When scalp loses its natural moisture, it becomes dry, flaky, and itchy. It’s usually caused by a lack of natural oils on the scalp, which occurs because of a variety of different factors. White or grayish flakes can appear and eventually fall onto shoulders, which feel uncomfortable and embarrassing. Fortunately, dry scalp can be managed easily with proper vegan hair products designed to moisturize and be gentle.
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Dry & Irritated Scalp: The Causes
Dry scalp can be caused by a number of factors, including:
- Weather conditions: Dry, cold weather or low humidity can cause the scalp to lose moisture, leading to dryness and itching
- Overwashing: Washing your hair too frequently can strip the scalp of its natural oils, leading to dryness
- Harsh hair products: Dyes, shampoos, conditioners, and styling products that contain harsh chemicals, such as sulfates, can irritate the scalp and cause dryness
- Skin conditions: Conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, or seborrheic dermatitis can cause dryness and itching on the scalp
- Age: As we age, our skin produces less oil, resulting in a dry scalp
- Poor diet: A diet low in essential fatty acids, proteins, vitamins, and minerals may contribute to scalp’s dryness
- Stress: Stress can affect the body’s hormonal balance and lead to changes in the skin
- Certain medications: Some medications can cause dryness of the skin
Soothing Dry Scalp, The Vegan Way
Vegan hair products for dry scalp are hair care products that are made without any animal-derived ingredients and are designed to help soothe and hydrate dry and irritated scalps. There are a variety of vegan hair products that can be used to address dry scalp concerns, including shampoos, conditioners and hair oils.
Vegan Ingredients for Dry Scalp
Some of the key ingredients found in vegan hair products for dry scalp include natural oils such as coconut oil, argan oil, and jojoba oil. These oils are rich in nutrients and can help to hydrate and nourish the scalp, reducing dryness and irritation.
Other ingredients commonly found in vegan hair products for dry scalp include aloe vera, which has anti-inflammatory properties that can help to soothe the scalp, and tea tree oil, which has antifungal properties that can help to prevent dandruff and other scalp issues.
Avoid Chemicals
When selecting vegan hair products for dry scalp, it’s important to look for products that are gentle and non-irritating. Harsh chemicals and fragrances can further aggravate dry scalp conditions, so it’s best to choose products that are free from these ingredients.
Overall, vegan hair products for dry scalp can be a great choice for individuals who are looking for a natural and eco-friendly solution to their scalp concerns. These products are typically made with high-quality, nourishing ingredients that can help to improve scalp health and promote healthy hair growth.
Best Vegan Shampoos for Dry Scalp
When choosing a vegan shampoo for dry scalp, it is important to look for one that is free of harsh chemicals and sulfates, which can further strip the scalp of its natural oils. The best vegan shampoos to treat dry scalp are typically made with natural ingredients, such as plant extracts, essential oils, and vitamins, that are gentle on the scalp and help to restore its natural moisture balance. After cleansing your hair, don’t forget a vegan conditioner designed for dry scalp.
Japanese Moist Shampoo | Apricot & Jasmine
Botanist
- Moisturizes while cleansing, leaving hair impressively smooth and glossy
- Olive leaf extract hydrates hair and white birch water helps retain moisture
- No parabens, silicone, sulfates, phthalates or artificial colors
- Vegan, cruelty-free
- 16.5 fl oz / 490 mL
💬 What Customers Say About This Shampoo
👍 Pros:
- Pleasant Subtle Smell: Users appreciate the gentle and pleasant scent, finding it subtle and not overpowering.
- Gentle Ingredients: The shampoo is noted for its gentle and safe ingredients, making it suitable for users who prefer products with a safer composition.
- Effective for Dark Hair: Specifically noted for working well with naturally dark hair, preserving and even restoring hair color without the use of harsh chemicals.
- Moisturizing: Several reviews highlight the shampoo’s moisturizing capabilities, making it suitable for keeping hair soft and well-nourished.
- Compliments on Scent: Users reported receiving compliments on how they smell, indicating the scent is noticeable and pleasant even to others.
