13 Best Shampoos for Dry Scalp 2025 | Hydrating & Anti-Dandruff Picks

The 13 Best Shampoos for Dry Scalp of 2025, Tested by Byrdie

A dry, itchy scalp can feel like a never-ending battle — especially during colder months or after repeated heat styling. If flakes, tightness, or irritation sound familiar, it’s time to rethink your shampoo routine. In 2025, scalp care has officially become the new skincare, and the market is brimming with innovative hydrating shampoos, soothing anti-dandruff formulas, and deeply moisturizing hair washes designed to rebalance and restore your scalp’s natural moisture barrier.

After reviewing dozens of formulas and expert-tested results, here are the 13 best shampoos for dry scalp of 2025, tested by Byrdie’s beauty editors and loved by professionals alike.

 

 

Why You Need a Specialized Shampoo for Dry Scalp

A dry scalp isn’t just about flakes — it’s often a sign of deeper issues such as lack of hydration, product buildup, or even an overactive cleansing routine. Using the right moisturizing shampoo can help by:

  • Balancing oil production: Prevents your scalp from over-drying or over-producing oil.

  • Reducing itchiness and irritation: Calms inflammation and relieves discomfort.

  • Restoring moisture: Helps retain hydration for longer-lasting comfort.

  • Strengthening hair health: A healthy scalp equals stronger, shinier strands.

Whether your scalp is dry due to weather, color treatments, or simply genetics, these shampoos deliver the hydration and relief your scalp deserves.

 

 

Top 13 Best Shampoos for Dry Scalp of 2025 (Tested & Reviewed)

Each of these formulas was handpicked for its effectiveness, ingredients, and overall scalp-soothing benefits.

 

 

1. Olaplex No.4 Bond Maintenance Shampoo

Best Overall for Dry Scalp and Damaged Hair

Olaplex’s cult-favorite shampoo continues to reign supreme. It not only hydrates the scalp but also repairs broken hair bonds, making it ideal for chemically treated or dry strands.

Key Benefits:

  • Deeply moisturizing without heaviness

  • Strengthens damaged hair

  • Restores scalp balance

Best For: Color-treated and brittle hair.

 

 

2. Head & Shoulders Clinical Strength Anti-Dandruff Shampoo

Best Anti-Dandruff Shampoo for Dry Scalp

This dermatologist-approved anti-dandruff shampoo targets flakes and itching while leaving your scalp soothed and clean.

Why We Love It:

  • Selenium sulfide fights persistent dandruff

  • Provides lasting itch relief

  • Gentle enough for daily use

Best For: Persistent dandruff and itchy scalp.

 

 

3. Briogeo Scalp Revival Charcoal + Coconut Oil Micro-Exfoliating Shampoo

Best Exfoliating Shampoo

This formula detoxifies and soothes using binchotan charcoal and peppermint oil — giving your scalp a spa-like reset.

Key Ingredients:

  • Coconut oil for deep moisture

  • Charcoal to remove buildup

  • Peppermint and tea tree oil for freshness

Best For: Oily roots and dry ends combo.

 

 

4. Kérastase Symbiose Moisturizing Anti-Dandruff Shampoo

Luxury Pick for Scalp Care

Kérastase brings a luxury touch to scalp care with this hydrating, anti-dandruff shampoo. Its micro-exfoliating formula removes flakes while keeping the scalp nourished.

What’s Special:

  • Sulfate-free and gentle

  • Balances scalp microbiome

  • Leaves hair soft and shiny

Best For: Those seeking luxury and performance in one bottle.

 

 

5. Aveeno Scalp Soothing Oat Milk Blend Shampoo

Best Drugstore Hydrating Shampoo

For a budget-friendly option, this Aveeno shampoo infuses oat milk and almond oil to restore moisture and reduce itchiness.

Why It Works:

  • 98% naturally derived ingredients

  • Great for sensitive scalps

  • Mild fragrance-free formula

Best For: Sensitive or allergy-prone scalps.

 

 

6. Nizoral A-D Anti-Dandruff Shampoo

Best for Severe Flaking

Formulated with ketoconazole 1%, this clinical-strength shampoo fights fungal dandruff and scalp buildup.

Highlights:

  • Clinically proven results

  • Fast relief from itching and scaling

  • Effective weekly treatment

Best For: Chronic dandruff and itchy scalp flare-ups.

 

 

7. Living Proof Scalp Care Dry Scalp Treatment Shampoo

Best for Long-Lasting Hydration

A science-backed favorite, this shampoo instantly hydrates while keeping your scalp moisturized for up to 48 hours.

