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10 Best Dry Scalp Shampoos 2025 in Canada

#1

Winner

9.7 score

Nizoral Ketoconazole 2 Percent Anti-dandruff and Itchy Scalp Shampoo, 200ml

Active Ingredients: 2% ketoconazole
Moisturizing Properties: less moisturizing
Fragrance and Additives: fresh scent, contains fragrance
Frequency of Use: twice a week

Chosen by 1228 this week

Botanic Hearth Tea Tree Shampoo and Conditioner Set - Nourishing Hair Care with Tea Tree Oil, Peppermint, and Lavender 16Fl oz each

Active Ingredients: tea tree, peppermint, lavender
Moisturizing Properties: hydrating formula
Sulfate Content: sulfate-free
Fragrance and Additives: peppermint, lavender, no colors, no parabens
Frequency of Use: regular use
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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Nizoral Ketoconazole 2 Percent Anti-dandruff and Itchy Scalp Shampoo, 200ml

Rating
9.7
Chosen by1,228
Active Ingredients
Moisturizing Properties
Frequency of Use
Active Ingredients
Effectively clears up stubborn dry, scaly dandruff when left on the scalp for several minutes.
Moisturizing Properties
Leaves hair soft and shiny, especially when paired with the matching Nizoral conditioner.
Frequency of Use
Applying a small amount directly to the scalp and massaging gently helps target the problem without overuse.

Nizoral Anti-Dandruff Shampoo stands out for its active ingredient, 2% ketoconazole, which is clinically proven to fight dandruff effectively. This ingredient helps reduce itching and flaking by targeting the underlying cause of dandruff, making it a strong choice for people with dry, flaky scalps. The shampoo’s thick lather leaves hair shiny and manageable, and it is suitable for all hair types, including gray hair.

It has a fresh scent, which is pleasant but might not appeal to those sensitive to fragrances. Nizoral’s focus on dandruff treatment suggests it might be less moisturizing compared to shampoos specifically designed for dry scalp hydration. Because of this, it’s recommended to use Nizoral only twice a week between regular shampoo washes to avoid over-drying the scalp. This controlled frequency helps maintain scalp health without stripping natural oils.

For those who suffer mostly from dandruff with some dryness, Nizoral can be very effective, but if your scalp is extremely dry or sensitive, pairing it with a gentle, moisturizing conditioner or scalp treatment might be necessary. It represents a solid option for medicated shampoo use to control dandruff and itchiness, though it’s not deeply moisturizing on its own and contains fragrance which may not suit everyone.

Rating
9.7
Chosen by1,228
Active Ingredients
Moisturizing Properties
Frequency of Use
Active Ingredients
Effectively clears up stubborn dry, scaly dandruff when left on the scalp for several minutes.
Moisturizing Properties
Leaves hair soft and shiny, especially when paired with the matching Nizoral conditioner.
Frequency of Use
Applying a small amount directly to the scalp and massaging gently helps target the problem without overuse.
#2

Botanic Hearth Tea Tree Shampoo and Conditioner Set - Nourishing Hair Care with Tea Tree Oil, Peppermint, and Lavender 16Fl oz each

Rating
9.4
Active Ingredients
Frequency of Use
Fragrance and Additives
Active Ingredients
Effectively eliminates dandruff and soothes itchy scalp, allowing longer intervals between washes without oily roots reappearing.
Frequency of Use
Significantly reduces hair fall within weeks while promoting noticeable hair growth, making it a trusted daily care duo.
Fragrance and Additives
Provides a refreshing, tingling sensation that enhances the scalp-soothing experience with natural, calming scents.
Moisturizing Properties
Leaves hair feeling clean and healthy without stripping moisture, addressing dry scalp without causing dryness of hair strands.

The Botanic Hearth Tea Tree Shampoo and Conditioner Set is designed to help those dealing with dry, flaky scalp by using natural ingredients like tea tree oil, peppermint, and lavender. Tea tree oil is known for its soothing and antimicrobial properties, which can help reduce dryness and scalp irritation. The peppermint and lavender add a refreshing scent that also provides a calming, spa-like experience during use.

This set is sulfate-free, which is a big plus for sensitive scalps since sulfates can often cause dryness or irritation. It also avoids artificial colors and parabens, making it a gentler option for regular use. The moisturizing formula helps hydrate hair, leaving it soft and manageable, which is important because dry scalp shampoos should not strip moisture from the hair. If you have very sensitive skin or allergies, the essential oils used might be irritating for some people, so a patch test is recommended.

This shampoo and conditioner set is well-suited for those looking for a natural, soothing option to manage dry scalp and maintain healthy hair without harsh chemicals.

