20 Best Men’s Shampoos for Dry Scalp
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1. Blu Atlas Shampoo
We chose the Blu Atlas Shampoo for our top spot because of its high-quality ingredients and proven results with dry scalps. Blu Atlas Shampoo strengthens the hair after each use and prevents oily buildup from weighing down your hair. Its premium ingredients are 99% naturally sourced and selected for their potency. Jojoba oil is rich in vitamins A, E and D for maximum nourishment. These properties are similar to the properties of your skin's sebum, which means jojoba oil is able to penetrate deeply for intense moisturization. Aloe barbadensis leaf acts as a natural moisturizer. The leaves contain antioxidants like vitamins A, C and E. Finally, sodium methyl cocoyl taurate, derived from coconut, is used to create the creamy formula users of this product rave about. Just a quarter-sized amount massaged throughout your scalp will be enough for you to see the results from the Blu Atlas Shampoo. [$25; bluatlas.com]Courtesy of Blu Atlas - 2/20
2. Kiehl’s Amino Acid Shampoo
Kiehl's Amino Acid Shampoo is a gentle product from a widely trusted brand. This shampoo is formulated with coconut oil and amino acids to add body and shine to your hair while remaining gentle and mild on your scalp. This shampoo creates a thick lather that will leave every man feeling luxurious. Amino acids are known to have cleansing properties and help with moisture retention. Kiehl's uses fairly traded coconut oil, which is rich in fatty acids and hydrates, nourishes and softens hair. Finally, hydrolyzed wheat protein, also known as phyto peptides, helps condition and moisturize the scalp and hair. Kiehl's cares deeply about the environment, and their Amino Acid Shampoo now comes in refillable pouches. The brand is doing their part to reduce the waste on the planet, which means you can feel good about your purchase if you choose to buy this shampoo. [$24; kiehls.com]Courtesy of Kiehl's - 3/20
3. AVEDA Invati Men Nourishing Exfoliating Shampoo
Specifically designed to exfoliate, AVEDA Invati Men Nourishing Exfoliating Shampoo could be the solution to your dry scalp problem. As the shampoo works to exfoliate your scalp, it conditions at the same time to strengthen thinning hair. This removes buildup and excess sebum that clogs the pores on the scalp. AVEDA Invati Men Nourishing Exfoliating Shampoo is vegan and certified cruelty-free, and is 90% naturally derived from plants. The company is committed to saving the environment, and the laboratories that produce this shampoo are 100% wind- and solar-powered. To get the most out of this shampoo, consider purchasing the Invati Men Scalp Revitalizer and using the products together. [$38; aveda.com]Courtesy of AVEDA - 4/20
4. Manscaped 2-in-1 Shampoo + Conditioner
Manscaped might be the only exception to our rule against two-in-one shampoos. Described as an Ultra-Premium 2-in-1 Shampoo + Conditioner, this product cleanses and nourishes your hair without stripping it of the necessary oils. Formulated with coconut water, aloe, green tea, turmeric, sea kelp and sage, this shampoo provides a generous lather ideal for any man looking for a little luxury in his self-care routine. Manscaped 2-in-1 Shampoo is able to create a thick lather without a greasy residue. Sea kelp works to promote a healthier scalp and hair while aloe works to hydrate and soothe an irritated scalp. Coconut water hydrates your hair and scalp for a refreshment you can see, while sage improves the texture of your hair, adding shine and luster. Green tea and turmeric work to promote healthier hair and scalp, and saw palmetto helps to promote strong hair. Manscaped Ultra-Premium 2-in-1 is made with a refined cologne so your hair will smell like light citrus with a hint of jasmine and vetiver. The scent is fresh but masculine. Formulated to be vegan, cruelty-free, paraben-free and dye-free, this product is great for all hair types. [$11.99; manscaped.com]Courtesy of Manscaped - 5/20
5. Malin + Goetz Dandruff Shampoo
Malin + Goetz Dandruff Shampoo is specifically designed to provide your hair with a gentle cleanse while treating those pesky flakes on your scalp. Formulated with 1.9% active pyrithione zinc, an amino acid-based agent, this shampoo will treat dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis. In addition to treating dandruff, Malin + Goetz Dandruff Shampoo conditions the hair and soothes itchy scalps. The eucalyptus oil is used to refresh and invigorate the scalp and hair follicles to encourage hair growth. For best use, massage a small amount of product onto wet hair and create a gentle lather. Leave on the scalp for one to two minutes before rinsing thoroughly. Use this shampoo two or three times a week to ensure dandruff stays away and your scalp stays happy. [$28; malinandgoetz.com]Courtesy of Malin + Goetz - 6/20
6. Authentic African Black Soap Scalp Care Shampoo, Cleansing Tea Tree & Mint
