11 best shampoos for dry scalp, according to dermatologists
The best shampoos for dry scalp may not be the sexiest products you’ll buy, but when your scalp is itchy, flaky and sore, it’s one of the main beauty products in your routine that’ll actually make a difference.
Now, I’ll be honest, I’ll happily spend time (and money) finding the perfect hair mask and slather my lengths in hair oil, but it’s all well and good looking after our ends – what’s happening underneath (aka, our scalp) matters just as much. Not only for keeping flakes and irritation at bay, but because a healthy, well-cared-for scalp creates the best environment for healthy hair growth, too – and I know that’s something we all take very seriously.
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“Many people forget that their scalp is part of their skin, so whilst they’re doing steps for their face and body, a lot of the time the scalp is forgotten,” says Boo Banner-Eve, colour specialist. But just like the skin on your face, what works for one scalp won’t necessarily work for another. Before you stock up on scalp serums, shiny hair treatments and every ‘dandruff-free’ shampoo you can find, it’s worth getting to grips with the cause of your dry scalp first. Because - and this is where it gets slightly confusing - dry scalp and dandruff aren’t actually the same thing.
Dryness is usually down to a lack of moisture, while dandruff is more commonly associated with an oily scalp. They might look frustratingly similar in the mirror, but knowing the difference will make choosing the right scalp care a whole lot easier.
So, which shampoo should you actually be using? I asked dermatologists exactly what ingredients to look for, what to avoid and how to tell what your scalp really needs, while Glamour editors have put plenty of formulas to the test too. From nourishing shampoos for dry, tight scalps to clarifying shampoos for tackling build-up, plus options if you’re also looking for the best shampoos for thinning hair, these are the best shampoos worth making room for in your shower.
Meet the experts:
| Name | Expertise |
|---|---|
| Eleanore Richardson | Consultant trichologist at the Fulham Scalp & Hair Clinic. |
| Hadley King, MD | Board-certified dermatologist in NYC. |
| Tylor Johnson | Expert hair colourist and founder of Nous Haircare. |
| Connie Yang, MD | Cosmetic dermatologist at PFrankMD. |
| Kerry E. Yates | Trichologist and founder of Colour Collective. |
| Tom Smith | Olaplex artist. |
| Issie Churcher | Creative Director at STIL. |
| Boo Banner-Eve | Colour Specialist. |
| Samantha Cuisick | Olaplex ambassador and founder of Samantha Cuisick London and Sta Studios. |
| Dr Anastasia Therianou | VICHY consultant dermatologist. |
| Anabel Kingsley | Brand president and consultant trichologist at Philip Kingsley. |
| Helen Reavey | Founder of Act + Acre. |
How we test the best shampoos for dry scalps:
We don’t take the term best lightly. To find the best shampoos for dry scalp, our beauty team spent weeks lathering, rinsing and repeating with dozens of formulas across every price point, from high street favourites to salon-level staples. We tested on a variety of hair types, from fine and straight to thick and coily, and in different scalp conditions, whether mildly tight and dehydrated or prone to persistent flaking. We paid close attention to how each shampoo cleansed, how soothing it felt during use, and, crucially, how our scalps and hair looked and felt after several washes. Texture, scent, and how easily the product rinsed away without residue all made it onto our scorecards.
But we didn’t stop there. To ensure our shortlist wasn’t just based on personal preference, we spoke to dermatologists, trichologists and hair colourists to get their professional take on the ingredients, formulas and scalp-care benefits that actually make a difference. Their insights helped us separate the nice-to-haves from the must-haves, so every recommendation here is expert-backed as well as Glamour approved.
Ahead, the best shampoos for dry scalps that'll truly help soothe the itch.
1. Best Dry Scalp Shampoo Overall: UKHAIR Hair Shampoo
- Hair type: All hair types, including fine, colour-treated, dry and damaged.
- Scent: Light tropical coconut and pineapple.
- Key ingredients: Vitamin B5 (panthenol), pineapple extract, hydrolysed wheat protein.
- Cruelty-free: Yes.
- Size: 250ml.
- Tester: Georgia Brown, Freelance Writer.
