We independently evaluate all of our recommendations. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Beauty Hair The 17 Best Scalp Treatments to Stay Balanced, Nourished, and Itch-Free Scalp health is key to beautiful, thicker, and healthier hair. By Emily Orofino Emily Orofino Emily Orofino has over a decade of experience working in beauty. You can find her work on sites such as Harper’s Bazaar, Byrdie, Editorialist, POPSUGAR, & RealSelf. She has also lent her expertise to marketing departments & product development teams of some of the industry’s most prestigious brands. InStyle's editorial guidelines Updated on July 26, 2023 @ 10:23AM In This Article Expand In This Article Our Top Picks ReviewsWhat to Keep in Mind Your Questions, Answered Why Shop With Us Photo: InStyle / David Hattan You likely have a pretty curated hair care routine, with shampoos and conditioners selected to suit your type, texture, and color, an assortment of stylers, and a bevy of hot tools at your disposal. But do you have a scalp care regimen? Despite the important role that the scalp plays, it often goes neglected, which can disrupt the delicate balance of the skin in this area. When your scalp’s microbiome isn’t functioning properly, hair won’t grow to its full potential, and can result in irritation, flakes, and plain discomfort. Thankfully, beauty brands have taken note. Until recently, scalp care was almost exclusively focused on dandruff treatments, but there’s been a shift. Now, formulas are designed to maintain, soothe, nourish, clarify, and stimulate the scalp. There’s truly something for everyone — all you have to do is find your perfect match. Here, we’ve curated a selection of the best scalp treatments for every concern, plus tapped experts to break down exactly how to give this special skin precisely what it needs. Our Top Picks Best Overall: Rahua Founder's Blend Scalp & Hair Treatment at Amazon ($42) Jump to Review Best Budget: The Ordinary Multi-Peptide Serum at Nordstrom ($23) Jump to Review Best Splurge: WeThrivv Revivv For Her Hair Rejuvenation Serum at Revivv.co (See Price) Jump to Review Best for Seborrheic Dermatitis and Psoriasis: Neutrogena T/Gel Therapeutic Shampoo at Amazon ($39) Jump to Review Best for Dry Scalps: Dr. Barbara Sturm Balancing Scalp Serum at Drsturm.com ($100) Jump to Review Best for Oily Scalps: Oribe Serene Scalp Oil Control Treatment Mist at Nordstrom ($58) Jump to Review Best for Itchy Scalps: Stripes Ectoine Calming & Thickening Scalp Serum at Sephora ($50) Jump to Review Best for Sensitive Scalps: Alfaparf Milano Semi Di Lino Scalp Relief Calming Tonic at Amazon ($25) Jump to Review Best for Hair Growth: The Nue Co. Supa Thick Scalp Serum at Amazon ($55) Jump to Review Best for Natural Textures: Head and Shoulders Daily Moisture Scalp Cream at Amazon ($11) Jump to Review Best Overall Rahua Founder's Blend Scalp & Hair Treatment PHOTO: Amazon $42 at Amazon $42 at Dermstore $42 at skinstore.com What We Love: This creamy triple-acting formula balances, refreshes, and nourishes the scalp. What We Don’t Love: When used primarily as a hair treatment, you’ll burn through the bottle quickly. For years we’ve listened to our peers wax poetic about Rahua products, and after trying this formula, we couldn’t believe we waited so long to try the brand for ourselves. This buttery treatment melts into the scalp, deeply nourishing it with omega-rich oils, including rahua and hemp. At the same time, palo santo, peppermint, and rosemary oils rebalance the microbiome to combat dandruff and itching (and also lend a lovely herbal fragrance). The powerful combination provides an energizing tingling sensation, so the treatment really feels like it’s working. Once rinsed out (either after 20 minutes or a good night’s rest), the visible difference is astonishing: Flakes rinse away, irritation is quelled, and hair has more volume at the root, which results in bouncier blowouts once strands are dried and styled. While we primarily use this as a scalp revitalizer, it also acts as a hair treatment that boosts strength and shine. However, be aware that the bottle is relatively small, and if you have long hair you’ll likely run out quickly. To get the most out of the formula, we recommend focusing your application on the scalp — save full masking for special occasions. Type: Cream｜Active Ingredients: Rahua oil, palo santo oil, hemp oil｜Size: 1.3 oz Best Budget The Ordinary Multi-Peptide Serum PHOTO: Ulta $23 at Nordstrom $15 at Ulta $23 at Sephora What We Love: This formula is packed with proprietary lab-developed ingredients that are