{"id":1248096,"date":"2025-12-26T18:34:32","date_gmt":"2025-12-26T15:34:32","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/?p=1248096"},"modified":"2025-12-26T18:34:32","modified_gmt":"2025-12-26T15:34:32","slug":"10-natural-remedies-for-a-dry-scalp-you-can-try-at-home-according-to-experts","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/?p=1248096","title":{"rendered":"10 Natural Remedies for a Dry Scalp You Can Try at Home, According to Experts"},"content":{"rendered":"
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10 Natural Remedies for a Dry Scalp You Can Try at Home, According to Experts<\/h1>\n
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By<\/span><\/p>\n
Amanda Montell<\/p>\n
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\"byrdie\"byrdie<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
\nAmanda Montell\n<\/div>\n
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    \nAmanda Montell has worked as a beauty editor in Los Angeles for over three years covering hair, skin, and more. She previously served as the features editor for Byrdie and currently writes for Time Magazine, Cosmopolitan, and more.\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
    \nByrdie’s Editorial Guidelines\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
    Updated on September 25, 2024 03:57PM<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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    Sophia Emmanuel<\/p>\n
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    \"Sophia\"Sophia<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
    Reviewed by<\/span>
    \nSophia Emmanuel\n<\/div>\n
    \nSophia Emmanuel is an IAT-certified trichologist and licensed cosmetologist based in New York.\u00a0She owns and operates the Crown Worthy beauty salon in New York City.\u00a0\u00a0\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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    Anna Harris<\/p>\n
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    Fact checked by<\/span>
    \nAnna Harris\n<\/div>\n
    \nAnna Harris is an experienced fact-checker and researcher and a beauty writer and editor.\u00a0\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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    Stocksy.<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
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    Dry scalps\u00a0can be annoying and uncomfortable. Fortunately, there are dozens of methods for dealing with a dry, itchy scalp at home. We spoke to dermatologists Tsippora Shainhouse, MD, and Marthe Dika, MD, as well as trichologist Sophia Emmanuel, to get the scoop on a handful of DIY treatments for dry scalps. Keep reading for 10 natural remedies for a dry scalp.<\/strong><\/p>\n

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    Meet the Experts<\/p>\n

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    • Marthe Dika, MD, FAAD, is a board-certified dermatologist specializing in skin cancer prevention and treatment as well as the management of conditions, such as acne and eczema.<\/li>\n
    • Tsippora Shainhouse, MD, FAAD, is a board-certified dermatologist in Beverly Hills, California, in private practice at SkinSafe Dermatology and Skin Care.<\/li>\n
    • Sophia Emmanuel is an IAT Certified Trichologist and licensed cosmetologist.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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      01<\/span>of 10<\/span><\/div>\n
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      Tea Tree Oil <\/span><\/h2>\n

      Tea tree oil\u00a0is found in many pre-made shampoos for dandruff and dry scalp, due to its\u00a0potent antiseptic and antifungal properties. To make an easy mask of your own, mix a few drops of tea tree oil with coconut, jojoba, or olive oil, massage it into your scalp, and leave it for at least 10 minutes before\u00a0rinsing.\n<\/p>\n

      After washing the mask out, let hair dry naturally before turning on any heat tools. “Let hair air dry at least 80 percent before blow-drying, or wear it au natural once in a while,” says dermatologist Dr. Tsippora Shainhouse, adding that blow-drying too often can worsen dry scalp.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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      02<\/span>of 10<\/span><\/div>\n
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      Castor Oil <\/span><\/h2>\n

      Here’s another\u00a0antibacterial and anti-inflammatory ingredient packed with\u00a0vitamin E and fatty acids, all of which might work to\u00a0relieve\u00a0a dry, itchy scalp. Mix one part castor oil\u00a0with two parts aloe vera gel and a few drops of tea tree oil, apply to your dry head and rinse after 30 minutes. Do this up to four times a week.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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      03<\/span>of 10<\/span><\/div>\n
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      Aloe Vera <\/span><\/h2>\n