- International Approval: Reviews from other countries also affirm the product’s quality, with users appreciating the finish and the reduction in hair frizz and volume.
👎 Cons:
- Not Suitable for Oily Hair: Some users found the product not suitable for oily hair types, as it can leave hair feeling greasy the next day.
- Packaging Issues: There were complaints about the product arriving with the pump open or the bottle opened and spilled, suggesting packaging could be improved.
- Price Concerns: While not directly mentioned, implied concerns about the product being worth its price due to packaging and suitability issues for certain hair types.
Fragrance-Free Shampoo for Dry & Sensitive Scalp
Tree to Tub
- Helps balance scalp pH with neutralizing ingredients
- Contains argan oil, soapberry, aloe vera, chamomile and olive
- No sulfates, parabens, or fragrance
- Vegan, cruelty-free
- 8.5 fl oz / 250 mL
💬 What Customers Say About This Shampoo
👍 Pros:
- Fulfills Claims: Users appreciate that the shampoo fulfills its claims, providing visible improvements to hair quality and volume, especially for fine hair.
- Gentle Ingredients: It’s highlighted for its gentle and natural ingredients, with a focus on being safe and containing no harsh chemicals.
- Positive Effects on Scalp Health: There’s a noted improvement in scalp health, including a reduction in itchiness for users with sensitive conditions.
- Moisturizing Without Conditioner: The shampoo is sufficiently moisturizing that some users don’t feel the need to follow up with a conditioner.
- Lavender Scent: The lavender variant is praised for its pleasant smell and its effectiveness on children’s hair, making it very soft and shiny.
👎 Cons:
- Greasy Residue for Some Hair Types: Some users report that the shampoo leaves their hair feeling heavy and greasy, particularly for those with naturally oily hair.
- Packaging Issues: A few reviews mention the product arriving with the pump open or the bottle already opened and spilled, indicating potential packaging improvements.
- Mixed Results: While many find the shampoo to be effective, others note no significant difference in hair thickness compared to other products they’ve tried.
Coconut Oil & Ylang Ylang Shampoo for Split Ends & Dry Hair
Love Beauty And Planet
- Repairs damaged strands and help prevent split ends
- 93% naturally derived
- No parabens, silicone, sulfates, dye or phthalates
- Vegan, cruelty-free
- 32.3 fl oz / 955 mL
💬 What Customers Say About This Shampoo
👍 Pros:
- Effective for Different Hair Types: Reviewers highlight the product’s effectiveness across various hair types, including fine, dry, and curly hair, indicating its versatility.
- Natural and Plant-Based Ingredients: Users appreciate the natural, plant-based ingredients, suggesting it’s a healthier option for hair care without harsh chemicals.
- Improvement in Hair Texture: Several users note improvements in hair texture, experiencing softer, shinier, and less frizzy hair after use.
- Pleasant Scent: The shampoo and conditioner set is frequently praised for its pleasant smell, with specific mentions of the ylang-ylang scent being particularly enjoyable.
- Ease of Combing: Parents find the product beneficial for children’s hair, making combing easier and more manageable post-shower.
👎 Cons:
- Packaging and Shipping Issues: There are reports of issues with packaging and shipping, such as missing items or products arriving open and spilled.
- Scalp Itchiness for Some: A few users report experiencing itchiness on the scalp after using the product, suggesting it may not be suitable for all scalp types.
- Greasy Residue for Certain Hair Types: Some users find that the product leaves their hair feeling greasy the next day, particularly those who do not wash their hair daily.
Best Vegan Conditioners for Dry Scalp
When choosing a vegan conditioner for dry scalp, choose one that is free of silicones, which can further dry out the scalp and hair. Vegan conditioners contain plant extracts, essential oils, and vitamins to nourish the scalp. They help to restore scalp’s natural moisture balance. And more importantly, they are gentle. After shampoo, apply a vegan conditioner to the hair, and try to avoid putting too much on the scalp, as it can weigh down the hair and cause further dryness and irritation.