proven to promote hair growth. What We Don’t Love: It has an unusual scent and can leave hair greasy. It’s a rarity to find an affordable scalp product with so many effective and clinically-proven ingredients, yet The Ordinary created one — and it’s seriously impressive. The Multi-Peptide Serum for Hair Density combines the power of three potent ingredients, including Redensyl, a favorite board-certified dermatologist Dr. Ava Shamban. “Redensyl is a botanical 'growth galvanizer' that will give minoxidil and finasteride [hair growth drugs] a run for their money,” Dr. Shamban says. Beyond this revolutionary ingredient, the serum also contains Procapil, which promotes blood circulation to nourish the hair follicle, and Baicapil that thickens hair in just a few weeks. Contents aside, we admit that it has a peculiar smell (which we liken to beer), and the greasy texture can leave hair looking a little dirty. That said, the scent fades quickly, and if you use this as a night treatment before wash day you’ll get all the benefits without the oily feeling. Type: Serum｜Active Ingredients: Caffeine, redensyl, procapil, baicapil｜Size: 2 oz Best Splurge WeThrivv Revivv For Her Hair Rejuvenation Serum PHOTO: Amazon View on Revivv.co What We Love: This water-based serum can be applied to clean hair without messing up your style. What We Don’t Love: It can only be purchased in a three-month supply. We’ve been hooked on this serum since its debut for a multitude of reasons. What first grabbed us was the packaging: The rollerball bottle makes for an easy, mess-free application that allows us to glide the product right where we want it. As for the formula, it’s water-based and dries like it, with zero stickiness or crunchiness, so it can be applied on freshly-styled hair without disrupting your ‘do. Yet perhaps the most impressive aspect of the formula are the clinical results. In a clinical study with 150 participants, 80 percent found that their hair growth, density, and scalp coverage improved, while 90 percent saw new hair growth, and 100 percent observed decreased shedding. Even better, every ingredient in the formula is clean, with bio-developed and plant-based ingredients shown to support healthy hair. Although the formula is an investment, it’s also a great value: You’ll get two bottles, which equates to a three-month supply. Type: Serum｜Active Ingredients: Green tea extract, caffeine, copper peptides｜Size: 1.01 oz Best for Seborrheic Dermatitis and Psoriasis Neutrogena T/Gel Therapeutic Shampoo PHOTO: Walmart $39 at Amazon $65 at Walmart View on Herbspro.com What We Love: This formula instantly soothes itching. What We Don’t Love: It has a very strong smell. If you’re dealing with a common scalp condition, including seborrheic dermatitis or psoriasis, using a formula with coal tar can soothe the inflamed, irritated skin and restore its microbiome. “Coal tar is a top ingredient that helps to suppress the issue [of flaking],” says Dr. Shamban. This affordable formula from Neutrogena has long been an in-shower staple for those suffering from scaly scalps. (It even earned one of the top spots in our dandruff shampoos test.) Regular use relieves itching and inflammation and slows hyperproliferation of skin cells. Additionally, it also helps combat the yeast growth that contributes to the development of seborrheic dermatitis. This shampoo is incredibly effective, so it’s worth powering through the strong scent, which is rather rubbery (not unlike a set of tires). That said, it is a medicated shampoo, so we wouldn’t expect it to smell like roses anyway. Following your cleanse with a pleasantly-fragranced conditioner or hair perfume will mask the odor (and besides, it fades pretty quickly). Type: Shampoo｜Active Ingredients: Coal tar｜Size: 16 oz Best for Dry Scalps Dr. Barbara Sturm Balancing Scalp Serum PHOTO: Dr. Barbara Sturm $100 at drsturm.com $100 at bluemercury.com $100 at Saks Fifth Avenue What We Love: The formula rehydrates a stripped scalp with a robust form of hyaluronic acid.What We Don’t Love: It can sometimes leave hair feeling sticky. Dry scalps can lead to flaking and itchiness. To minimize those symptoms and help your scalp maintain optimum moisture levels, scalp therapist and trichologist Bridgette Hill recommends this hydrating treatment that was formulated with a unique hyaluronic acid structure. “Cationic hyaluronic acid assists with retaining moisture; a key factor in reducing dry, flaky, inflamed, and irritated scalps,” she says. The luxe serum also contains two forms of algae and lavender to soothe itching and relieve dryness. Hill