief from itchy, flaky, and dry scalp. Pyrithione zinc is one of the OTC ingredients that helps reduce anti fungal activity. The hydrating and nourishing properties of sweet almond oil help restore, revive, and revitalize hair. The shampoo also tames frizz, and reduces hair breakage and split ends. This pH-balanced gentle formula is safe for daily use and is gentle on the scalp.
Pros
- Dermatologically-tested
- Removes flakes with gentle cleansing
- Adds vibrant look to hair
- Paraben-free
- Sulfate-free
- Cruelty-free
- Seals moisture
- Medicated natural shampoo
- Reduces frizz
- Relieves itchiness and redness
Cons
- None
"I've been using this shampooo consistently for the past few months and the results are amazing. It truly helps relieve my itchy, sore scalp. It has also managed to reduce my hair fall and my dry scalp looks healthy."
13. Best Anti Dandruff:Selsun Blue Naturals Itchy Dry Scalp Shampoo
Selsun Blue Naturals Itchy Dry Scalp Shampoo is the best treatment for those who suffer from dandruff and an extremely dry or itchy scalp. It is a hydrating formula that is infused with vitamins, eight intensive moisturizers, and natural botanicals to tackle flakiness and dandruff. This deep clean shampoo helps to eliminate itchy scalp and visible flakes. It is a clinically proven formula that has antibacterial and antifungal properties to prevent visible flakes associated with dandruff.
Pros
- Daily dandruff control
- Exfoliates dead skin and revives the hair
- Softens the hair
- Prevents dirt accumulation
- Suitable for all hair types
- Nourishes dry scalp
- Soothing and relieving citrusy fragrance
Cons
- May dry out the hair
"This dandruff shampoo helps reduce flakiness and itching from my scalp. It has salicylic acid, which deeply cleanses the scalp and gets rid of the flakes. It feels soothing and moisturizing on the scalp. It also adds volume to the hair without weighing it down."
These are the 13 best natural shampoos for treating dry scalp. Before you pick one from the online store, here is what you need to look for.
How To Choose The Best Natural Shampoo For Dry Scalp
- Look for natural ingredients: Shampoos with natural ingredients are a boon to dry, itchy scalp. Natural ingredients not only protect hair from damage but also seal the moisture, heal dry scalp symptoms, and add life to limp and damaged hair. Natural ingredients and plant extracts like calendula and oatmeal are highly preferred for their beneficial healing, restorative care, and moisturizing properties. Look for formulations containing vitamins like biotin, as it is known to promote hair growth and soothe scalp issues.
- Check for essential oils: Essential oils work wonders on dry scalp. They have anti fungal and antioxidant properties that reduce fungal cell growth and provide all-round protection to your locks.
- Avoid harsh chemicals: Check if the shampoo contains parabens, sulfates, silicones, mineral oils, or phthalates. These chemicals can damage hair in the long run.
- Ensure it is pH-balanced: Formulas that are pH-balanced can help prevent your scalp from drying out.
Infographic: 8 Reasons To Use Natural Shampoos For Dry Scalp
Dry scalp problems are more common than you know. The hair care industry is constantly trying to come up with products that can cater to a dehydrated scalp and its related issues. Natural shampoos can be a nourishing solution. We have listed 8 reasons why they are ideal for dry scalp in the infographic below. Check it out.
Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
The Bottom Line
A natural shampoo is always the best option to heal a dry scalp. It helps retain hydration without stripping the natural oils of the scalp. Try the Maple Holistics Winter Blend Shampoo for extra volume, hair structure, and moisture, the Christina Moss Naturals Organic Shampoo for nourishment and protection from heat, or the Puriya Sulfate-Free Tea Tree Oil Shampoo for dandruff issues. We hope this article has given you enough information to make the right choice for your scalp type. Pick your favorite natural shampoo today and say goodbye to dry scalp!
Why Trust Stylecraze?
Oyendrila Kanjilal, the writer, is a certified skin care coach and a hair care enthusiast. She knows that dry scalps need more natural and moisturizing shampoos, which is why she curated this list for you. Each of the dry shampoos listed here have been studied and vetted. Even their reviews, on multiple forums, have been investigated. Nourish and moisturize your scalp with these products that offer benefits like natural hair and scalp enriching ingredients, hair and skin care benefits, absence of harsh elements, and more.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my head itching so badly?
A dry scalp with unhealthyhair drains the natural oils and leaves air feeling lifeless. This can cause itchiness, redness, and inflammation.
How can I hydrate my scalp?
Using a natural shampoo infused with argan oil, olive oil, coconut oil, and tea tree oil can nourish and hydrate your scalp.
What can I do if I have an extremely dry scalp?
Using a natural shampoo for dry scalp can help. If the dryness persists, visit a doctor and discuss your concerns.
How often should I use a shampoo for dry scalp?
If you have a dry scalp, do not wash your hair more than once a week. You may use a dry shampoo in between washes for a clean look. However, if you use a natural shampoo, you may consider washing it twice a week. A natural shampoo doesn’t strip your hair of its natural oils and hydrates it further.
How can I fix my dry scalp naturally?
Identifying the underlying cause of dry scalp is the first step towards fixing it. If you have any medical scalp condition, we recommend you visit a doctor for your concern. If the reason is due to wrong product usage, consider switching to a natural shampoo. Oiling your hair often also helps with the process. Avoid using hot or cold water to wash your hair, use only lukewarm water.
Is a dry scalp the same as dandruff?
No, a dry scalp and dandruff are two different things. A dry scalp is a condition where your scalp is all drained out of its natural oils and needs external products for nourishment. You may or may not see flakes on a dry scalp. Dandruff, on the other hand, is a skin condition where the flakes are clearly visible. The flakes are usually large and oily.
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