Authentic African Black Soap Scalp Care Shampoo is handcrafted from fair trade unrefined shea butter and authentic black soap from Alaffia cooperatives in West Africa. Formulated with unrefined shea butter, neem oil and activated black charcoal, this shampoo will provide your hair with a deep cleanse without stripping away any natural oils that your scalp needs. White tea tree oil and African mint provide a cooling sensation, offering relief to an irritated scalp. Alaffia is committed to sustainability and fair trade principles. All their ingredients are Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) certified, meaning they are constantly controlled according to high-quality standards. Alaffia is also Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) certified and a proud partner of TerraCycle, which provides the community with easy ways to recycle. You can feel good about the products you are choosing to purchase and use. For best results, leave the product to penetrate your hair for one minute before rinsing off. [$9.99; alaffia.com]Courtesy of Alaffia - 7/20
7. Paul Mitchell Tea Tree Special Shampoo
Tea Tree Special Shampoo is Paul Mitchell's best-selling shampoo. This shampoo contains the famous Paul Mitchell Tingle Complex. Since this shampoo is formulated with a blend of tea tree, peppermint and lavender, which leaves your scalp with a cooling and tingling sensation, it can bring relief to an irritated scalp. Apply a small amount of product to wet hair and massage gently until it fully lathers. Then rinse well. For best results, use this product on a continuous basis. This shampoo is color-safe, vegan and paraben-free. The bottle is fully recyclable, upholding Paul Mitchell's long-standing commitment to the environment and allowing you to feel good about the products you're spending your money on. [$15; ulta.com]Courtesy of Ulta Beauty - 8/20
8. Every Man Jack 2-in-1 Anti-Dandruff Shampoo + Conditioner
Every Man Jack is a trusted favorite of men's hair care. Formulated to relieve dry and irritated scalps, Every Man Jack's Anti-Dandruff Shampoo is a great option for men dealing with itchy scalps. The natural menthol soothes the scalp, providing relief from irritation, and peppermint essential oil provides refreshment for the scalp. Every Man Jack 2-in-1 Anti-Dandruff Shampoo + Conditioner is formulated with naturally derived ingredients and without parabens, phthalates or aluminum. The brand's products are cruelty-free. [$12; everymanjack.com]Courtesy of Every Man Jack - 9/20
9. Selsun Blue Medicated With Menthol Dandruff Shampoo
Selsun Blue Medicated with Menthol Dandruff Shampoo is a maximum-strength shampoo with 1% selenium sulfide. This medicated shampoo helps to control tough dandruff symptoms. This medicated dandruff shampoo helps to prevent and eliminate itchy and dry scalps as well as visible flakes in your hair. Selsun's Dandruff Shampoo lathers quickly for easy application and instant relief. The added menthol provides a cooling and soothing sensation to provide instant relief to an itchy scalp. For best results, shake the bottle well before application. Massage the product into wet hair and rinse well. Repeat if desired. Use twice a week for maximum effectiveness. [$6.98; amazon.com]Courtesy of Amazon - 10/20
10. American Crew Anti-Dandruff & Sebum Control Shampoo
The halfway point on our list of the best shampoos for men with dry scalps goes to American Crew's Anti-Dandruff & Sebum Control Shampoo. This shampoo got the tenth spot because of its popularity. This shampoo is formulated to help two major issues men have with their scalp: dryness and oiliness. American Crew is a revolutionary scalp therapy shampoo that will refresh and invigorate your scalp while conditioning your hair. Zinc pyrithione helps to prevent flaking associated with dandruff and itchiness from an irritated scalp. Rosemary helps to regulate sebum production, while peppermint and tea tree oil soothe and refresh the hair and scalp. Sage leaf extract works to cleanse and invigorate the hair and scalp. Finally, the addition of quaternized polymers helps restore strength to hair. For best results, lather a quarter-sized amount of product into your scalp and let sit for two minutes. Rinse well, and use the shampoo on a continuous basis to combat your dry scalp. [$14; americancrew.com]Courtesy of American Crew - 11/20
11. Oribe Serene Scalp Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
Don't let the pink color fool you; Oribe Serene Scalp Anti-Dandruff Shampoo is a perfect option for men with a dry scalp. This shampoo is a gentle cleanser formulated with salicylic acid to relieve and prevent dandruff while providing relief to an itchy scalp. This shampoo leaves hair healthy and hydrated, and eliminates flakes. Ingredients like watermelon, lychee and edelweiss flower extract repair distressed hair, combat the deterioration of natural keratin and protect the hair's natural color. Salicylic acid exfoliates the scalp to get rid of any flakes from a dry scalp and alleviate itchiness and irritation. Bilberry fruit and sugar maple extract are used to soothe irritation on the scalp and protect against additional damage. Sugarcane extract hydrates and moisturizes both the hair and the scalp, while orange and lemon extract help to maintain that moisture long term. Finally, pea sprout extract helps to restore elasticity and energize your scalp. [$46; sephora.com]Courtesy of Sephora - 12/20