loves the serum for all people who want to rehydrate their scalps, including dudes. “It’s a must for men who have shaved bald heads to keep the skin on the scalp supple and healthy,” she says. You might find that this formula can leave a sticky residue behind. If this is a major concern, try applying it before bed. The serum will fully absorb overnight, and any tackiness will be gone by morning. Type: Serum｜Active Ingredients: Cationic hyaluronic acid, algae extract, purslane extract｜Size: 1.7 oz Best for Oily Scalps Oribe Serene Scalp Oil Control Treatment Mist PHOTO: Sephora $58 at Nordstrom $58 at Sephora $58 at Dermstore What We Love: It’s wonderful for staving off oil slicks in fine hair types.What We Don’t Love: The spray format doesn’t allow for precise application. Inside this pretty lilac bottle you’ll find a hardworking formula designed to tackle excess oil, especially on straight and wavy strands. It uses a blend of rosebay and green algae extracts to control greasiness and rebalance the scalp, peppermint oil to cool and soothe, and, surprisingly enough, willowherb extract. Willowherb is frequently found in oily and acne-prone skincare products because it tames oil, supports the microbiome, and mattifies. Here it does those exact same things for your scalp. The treatment is a thicker cream-liquid, and the spray nozzle packaging isn’t very compatible with the texture. Spritzing directly onto hair can cause buildup and create an unexpectedly greasy look. We find that spraying the product onto our fingertips then massaging it into our scalp produces the best results and allows us to extend time between washes. Type: Spray｜Active Ingredients: Rosebay extract, green algae extract, ginger extract｜Size: 4.2 oz The 9 Best Shampoos for Oily Hair in 2024, Tested and Reviewed Best for Itchy Scalps Stripes Ectoine Calming & Thickening Scalp Serum PHOTO: Sephora $50 at Sephora View on Iamstripes.com What We Love: This serum contains ecotine, a gentle anti-inflammatory ingredient that moisturizes the scalp.What We Don’t Love: The dropper can be hard to control. Anyone can experience scalp issues, but the possibility increases during menopause. Naomi Watts' sought to produce a solution for those dealing with skin-related hormonal fluctuations during this life change, and that’s how this serum was born. The nourishing formula addresses multiple concerns — beyond those associated with menopause. Though, it really excels in rebalancing itchy, irritated scalps. The core ingredient is ultra-soothing ectoine, a newly-popular emollient that helps dry skin retain moisture while repairing and supporting the skin barrier. As it works to mend the skin, natural pea peptides and a blend of plant extracts (including Indian gooseberry), promote thicker, fuller-looking hair. Formulation aside, we love the sleek green packaging, but we do wish that the dropper had a better design. The mini pipette doesn’t pick up nearly enough product, and for the best results it’s imperative to saturate your entire scalp with the serum. We often end up pouring it directly into our palm then massaging it into our head. Type: Serum｜Active Ingredients: Ectoine, pea peptide, squalane｜Size: 4.2 oz Best for Sensitive Scalps Alfaparf Milano Semi Di Lino Scalp Relief Calming Tonic PHOTO: Amazon $25 at Amazon What We Love: It features probiotics to gently rebalance thin scalp skin.What We Don’t Love: We wish the packaging was a spray nozzle instead of a dropper. Sensitive skin is characterized by a dysfunctional skin barrier, meaning it’s unable to retain enough moisture or defend itself from potential irritants. This makes it especially susceptible to dryness and discomfort. To restore order to the epidermis, this calming tonic from Italian brand Alfaparf Milano contains skin-balancing probiotics, as well as soothing aloe and Italian caper extract to relieve itching. Like many scalp serums, this product uses a dropper to dispense the formula, but it’s not easy to control. Given the thinner formula, we’d prefer a precise nozzle for a more pinpointed application. Type: Serum｜Active Ingredients: Probiotics, Italian caper extract, aloe extract｜Size: 1.3 oz Best for Hair Growth The Nue Co. Supa Thick Scalp Serum PHOTO: Sephora $55 at Amazon $55 at Sephora $55 at thenueco.com What We Love: It’s exceptional at balancing the scalp and boosting hair thickness. What We Don’t Love: It works best if you’re pairing it with the brand’s corresponding supplements. No matter your scalp concern, this formula from The Nue Co. can tackle it. But it shines as a hair growth treatment, with hardworking