Itchy Scalp? These 7 Scalp Oils Instantly Moisturize and Rebalance

ProsMulti-active formula soothes, hydrates, and promotes hair growthConsThe scent is rather strongJust like the skin elsewhere on your body, your scalp needs moisture too. Give it a little TLC with this comforting oil that deeply hydrates, rebalances, and creates the best environment for hair to thrive. The Champi hair oil combines over 16 Ayurvedic actives—including rosemary, castor oil, and hibiscus—that have been used for centuries to strengthen both your scalp and hair.One Cosmo editor says: “Once a week, I'll coat my scalp in this pre-shampoo oil, and it seriously moisturizes my skin and hair. Loaded with coconut, castor, sesame, almond, and argan oils—plus, so many more—it's super rich and nourishing.” BETH GILLETTE, BEAUTY EDITORFeatures at a GlanceKey ingredientsCastor oil, hibiscus extract, rosemary extractSize4.4, 1.69, and 0.34 ozProsThis is so lightweight and won't make hair look greasyMulti-action formula strengthens, hydrates, and supports the barrierConsHas a strong menthol scentIf you have a naturally oily scalp, the idea of applying an oil may seem counterintuitive. However, this serum-oil hybrid can get your scalp back to baseline, helping it become less greasy and, in turn, strengthening the barrier. The antioxidant-rich formula reduces buildup while also enhancing hair health. Plus, it’s lightweight enough that you can use it every day without worrying about a greasy film—no need to wait until wash day.One Cosmo editor says: “I have very fine hair that gets weighed down easily, but my scalp can get a little dry too. I've been obsessed with this oil-in-serum from Dr. Groot recently because it doesn't leave a greasy film on my roots but definitely hydrates and soothes my scalp.” —BGFeatures at a glanceKey ingredientsBiotin, rosemary oil, amino acidSize1.34 oz.Advertisement - Continue Reading BelowProsDeeply moisturizes scalpDoesn't feel greasy, no matter how much you useConsThe dropper is quite big which can lead to a messy applicationIf you’re specifically dealing with dandruff, dermatologist Danny Guo, MD, says that oils can sometimes make things worse. So, instead, he often recommends this hydrating serum. Plant-based proteins and niacinamide flood your scalp with much-needed moisture while also reducing discomfort (like flakes and itchiness). The gel-like texture also absorbs quickly and won’t leave any greasiness behind.One Cosmo expert says: “This contains glycerin and mineral oil which can help with scalp dryness. It also has panthenol and niacinamide for calming the barrier.” — Dr. GuoFeatures at a glanceKey ingredientsPlant-based proteins, niacinamideSize3.4 oz.ProsHarnesses the power of phytonutrients for their natural antioxidant propertiesConsMarketed as a serum, but definitely more of an oil consistencyTester and editor-loved for its super soothing formula that feels virtually weightless on your scalp and roots, this serum-oil hybrid is one of the best for dry scalp relief. The powerhouse ingredients responsible for said magic? A slew of phytonutrients—hi, aloe vera, root extracts, seed oils, Indian gooseberry, and Bakuchi—which are naturally anti-inflammatory. Apply one to three drops if you have finer hair and one full drop for thicker hair twice a week, and leave on overnight. One Cosmo editor says: "I don’t regularly use scalp oils, but I always feel like I should when I remember to apply this. The invigorating oil lightly tingles for a refreshing experience that leaves my scalp feeling balanced, and my hair much shinier.” — MARY HONKUS, CONTRIBUTING BEAUTY EDITORFeatures at a glanceKey ingredientsAloe vera, Indian gooseberry, sunflower seed oilSize1.8 oz.Advertisement - Continue Reading BelowProsThis rosemary oil has been diluted and filled with other scalp-friendly ingredients making it safe for everyday useConsIt will take six months of consistent use to see hair growth resultsNo hair oil will magically make your hair longer and thicker overnight. There are, however, oils that will treat your scalp and hair with hydrating, scalp-lovin' ingredients that'll create an optimal environment for hair growth. And then there's rosemary oil—i.e., an oil that has been proven to be of similar efficacy as minoxidil (the active ingredient in Rogaine) in promoting hair growth. So, yes, rosemary oil is scientifically proven to work, but it will take consistent use over some time (about six months) before you see any noticeable differences.A good place to start? Mielle's Rosemary Mint scalp oil. Team Cosmo swears by its efficacy for moisturizing our scalps. As part of your daily routine, apply four to five drops of the oil and massage it in with your fingertips for three to five minutes.One Cosmo editor says: “So many people in my life are hooked on this affordable scalp serum for the hair growth benefits. While that’s a great perk, I just love how it makes my scalp feel: Rebalanced, soft, and totally refreshed.” — MH Features at a glanceKey ingredientsRosemary oil, biotinSize2 oz.ProsContains medicated antifungal, pyrithione zincConsIt has a very strong fragranceDandruff occurs due to an overproduction of yeast, so you'll need an antifungal like pyrithione zinc to address the issue. Luckily, this scalp serum includes a hefty dose of it. The formula also contains glycerin to hydrate, argan oil to moisturize, and vitamin E. So, while the antifungal reduces the over-accumulation of yeast, this simultaneously soothes your scalp.Features at a glanceKey ingredientsPyrithione zinc, glycerin, argan oil, vitamin ESize1.3 oz.Advertisement - Continue Reading BelowProsCan qualm itchiness and discomfortConsIf you apply the oil every day (which you should) you'll go through the bottle quickly Protective styles cause tension and tightness, and braids may also aggravate your scalp, leading to dryness and itchiness. The solution? A soothing scalp oil that moisturizes and combats irritation. This one from Shea Moisture combines hydrating aloe vera with tea tree oil—i.e., an anti-inflammatory, antifungal ingredient that soothes and calms discomfort associated with your protective style.Features at a glanceKey ingredientsAloe vera, tea tree oilSize2 oz.FAQHow can a hair oil help a dry scalp?