What’s the best scalp moisturizer?
No matter the type or texture of your hair, healthy hair growth relies on a healthy scalp. Oiliness, dryness, itching, irritation and dandruff are common complaints. Although there are lots of shampoos and conditioners that can help relieve the symptoms, scalp moisturizers are designed to treat the root cause.
Scalp moisturizers help to soothe, hydrate and balance the skin on the scalp so that hair follicles can strengthen. The result is an itch-free scalp and healthier hair strands.
Regardless of your hair washing schedule or whether you prefer wash-out masks or leave-in oils, there are lots of scalp moisturizer options available.
What is scalp moisturizer?
Hair products like shampoo and conditioner are designed to clean and nourish the hair itself. Some shampoos are specifically designed to relieve conditions like dandruff. Scalp moisturizers, on the other hand, are designed to target the skin on the scalp and care for it just like you would with the skin on your face and body.
Scalp moisturizers help to:
Remove buildup on the scalp
Soothe itchiness and irritation
Hydrate the skin on the scalp
Balance the pH and nutrient levels on the scalp
Do you need scalp moisturizer?
Common signs to watch for to determine if you need a scalp moisturizer:
Itchiness
Inflammation or redness
Dandruff
Scalp dermatitis
It’s important to note that a soothing shampoo and conditioner should be used in tandem with a scalp moisturizer. If you’re experiencing the above symptoms, a harsh shampoo could actually be the culprit.
Types of scalp moisturizers
Scalp moisturizers are available in a variety of forms. You can choose from oils, lotions or serums.
In terms of application, you can select a hair mask designed to target the scalp, leave-in moisturizers or treatments that are designed to be applied and washed out before shampooing.
Best scalp moisturizers to buy
SheaMoisture Wig & Weave Scalp Soother: available at Amazon and Ulta Beauty
Our take: This serum eases scalp tension while treating damaged hair by moisturizing the scalp and providing immediate relief.
What we like: The ability to easily apply the serum daily means tightness and discomfort associated with braids, wigs and weaves should be alleviated forever.
What we dislike: Daily use could mean needing to buy more product frequently.
LivSo Moisturizing Lotion for Dry Scalp: available at Amazon
Our take: This lightweight, nutrient-rich formula is proven to improve scalp condition after just 4 weeks.
What we like: Uses natural lipid fats to enhance shine while promoting elasticity and moisture retention.
What we dislike: Some users note this product should be used in moderation to prevent excess oiliness.
Head & Shoulders Daily Moisture Scalp Cream: available at Amazon
Our take: This scalp cream treatment is a great daily moisturizing and anti-dandruff option for users with textured hair.
What we like: The leave-in formula absorbs fully and doesn’t leave residue.
What we dislike: Users with fine hair report that this cream can weigh their hair down.
Ancient Greek Remedy Nature’s Moisturizer: available at Amazon
Our take: This organic day and night moisturizing oil is suitable for everyone and gives dry hair and skin on the face, scalp and feet the oils and vitamins it needs.
What we like: Contains high-quality natural ingredients such as vitamin E, olive oil and lavender essential oil.
What we dislike: Has a very strong lavender smell which may not appeal to some.
OGX Extra Strength Tea Tree Mint Scalp Treatment: available at Amazon
Our take: This tea tree and mint dry scalp treatment helps diminish scalp buildup while resetting and refreshing dry scalp.
What we like: Uses a blend of peppermint and tea tree for effective scalp moisturizing while being gentle on hair.
What we dislike: Some users say that the oil is quite watery.
Paul Mitchell Tea Tree Hair and Body Moisturizer: available at Amazon and Ulta Beauty
Our take: This leave-in moisturizing conditioner not only works wonders for the scalp but also works as a total body lotion.
What we like: A great anti-dandruff solution and works well for soothing sensitive skin.
What we dislike: Scent is quite overpowering for some users.
Head & Shoulders Supreme Hydrating Scalp Serum: available at Amazon
Our take: This unique scalp serum deeply hydrates and refreshes your scalp and skin between washes.
What we like: The serum fights dry scalp by using vitamin E and argan oil to diminish scalp itching and irritation.
What we dislike: Some users have reported that the serum is rather fragrant.
Design Essentials Scalp and Skin Care Anti-Itch & Tension Relief: available at Amazon
Our take: This oil moisturizer uses natural essential oils to penetrate deep into the scalp and provide itching relief.
What we like: Tea tree oil as an ingredient reduces itching and prevents further flaking.
What we dislike: Requires very regular use or symptoms quickly reappear.
Yes To Tea Tree Scalp Relief Soothing Scalp Treatment: available at Amazon
Our take: This leave-on and rinse treatment helps to remove product and dead cell buildup on the scalp that contribute to dandruff and itchiness.
What we like: Only needs to be used one to three times per week before shampooing.
What we dislike: May require vigorous washing to rinse out fully.
Cantu Shea Butter Tea Tree & Jojoba Hair & Scalp Oil: available at Amazon
Our take: This scalp treatment soothes the scalp while simultaneously promoting healthy hair growth.
What we like: Easy to use as it can simply be left on after applying to damp hair and scalp.
What we dislike: Best suited for curly or wavy hair; may be too oily for straight, fine hair.
Head & Shoulders Instant Soothe Scalp Elixir: available at Amazon
Our take: The oil instantly soothes irritated scalps and helps restore a healthy balance to the scalp.
What we like: The fresh, cool leave-in formula invigorates the scalp and is alcohol-free.
What we dislike: May tingle when applied to the scalp, which some users find uncomfortable.
Lauren Farrell is a writer for BestReviews. BestReviews is a product review company with a singular mission: to help simplify your purchasing decisions and save you time and money.
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