Key Ingredients:

  • Hyaluronic acid and vitamin B3

  • Balances moisture and reduces tightness

Best For: Daily hydration without greasiness.

 

 

8. The Body Shop Ginger Scalp Care Shampoo

Best Natural Remedy for Itchy Scalp

The Body Shop’s classic ginger-infused shampoo remains a crowd favorite for soothing irritation and improving scalp circulation.

Why We Recommend It:

  • Ginger and birch bark extracts calm the scalp

  • Free from silicones and harsh chemicals

  • Light refreshing scent

Best For: Natural scalp detox and mild dandruff.

 

 

9. Neutrogena T/Gel Therapeutic Shampoo

Best for Flaky Scalp and Psoriasis

This dermatologist-recommended shampoo uses coal tar extract to reduce redness, flaking, and inflammation.

Highlights:

  • Long-lasting relief

  • Great for psoriasis-prone scalps

  • Clears visible flakes

Best For: Medical-grade scalp conditions.

 

 

10. Oribe Serene Scalp Balancing Shampoo

Best Luxury Hydrating Shampoo

If you want hydration with a side of indulgence, Oribe delivers. Its serene scalp formula includes caffeine, sugarcane, and watermelon extracts to calm dryness and irritation.

Why It’s Worth It:

  • Luxurious scent and texture

  • Adds volume and smoothness

  • Sulfate-free and color-safe

Best For: High-end scalp nourishment.

 

 

11. Dove DermaCare Scalp Soothing Moisture Shampoo

Best Everyday Moisturizing Hair Wash

Dove’s DermaCare line is perfect for daily use. It gently cleanses while providing intense hydration and flake protection.

Key Benefits:

  • pH-balanced formula

  • Reduces visible dandruff

  • Leaves hair soft and manageable

Best For: Everyday cleansing and hydration.

 

 

12. Paul Mitchell Tea Tree Special Shampoo

Best Cooling and Refreshing Formula

If you love a tingling, fresh feel, this tea tree shampoo invigorates the scalp while fighting dryness and itchiness.

Why We Love It:

  • Tea tree oil and peppermint soothe instantly

  • Promotes circulation for healthy growth

  • Smells like a spa in a bottle

Best For: Oily scalp with dry ends.

 

 

13. Aveda Scalp Solutions Balancing Shampoo

Best Eco-Friendly Scalp Care

Formulated with plant-derived ingredients and botanical extracts, Aveda’s Scalp Solutions range keeps your scalp hydrated, clean, and healthy — all while being sustainable.

Top Benefits:

  • 94% naturally derived

  • Sulfate-free and vegan

  • Lightweight yet deeply moisturizing

Best For: Eco-conscious beauty lovers.

 

 

How to Choose the Best Shampoo for Dry Scalp

When selecting your perfect dry scalp remedy, consider:

  • Ingredients: Look for hyaluronic acid, aloe vera, coconut oil, or oatmeal.

  • Avoid sulfates: These strip natural oils and worsen dryness.

  • Check scalp type: Oily scalps may need exfoliation, while dry ones need intense moisture.

  • Frequency: Rotate between hydrating and clarifying shampoos weekly.

 

 

DIY Tips for Maintaining a Healthy Scalp

Besides using the best shampoos, follow these scalp-care rituals:

  • Massage regularly: Boosts circulation and oil balance.

  • Use lukewarm water: Hot water strips moisture.

  • Limit styling tools: Reduce heat damage.

  • Exfoliate your scalp: Once a week using gentle scrubs.

  • Stay hydrated: Healthy hair starts from within.

 

 

The Future of Scalp Care: 2025 Trends

Scalp care is taking center stage in the beauty world. 2025 trends include:

  • Pre-wash scalp masks for extra nourishment.

  • Probiotic-infused shampoos for microbiome balance.

  • Smart formulas that adjust hydration based on your scalp condition.

  • Vegan and sustainable packaging leading the market.

Your scalp is an extension of your skin — treat it with the same love and care.

 

 

Final Thoughts

The secret to healthy, glossy hair begins with your scalp. Whether you need a hydrating shampoo, an anti-dandruff formula, or a moisturizing hair wash, these 13 best shampoos for dry scalp of 2025 deliver instant relief and lasting results.

✨ Ready to give your scalp the TLC it deserves?
 Explore our latest collection of hair care essentials and find your perfect match for healthier, happier hair.

 

 

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