hair thickener Redensyl as the hero ingredient. The serum helps reduce shedding while promoting a longer anagen phase, making hair look fuller and stronger with regular use. Like we mentioned, though, this treatment is truly a catchall scalp savior — and Hill is a fan. Probiotics rebalance the scalp’s microbiome, clearing up dandruff and taming excess oil. And the addition of antimicrobial oils (including rosemary and peppermint) protect and nourish the delicate skin. Keep in mind that healthy hair growth can also depend heavily on your diet and nutrient intake. The Nue Co. offers hair supplements that enhance the results of this serum. However, they’re not totally necessary. With consistent use, you’ll still see benefits from this product when you use it solo. Type: Serum｜Active Ingredients: Redensyl, probiotics, rosemary leaf extract｜Size: 4 oz Best for Natural Textures Head and Shoulders Daily Moisture Scalp Cream PHOTO: Amazon $9 at Amazon $11 at Walgreens $13 at Walmart What We Love: The pinpointed nozzle targets troublesome dandruff spots. What We Don’t Love: The thick cream may be a little too heavy for some hair types. Not all scalp treatments are wallet-friendly and effective, but this one from scalp care icon Head and Shoulders is. Powered by pyrithione zinc, an ingredient found in many of the brand’s formulas due to its exceptional ability to combat dandruff, this cream was specially designed for those with curly and coily hair who face unique challenges when treating their scalps. "Those with curly hair require more time between washes than those with straight hair, as the oil needs to travel along corkscrew-shaped strands to moisturize all the way to the ends,” explains board-certified hair restoration surgeon Dr. Craig Ziering. That can result in a flaky scalp that’s difficult to treat between washes without dehydrating it. The defined applicator administers the cream right to the source of the issue, making it use in between washes without disrupting your style. Beyond treating dandruff, it also minimizes dryness with coconut oil. However, that means that it can weigh down finer or straighter hair, so keep that in mind. Type: Cream｜Active Ingredients: Pyrithione zinc, coconut oil｜Size: 5 oz Best Dermatologist-Tested Nécessaire The Scalp Serum PHOTO: Sephora $45 at Amazon $41 at Nordstrom $45 at Sephora What We Love: This weightless serum checks all the boxes we could ever want — it’s dermatologist-tested, hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic, and color-safe.What We Don’t Love: The relief isn’t immediate. Developed to target dryness, prevent dandruff, and calm itchiness, this daily restorative peptide treatment provides intense hydration while boosting overall scalp health. Unlike skincare serums, this non-sticky, non-greasy product leaves behind no residue — even for those with fine, thin or grease-prone strands. Infused with moisture-locking hyaluronic acid, soothing antioxidant green tea, sebum-regulating niacinamide, and a biomimetic peptide blend to support hair growth and visibility thicken hair. If this serum sounds too good to be true, we don’t blame you — we were right there with you. Yet, in a clinical study of 50 participants spanning 60 days, 84 percent of participants believed their hair looked fuller while 88 percent said their hair looked healthier. It’s not too often that we find a powerful hair product that doesn’t feel powerful on our sensitive scalps, and this light as a feather cocktail sinks right in without a trace and leaves our whole head feeling refreshed and comfortable. Type: Serum｜Active Ingredients: Biomimetic peptide blend, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide｜Size: 2 oz Best Hair & Scalp Oil Philip B. Scalp Booster PHOTO: Philip B. $90 at Dermstore $85 at philipb.com $90 at Bloomingdales What We Love: This booster produces an energizing warming sensation and smells divine.What We Don’t Love: A little goes a long way, and it’s easy to dispense too much. Out of all of Philip B.’s luxurious products, this orange peel oil-infused scalp booster may be our favorite. “Citrus-based essential oils aid in cellular turnover and increase blood flow,” says Hill. The ingredient does double-duty as a treatment and a fragrance: It smells delicious as it’s massaged in, but it also feels invigorating, heating up then cooling down to comfort and soothe. With regular use, the scalp starts to self-balance and hair grows thicker, glossier, and healthier. We will note that this is an oil-based product, which isn’t a bad thing — that’s what makes it nourishing. You only