Best Itchy Scalp Treatments and Products of 2023

Aug 15, 2023

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Experts explain how to get to the bottom of this pesky skin concern.

Sometimes dealing with an itchy scalp isn't just a minor annoyance—it can impact your quality of life, lowering confidence, causing discomfort, or making you feel embarrassed. It's worth it to get to the bottom of this common concern. First, know that an itchy scalp is a symptom of a number of issues: dry or dehydrated skin, dandruff, dermatitis, psoriasis, or irritation from something you're using, says Bridgette Hill, a certified trichologist at René Furterer. But no matter the root cause, a healthier, calmer scalp is achievable with this expert advice and some effective products. Here, experts explain how to deal with an itchy scalp, including its causes and the best products to buy. Keep reading for more.

"Specific factors that may contribute to an itchy scalp include product irritation, washing too frequently or not frequently enough, environmental changes, and a history of skin conditions," says Marisa Garshick, a board-certified dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology. "Over-washing your hair can strip the scalp of its natural oils and contribute to dryness, which can cause itchiness." On the other hand, under-washing your hair can lead to product and oil buildup, which can also cause irritation and dryness. Extremely warm or cold temperatures also contribute to dryness and itchiness, explains Garshick. The solve for a dry scalp is relatively easy (moisturize!). Other causes, like dandruff or dermatitis, require more tedious treatments. "Severe itchiness and irritation without any lesions can be a symptom of a type of dermatitis," says Hill. Dermatitis is a common skin condition that involves dry, itchy, and rash-y skin. "Itchiness and irritation with the presence of lesions, flakes, and scaling can be the result of seborrheic dermatitis, also known as dandruff."

The best way to treat an itchy scalp is to employ the process of elimination, Hill says: "Rule out sensitivities and allergies to products, accessories, and tools, and ensure shampoos and styling products are thoroughly rinsed out of the hair." If your scalp is dry, start to wash your hair less often to avoid stripping the skin of its natural oils. When you do wash, first apply a pre-shampoo treatment that contains antimicrobial oils such as rosemary or peppermint; these oils protect skin from the drying effects of washing while also nourishing the scalp and helping to keep it clear of impurities. Then apply a hydrating shampoo and conditioner.

If the cause of your itchiness is dandruff, "it's best to use anti-dandruff shampoos that contain ketoconazole, zinc pyrithione, or selenium sulfide; these particular ingredients help to reduce the yeast associated with dandruff and reduce itching," Garshick says. If you aren't sure of the cause of your itchy scalp, it's always best to see a professional for help and a customized treatment plan.

This shampoo contains pyrithione zinc to fight dandruff and reduce flaking while still being gentle on the scalp. "It's a good option for those with dandruff who are also experiencing dry scalp," says Garshick.

"Treat your itchy scalp before every shampoo with this concentrate, which contains soothing essential oils such as peppermint and eucalyptus," Hill says.

"This is a great option for someone with sensitive skin because it is fragrance-free, sulfate-free, paraben-free, and dye-free," Garshick says.

Garshick likes this formula because it eliminates dirt and buildup while targeting dryness with the help of moisturizing panthenol and rose oil.

Use this classic dandruff-fighting shampoo at least twice a week to help reduce flaking, oil, itchiness, and dryness, recommends Garshick.

This drugstore option incorporates colloidal oat extract, so it not only helps hydrate but is also soothing on the scalp, explains Garshick. "It's sulfate- and paraben-free, making it a good option for those with dry or sensitive skin, as well as those with color-treated hair."

Genesis Rivas is the Beauty Editor at Oprah Daily, where she covers hair, makeup, skin, nails, and more. Before joining the Oprah Daily team, she wrote for several publications, including InStyle, Real Simple, and Shape. When she's not testing, researching, and writing fun and educational beauty content, you can find her dancing and eating her way through New York City. Follow her on Instagram or TikTok

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