Do you constantly find dandruff flakes on your head, despite using conditioner often? Are you annoyed by how impossible it seems to dust away the flakes once they start appearing?
Why go natural with your shampoo?
One of the main culprits for dry scalp & dandruff is the chemical ingredients found in common hair care products like shampoos. You may have heard of ingredients like sulfate (SLS) and ammonium lauryl sulfate. They actually trigger and worsen dry scalp by stripping your scalp of its natural oils. But that does NOT mean that you are doomed to suffering from a dry and itchy scalp forever. It just means you have to pay more attention to the products you use on your scalp. More and more brands have noticed these scalp concerns from their customers and are rising to the occasion. There is a plethora of natural, sulfate-free and paraben-free shampoo formulas on the market to treat and nourish dry scalps.
To make things easier for you, we have pulled together a list of the best natural shampoos to relieve you of scalp dryness once and for all.
Our Top Picks for Natural Shampoos that help with Dry Scalp & Dandruff
Maple Holistics Tea Tree Special Formula Shampoo
With a minimalistic list of only seven ingredients, this all-natural shampoo has been widely loved among users with a dry scalp condition for the way it feels on their hair and scalp. The key ingredient, Tea Tree Oil, unclogs hair follicles and prevents your scalp from drying up and causing the unwanted itchiness. The antiseptic nature of it also prevents dandruff-causing Malassezia from taking root on your scalp and cause flaking. Many users have seen a dramatic improvement in their scalps’ health and softening of dry patches within a month of consistent usage. The gentle formula is further fortified with moisturizing botanical oils like Jojoba, Lavender, and Rosemary to keep your scalp calm and happy all day.
Tru Moroccan Repair Shampoo
This 100% Pure Argan Oil-based shampoo formula is free from sulfates, parabens, artificial fragrances, and colors. Using only organic and natural ingredients, the shampoo restores the balance of a healthy scalp and keeps your tresses clean and silky-soft. Reviewers who had been battling with a dry scalp for ages were blown away by the positive results once they started using this shampoo. It hydrates the dry patches and soothes the red lesions that are a byproduct of excessive scratching due to the itch that usually comes with the dryness. It leaves no oily residue behind and your scalp feels well-conditioned and clean after rinsing off. Because of its ultra-gentle formula, this shampoo is also suitable for those with color-treated or chemically-processed hair.
Om Botanical Anti-Hair Loss Organic Shampoo Ayurvedic Formula
With an intriguing Ayurvedic formula, this sulfate-free organic shampoo not only quenches your thirsty scalp but also reduces hair loss. Its potent blend includes Neem, Holy Basil, Willow Bark, and Vitamin B3 that proved to be a miracle worker when it comes to resolving eczema, psoriasis, and seborrheic dermatitis while providing lasting relief from the dreaded itchiness. The shampoo also contains nourishing herbs like Soap Nuts and Shikakai which cleanse the hair without over drying it. And to top it all off, natural DHT blockers like Pumpkin Seed Oil has also been added to control and reduce hair loss. Definitely a must try if you are trying to stop dry scalps and excessive hair shedding.
Tree to Tub Soapberry For Hair
Using the pH-balancing Soapberry, this gentle and hypoallergenic shampoo works up a luxurious creamy lather to rid your hair and scalp of dirt, sebum, and other kinds of buildup. Moisturizing botanicals like Argan Oil and Aloe Vera have also been included to restore your dry scalp to its natural, healthy state. Coupled with calming Chamomile to soothe irritated and itchy skin, this shampoo formula has been widely praised by numerous dermatologists as the must-have in your hair-care stash. Fans of the product have backed up that claim as they experienced a vast improvement in their scalp health after using this shampoo. One reviewer even mentioned that her flaky scalp symptoms were completely gone within a week!
Nature Sustained Raw and Wildcrafted Shampoo
For a truly natural option, try this probiotic-based shampoo that is completely chemical-free. Using ingredients that are directly sourced from the jungles in Thailand, this scalp-loving concoction consists of exotic botanical ingredients like Wildcrafted Soap Nut, Elephant Apple, Makrut Lime, Pineapple, and Wildcrafted Indian-Laurel Leaf. These natural extracts are rich in antioxidants to nourish and revitalize your distressed scalp. But the motherlode in this exotic blend has got to be the addition of natural probiotics that provide a balanced and healthy scalp environment so that you never have to deal with the flaking and itching again.