Why we love it: “I’ve been a fan of UKLASH’s lash and brow serums for years, so when the brand moved into haircare with UKHAIR, naturally I wanted to know if its growth shampoo could live up to the hype. At under £20, it’s also one of the more affordable formulas I’ve tried, particularly considering it tackles scalp health and hair growth in one. Vitamin B5, pineapple extract and hydrolysed wheat protein help nourish the scalp, strengthen strands and create a healthier environment for growth, while still giving my hair that properly clean feeling. It also smells so good - think coconut and pineapple (major holiday vibes), and the scent actually sticks around after washing.
I’ve been using it consistently for a few weeks now and my hair feels stronger, looks fuller and I’ve noticed less shedding when brushing. Obviously, no shampoo is going to give you Rapunzel lengths overnight, but if growing stronger, healthier hair is the goal, looking after your scalp is a pretty good place to start. For the price, this is a really impressive everyday option that I’d happily repurchase.”
Save when you shop for shampoos for dry scalps with these UK Lash discount codes at checkout.
2. Best For Oily, Itchy Scalps: Vichy Dercos Anti-Dandruff Purifying Scalp Shampoo
- Hair Type: Dry, dandruff-prone scalp.
- Scent: Fresh, clean.
- Key Ingredients: Selenium Sulfide, Niacinamide, Glycerin.
- Cruelty-Free: Yes.
- Size: 200ml.
- Tester: Dino Bonačić, Freelance Fashion Journalist.
Why we love it: "As someone who has struggled with dandruff on and off for years, this shampoo has been a total gamechanger. It’s made for normal to oily hair (I’m somewhere in between, depending on the water quality), and, thanks to the salicylic acid ingredient, it successfully tackles a dry scalp after first wash, without changing the texture of the hair. Mine is naturally curly, and most anti-dandruff shampoos tend to dry it out while also completely flattening the volume. But with this one, my hair keeps its natural texture, and it gets even better the following days, as the natural oils emerge. In fact, this shampoo helped me wash my hair way less as the anti-dandruff effect lasts up to four days for me.
Because of its strong and instant impact, I tend to avoid using conditioners afterwards as I feel like the two products can counteract each other, resulting in a somewhat greasy combo. With short hair, you only need one pump, though the lathering amount depends on the cleanliness of your hair. Even if it doesn’t soap up much, don’t be tempted to add too much of the product. The smell is lightly medicinal and it feels pleasant once the hair is rinsed. However, one issue I have with this shampoo is the bright yellow colour which tends to stain white bathroom surfaces if you don’t wash it off instantly.”
Save when you shop for shampoos for dry scalps with these Boots discount codes at checkout.
3. Best For Dandruff: OUAI Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
- Hair Type: All hair types, especially dandruff-prone.
- Scent: Clean, fresh, slightly herbal.
- Key Ingredients: Zinc Pyrithione, Salicylic Acid, Ginger Root Oil.
- Cruelty-Free: Yes.
- Size: 300ml.
- Tester: Georgia Brown, Freelance Writer.
Why we love it: Glamour editors have long been fans of OUAI, particularly the brand’s anti-dandruff shampoo, which contains an impressive 2% salicylic acid. It’s a standout ingredient in shampoos for dryness, because it’s a mild exfoliant that helps slough off dead skin and reduce scaling on the scalp that can cause flakes, says Hadley King, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in NYC. This product also has an active ingredient called propanediol caprylate, which pros tell us may help reduce the amount of dandruff-causing bacteria on the scalp. You know what they say: an ounce of prevention.
In tests, users consistently told us they liked this particular shampoo, because it didn’t feel medicinal yet had impressive prowess. In other words, the moisturising shampoo feels a bit more like hair care than most other dry scalp shampoos—great for dry or damaged hair—but provides the same benefits. I’m a perfect case study: I have a perpetually itchy scalp but my strands skew dry and frizzy, so most shampoos for dry hair only deliver in one area. Not this one. It kept itchiness (and resulting flakes) at bay for more than two days (that’s a huge win for me!), but still left my hair feeling soft and smooth.
Save when you shop for shampoos for dry scalps with these Sephora discount codes at checkout.
4. Best For Stimulating Growth: Nécessaire Rosemary Shampoo
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- Hair Type: Thin hair.
- Scent: Rosemary.
- Key Ingredients: Rosemary oil, ceramides, and plant proteins.