Moisturizing Plant-Based Conditioner with Organic Calendula
Babo Botanicals
- Formulated to nourish and protect the scalp
- Suitable for kids and babies
- Clinically tested under dermatological control
- No parabens, phthalates or icky chemicals
- Vegan, cruelty-free
- 6 fl oz / 180 mL
💬 What Customers Say About This Conditioner
👍 Pros:
- Ideal for Sensitive Skin: Many users appreciate that the conditioner is suitable for sensitive skin, highlighting its gentle formulation that doesn’t irritate even when fragranced.
- Enhances Curl Definition: Parents note significant improvements in their children’s curly hair, with the conditioner helping to define curls better than some products specifically designed for curly hair.
- Moisturizing Effects: Users find the conditioner deeply moisturizing, leaving hair soft, shiny, and healthy-looking without weighing it down.
- Pleasant Fragrance: Despite a few mixed feelings about the scent, the majority of users love the fragrance, describing it as warm, woody, and comforting.
- Natural and Non-toxic Ingredients: Families transitioning to a non-toxic lifestyle appreciate the conditioner’s clean ingredient list, supporting healthier hair care routines.
👎 Cons:
- Scent Variation: A minor drawback mentioned is the scent difference between the conditioner and other products from the same brand, which some users found disappointing.
- Price Point: While not directly mentioned, products with organic and non-toxic formulations often come with a higher price tag, which might be a consideration for some shoppers.
- Rash for Some Users: There are rare instances where the product caused a rash, indicating that while it’s generally suitable for sensitive skin, individual reactions can vary.
Dry Scalp Nourishing Conditioner
Jupiter
- With probiotics (to support a balanced scalp microbiome) and vitamin E (helps to improve the appearance of dry skin through its antioxidant properties)
- Contains oat Kernel (supports the scalp’s moisture barrier)
- All-natural fragrance formulated with mint, vanilla, rosemary, sage, tangerine and lavender essential oils
- Vegan, cruelty-free
- 9.5 fl oz / 280 mL
💬 What Customers Say About This Conditioner
👍 Pros:
- Effective for Scalp Conditions: Users with dermatitis, dandruff, and sensitive scalps report significant improvements, highlighting the product’s effectiveness in nourishing and balancing the scalp while alleviating dandruff and itchiness.
- Soft and Silky Hair: Many reviews mention how the conditioner leaves hair feeling soft, silky, and manageable, enhancing the overall health and appearance of their hair.
- Natural Ingredients: Appreciation is expressed for the product’s natural formulation, which is considered a safer alternative to traditional conditioners, particularly for those with sensitive skin or scalp conditions.
- Pleasant Scent: While opinions on the scent vary, several users enjoy the fragrance, describing it as amazing and adding to the positive experience of using the product.
- Cost-Effective: Some users find the product to be a cost-effective solution, especially when compared to prescription options, noting that it requires less frequent use while still delivering superior results.
👎 Cons:
- Mixed Opinions on Scent: A few users find the scent unpleasant, which suggests that fragrance preferences can significantly impact satisfaction with the product.
- Alcohol Content Concern: One review mentions the inclusion of alcohol in the formulation, indicating a potential concern for those with curly and kinky hair types seeking alcohol-free products.
Moisturizing Conditioner for Dry Hair & Dry Scalp
Tree To Tub
- Made with argan oil and organic coconut oil to deliver deeper, restorative moisture to all hair types
- Calms sensitive skin
- Adds bounce & gloss to damaged hair
- No sulfates or artificial fragance
- Vegan, cruelty-free
- 8.5 fl oz / 250 mL
💬 What Customers Say About This Conditioner
👍 Pros:
- Effective for Various Hair Types: Users report significant improvements in hair texture and scalp health, indicating the product’s versatility across different hair conditions, including dryness, dandruff, and sensitivity.
- Natural Ingredients: The inclusion of natural elements like soap nuts and essential oils such as Sicilian lemon, tea tree, and lavender is highly appreciated, catering to those seeking organic hair care solutions.