“Think about how a cleansing oil works in a facial skincare routine: It loosens makeup, sunscreen, sebum, and other residue so they can be washed away more effectively,” says clinical trichologist Emily DeNard. “A properly formulated scalp oil works similarly.”Typically, you’ll want to apply a scalp oil pre-shampooing. On the days you oil your scalp, DeNard suggests making extra time for a double cleanse “Shampoo twice after an oil treatment. The first cleanse breaks down and removes the oil and loosened residue, while the second more thoroughly cleanses the scalp.” After rinsing, your scalp will likely feel balanced, refreshed, and hydrated.Advertisement - Continue Reading BelowHow to choose the best oil for your dry scalp:Figure out the cause of your dry scalpThe cause of your dry scalp can be due to a number of factors like the weather, your age, medications, allergies, or even hair products. However, you could also be dealing with a skin condition like dandruff, psoriasis, or scalp eczema, says board-certified dermatologist Karan Lal, M.D. "Most commonly, it is caused by dandruff, which is due to a yeast that lives on the skin that causes inflammation," says Dr. Lal.It's very important to determine whether you're suffering from an inflammatory scalp condition or if your dry scalp is due to environmental/personal factors, as each cause requires different treatments. In fact, "using the wrong oils like olive oil can exasperate dandruff as it feeds the yeast that causes dandruff," says Dr. Lal. As a rule of thumb, dry scalp flakes are smaller and whiter, whereas dandruff flakes are oilier and could have a slight yellow tint. But PSA, the only one who can confirm this is your dermatologist.Evaluate the ingredientsIf you have dandruff, look for scalp oils containing zinc pyrithione, selenium sulfide, or ketoconazole, three antifungals that kill the yeast and stop it from multiplying. A scalp oil can be used in combination with a hair wash treatment and routine guided by your doctor. A chemical exfoliant like salicylic acid is also a great option for dandruff treatment, as well as for a regular dry scalp, as it buffs away dead skin cells and flakes.If your irritated scalp has caused inflammation and hair loss, you'll want to keep an eye out for anti-inflammatory ingredients like tea tree oil, as that will help soothe any itchiness. An inflamed scalp can also lead to hair loss and thinning, so by incorporating an anti-inflammatory, you'll be creating the best environment for your hair to grow. And finally, if you're looking to address hair loss—other than consulting your doctor or trying a minoxidil treatment like Rogaine—look for rosemary oil, which has been proven to have similar efficacy as minoxidil.Meet the experts:-Danny Guo, MD, is a double board-certified dermatologist.Emily DeNard is a clinical trichologist and founder of Emunah Beauty.Karan Lal, MD, is a double board-certified adult, pediatric, and cosmetic dermatologist at Affiliated Dermatology in Scottsdale, AZ.Advertisement - Continue Reading BelowWhy trust Cosmopolitan?Mary Honkus is a contributor for Cosmopolitan with eight years of experience researching, writing, and editing beauty stories, including a deep dive on why your hair gets so oily and making a case for coconut oil for hair. She’s an authority in all beauty categories and her hair is her prized possession. For this story, she consulted with trichologists and dermatologists to find the best oils for dry scalpsSiena Gagliano is former Cosmopolitan editor, with four years of experience writing about beauty, fashion, and lifestyle news. She’s an expert at researching and writing hair stories, like the best shampoos for curly hair and the best purple shampoos. She regularly tests dry scalp oils for efficacy and worked with the industry’s top dermatologists to assess new formulas and brands for this story.Mary Honkus is a freelance writer who covers beauty, home, fashion, health, and wellness (just call her a jack of all trades!). She has held staff roles at Real Simple, People, and InStyle, and her bylines can be found in numerous other publications. When she's not testing the latest and greatest products, she can be found chilling on her Hell's Kitchen rooftop, checking out NYC's hottest new restaurants, or recording her podcast Good Trouble NYC. Follow her on Instagram.Siena Gagliano is the associate editor at Cosmopolitan, where she primarily covers beauty, fashion, travel, and lifestyle. Wanna know how to get the best brows of your life? gotchu. What about how to find the best fashion deals of the season, the softest sheets on the market, or exactly how to use retinol without irritating your skin? Check, check, and check. Before joining Cosmopolitan, Siena was a writer at Bustle and several other media outlets. As her 2024 goal, she has vowed to find the best (extra) dirty martini NYC has to offer—and yes, that means ~attempting~ to try every cute cocktail spot in the city (hit her up with some recs, pls). Follow Siena on Instagram for a behind-the-scenes look at that magazine life.