Are you struggling with a dry, flaky scalp? Our in-house GP Dr Adeela Anees and dermatologist Dr Swati M. recommend these best shampoos for dry itchy scalp, backed by medical research.
In This Article:
- Top Shampoos For Dry Itchy Scalp 2025
- Pros And Cons Of Shampoos
- How to choose the best shampoo for dry, itchy scalp?
- Causes, Prevention and Treatment Of Dry Itchy Scalp
- Why You Should Trust Haireveryday?
Having a dry, flaky scalp can be frustrating and uncomfortable. It can also lead to dandruff and hair loss. If you’re looking for the best shampoo to help relieve your dry scalp, you’re in luck.
We’ve consulted with our in-house GP Dr Adeela Anees and dermatologist Dr Swati M. to compile a list of the most effective shampoos for dry scalp, backed by medical research.
In this article, we’ll discuss the causes of dry scalp and recommend the best shampoos for different scalp types and concerns. We’ll also provide tips on how to use shampoo to soothe and moisturize your scalp.
Best Shampoos for Dry Scalp: Quick Summary
Best Shampoo for Dry Scalp |
Best For Dry, Dandruff-Prone Scalp: Videri Lemon Sage & Tea Tree Shampoo |
Best For Normal to Dry Hair: OGX nourishing coconut milk shampoo |
Best For Inflamed Scalp: BodyShop Ginger Scalp Care Shampoo |
Best For Curly Hair and Dry Scalp: Shea Moisture Hydrate and Repair Shampoo |
Best Natural Shampoo: Khadi Natural amla and Bringaraj hair cleanser shampoo |
Best Colored Hair: Wow Skin Science Apple Cider Vinegar Shampoo |
Best For Severe Dandruff: Head&Shoulders Scalp Elixir Treatments |
Best For Psoriasis and Dry Scalp: Aveeno Skin Relief Soothing Shampoo |
Best For Dry Scalp and Flakes: Dove Dermacare Scalp Anti-dandruff shampoo |
Best For Redness and Itchiness: Paul Mitchell Tea Tree Oil Shampoo |
Top Shampoos For Dry Itchy Scalp 2025
Videri Lemon Sage & Tea Tree Shampoo
Best Sulfate-Free Shampoo For Dry Itchy Scalp

So I was glad to have found the Videri Lemon Sage & Tea Tree Shampoo. It’s sulfate-free shampoo that helps me remove all the flaky residue without stripping my scalp off its moisture. It’s a good anti dandruff shampoo as well!
The redness was reduced considerably and the flaky residue on my scalp was gone like that!
There’s aloe vera and jojoba seed oil in it, so you can be assured your scalp will get moisturized but won’t get too clogged up either!
As for the drawbacks of the shampoo, I noticed it was perfect for my wavy hair texture. However, I do feel it might not be as adequately moisturizing for type 4 or African American hair type.
Pros:
- The shampoo is sulfate-free so it’s okay to use it on color-treated hair
- The tea tree oil in the shampoo helps control scalp inflammation (Carson, C F et al. “Melaleuca alternifolia (Tea Tree) oil: a review of antimicrobial and other medicinal properties.” Clinical microbiology reviews vol. 19,1 (2006): 50-62. doi:10.1128/CMR.19.1.50-62.2006)
- Lemon and sage extracts in the formula help remove flaky residue from scalp
Cons:
- It doesn’t have a lot of smoothening agents so it won’t do a lot for African American hair
My Ratings:
- Moisturizing Power – 3.5/5
- Anti-inflammatory Properties – 5/5
- Gentleness – 4.5/5
Who It’s For – Flaky, inflamed scalp
Related: Why Does My Hair Fall Out When I Massage My Scalp
OGX nourishing coconut milk shampoo
Best Drugstore Shampoo For Dry Itchy Scalp

The Body Shop Ginger Scalp Care Shampoo is a good choice for people with oily scalps and dandruff. It is gentle on the scalp and hair, and it can help to cleanse and soothe the scalp, while removing flakes.
It is sulfate-free, paraben-free, and silicone-free, so it is less likely to irritate the scalp or damage the hair.
However, it is important to note that it is not a miracle cure for all scalp problems. If you have severe dandruff or other scalp conditions, you may need to see a dermatologist for prescription medication.
OGX Nourishing Coconut