      Aloe vera on its own may also soothe a dry scalp, thanks to its moisturizing and anti-inflammatory benefits. But be aware that some aloe vera products may contain additives that might actually harm hair (in other words, look for the pure variety rather than a product that just lists aloe as an ingredient).\n<\/p>\n

      Apply aloe vera directly to your scalp and leave it on for 10 minutes before shampooing. This application is especially great for those who have hypersensitive skin.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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      04<\/span>of 10<\/span><\/div>\n
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      Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse <\/span><\/h2>\n

      Apple cider vinegar is antimicrobial,\ufeff<\/span>\ufeff\u00a0so it might help alleviate itch-causing bacteria. It’s also claimed to be exfoliating and can help remove residue from hair products which, as Shainhouse explains, can also contribute to dry scalp. “Styling products, including shampoos with sulfates, alcohol-based gels, mousse and hairsprays, and layers of oil-absorbing dry shampoo can also dry out the scalp skin,” she notes.\n<\/p>\n

      To reap the benefits, mix one part apple cider vinegar with two parts water, and apply directly to the scalp.\u00a0Rinse after five minutes with shampoo and condition as normal.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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      05<\/span>of 10<\/span><\/div>\n
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      Jojoba Oil <\/span><\/h2>\n

      Jojoba oil is incredibly moisturizing for the scalp and nourishing for the skin and hair, and it’s often used to treat conditions like acne and psoriasis. Even better, it doesn’t need to be diluted before being used. Just massage the oil\u00a0into your scalp\u00a0and leave it in for 10-20 minutes before shampooing.\n<\/p>\n

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      Byrdie Tip<\/p>\n

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      Try adding a few drops of jojoba oil to your shampoo to relieve dryness and itching.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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      06<\/span>of 10<\/span><\/div>\n
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      Witch Hazel <\/span><\/h2>\n

      Witch hazel is an astringent that’s anti-inflammatory, anti-itch, and compatible with sensitive skin. It also works wonders on dry and irritated scalps. In a 2014 study, those who used a witch hazel\u2013based shampoo for six months saw a decrease in red scalp syndrome, a medical condition often marked by itchy and dry scalp.<\/p>\n

      “Witch hazel can be used alone to lift off build-up or cleanse the scalp before you shampoo,” trichologist Sophia Emmanuel says. “It can also be misted on the scalp with a spray bottle after you rinse out your conditioner.” Alternatively, you can mix one part witch hazel with two parts olive, coconut, or jojoba oil to make an easy pre-poo mask.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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      07<\/span>of 10<\/span><\/div>\n
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      Coconut Oil <\/span><\/h2>\n

      Antifungal, antibacterial, and highly moisturizing, coconut oil may be extremely helpful for dandruff and dry scalp. Dermatologist Dr. Marthe Dika recommends trying a leave-in conditioner “followed by a moisturizing cream or oil (coconut oil being one that has been shown to lower water and protein loss).” Simply apply a small scoop of food-grade coconut oil to your dry scalp before hopping in the shower, and comb through the ends. Let it sit for at least 10 minutes and then shampoo and condition as normal.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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      08<\/span>of 10<\/span><\/div>\n
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      Avocado and Honey <\/span><\/h2>\n

      Applying a moisturizing scalp and hair mask once a week will “hydrate and protect the scalp skin barrier,” says Shainhouse. She recommends utilizing a balancing, intensely moisturizing mask or making your own, using “avocado, honey, and mashed banana.” Apply to your scalp, cover with a shower cap, and let it sit for up to 30 minutes before rinsing. Avocado is rich in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids, plus vitamins A and B.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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      09<\/span>of 10<\/span><\/div>\n
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      DIY Deep Conditioner <\/span><\/h2>\n