- Cruelty-Free: Yes.
- Size: 250ml.
- Tester: Sophie Donovan, Glamour's Senior Commerce Writer.
Why we love it: "Officially my new favourite shampoo. You know how clean your hair feels after a trip to the hairdresser? This delivered that, but from the comfort of my own home. But it also lathers quickly, speeding up my entire hair-washing routine. The rosemary scent wasn’t overpowering, and I was also a fan of the twist-top bottle cap, easy ot use even when your hands are wet. Best of all, though, is the fact that this stopped my scalp from itching — a common issue I have in the height of summer when it’s hot. An instant favourite that I’ll be re-purchasing.”
4. Best Luxury Shampoo: Oribe Gold Lust Repair & Restore Shampoo
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- Hair Type: All hair types, especially dry, damaged or colour-treated hair.
- Scent: Fresh, floral and citrusy.
- Key Ingredients: Cypress, Argan Oil, Maracuja Oil, Plant Collagen, Caffeine, Biotin and Bromelain.
- Cruelty-Free: Yes.
- Size: 250ml.
- Tester: Sophie Cockett, Glamour's Commerce Director.
Why we love it: “This shampoo is really expensive – I should start with that. I actually nearly choked when I went to repurchase both the Oribe Gold Lust shampoo and conditioner after (very luckily) being able to test samples of both through work. But the fact that I still considered dropping £58 on a 250ml bottle of shampoo tells you all you need to know. This stuff is phenomenal. For the past five years at least, I've only really got one day out of freshly-washed hair before I need to use dry shampoo on day two, and slick it back on day three.
At the time of writing, I'm on day three (following a double shampoo with this Oribe wonder-product), and my hair still looks as good as new. Granted, I used a small amount of Batiste around my hairline, but otherwise, it's perfect. With that logic, I'll probably get five days out of one hair wash. UNHEARD OF. It smells incredible, leaves my hair leaving soft and weightless, and uses cypress and Argan oils to balance the scalp and reinforce the strength of your natural hair. My scalp definitely feels less irritated, and each strand less prone to breakage. Other than the eye-watering price which makes this shampoo a total (rare, cry) treat, I can't think of a single con.”
Save when you shop for shampoos for dry scalps with these Space NK discount codes at checkout.
5. Best for Coloured Hair: Coco & Eve Super Hydrating Shampoo
- Hair Type: Dry, damaged, or colour-treated hair.
- Scent: Tropical blend of fig, bergamot, coconut, almond, milk, sandalwood, and musk.
- Key Ingredients: ResistHyal™ (Hyaluronic Acid), coconut oil, avocado oil, fermented oil complex (argan, camellia, green tea, almond oils), pineapple extract.
- Cruelty-Free: Yes.
- Size: 280ml.
- Tested by: Shani Cohen, Glamour's Beauty Commerce Writer.
Why we love it: Seriously nourishing, this hydration-first shampoo is an absolute winner for anyone dealing with a dry scalp. Powered primarily by ResistHyal™ technology — which is a potent power-blend of hyaluronic acid — the botanical formula leaves your locks looking and feeling far more soft, smooth, and shiny, and provides the scalp with long-lasting moisture.
As for the scalp, the plant-powered fermented oil complex provides nourishment through the antioxidants and fatty acids found in the fermented oil complex, while potent pineapple enzymes cleanse the hair, and remove any oil and excess product build-up — leaving you with seriously refreshed roots. What's more, its coconut-fig scent will leave your hair smelling so good, you'll forget about your perfume.
6. Best For Dry Hair: Chāmpo Vata Hydrating Shampoo
- Hair Type: Dry, damaged, or difficult hair.
- Scent: A calming blend of jasmine, rose, sandalwood, patchouli, vanilla, cedarwood, geranium, and palmarosa.
- Key Ingredients: King coconut oil, amla fruit extract, macadamia seed oil.
- Cruelty-Free: Yes.
- Size: 260ml.
- Tested by: Shani Cohen, Glamour's Beauty Commerce Writer.