- Scent: Many users love the natural scents provided by the essential oils, finding them pleasant and not overwhelming, which enhances the overall experience of using the conditioner.
- No Harsh Chemicals: The absence of sulfates, parabens, and silicones is a significant plus, making the product suitable for those with sensitive skin or those looking to avoid harsh chemicals.
- Packaging: The eco-friendly approach, including the unique addition of a soap nut for planting, is well-received, reflecting the brand’s commitment to sustainability.
👎 Cons:
- Packaging Functionality: Despite the eco-conscious packaging, some users experience difficulties with the pump mechanism, especially when trying to access the last portion of the product, suggesting a need for design improvements.
- Mixed Reviews on Moisturizing Effects: While many find the conditioner moisturizing and softening, a few users feel it doesn’t provide enough hydration for their needs, indicating variability in effectiveness based on individual hair types.
Best Vegan Oils & Serums for Dry Scalp
Coconut, argan, tea tree, rosemary or jojoba oils all have wonderful properties to nourish, hydrate and protect the scalp from dryness and irritations. When using any of these vegan hair oils, apply them properly to ensure that they fully penetrate the scalp and provide the best benefits. This means massaging the oil into the scalp and leaving it on for several hours or overnight before washing it out with a gentle shampoo. Last but not least, always go for lightweight oil and avoid using too much, as it can make hair greasy and weigh it down.
Raw Extra-Virgin Organic Coconut Oil
Garden of Life
- Keeps hair healthy and moisturized
- 100% unrefined organic coconut oil
- Not hydrogenated, bleached, or deodorized
- Non-GMO, USDA Organic certified
- Gluten-free
- Vegan and cruelty-free
- 29 fl oz / 857 mL
💬 What Customers Say About This Coconut Oil
👍 Pros:
- Versatility and Efficacy: Reviewers rave about the multifaceted uses of the coconut oil, highlighting its effectiveness for both culinary and cosmetic applications. Its benefits range from enhancing hair and skin health to potentially aiding in dental hygiene.
- Quality and Purity: Many users commend the raw, organic, and non-GMO qualities of the coconut oil, emphasizing its healthful attributes and suitability for those seeking natural, chemical-free products.
- Skin and Hair Benefits: Numerous reviews detail positive experiences regarding skin moisturization, hair conditioning, and the soothing of sensitive or inflamed skin conditions. The oil’s ability to nourish without clogging pores or causing irritation is frequently mentioned.
- Natural Scent and Taste: The mild, natural coconut scent and flavor of the oil are appreciated by many, contrasting with the often overpowering or artificial fragrances of some beauty products and cooking oils.
- Packaging: The wide-mouth jar facilitates easy access to the oil, and its solid form at cooler temperatures is noted for its convenience in both storage and application.
👎 Cons:
- Packaging Issues for Some: A few users express difficulties with the packaging, particularly when trying to access the product as it nears depletion. The consistency of the oil, which varies with temperature, can sometimes complicate usage.
- Scent Preferences: While the majority enjoy the natural coconut aroma, a small number of users expected a stronger scent, indicating varying expectations regarding the product’s olfactory profile.
- Individual Reactions: As with any product, especially those used for cosmetic purposes, individual reactions can vary. A few reviewers note specific personal preferences or desires for even more enhanced benefits, underscoring the subjective nature of product satisfaction.
100% Pure Argan Oil for Hair
Mother Nature Organics
- Helps to grow longer and thicker hair
- 100% pure and chemical-free, no derivatives, diluents, synthetics or pesticides
- Certified organic by USDA
- Non-GMO
- Vegan, cruelty-free
- 4 fl oz / 120 mL
💬 What Customers Say About This Argan Oil
👍 Pros:
- Quality and Authenticity: Users highlight the high quality of the Argan oil, noting its natural, golden color and faint nutty smell as indicators of its purity. The oil’s authenticity is further confirmed by its absorption and moisturizing properties, distinguishing it from diluted or altered products.
