The Best Shampoos for Dry Scalp & Oily Hair

Dry scalp occurs when the skin on the scalp loses moisture, which can cause skin to itch and flake. A dry scalp and dandruff can also be the cause of seborrheic dermatitis, which occurs when oil builds up on the scalp, according to the Mayo Clinic. If you have seborrheic dermatitis, you may have both a dry, flaky scalp and oily hair. The right shampoo can help eliminate greasy hair and a dry scalp.

Neutrogena T/Sal is a clarifying and anti-dandruff shampoo that helps reduce both oil buildup and a flaky scalp. T/Sal is recommended by "The Washington Post" for dandruff control and soothing an irritated scalp, and it is also marketed as a clarifying shampoo to reduce product buildup. Neutrogena's active ingredient is salicylic acid, which is also an active ingredient in many over-the-counter and prescription acne medications. In both acne medications and Neutrogena's T/Sal, salicylic acid is proven to reduce oil on the skin, which prevents it from making the hair feel greasy.

Head & Shoulders Dandruff Shampoo is a well-known solution to flaky, dry scalp problems. Additionally, Head & Shoulders designed a shampoo specifically for individuals with oily hair. The active ingredient in Head & Shoulders Dandruff Shampoo for Fine or Oily hair is pyrithione, a zinc antibacterial agent that helps dry out oily skin and prevent flakes. If the Head & Shoulders formula doesn't work for you, a doctor can prescribe a shampoo with a stronger dose of pyrithione.

"Cosmopolitan" recommends Nizoral A-D Shampoo, an over-the-counter dandruff shampoo that contains ketoconazole. Ketoconazole works to calm down skin irritation and prevent scalp itching, as well as reducing flaky, dry skin. "Cosmopolitan" suggests that Nizoral A-D Shampoo may also dry out hair. Although this may be a good solution for individuals with oily hair, individuals with normal hair should follow an application of Nizoral A-D with a moisturizing conditioner.