need to use about 10 drops at a time, as anything more can leave hair looking greasy. The pipette holds an excessive amount, so make sure to dispense gingerly. Type: Oil｜Active Ingredients: Redensyl, salicylic acid, orange peel oil｜Size: 1.96 oz We Tested 29 Hair Oils — These 11 Keep Hair Moisturized and Silky Smooth Best for Curly Hair Pattern Beauty Scalp Serum PHOTO: Sephora $28 at Sephora $28 at Ulta $28 at patternbeauty.com What We Love: This was specifically created for those with natural hair.What We Don’t Love: It may irritate sensitive scalps. Launched by Tracee Ellis Ross, Pattern Beauty is wholly devoted to keeping curls and natural textures healthy, well-nourished, and shiny. “This hair type is varied and very delicate,” says Hill. “Typically, tightly curled and coiled hair textures shy away from frequent shampooing and [instead] cleanse the scalp with tonics and oils in addition to their detoxifying shampoo.” So, to support the scalp and your coils, she recommends alternating between clarifying oils and water-based serums. Pattern Beauty’s formula is the best of both worlds: While water-based, it features peppermint, lavender, and rosemary oils to help stimulate and restore. It can be used on wet or dry scalps and features a precise nozzle that can navigate through the thickest hair to get right to the source. We should note that the peppermint provides a refreshing tingle, but not all scalps will react well to that invigorating feeling. Type: Serum｜Active Ingredients: Saw palmetto extract, castor seed oil, peppermint oil｜Size: 4 oz Best Exfoliating Moroccanoil Dry Scalp Treatment PHOTO: Sephora $40 at Amazon $40 at Sephora $40 at moroccanoil.com What We Love: This nourishing pre-wash oil softens skin while soothing itchiness and minimizing flakes.What We Don’t Love: Fine hair types need to be extra thorough when rinsing out this rich formula to ward off signs of grease. Native to Morocco, argan oil is an intense hair-conditioning ingredient that is chock full of antioxidants. This product contains a hefty dose of it — plus exfoliating salicylic acid and anti-bacterial geranium oil — to help ease and quench dry, itchy scalps while sloughing off flakes in the process. While many people might be reluctant to use an oil (they can make hair look oily, after all), this one is meant to be used as a pre-wash treatment. Massage into your hair about 10 minutes before washing. Then after you rinse it out, it won’t leave your hair looking greasy, just glossy and healthy. Many hair types (especially wavy, curly, and coily) will drink up any residual moisture from the treatment, but fine hair may not. Be sure to fully rinse this formula out, otherwise it may leave hair looking slick post-shower. Type: Oil｜Active Ingredients: Argan oil, salicylic acid, geranium oil｜Size: 1.5 oz Best Serum Arkive Headcare The Root-ine Scalp Serum PHOTO: Arkive Headcare View on Arkiveheadcare.com What We Love: The soft, silky serum feels like skincare rather than a haircare product.What We Don’t Love: The bottle is relatively small. As the cosmetic industry continues to innovate, the lines between skincare and haircare are becoming blurred. Many brands are introducing skincare-like products designed for your hair and scalp, including the Root-in Scalp Serum from Arkive Headcare. This milky, fast-absorbing product feels just like a hydrating tonic you’d use on your face, but it’s specially formulated to rehab the scalp and promote healthy hair growth with a mix of jojoba esters, exfoliating succinic acid, and strengthening baobab protein. Given the small bottle, you’ll probably need to restock often (especially if you use it daily). However, considering how budget-friendly the product is, we don’t mind. Type: Serum｜Active Ingredients: Baobab extract, succinic acid, rosebay extract｜Size: 1.7 oz Best Scalp Scrub Kérastase Symbiose Scalp Renewal Micro-Exfoliating Scrub PHOTO: Sephora $49 at Amazon $49 at Sephora View on Kerastase-usa.com What We Love: It produces a refreshing cooling sensation as it lathers.What We Don’t Love: It can leave hair feeling dry. With a combination of chemical and physical exfoliants, this detoxifying scalp scrub sloughs off dead skin, excess oil, and product buildup all at the same time. We love that we can really feel (and smell) that it’s working, thanks to the menthol in the formula that creates an invigorating cool sensation. Although many scalp scrubs can get rather messy and make the floor of our shower slippery, this is one of the most convenient options we’ve ever tried. The thick, salicylic acid-based gel formula is dotted