Why we love it: “You know a shampoo’s good when you’ve gone through an entire bottle in three weeks - and even your husband has ditched his trusty 2-in-1 body wash and shampoo to use it. Before I get onto the formula, though, can we talk about the bottle? The oversized ring handle is so fun and it looks very chic sitting in my shower. Thankfully, what’s inside is just as good. My coarse, thick (and extremely tricky to brush) hair has genuinely felt so much softer and more manageable since I started using it, and my dry scalp, while not completely gone, has definitely improved too. The formula is sulfate-free and made with 98% naturally derived ingredients, including King Coconut and Amla fruit to hydrate the scalp, plus macadamia oil to soften and smooth the hair without leaving it feeling heavy.
It also smells incredible - rose, jasmine, patchouli and vanilla - and has that expensive, spa-like scent that sticks around after wash day, despite the shampoo itself being pretty affordable. I also love that the brand puts scalp health and hair growth at the heart of its formulas rather than treating them as two separate things. I’m a big fan of its scalp serum too, which I use alongside the shampoo and conditioner, and together they’ve become a bit of a dream team in my haircare routine.”
7. Best Powder Shampoo: The Powder Shampoo Exfoliating Shampoo
- Hair Type: All hair types.
- Scent: Tea tree.
- Key Ingredients: Tea tree essential oil, white willow tree, xylitol, and thyme essential oil
- Cruelty-Free: Yes.
- Size: 70g.
Why we love it: These clever powder-to-foam shampoo formulas are perfect for travelling, come in reusable aluminium packaging, and are an ideal option for eco-conscious shoppers. There are lots of different types to choose from, but this exfoliating version has been specifically designed to revitalise flaky and itchy scalps. Plus, it's even enriched with thyme essential oil to support healthy hair growth.
Packed with seriously impressive actives like antibacterial tea tree oil which helps fight dandruff-causing fungi, and exfoliating salicylic acid derived from willow tree bark, this shampoo instantly gets to work tackling flaking, itching, and irritation. Meanwhile, prebiotics like xylitol work to balance the scalp's microbiome — therefore reducing the likelihood of more bacteria developing in the future.
8. Best for Itchy Scalp: Philip Kingsley Flaky/Itchy Scalp Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
- Hair Type: Dry, flaky, itchy scalps.
- Scent: Clean, subtle herbal.
- Key Ingredients: Piroctone Olamine, Salicylic Acid, Glycerin.
- Cruelty-Free: Yes.
- Size: 250ml.
Why we love it: This cleansing and clarifying formula works instantly to soothe dryness and itching, and clear stubborn flakes and build-up — while also working over the long-term to restore your scalp’s microflora balance, and therefore prevent future flare-ups. Best of all, it feels really lovely and lightweight — so you wont be left with lank and limp locks.
Powered by anti-microbial piroctone olamine to tackle flakes and itching, and lauryl betaine — which cleanses without leaving behind any redness or irritation — it's the perfect formula for seriously itchy and irritated scalps. Plus, unlike many anti-dandruff shampoos, it leaves your scalp lovely and moisturised — instead of drying it out.
9. Best Exfoliating Shampoo: Sachajuan Scalp Shampoo
- Hair Type: Oily, dandruff-prone scalp
- Scent: Herbal, fresh
- Key Ingredients: Piroctone Olamine, Climbazole, Rosemary Oil, Menthol, Ginger Extract
- Cruelty-Free: Yes
- Size: 250ml
Why we love it: Piroctone olamine and climbazole work hand in hand to tackle both active flare-ups of dandruff and the fungi that can cause scalp issues in the first place. The formula also boasts exfoliating salicylic acid to tackle buildup that can cause itchiness and those dead skin cells that cause flakes, with soothing menthol, conditioning rosemary oil, and anti-inflammatory ginger extract.
One of the things we like most about this shampoo is how comparable it is to other, more conventional formulas for all hair types, whether fine or coily. My own medium-textured, frizz-prone hair tolerated this shampoo really well. It lathered expertly, so I could really effectively cleanse my distractingly itchy scalp. Afterward, I didn’t have the same desire to itch, plus it remained flake-free for a few days—an amazing feat when it comes to my hair. I also liked the ginger-forward scent, which made for a real spa-like experience. Another plus? This formula is vegan and cruelty-free, and it’s void of icky ingredients like parabens.