Theraneem Organix Scalp Therape Shampoo
Capitalizing on the anti-inflammatory substance, Nimbidin, in Neem Oil, this shampoo is a proven godsend when it comes to fighting off the dry scalps and incessant flaking. Rich in Vitamin E and fatty acids, this Neem Oil-based formula adds the nutrients and hydration back into your skin to help promote a healthier scalp that is free from flaky patches. Those who had suffered from an itchy scalp for years swear by this product as the trick to an itch-free and well-cleansed scalp without causing excessive dryness. One tip to enhance the shampoo’s effectiveness is to allow it to sit on your hair and scalp for a while before washing off.
Klorane Soothing and Anti-Irritating Shampoo with Peony
If you are into pH-balancing products, look no further than this Peony-infused shampoo from Klorane. The natural formula is silicone- and SLS-free which means no risk of further irritating your already sensitive scalp. Marketed solely for irritated scalps that are suffering from a severe case of dryness, the shampoo creates a mild lather that resets your scalp. Users have waxed poetic about how the shampoo significantly reduced the symptoms of a dry scalp right from the first wash. Subsequent washes with the same shampoo prevent your dry scalp condition from making an unwanted comeback again.
Christina Moss Naturals Organic Shampoo
One of the highly-rated products on Amazon, this shampoo is a best-seller for several reasons. It boasts a true-to-word organic ingredient list without any chemicals added (e.g. no SLS, SLES, parabens, dyes, and fragrances). With a highly concentrated formula that comes with surprisingly little lather, it cleanses your scalp and hair without over drying them. Users liked how it made their scalp feel fresh and clean, and most importantly, get rid of the annoying itch and dry spots. It has also helped dandruff-prone users eliminate the powdery flakes after the first few washes. The bonus has got to be its color-safe formula which means those who have color-treated hair are more than welcome to try it out.
Jason Dandruff Relief Treatment Shampoo
If you suffer from scalp dermatitis or a mild case of psoriasis, this shampoo by Jason would be your lifesaver. The medicated formula harnesses the flake-destroying and itch-eliminating Sulfur and Salicylic Acid for proven results. It keeps the irritation on your scalp to a minimum while consistent use of it prevents the flaking and itching from coming back. As a result, users have come back to this product time and time again without feeling the urge to switch. However, the pungent scent of the shampoo does take some time getting used to, but in retrospection, this is a small sacrifice for having a flake-free and scale-free scalp.
Giovanni Tea Tree Triple Treat Invigorating Shampoo
Bid adieu to dry, flaky scalps with this triple threat from Giovanni. It contains a three-organic-oil blend and is lauryl- and laureth sulfate-free in case you are wondering about potential scalp irritants. Infused with Tea Tree Oil, nature’s defense against troubling scalp conditions, this shampoo not only stop the flakes from happening but also boosts circulation to your scalp. Users liked how the shampoo left behind a cooling and slightly tingly sensation on their scalps after showering. The soothing blend also keeps your scalp well-hydrated so you don’t feel the urge to scratch.
Puriya Natural Dandruff Shampoo with Tea Tree Oil
For a herbal alternative, Puriya has a proprietary hero blend of Tea Tree Oil, Arnica, Sage, and Rosemary - all good stuff when it comes to dealing with the pesky issue of dry scalps and its associated symptoms. It removes dirt, excess sebum, and product buildup from your scalp and hair, leaving them well-cleansed and healthy. The formula has worked so well that even individuals who suffered from severe scalp psoriasis and eczema were amazed at the 180 degrees change from an extremely flaky scalp to no flakes at all. Defo your go-to shampoo if you experience any burning, itching or soreness as a result of a dry scalp.
Kaff & Co Kaffir Lime Essential Oil Shampoo
An absolute fan favorite among those who suffer from a bad case of dry scalp and itching. It contains no SLS, SLES, parfume, and parabens. The refreshing, citrusy scent of Kaffir Lime Oil leaves your hair well-cleansed and rejuvenated. Users who had tried out this shampoo liked how it took care of the flakes and itching completely while leaving a cooling sensation on your scalp after rinsing it off. The Lime-infused shampoo also keeps your tresses soft and full. One to two pumps is enough to cover your hair and scalp in a single wash.
100% Pure Honey and Virgin Coconut Restorative Shampoo
Nip your dry scalp problems in the bud with this luscious shampoo that consists of a hydrating blend of Honey and Coconut Oil. It works amazingly well for getting rid of scalp dryness and white flakes without making your hair or scalp overly greasy. You can also cease your worries regarding harsh chemicals that might further irritate your scalp since this shampoo is free from aggressive cleaning agents, sulfates, artificial substances, and synthetic fragrances. The formula is so mild that even color-treated hair types have fallen in love with it.
As we can see, the option to go the natural route when it comes to shampoos for dry scalps is definitely no hardship with this extensive list of formulas that actually work. In fact, they not only work great but are likely to pose no risk in exacerbating scalp sensitivity. The only thing is to get used to the lesser-than-usual lather that is atypical of these natural formulas.