      This one might go without saying, but it’s important to note that deep conditioners are a solid bet for treating dry scalp. “Dry scalp is due to depletion of natural oils\/moisture from either washing too often or using harsh products (one example is sodium lauryl\/laureth sulfate\u2014which is found in some shampoos and can be very drying),” says Dika. “In the case of dry scalp, one should decrease the frequency of washing their hair, use a deep conditioner, and moisturize after washing.”\n<\/p>\n

      For a DIY deep-conditioning treatment, try a mixture of egg yolk and olive oil. Olive oil is rich in healthy fats, which might work to nourish the hair and scalp. Shainhouse recommends “rubbing your hair conditioner into your scalp in order to moisturize it” and selecting moisturizing formulations with less alcohol and sulfates. After, be sure to rinse well.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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      10<\/span>of 10<\/span><\/div>\n
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      Baking Soda and Olive Oil <\/span><\/h2>\n

      It might sound strange, but baking soda and olive oil are a great combo for dry scalp. Try mixing equal parts of each, then rubbing it into the scalp and leaving for at least five minutes. Rinse and wash the treatment out and you’ll be left with silky, squeaky clean strands.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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      Article Sources<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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      Byrdie takes every opportunity to use high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial guidelines to learn more about how we keep our content accurate, reliable and trustworthy.<\/div>\n
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      1. \n

        Orchard A, van Vuuren S. Commercial essential oils as potential antimicrobials to treat skin diseases.\u00a0Evid Based Complement Alternat Med<\/em>. 2017;2017:4517971. doi:10.1155\/2017\/4517971<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

      2. \n

        Sandford EC, Muntz A, Craig JP. Therapeutic potential of castor oil in managing blepharitis, meibomian gland dysfunction and dry eye.\u00a0Clin Exp Optom<\/em>. 2021;104(3):315-322. doi:10.1111\/cxo.13148<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

      3. \n

        Salehi B, Albayrak S, Antolak H, et al.\u00a0Aloe<\/em>\u00a0genus plants: from farm to food applications and phytopharmacotherapy.\u00a0Int J Mol Sci<\/em>. 2018;19(9):2843. doi:10.3390\/ijms19092843<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

      4. \n

        Yagnik D, Serafin V, J Shah A. Antimicrobial activity of apple cider vinegar against Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus and Candida albicans; downregulating cytokine and microbial protein expression.\u00a0Sci Rep<\/em>. 2018;8(1):1732. doi:10.1038\/s41598-017-18618-x<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

      5. \n

        Tr\u00fceb RM. North American Virginian witch hazel (Hamamelis virginiana): based scalp care and protection for sensitive scalp, red scalp, and scalp burn-out.\u00a0Int J Trichology<\/em>. 2014;6(3):100-103. doi:10.4103\/0974-7753.139079<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

      6. \n

        Lin TK, Zhong L, Santiago JL. Anti-inflammatory and skin barrier repair effects of topical application of some plant oils.\u00a0Int J Mol Sci<\/em>. 2017;19(1):70. doi:10.3390\/ijms19010070<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

      7. \n

        Dreher ML, Davenport AJ. Hass avocado composition and potential health effects.\u00a0Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr<\/em>. 2013;53(7):738-750. doi:10.1080\/10408398.2011.556759<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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        Read more:<\/div>\n
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        • Hair<\/span><\/li>\n
        • Scalp Care<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n

          Source URL: https:\/\/www.byrdie.com\/home-remedies-for-a-dry-scalp-4795852<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

          10 Natural Remedies for a Dry Scalp You Can Try at Home, According to Experts By Amanda Montell Amanda Montell Amanda Montell has worked as a beauty editor in Los Angeles for over three years covering hair, skin, and more. She previously served as the features editor for Byrdie and currently writes for Time Magazine, […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[2],"tags":[83],"class_list":["post-1248096","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-politics","tag-byrdie-com"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1248096","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=1248096"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1248096\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=1248096"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=1248096"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=1248096"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}