12. Redken Scalp Relief Dandruff Control Shampoo
Redken has been a trusted hair-care brand for years and is recommended by professionals and dermatologists. Redken Scalp Relief Dandruff Control Shampoo is formulated specifically to fight and control dandruff while still leaving hair silky smooth. This shampoo is gentle on hair but nevertheless provides intense relief for irritated scalps. The secret ingredient in this popular shampoo is pyrithione zinc, which fights and controls dandruff at the same time. The product also acts as a clarifying shampoo to remove buildup. Be sure to try this shampoo if you need relief from dandruff. [$24; amazon.com]Courtesy of Amazon - 13/20
13. Davines Purifying Shampoo
Davines Purifying Shampoo is a professional-quality shampoo that fights dandruff and itchy scalps. Davines shampoo claims to purify the hair, get rid of dandruff and add shine. In order to get the most out of this shampoo, gently massage a small amount into your scalp. This no-nonsense clarifying shampoo is a great option for men who are seeking to avoid the flowery scent of many high-end hair products. [$32; davines.com]Courtesy of Davines - 14/20
14. BIOLAGE Scalpsync Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
Biolage ScalpSync Anti-Dandruff Shampoo is a salon-quality professional shampoo for itchy and flaky scalps. This shampoo took its inspiration from the antibacterial and calming properties of mint leaves. Infused with actual mint, this shampoo will calm even the most irritated scalps. Another key ingredient is pyrithione zinc, which claims to be the ultimate scalp-care ingredient. It helps to target dandruff, relieve scalp irritation and control the appearance of visible flakes. It is essential that this shampoo is used on a continual basis to see the best results. Biolage ScalpSync Anti-Dandruff Shampoo is suitable for all hair types to combat a dry scalp. [$34; amazon.com]Courtesy of Amazon - 15/20
15. Neutrogena T/Gel Therapeutic Shampoo Original Formula Anti-Dandruff Treatment
Neutrogena T/Gel Therapeutic Shampoo offers long-lasting relief from itching and flaking scalps. This original therapeutic formula helps to control itchy scalps that are a result of dermatitis, psoriasis or dandruff. Neutrogena is a dermatologist-recommended brand, and daily use of this shampoo has been proven to provide relief to anyone's scalp. This simple formula is perfect for men who struggle with dry scalps and flaking. [$26.51; walmart.com]Courtesy of Walmart - 16/20
16. Head & Shoulders Classic Clean Daily-Use Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
Head & Shoulders is a classic when it comes to anti-dandruff shampoos – and for good reason. It is America's No. 1 dandruff shampoo. The Classic Clean Daily-Use Anti-Dandruff Shampoo tackles skin flakes on your scalp and leaves your scalp feeling clean. This shampoo offers proven protection against the dryness, flakes and itch associated with dandruff. Head & Shoulders leaves your scalp feeling nourished while relieving the symptoms of dandruff. Note that Head & Shoulders offers various scents and formulations that tackle additional hair concerns you may be dealing with. Be sure to check out all of their stellar options. [$12.98; amazon.com]Courtesy of Amazon - 17/20
17. SheaMoisture African Black Soap Bamboo Charcoal Deep Cleansing
SheaMoisture is designed to cleanse and calm your scalp. Made with fair-trade shea butter, this shampoo gives your hair an effective deep cleanse while still being gentle. SheaMoisture African Black Soap Bamboo Charcoal Deep Cleansing Shampoo helps to soothe itchy scalps and cleanse hair in an ideal environment for healthy hair. SheaMoisture is a great brand that offers lots of hydration in all their shampoos. If you have additional hair concerns, such as curly hair or dry scalp, consider looking at the other formulations Shea Moisture has to offer. It's a safe bet that any shampoo you pick up from this brand will provide you with intense hydration that your dry scalp will love. Because this product is formulated without sulfates, parabens, petroleum or animal testing, you can feel good about supporting SheaMoisture. [$14.70; amazon.com]Courtesy of Amazon - 18/20
18. First Aid Beauty Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