10. Best Cleansing Shampoo: Act + Acre Cold Processed Cleanse Shampoo
- Hair Type: All hair types, especially sensitive scalps
- Scent: Herbal, fresh
- Key Ingredients: Natural surfactants, aloe vera, jojoba oil, seaweed extract
- Cruelty-Free: Yes
- Size: 285ml
Why we love it: From our expert herself, Helen Reavey. Act + Acre has developed a cult following, despite being the new kid on the block – and it’s easy to see why. Suitable for all hair types and infused with cleansing amino acids, hydrating glycerin and cooling baobab oil, this shampoo strikes the perfect balance of cleansing without disrupting the hair’s natural moisture equilibrium.
Save when you shop for shampoos for dry scalps with these Cult Beauty discount codes at checkout.
11. Best For Removing Scalp Build-Up: Olapex No. 4C Bond Maintenance Shampoo
- Hair Type: All hair types.
- Scent: light, clean, and subtly sweet fresh citrus scent with notes of grapefruit and mint.
- Key Ingredients: Glycine, sodium PCA.
- Cruelty-Free: Yes, also vegan.
- Size: 250ml.
Why we love it: Ideal for all hair types, Olaplex’s bestseller is a go-to among stylists for its ability to deeply cleanse and support scalp health without compromising moisture. Unlike many traditional clarifying shampoos that can strip the scalp of its natural oils, this formula more gently removes scalp buildup, excess oil, and environmental pollutants. It’s also infused with Olaplex’s patented bond-building technology to strengthen hair from within as it detoxifies.
Our testers liked how well the shampoo lathers, plus cited a refreshing and clean smell that lasted throughout the day (and the next day) as a nice bonus. “I followed the recommended instructions to let it set for up to five minutes in the shower before rinsing out, which did seem like a long time in the morning; however, the first time I used it I didn’t let it set as long and I still felt my hair got a very good cleansing,” said Condé Nast global executive director of creative strategy Norell Zable. “I am someone who has to wash my hair every day or it feels too oily, and after letting it set in for five minutes, I was able to skip a wash day the next day.”
FAQ's
What causes a dry and itchy scalp?
A study commissioned by Head & Shoulders in 2020 revealed that Brits are much more likely to clean their kitchen surface daily than their hair (66% vs 27%). While this might not sound surprising, your scalp carries 6,000 types of microbes in comparison to your kitchen surface which carries on average 100-300. Then there's the 2023 study commissioned by Batiste, which found 44% of women avoid exercise to save washing their hair.
So what does this mean? Not all microbes are bad of course – as is the case with most of our bodily processes, a healthy scalp needs good bacteria. However, an overgrowth of bad bacteria can often lead to dandruff, dryness, itchiness and in severe cases, hair loss.
Bad bacteria isn't the only reason your scalp could be itchy, though it is a major one. Your diet, a skin condition, a lack of filaggrin in your body, addiction to dry shampoo, or even seasonal changes and stress can also come into play. And both an overly dry or overly oily scalp can bring forth a chronic itch while also stunting hair growth. Much like the skin on your face, your scalp boasts a delicate surface that needs to be nurtured – not too oily, but not so cleansed that it's stripped of moisture and dry – and it's hard to get the balance just right.
If the itch is just a mild irritation, it’s still worth sorting, especially if you're working on length retention. Consultant trichologist at the Fulham Scalp & Hair Clinic, Eleanore Richardson, tells GLAMOUR: “As with any skin, if there is any inflammation on the scalp, it will be felt and it will be visible. An unhealthy scalp will not get you the best hair.”
Are dandruff and dry scalp the same?
Dry scalp and dandruff often get lumped together, but they’re actually different issues. “Dandruff is caused by a skin condition called seborrheic dermatitis, which is linked to a yeast called Malassezia that naturally lives on the skin,” says Iris Rubin, MD, a board-certified dermatologist. “For dryness and flaking caused by seborrheic dermatitis, dandruff shampoos, which include ingredients such as ketoconazole, selenium sulfide, salicylic acid, or zinc pyrithione, can be a big help.”
A dry, flaky scalp, however, might be triggered by something else entirely — like contact dermatitis, or a reaction to hair products. With that in mind, treating a dry scalp as if it’s dandruff might not help — and, in some cases, could even make it worse. “If you’re unsure whether your dry, itchy scalp is due to dry skin, seborrheic dermatitis, or contact dermatitis, it’s best to schedule an appointment with a dermatologist,” says Dr. Rubin.