with gentle plant-based beads to wash off flakes and residue without stripping the scalp. It immediately emulsifies and produces a satisfying foamy leather that is easy to distribute all around the head. While the suds make it feel like a shampoo, don’t be fooled: This is a seriously strong pre-shampoo treatment. You’ll need to follow the scrub with your full cleansing routine, especially a creamy conditioner. The deeply clarifying formula is only intended to be used twice a week and your hair may feel dry without extra nourishment. Type: Scrub｜Active Ingredients: Salicylic acid, menthol, apricot seed powder｜Size: 6.8 oz Best Shampoo Act + Acre Cold Processed Hair Cleanse Shampoo PHOTO: Amazon $32 at Amazon $76 at Dermstore $32 at Revolve What We Love: This shampoo is gentle, yet extremely clarifying, especially if you do the recommended double-cleanse.What We Don’t Love: Don’t be alarmed if your scalp feels dry at first — it can take a few uses to adjust to the formula. According to Dr. Shamban, apple cider vinegar is an incredible tool to have in your scalp health arsenal — especially for those who suffer from flakes and excess oil — because it naturally balances pH. However, completing a scalp rinse with pure ACV isn’t particularly enjoyable to either our head or our nose. (Trust us, we’ve tried.) Thankfully, Act+Acre found a way to combine the benefits of apple cider vinegar without the sharp odor, and we are forever grateful. This shampoo taps a potent derivative of ACV — apple amino acids — to accomplish the same goal as a traditional stinky rinse, with a fraction of the scent. And with a dash of ylang ylang oil, it carries a subtle floral and refreshing fragrance. Despite the lack of sulfates, the cleanser lathers impressively well and rinses out easily with no residue left behind. If you commit to using this formula, you may find that its scalp rebalancing properties will allow you to extend the time between wash days, especially if you double cleanse. (The first shampoo loosens product build-up, flakes and grime from the scalp, and the second ensures it’s all removed from the head.) We should note that the shampoo requires an adjustment period, during which your scalp may feel drier than usual. Power through the first few washes — your scalp will thank you in the long run. Type: Shampoo｜Active Ingredients: Apple amino acids, baobab oil, ylang ylang oil｜Size: 10 oz Best Overnight Virtue Topical Scalp Supplement PHOTO: Sephora $58 at Sephora $58 at Ulta $58 at Dermstore What We Love: Spritz this supercharged mist all over your scalp and roots and the human-identical keratin protein will do the rest — fast.What We Don’t Love: Don’t overspray, unless you’re fine with sticky hair. It’s rare that beauty begins on the battlefield, but that’s exactly what happened here. Dr. Luke Burnett, a retired U.S. Army Colonel, and his team in a regenerative medicine lab were researching how to heal injuries from combat. What they discovered was a way to collect keratin in its pure form, Alpha Keratin 60ku, which has the power to treat burn wounds and regrow tissue. And since this keratin is identical to the type we have in our hair, skin and nails, it binds directly to repair the scalp and strands, supporting new, fragile and damaged hair so each strand thickens and grows. Along with a nutrient-dense blend of peptides, prebiotics, and vitamins, this fast-absorbing mist kickstarts lazy follicles. In fact, 100 percent of women who participated in an independent third-party clinical study said that after six months, their existing hair grew faster, while 97 percent saw new growth and 94 percent believed their hair looked fuller. For the most part, the mist doesn’t impact the look or feel of our hair once it’s been sprayed in, and because of its weightless formula, it’s easy to overdo it and could get a little sticky. But if you follow the instructions, working in sections and massaging in, focusing on your scalp, you’ll soak up all the formula’s goodness. Type: Spray｜Active Ingredients: Keratin protein, biomimetic peptides, larch wood extract｜Size: 4 oz What to Keep in Mind Your Scalp Concerns There are many conditions that can afflict the scalp, so when selecting your scalp treatment, choose one that targets your exact concerns. But before that, you should figure out the root cause. “All abnormal scalp conditions can be attributed to one or a combination of these factors: Genetics, lifestyle, diet, hair styling habits, environment, health, stress, hormones, and medications,” explains Hill. One of the most commonly recognized is dandruff, which is