First Aid Beauty Anti-Dandruff Shampoo is an FDA-approved, sulfate-free shampoo that combats flakes, soothes scalps and leaves hair smooth. This Anti-Dandruff Shampoo is great for any hairstyle or texture, but is specifically formulated for dry scalps and is safe for colored hair. In a study with over 50 participants, 85% reported that this product helped eliminate the look of flakes or dandruff on the scalp. First Aid Beauty Anti-Dandruff Shampoo is unique because of the ingredients. This shampoo contains pyrithione zinc (OTC 1%), which targets the root cause of dandruff to tackle flakes on the scalp. Silk peptides help to strengthen, moisturize and smooth hair. Lastly, calendula calms and soothes distress on the scalp. First Aid Beauty has a reputation for being excellent when it comes to hydration and moisturization. If you try this shampoo and enjoy it, consider checking out the other products the brand has to offer. For example, you might find a hand cream that works well for men with dry hands. [$30; sephora.com]Courtesy of Sephora - 19/20
19. Ouai Detox Shampoo
Ouai Detox Shampoo is a clarifying shampoo that cleans dirt, oil and product buildup. It cleanses hair without stripping, and adds softness and shine. A clarifying shampoo is an extra-strength shampoo that will cut through any product buildup your everyday shampoo is unable to get rid of. Because of their potency, clarifying shampoos should not be used more than a couple of times a month. Using a clarifying shampoo will help with a dry and itchy scalp because it will clear any gunk that is still on your roots. Key ingredients like chelating agents, apple cider vinegar and hydrolyzed keratin make Ouai Detox Shampoo great. The chelating agents help to remove hard water residue, and apple cider vinegar helps to exfoliate the hair and remove flakes, buildup and residue. Lastly, hydrolyzed keratin softens, smooths frizz and adds shine to hair. [$30; sephora.com]Courtesy of Sephora - 20/20
20. Briogeo Scalp Revival Charcoal + Coconut Oil Micro-Exfoliating Shampoo
Briogeo is a clean and natural hair-care brand that works for all hair types and textures. The brand was inspired by founder Nancy Twine and her family's tradition of making natural beauty products from scratch. She believes that beauty products can be effective without harsh or harmful ingredients. This unique shampoo is formulated with charcoal and coconut oil to detoxify and soothe your scalp. While this shampoo is formulated for all hair types and textures, it's ideal for those who suffer from a dry, irritated and flaky scalp. The key ingredient, Binchotan charcoal, is used to draw impurities from the scalp and hair follicles. Micro-exfoliants derived from vegetables remove dead skin cells and product buildup. Coconut oil ensures your hair and scalp are moisturized, and a cooling blend of peppermint and spearmint oil reduces any itch you might feel from your dry and irritated scalp. [$42; sephora.com]Courtesy of Sephora
This article was published in partnership with Blu Atlas. Given today’s focus on self-care, you should stay away from any shampoo that claims to also be multiple other things. Men with short hair often think they don’t need a hair-care routine, but that could not be further from the truth. Men with any length of hair will benefit from a hair-care routine. Hair care can also help you tackle any specific problems you’ve been experiencing with your hair or scalp. Dry scalps can happen for a variety of reasons – dermatitis, eczema, psoriasis or ordinary dandruff. People often think having a dry scalp or dandruff is embarrassing, and that means they avoid talking about it. But if no one talks about it, no one will ever heal their scalp. The good news is that there are many shampoos that can solve the problem of dandruff and a dry scalp. But in order to successfully combat a dry scalp and keep it away for good, you need to be consistent. If you pick up a shampoo from this list and only use it once or twice, you won’t see the results you’re looking for. In order to successfully get rid of a dry scalp, be sure to use the shampoo consistently for several weeks. And if you find a shampoo that works for you and your scalp from this list, feel free to share this link with another man in your life who may be suffering from the same problems. Without further ado, here is our curated list of the 20 best men’s shampoos for dry scalp. Final Words If you’re a man who struggles with dry scalp or dandruff, look for hair products with tea tree oil, peppermint oil or menthol. These provide a tingly feeling that soothes an itchy, irritated scalp. You’ll notice that all the shampoos in the list above focus on intense hydration for both the hair and the scalp. Ingredients like coconut oil, shea butter and aloe will offer your hair the intense hydration it requires to heal. If gentler products aren’t working for you, try a shampoo specifically formulated for dandruff. These shampoos usually have a low dose of medicine in them, so just be sure to monitor for any allergies. Also, be sure to condition your hair to replenish any moisture you might lose. We hope this list of the 20 best shampoos for men with dry scalps helps you in your journey to achieving a healthy and hydrated scalp.