- Versatility: Reviewers appreciate the oil’s multipurpose functionality. It’s praised for its effectiveness in skin care, hair conditioning, and even nail care, demonstrating its versatility as a beauty product.
- Non-Greasy Formula: Many users are impressed by the oil’s ability to absorb quickly into the skin and hair without leaving a greasy residue, making it suitable for various skin and hair types.
- Packaging: The inclusion of both a sealed cap and a dropper cap is well-received, offering convenience and choice in application methods. The amber glass bottle also ensures the oil’s longevity by protecting it from light.
- Skin and Hair Benefits: Testimonials abound regarding the oil’s positive effects on skin hydration, hair softness, and overall health. It’s credited with improving skin texture, reducing hyperpigmentation, and enhancing hair shine.
👎 Cons:
- Scent: While the faint nutty smell is generally seen as a sign of authenticity, some users might prefer a fragrance-free option or find the natural scent off-putting.
- Expiration Date Clarity: A reviewer expressed concern about the absence of a manufactured date on the bottle, preferring this information over just an expiration date to gauge the product’s freshness more accurately.
100% Pure Organic Jojoba Oil
Cliganic
- Helps to reduce grease, adds shine, and protects against split ends
- Helps to reduce flakes and itchiness caused by a dry scalp
- 100% pure, single-ingredient product (jojoba), no synthetic additives
- USDA organic certified
- Vegan, cruelty free
- 4 fl oz / 120 mL
💬 What Customers Say About This Jojoba Oil
👍 Pros:
- Authenticity and Efficacy: Users are impressed by the authenticity of the oil, noting its effectiveness in moisturizing hair, skin, and nails without leaving a greasy residue. Its ability to absorb quickly and enhance hair’s shine and skin’s softness is frequently praised.
- Versatility: Reviewers appreciate the oil’s multipurpose use, highlighting its benefits for hair, skin, nails, and even for soothing rashes. Its suitability for different body parts makes it a valuable addition to beauty routines.
- Natural and Organic Quality: The oil’s organic, pure, and chemical-free nature is a significant pro for users who are mindful of the ingredients in their skincare products. The absence of additives or chemicals makes it safe and appealing for sensitive skin.
- Packaging: The practical packaging, including droppers for precise application, is well-received by customers. This feature is seen as convenient and ensures easy and mess-free usage.
- Affordable and Effective for Beauty Routines: The oil is lauded for its affordability compared to other skincare products, with users finding it an excellent investment for their beauty routines. Its effectiveness in moisturizing and treating various skin and hair issues makes it a cost-effective choice.
👎 Cons:
- Scent: While the oil’s benefits are widely recognized, a few users are not fond of its natural smell, comparing it to freshly sharpened pencils. This aspect is subjective and varies from person to person.
- Packaging Frustrations: Although the packaging is generally praised, one user expressed disappointment with difficulties in accessing the product towards the end of its use. This suggests that while the packaging is convenient, there may be room for improvement in design to ensure all the product can be easily used.
Dry Scalp Prevention
Here are some tips on how to prevent dry scalp:
- Wash your hair less frequently: Overwashing your hair can strip the scalp of its natural oils, so try to wash your hair every other day or every few days, depending on your hair type and activity level
- Avoid hot water: Hot water can dry out the scalp and hair, so try to wash your hair with lukewarm water instead
- Avoid using heat styling tools: Heat styling tools, such as hair dryers, curling irons, and straighteners, can further dry out the scalp and hair, so try to limit your use of these tools or use them on a lower heat setting
- Protect your scalp from the sun: If you spend a lot of time in the sun, wear a hat or use a leave-in conditioner with SPF to protect your scalp from UV rays
- Eat a healthy diet: Eating a diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and essential fatty acids can help to promote healthy hair and scalp
- Manage stress: Stress can affect the body’s hormonal balance and lead to changes in the skin, including the scalp, so try to manage stress through exercise, meditation, or other relaxation techniques
Even if well-documented and carefully written, this content should not be used as a substitute for professional diagnosis and treatment. Consult a qualified health care provider before making any health care decisions about any specific medical condition.