a chronic oily scalp condition related to fungal and bacterial imbalances, says Dr. Ziering. It’s also an inflammatory issue, so limiting inflammatory foods, such as full-fat dairy products and very sugary foods, can help, says Anabel Kingsley, certified trichologist and president of Philip Kingsley. Seborrheic dermatitis is similar, but it’s dandruff’s “more serious cousin,” says Dr. Shamban. It’s characterized by red scaly patches, inflammation, and very large flakes that are stickier and more challenging to remove than those caused by dandruff. “Dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis are much more likely to occur when excess oils are present, as malassezia yeasts thrive in an oily environment,” says Kingsley. Pyrithione zinc and coal tar (which is the hero in Neutrogena T/Gel Therapeutic Shampoo) are two potent ingredients in the fight against these yeasts. “If you have psoriasis, which manifests as large silvery plaques of dead skin, these ingredients can also help relieve it, but psoriasis needs prescription treatments to help manage it,” she adds. If your scalp is prone to dryness, that’s a sign that the skin on your head is craving more moisture. “A dry scalp is usually linked to environmental or external fluctuations and is often a transient issue rather than a chronic one,” says Dr. Ziering. Common causes include weather shifts, stripping hair products, and excessively cleansing your hair. If you suspect your scalp is tired of too many washdays, Dr. Shamban recommends limiting your shampoo sessions to two to three times a week. “This will give your hair and scalp a break as needed,” she says. Hair loss is one of the most frustrating scalp concerns that affects both men and women. “It can be caused by genetic conditions, but also by hormonal changes, or exacerbated by scalp conditions,” says Dr. Shamban. There are many ingredients that can help stimulate and prolong the hair growth cycle. Kingsley likes caffeine, minoxidil, and biomimetic peptides, the latter of which help maintain a healthy growth cycle and normalize shedding rates. You can find them in Virtue Flourish Density Booster. Dr. Shamban also likes the proprietary ingredient Redensyl. “It’s an express ‘route to the root’ of the stem cells, delivering the signal to increase the action of dermal papillae fibroblast metabolism in our follicles,” she says. It’s in The Ordinary Multi-Peptide Serum for Hair Density. Active Ingredients There are so many ingredients to look for, but it’s not just which ingredients are in a product that is important, it’s how much. “A formula with all the best components but at too low an amount isn’t going to do much good,” says Kingsley. “I always use evidence-based actives that have robust clinical data behind them.” They don’t have to be brand new, innovative ingredients, either. She points to soothing and hydrating aloe, which is found in Alfaparf Milano Semi Di Lino Scalp Relief Calming Tonic for Sensitive Skin and Rahua Founder’s Blend Scalp & Hair Treatment, as well as camphor and chamomile. Dr. Shamban likes ginger extract to help balance the scalp. “Ginger features strong anti-inflammatory properties and will help to mitigate the growth of unwanted bacteria while lessening associated itchiness,” she says. It’s blended into Oribe Serene Scalp Oil Control Treatment Mist. If you’re managing hair loss, look for saw palmetto. “It slows down 5-alpha reductase, the enzyme that converts testosterone into a potent androgen hormone called dihydrotestosterone (DHT),” says Dr. Shamban. This hormone is known to contribute to hair loss. Other popular ingredients that you’ll see in scalp care products are the same as ones you might find in your favorite skincare formulas — hyaluronic acid, witch hazel, niacinamide, squalane, and exfoliating alpha- and beta-hydroxy acids. These can all work to hydrate, soothe, moisturize, and purify the scalp (it is skin after all). Your Questions, Answered What's the best way to care for your scalp? Before starting a scalp care regimen, you’ll want to pay close attention to your scalp’s needs. Remember, “scalp is skin, so treat it as such using active botanicals and cosmeceutical ingredients,” says Dr. Shamban. Kingsley adds that “the scalp is an extension of the skin on your forehead and is exposed to the same stressors and environmental pollution, so it benefits from similar TLC.” Hill says to consider what you subject your scalp to on a regular basis (for example, color treating or keratin treatments, and heat styling) as well as its current condition (is it itchy? Flaky? Congested?). Then, select