6 Best Scalp Moisturizers, Tested by Editors and Dermatologists

ProsLightweightBoosts shineNo wait timeConsSome users complain about the scentThe Women's Health team is regularly testing scalp moisturizers, and we found it's hard to beat this scalp serum from The Ordinary because of the exceptional value it offers. Yes, it's well-priced, but both dermatologists and testers alike love it. "It's great because it uses hyaluronic acid to deeply hydrate without being greasy," Dr. Kopelman says. He also notes that it's suitable for all hair types, including fine, medium, and thick hair, whether straight, wavy, curly, or coily.Since I find myself constantly scratching my scalp throughout the day, I added this scalp serum to my hair routine, and after a few days of using it, I found that my symptoms significantly improved. Plus, as an added bonus, my thick, wavy hair appeared shinier and felt softer.Our testers also like that this The Ordinary product is a leave-in treatment, too, since that makes application quick and easy (meaning there's no need to only use it on wash day).Read more: Best Dandruff ShampoosFeatures at a GlanceKey ingredientsHyaluronic acidLeave-in or rinse outLeave-inProsGreat scentSoothingNo wait timeConsSome users wish the bottle was biggerThis drugstore pick is another very well-priced scalp moisturizer that dermatologists say really works. "It has aloe, which soothes the skin, green tea extract, which contains antioxidants, and peptides, which help make the scalp skin healthy," says Morgan Rabach, MD, a dermatologist in New York City. It also has plenty of benefits for your hair: It enhances shine, reduces frizz, adds body, and helps prevent split ends.Like our top overall pick, this is a convenient leave-in treatment. Users like the tingly sensation from the eucalyptus leaf extract, too, telling WH it not only feels refreshing but also smells great.Key ingredientsSeascalp, red raspberry seed oil, eucalyptus leaf extract, panthenolLeave-in or rinse outLeave-inAdvertisement - Continue Reading BelowProsEasy to applyCan be used as pre-shampoo rinse or overnight treatmentConsSome users don't like the smellOur editors can't get enough of Briogeo's hair products—from the shampoo to hair masks, we love just about everything the brand puts out. This scalp moisturizer is no exception. It's powered by antioxidant-rich rosemary oil that supports scalp circulation and healthier hair follicles, castor oil for hydration, and tea tree to fight flakes and reduce itchiness. It's also formulated with bisabolol to calm irritation from an itchy scalp.We love that you can tailor the treatment to suit your preferences—use it as a pre-shampoo rinse (a wait time of 10 to 15 minutes) or use it as an overnight hair mask. Either way, testers found the pointed tip on the bottle very easy to use, saying it made for a much more precise application.Key ingredientsRosemary oil, castor oil, tea treeLeave-in or rinse outRinse-outProsSmells greatEasy to applyWorks quicklyConsSome users say they noticed a slight residue on their hair after usingLiving Proof makes another fantastic leave-in treatment for dry scalps. Like our top overall pick, it's hyaluronic acid-based to offer lightweight (read: won't leave hair greasy) but intense hydration. It also contains vitamin B3 to help improve overall scalp health.The product is easy to use, thanks to a precise applicator tip. And there's no rinsing required, so you can more seamlessly integrate it into your routine. Users say it works quickly, minimizing symptoms in just a few uses and almost completely eradicating any itchiness and flakes in just about two weeks. They love the smell, too—some say it's reminiscent of the ocean.Key ingredientsHyaluronic acid, vitamin B3Leave-in or rinse outLeave-inAdvertisement - Continue Reading BelowProsA little bit goes a long wayDoubles as a scalp exfoliatorSmells greatConsMay be too heavy for finer hairMust be left in for 5 to 10 minutesDr. Rabach is also a fan of Moroccanoil's Dry Scalp Treatment, namely because it contains argan oil. "It contains both vitamin E and antioxidants," she says. It also contains salicylic acid, which is a gentle exfoliator that helps lift any flakes and can prevent scalp buildup that could lead to itchiness and more flakes in the future. Geranium oil also helps soothe the scalp and addresses any lingering dryness. Like other Moroccanoil products, users overwhelmingly rave about this scalp treatment, saying it's hydrating, soothing, and smells great. We also love that a little bit goes a long way, which helps add to the overall value of the product. Key ingredientsArgan oil, salicylic acid, geranium oilLeave-in or rinse outRinse-outProsGreat for the scalp and hairLightweightSmells greatConsTesters say there's not enough product for the priceIf you have fine hair and want to avoid greasy-looking strands, reach for OUAI's scalp serum. "It's lightweight and doesn't make your hair greasy because it has glycerin and hyaluronic acid for moisture delivery," says Dr. Mian. It also has ingredients like red clover flower extract to help soothe an inflamed scalp while it heals. There are hair benefits, too, thanks to peptides that promote fuller, thicker strands. It is the most costly serum on our list, but users say it's a worthy splurge for those who want something lightweight and effective with the added benefit of a great scent. Key ingredientsHyaluronic acid, red clover flower extract, peptidesLeave-in or rinse outLeave-inBrigitt is a writer, editor and craft stylist with nearly 15 years of experience. She specializes in lifestyle topics, including home, health, parenting, beauty, style, food, entertaining, travel and weddings. She has written for Glamour, People, Good Housekeeping, Women's Health, Real Simple, Martha Stewart, Apartment Therapy, The Spruce, and more.