Can colouring my hair affect a dry scalp?
Colouring can be transformative for your overall look, but your scalp might not feel quite as appreciative as you are. According to Issie Churcher, Creative Director at STIL, permanent and semi-permanent dyes often contain harsh chemicals like ammonia, peroxide, and phenylenediamine (PPD). “These ingredients can strip away natural scalp oils, raise the skin’s pH, and slightly damage the scalp’s outer layer,” she explains. “That can lead to mild redness, tightness, tingling and itching.”
To minimise the risk of irritation, Issie recommends a little pre-appointment prep if you're planning on colouring your hair. “Allow 24–48 hours without washing so your scalp’s natural oils can build up - they act as a protective barrier,” she says. For extra defence, a colourist can apply scalp protection oils or creams before the dye goes on.
Post-colour care is equally important. “Wait at least 24 hours before washing to let your scalp rebalance its natural pH,” Issie advises. “Choose a sulphate-free shampoo it will protect your colour from fading and give your scalp a gentler cleanse.” Her go-to options? Pureology Hydrate for colour-treated hair, or the Shanti Ayurveda Moisture range. And if your scalp is feeling tender after a colour? “Let it settle naturally, and if needed, apply a soothing chamomile lotion.”
Does dry scalp cause hair loss?
Experts agree that while a dry scalp is high unlikely to be the root cause of hair loss, long-term dry scalp issues can may amplify hair loss and hinder hair growth. According to Helen, “dryness can lead to itchiness and scratching, potentially damaging hair follicles and causing breakage or hair loss.” Plus, a scalp that lacks moisture can also affect the overall health of your hair, making it more prone to breakage, split ends and potentially thinning hair.
Scrubbing is generally counterproductive and can lead to further irritation and scalp dryness. If you're looking to reduce product build-up and get rid of dead skin cells, we recommend using a gentle chemical scalp exfoliants instead. Look for those that contain lactic acid or salicylic acid while steering clear of products with exfoliating beads or particles.
How often should I wash my hair if I have a dry scalp?
Much like dry skin, over-cleansing an already dry scalp can make dryness and irritation even worse. Samantha emphasises that washing your hair every two to three days is often enough as it allows for enough time for your scalp to replenish its natural oils without causing excess oil production. A good rule of thumb is to remember that a dry scalp generally needs less washing that a naturally oily scalp.
So, what ingredients should I look for in a soothing shampoo?
You can first tackle the problem by adding a soothing shampoo that's specifically made for itchy scalps to your haircare regime. There are a few ingredients you should look out for in your mane care wardrobe:
- Apple cider vinegar has antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties. It's most appropriate for dry skin. Due to its acidic pH, it’s best used in a shampoo/conditioner rather than being used naked, as that can lead to further drying, which would make the hair follicles more prone to breakage and ultimately making it itchier.
- Peppermint oil can be effective at reducing dandruff and soothing the scalp, in turn calming down any itchiness. Again, restrain from using peppermint oil in its pure form, as it can adverse effects like causing further itching.
- Tea tree oil is another antimicrobial, antifungal and antiseptic oil. It’s resulting anti-inflammatory effects can help reduce or eliminate all sorts of itching as long as it’s diluted in a product.
- Salicylic acid shouldn't be restricted to skincare. Shampoos containing this BHA are effective at treating itchy scalps caused by psoriasis and seborrheic dermatitis. It also exfoliates the scalp, making it a great haircare ingredient against irritation.
- Moisturising ingredients should also feature heavily in your chosen formula. “Look for scalp moisturising ingredients like aloe vera, which helps to calm irritation and restore moisture; glycerin, which draws moisture from the air to the scalp; and hyaluronic acid — another powerful humectant that deeply hydrates both the hair and scalp,” says Dr. Kapoor. Coconut oil, jojoba oil, or argan oil are also beneficial, since they’re lightweight oils that closely mimic the natural oils of the scalp, helping to restore moisture without leaving a greasy residue.
- Anti-dandruff ingredients like zinc pyrithione or selenium sulfide are commonly found in dandruff shampoos, and can make a real difference if your dryness is causing excessive flaking — or even if the root of your problem is a condition like seborrheic dermatitis.