Rating
9.4
Active Ingredients
Frequency of Use
Fragrance and Additives
Active Ingredients
Effectively eliminates dandruff and soothes itchy scalp, allowing longer intervals between washes without oily roots reappearing.
Frequency of Use
Significantly reduces hair fall within weeks while promoting noticeable hair growth, making it a trusted daily care duo.
Fragrance and Additives
Provides a refreshing, tingling sensation that enhances the scalp-soothing experience with natural, calming scents.
Moisturizing Properties
Leaves hair feeling clean and healthy without stripping moisture, addressing dry scalp without causing dryness of hair strands.
#3

Seborrheic Dermatitis Shampoo, Psoriasis Shampoo, Folliculitis Shampoo, Scalp Psoriasis Shampoo, Dandruff Shampoo, Dry Itchy Scalp, Provides Soothing Relief

Rating
9.1
Active Ingredients
Moisturizing Properties
Fragrance and Additives
Active Ingredients
Effectively calms dry, flaking, and red patches on the scalp, providing noticeable relief.
Moisturizing Properties
Improves the overall feel of hair, making it soft and pleasant to touch.
Fragrance and Additives
Features a unique, mild scent reminiscent of peppers or salsa that fades quickly once dry.

The Roycederm Seborrheic Dermatitis & Psoriasis Shampoo is designed especially for adults dealing with dry, itchy scalp conditions like seborrheic dermatitis, psoriasis, folliculitis, and dandruff. Its main strength lies in its natural, mild herbal ingredients that aim to soothe and moisturize the scalp, reducing redness, itching, and flaking. Being unscented is a plus for those sensitive to fragrances. It’s easy to use by massaging it in and leaving it for a few minutes to help absorption.

It is suitable for all hair types and can be used regularly, but people with sensitive scalps might want to check ingredient details or consult a dermatologist since effectiveness can vary with severity. The product has received positive feedback from users in beauty and hair shampoo categories.

This shampoo could benefit those looking for a gentle, fragrance-free option to calm and relieve symptoms of scalp conditions tied to dryness and irritation, especially if they prefer natural herbal formulas. It may not fully replace medicated treatments for severe cases.

Rating
9.1
Active Ingredients
Moisturizing Properties
Fragrance and Additives
Active Ingredients
Effectively calms dry, flaking, and red patches on the scalp, providing noticeable relief.
Moisturizing Properties
Improves the overall feel of hair, making it soft and pleasant to touch.
Fragrance and Additives
Features a unique, mild scent reminiscent of peppers or salsa that fades quickly once dry.

Buying Guide for the Best Dry Scalp Shampoos

Choosing the right dry scalp shampoo can make a big difference in your comfort and hair health. The main goal is to find a product that soothes irritation, reduces flakiness, and restores moisture to your scalp without causing further dryness or buildup. When shopping, it's important to look beyond marketing claims and focus on the ingredients and features that match your specific scalp needs. Understanding the key specifications will help you make a more informed choice and avoid products that might not work for your unique situation.
Active IngredientsActive ingredients are the main components in a shampoo that target scalp dryness and related issues. Common ones include pyrithione zinc, salicylic acid, coal tar, ketoconazole, and natural oils like tea tree or coconut oil. Each ingredient works differently: some fight dandruff-causing fungi, others exfoliate dead skin, and some deeply moisturize. If your scalp is itchy and flaky, look for anti-fungal or exfoliating ingredients. If your main concern is dryness and irritation, moisturizing oils and gentle formulas are better. Always check for ingredients that address your specific symptoms.
Moisturizing PropertiesMoisturizing properties refer to how well the shampoo can hydrate your scalp and hair. Ingredients like glycerin, aloe vera, shea butter, and various plant oils are known for their ability to lock in moisture. If your scalp feels tight, itchy, or you notice white flakes, a shampoo with strong moisturizing properties can help restore balance. For mild dryness, lighter moisturizers may be enough, while severe dryness may require richer, more nourishing formulas.
Sulfate ContentSulfates are cleansing agents that create lather but can strip natural oils from your scalp, making dryness worse. Shampoos labeled as 'sulfate-free' are gentler and less likely to irritate a dry scalp. If you have sensitive skin or already struggle with dryness, choosing a sulfate-free shampoo is usually best. If your hair is very oily or you use a lot of styling products, you might tolerate mild sulfates, but most people with dry scalp benefit from avoiding them.
Fragrance and AdditivesFragrances and certain additives can make a shampoo smell pleasant or look appealing, but they can also irritate sensitive scalps. If you have a history of allergies or your scalp is easily irritated, look for shampoos labeled as 'fragrance-free' or 'hypoallergenic.' If you enjoy scented products and have no sensitivity, a mild fragrance may be fine, but always be cautious with strong perfumes or artificial colors.
pH BalanceThe pH level of a shampoo affects how gentle it is on your scalp. A pH-balanced shampoo (usually between 4.5 and 5.5) helps maintain your scalp’s natural barrier, preventing further dryness and irritation. If you have a sensitive or very dry scalp, choosing a pH-balanced shampoo can help keep your scalp healthy and comfortable. If you’re unsure, most shampoos for dry scalp are formulated to be pH-balanced, but it’s always good to check.
Frequency of UseSome dry scalp shampoos are designed for daily use, while others are meant for use only a few times a week due to their strength. If your scalp is only mildly dry, a gentle daily shampoo may be suitable. For more severe dryness or medicated shampoos, using them less frequently as directed can prevent over-drying or irritation. Always read the label and consider how often you plan to wash your hair when choosing a product.