an appropriate scalp mask or pre-treatment for your needs. “Most products recommend a processing time of a minimum of 15 to 30 minutes, but I suggest that clients sleep in their pre-scalp treatments for optimal results,” she says. Invest in a separate pillow and pillowcase just for nights when you use your scalp treatment so as not to ruin your linens. How you apply your pre-treatment is just as important as the formula itself. “I encourage clients to activate the scalp muscles and improve circulation with a massage,” says Hill, who recommends using both hands and starting from the nape of your neck up to the crown, then from the base of the ear to the top of the head on both sides. “There’s a lot of area to cover, so take your time,” she adds. “Spend three to five minutes massaging the appropriate oil into the scalp to soften skin cells, exfoliate, and remove debris to encourage blood flow.” Formulas with ingredients like peppermint (found in Pattern Beauty Scalp Serum), citrus (blended into Philip B. Scalp Booster Pre-Wash), and rosemary extracts (in The Nue Co. Supa Thick Scalp Serum) will help enhance circulation, decongest the scalp, and soothe irritation. When you’re ready to shampoo, use one that’s best for your scalp’s needs — but do it right. “A proper shampoo is when the cleansing agent is applied directly to the scalp and not to the hair fibers,” says Hill, who suggests buying a hair color applicator bottle and using that to distribute shampoo directly on the scalp. After massaging in the shampoo, let it sit for five minutes, fully wet your hair, and emulsify it, then finish your cleansing regimen with a conditioner. But you’re not done yet. “Finish with a topical water-based serum [like WeThrivv Revivv For Her Hair Rejuvenation Serum] or lotion that promotes hair health or addresses your specific scalp concern,” says Hill. What removes scalp buildup? Focusing too much on hair care rather than scalp care is a major reason for scalp buildup, says Kingsley. “Simply shampooing regularly and thoroughly will help remove buildup and prevent its occurrence. Spend approximately one minute gently but firmly massaging your scalp when you shampoo and rinse well,” she says. Using a clarifying shampoo is also a good way to give your scalp a reset. If you don’t wash your hair every day, double cleanse when you do shampoo to make sure you’re breaking down all the dirt, oil, and grime. You can also use a formula like Act+Acre Cold Processed Cleanse Shampoo, which uses apple amino acids to remove buildup without stripping the scalp. Additionally, Dr. Shamban says using a pre-shampoo treatment, such as a scalp scrub, with salicylic acid will exfoliate the scalp by breaking down any excess dead skin cells and product, as well as lift away any debris. A good one to try is Kérastase Symbiose Scalp Renewal Micro-Exfoliating Scrub which features salicylic acid and physical exfoliants like apricot seed powder. And don’t forget to brush daily, either: “This moves the sebum down the hair shaft, which lessens the build-up at the root,” she says. What causes scalp itchiness? There are many causes of scalp itchiness — some simple, some complicated — so it’s important to get to the root of the issue (pun intended). “Scalp pruritus, or itchy scalp can be as simple as an isolated symptom,” says Hill. It could also be dandruff, dryness, eczema, seborrheic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, or psoriasis. Usually, you’ll be able to see these issues manifesting on your scalp, with flaking, rashing, or inflammation. If you’re not seeing anything unusual, it could be due to hormonal shifts within the body. “Many people find their scalp becomes irritated when hormone levels fluctuate — for instance, leading up to menstruation, in early pregnancy, the postpartum period, and upon entering menopause,” says Kingsley. Alternatively, it could be a mild allergy, says Dr. Shamban, which she says can be relieved by taking an over-the-counter antihistamine. Why Shop With Us Emily Orofino is a beauty writer, editor, and consultant with more than a decade of experience in the industry. She has recently been struggling with hair loss and has been trying multiple formulas to treat it, including the included WeThrivv Revivv Serum. For this piece, she interviewed scalp therapist and trichologist Bridgette Hill, president of Philip Kingsley and trichologist Anabel Kingsley, board-certified dermatologist Dr. Ava Shamban, and board-certified hair restoration surgeon Dr. Craig Ziering. We Tested 29 Hair Oils — These 11 Keep Hair Moisturized and Silky Smooth