Dry Scalp? 8 Expert-Backed Remedies, Tips and Treatments

read time: 5 minutes

Dry scalp can be more than just a minor irritation; it can be itchy, flaky, uncomfortable, and even confidence-knocking. But the good news? With the right knowledge and care, you can get your scalp back to feeling healthy and hydrated. Whether you’re seeing those telltale white flakes on your shoulders or just feeling a bit of tightness or itching, you’re not alone, and you’ve come to the right place.
At UKLASH, we believe healthy hair starts at the root, so let’s dive into what causes dry scalp, how to prevent it, and most importantly, how to fix it.

What Causes Dry Scalp?

A dry scalp is essentially your skin’s way of crying out for moisture. Unlike dandruff, which is often caused by excess oil and yeast overgrowth, a dry scalp happens when your skin lacks sufficient hydration. Here are a few common culprits:
- Cold weather – Harsh winter air and indoor heating can strip your scalp of natural oils
- Overwashing – Washing your hair too frequently, or using harsh shampoos, can upset your scalp’s balance.
- Hot water – Scalding showers might feel good, but they dehydrate your skin.
- Product build-up – Residue from styling products or conditioners can clog pores and worsen dryness.
- Skin conditions – Eczema and psoriasis can cause persistent dryness and irritation.

What’s the Difference Between Dandruff and Dry Scalp?

It’s easy to confuse dry scalp with dandruff; they both involve flaking and can make you feel self-conscious. But they’re actually caused by very different things, and understanding which one you have is key to treating it effectively.

How To Fix Dry Scalp: 8 Tried & Tested Tips

Let’s get to the part you’re here for. Below are eight expert-approved ways to fix your dry scalp and maintain long-term scalp health:

1. Pick a Shampoo For Dry Scalp

Read more scalp tips from Trichologist Kate Holden in our interview with her here!

Our UKHAIR Shampoo offers a cleansing and clarifying formula that contains Piroctone Olamine to tackle a dry scalp, creating the perfect environment for growth. 

Top Tip: Avoid daily washing. Try to shampoo 2–3 times per week max. 

2. Take Care Of Your Strands

Dry scalps often lack protective moisture, and that’s where a good conditioner or hair mask comes in. The UKHAIR Repair Mask offers a powerful, bond-building formula to strengthen the keratin content in your hair and nourish your strands, replenishing lost hydration, soothing irritation, and supporting healthy hair growth. After cleansing, run the hair mask through your lengths and ends with your fingers or a Wide Tooth Comb to evenly coat and supply moisture. Leave for 10 minutes and rinse thoroughly for an extra moisture boost!

3. Give Your Scalp a Weekly Treatment

Your face gets pampered with masks, your scalp deserves the same attention. Although we usually deter you from using oils on your scalp to avoid build-up and clogging your scalp (read more on that here) if you’re suffering from a particularly dry scalp, using an oil or scalp treatment once a week can help to restore balance. 
Just tread with caution! Make sure it’s definitely a dry scalp that you’re treating as this step will only make dandruff worse.

4. Introduce a Scalp-Boosting Serum

Serums aren’t just for your face. A good hair serum can work wonders on scalp health too. The UKHAIR Hair Growth Serum is formulated to improve scalp circulation, support follicle health, and help with overall hydration.
Apply it daily to a clean, dry scalp. It absorbs quickly and doesn’t leave residue, perfect for those busy mornings.

5. Turn Down the Heat

Heat styling tools, from straighteners to blow dryers, are notorious for drying out both hair and scalp. Limit their use, and always use a heat protectant if you must style. Air-dry and use heatless hairstyle where possible! Read more on those here!

6. Brush Gently & Regularly

Brushing stimulates your scalp’s natural oils and distributes them along your strands. Use a soft-bristled brush to avoid scratching or aggravating dry patches.
Start from your roots and work outward in gentle strokes. This can also improve blood flow and encourage hair growth.

7. Stay Hydrated From Within

Your scalp reflects what’s going on inside your body. Dehydration, nutrient deficiencies, and stress can all take a toll.
- Drink 2 litres of water per day
- Eat omega-3-rich foods like salmon and walnuts
- Include biotin, zinc, and vitamins A, D & E in your diet. If you’re struggling to incorporate it into your meals, try delicious supplements like our UKLASH Hair Vitamins which are packed with healthy nutrients and vitamins

8. Avoid Heavy Styling Products

Many mousses, gels, and sprays contain alcohol or other drying agents (dry shampoo is a huge culprit for this).
If needs must and you’re styling your hair with this kind of product, follow up with a moisturising conditioner or scalp serum to rehydrate.

When To See a Dermatologist

If your scalp is persistently dry, itchy, or flaky despite your best efforts, it might be time to speak to a dermatologist. Conditions like psoriasis, seborrheic dermatitis or fungal infections can mimic dry scalp but require specific treatment.

Healthy Scalp, Happy Hair

Dry scalp might be frustrating, but with the right approach, it’s completely manageable. A combination of gentle cleansing, regular hydration, and targeted treatments, like the UKHAIR Hair Growth Serum and Repair Mask, can help restore balance and boost your hair health all the way from roots to tips!
At UKLASH, we’re here to support your full hair journey, not just the strands you see, but the skin beneath too. Because a healthy scalp is the secret to longer, stronger and healthier-looking hair!