How to tell if your scalp is dry?
Probably the surest sign that your scalp is dry is the appearance of dandruff flakes. Like the rest of your body, skin on your scalp sheds itself naturally. Dandruff is the result of this shedding process sped up. Dandruff looks like dry or oily white flakes of dead skin cell. It is not contagious and completely harmless. Despite that, they can be awkward and embarrassing for some people.
What causes Dry Scalp?
Surprisingly, the most common reason for a dry scalp is the harsh chemicals found in popular hair care products. If you tend to be dry in other areas of your body, there is a high likelihood that your scalp is also dry. If this is you, then try drinking more water to raise your hydration levels all over. Of course, there are many other reasons your scalp may be dry -- it may be worth it to do a bit of investigation to understand why you are experiencing dry skin on your scalp.
7 Best Natural Ingredients for Your Scalp
Amidst the minimalistic ingredient lists and eco-friendly packaging, the desire to go green has never been so ardent in recent times. More so for people with scalp issues as the link between natural ingredients and your scalp’s health grow stronger than ever. To help you have an easier time the next time you go shopping for natural hair care products, we have rounded up the hottest ingredients that are considered Mother Nature’s best gifts to us. These will likely get you the healthiest scalp you can ever dream of.
Apple Cider Vinegar
ACV is synonymous with maintaining a healthy pH balance of your scalp due to its high level of acetic acid. With a healthier scalp, this promotes stronger and shinier hair that also has the added benefit of being frizz-free. The antimicrobial properties of the vinegar drive away fungal infections and bacteria that cause your scalp to itch and flake. As such, it is one of nature’s best remedies that should not be missed.
Tea Tree Oil
With its proven antimicrobial and antifungal properties, tea tree oil has been widely used in many hair care products to resolve scalp problems like dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis. This spells good news for those who had to deal with white flakes and an oily scalp. In fact, a clinical study had shown that participants who had used a shampoo containing 5% of tea tree oil actually experienced a whopping 41% reduction in their dandruff after four weeks of consistent use. On top of that, tea tree oil is also wonderful for soothing the red, scaly patches that are caused by psoriasis so that you can enjoy a smooth and scale-free scalp again.
Honey
Another scalp-loving ingredient can be easily found in your kitchen - honey. Bees love it, and so does your scalp. Besides its antimicrobial nature that effectively fights off scalp infections, it also does wonders in treating dandruff, eczema, and psoriasis. As it is a natural humectant, applying it to your scalp helps the skin to attract moisture from the surroundings and seal it in. This will then keep your scalp hydrated and prevent dryness from settling in.
Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is rich in Vitamin A which easily penetrates the scalp to hydrate it from the inside out. It also contains high levels of Vitamin E which helps irritated scalps to heal and stay moisturized. Besides its soothing texture, aloe vera is also antiseptic in nature. This means that it prevents the harmful bacteria and infections from taking root in your scalp. As such, aloe vera is highly recommended as a natural remedy for extreme dry scalp conditions.
Neem
This popular Ayurvedic herb has long been in the spotlight for treating stubborn cases of dandruff and flaking. Due to its antimicrobial, antifungal, antiseptic, and anti-inflammatory properties, neem fights off dandruff and prevents it from coming back. It also helps to relieve the itch so that your scalp feels comfortable all day.
Argan Oil
This naturally moisturizing oil contains both linoleic acid and oleic acid to relieve dry scalp and dandruff completely. Linoleic acid reduces inflammation of the skin and increases the moisture levels in your scalp which is why argan oil is so amazing in rehydrating a dry scalp. On top of that, the oleic acid in it actually improves the skin’s permeability so that the nourishing ingredient can be better absorbed. It also has the added benefit of leaving a lustrous sheen on your hair without making the strands oily.
Soap Nuts
Another trending Ayurvedic herb is the soap nut. Just like its name, it is used in place of synthetic cleaning agents in natural shampoos and body cleansers for that foamy lather. As it is hypoallergenic, the soap nut does not cause skin irritation. Moreover, its natural conditioning and antimicrobial properties help to moisturize dry scalp and relieve the tight, itchy sensation while preventing scalp infections from taking root.
Wrap Up
In summary, the idea that natural shampoos don’t exist for dry scalp individuals or the assumption that they don’t work as well as synthetic ones in getting rid of the dryness is just a load of tosh. In fact, these natural alternatives may actually work even better than those filled with sulfates, parabens, and other kinds of harsh chemicals that incidentally may be the culprit behind your dry scalp. Taking care of your crown the way nature intended is now easier than ever. And this may be what your dry scalp actually needs.