That’s not to say an itchy scalp definitely means your scalp isn’t healthy, but it’s something worth paying attention to. A simple change in the hair care products that you use can help you treat an itchy scalp at home, and nope, it won’t cost you a fortune. To help you on your quest to finding the best shampoos for itchy scalp, read on as we rave about the formula that works wonders.
The Causes of an Itchy Scalp
Let’s talk more about how anyone can suffer from a dry and itchy scalp at any time. There are some products that you use on a weekly or daily basis that can contribute to dryness and itchiness. How? The formulation of said products don’t prevent depletion of moisture from the scalp. Another way is simply over-washing your hair. If your shampoo doesn’t say that it’s suitable for daily use, don’t use it every single day.
How to Help Eliminate Your Itchy Scalp
Before you try any shampoo, understand that consistency is key. Some people may experience results after one use (like me) and for others, it may be the second or third wash. Treating a dry and itchy scalp is an ongoing process. Whatever you’re using it to alleviate your symptoms, consider adding it to your hair care regimen as a staple. For many, this may be year-round, or on a seasonal basis. Also, you need to figure out if your itchy scalp is dandruff vs. dry scalp. Differentiating between the two will help decide what shampoo you really need to add to your hair care routine. Now, check out the ingredients. The ingredients in your shampoo are what will help or harm your itchy scalp. If your scalp is itchy, you need to seek out soothing ingredients like mint, eucalyptus, honey, and other more natural-based products. These ingredients calm, soother, and lock in moisture to your scalp so that your skin doesn’t remain dry and itchy. If your scalp is dry and experiencing dandruff from it, then seek a shampoo specially formulated to address pesky dandruff. These shampoos should be sulfate-free and also contain soothing and anti-inflammatory ingredients like peppermint and aloe. The shampoos that are specifically for dandruff will remove flakes and also keep your scalp moisturized.
The Washing Process
When it comes to the wash and care process, here’s a tip: Apply the shampoo directly to your scalp. You can do this by parting your hair and applying straight from the bottle onto your scalp. You can also dispense it onto your hands and massage it in. After this the shampoo is on your scalp, let it sit for a few minutes before rinsing. This is a crucial step as it allows the shampoo to hydrate and soothe your scalp before washing it out.
Best Shampoos For A Dry & Itchy Scalp
1. Dove Dermacare Scalp Dryness & Itch Relief Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
Using a shampoo like, Dove Derma Care Dryness & Itch Relief Dandruff Shampoo is the product you need for putting your dry and itchy scalp issues to bed. Unlike many other itchy scalp shampoos, this formula doesn’t leave your hair feeling dry and stripped. It has a rich, thick, and creamy formula that rinses out completely, provides gentle care—thanks to its pH balanced formula—smooths hair, and reduces frizz.
2. Suave Professionals Anti-Dandruff 2-in-1 Itchy Scalp Shampoo & Conditioner
This Suave Professionals Anti-Dandruff 2-in-1 Itchy Scalp Shampoo & Conditioner is the best multi-tasker for an itchy scalp. The added pyrithione zinc and mint oils help to soothe and calm a dry and flaking scalp. You also don’t need to follow the shampoo up with a conditioner, but it’s already included!
3. Love Beauty and Planet Radical Refresher Tea Tree Oil & Vetiver Shampoo
A key ingredient to soothing an itchy scalp is tea tree oil. This shampoo is infused with the oil and adds just the right amount to your scalp. There are no sulfates, parabens, silicones, dyes, or phthalates to further irritate your scalp. After washing, your hair will have a light scent of vetiver that stays until your next wash.
4. RE-fresh Witch Hazel Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
In this shampoo, you will find calming witch-hazel, which soothes inflation of your scalp that causes dandruff and itching. The formula also entirely cleanses your hair without stripping it of moisture so that your hair stays hydrated. For the best results, use the shampoo twice a week to fight dandruff.
5. Dove Hair Therapy Dry Scalp Care Moisturizing Shampoo
To combat your itching and dry scalp, give it some needed therapy with the Dove Hair Therapy Dry Scalp Care Moisturizing Shampoo. It works to repair your hair and scalp from your hair’s deepest level—cellular level. Vitamin B3 helps to lock in moisture to your hair and adds a touch of softness. When used regularly, you will see results in about two weeks (meaning less dandruff and itching).
6. TRESemmé Scalp Detox Shampoo
The TRESemmé Scalp Detox Shampoo is designed to cleanse your scalp and remove any build-up that irritates your skin and causes itchiness and dandruff. The formula detoxes your hair so that it can start over with a clean and strong foundation.
7. Nexxus Scalp Inergy Foam Shampoo
This shampoo is free from all of the ingredients that cause flare-ups of your scalp, like parabens or silicones. The shampoo is clarifying, gentle, and repairs any hair damage, leading to an itchy scalp. The formulas detox your hair and leave it feeling moisturized and fresh.
8. RE-fresh Scalp Care Eucalyptus + Cooling Relief Shampoo
Eucalyptus is another soothing ingredient to look for when treating an itchy scalp and dandruff. Eucalyptus in this shampoo relieves your scalp’s dryness and invigorates your hair to give it a refreshed and calm feeling.
9. RE-fresh Scalp Care Sea Mineral & Hydrate Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
Your dandruff caused by an itchy scalp is no match for this shampoo. The RE-fresh Scalp Care Sea Mineral & Hydrate Anti-Dandruff Shampoo uses salicylic acid to treat your scalp—it removes excess sebum and removes dead, flaking skin that contributes to itching.
10. TIGI Copyright Custom Care Scalp Shampoo
The TRESemmé Scalp Detox Shampoo is designed to cleanse your scalp and remove any build-up that irritates your skin and causes itchiness and dandruff. The formula detoxes your hair so that it can start over with a clean and strong foundation.
The Bottom Line On Itchy Scalp Shampoos
Many factors contribute to your itchy scalp. It may be dry, or you might be able to chalk it up to dandruff. No matter the cause, finding a shampoo that effectively treats the itching is key to making your hair care effective. Ingredients like peppermint, coconut oil, and eucalyptus will help to calm and soothe your itchy scalp.
