Dry scalp and dandruff are two of the most common scalp complaints that people have. The signs of a dry scalp include itching, flaking, tightness, and hair loss. Some people also experience soreness as a symptom of dry scalp. Dry scalp can be caused by common skin conditions like seborrheic dermatitis, eczema, and psoriasis. Weather changes, dehydration, and stress can also lead to an irritated and tight feeling scalp.
Though people often try to treat dry scalp with various shampoos, synthetic spritzes and commercial hair masks, there are many holistic plant-based oils that can help relieve tightness, calm flaking, and soothe a dry scalp. They play an important role in overall scalp health.
If you’re looking for the best oil for dry scalp and dandruff, here are some of the best irritation busting, calming and soothing natural plant-based oils to look for.
Picking the Best Oil for Dry Scalp and Dandruff
1. Argan Oil
Often nicknamed ‘liquid gold,’ argan oil is like a luxurious cocktail for a dry and irritated scalp. It is treasured for its rich golden color and numerous health benefits, and it is one of the most expensive oils in the world. Argan oil is derived from the fruit of the Argan tree, which is native to Morocco. It’s one of the best oils for dry scalp and dandruff due to its strong anti-inflammatory qualities that help it calm irritation and skin distress. It is also rich in fatty acids, like oleic acid and linoleic acid, which make it a superior moisturizer for the scalp, helping it to soothe and calm irritation. Argan oil contains potent antioxidant polyphenols, which are also found in green tea, and help it reduce damage from pollution and other toxic stressors. Rich in vitamin E, argan oil helps protect and coat the hair strands and soothes the scalp, all while boosting its moisture barrier and working as a soothing balm.
2. Jojoba Oil
Jojoba oil is derived from a shrub native to the Southwestern United States. Not technically an oil, it’s a wax-ester and is similar to natural human sebum, making it ideal for soothing a dry and tight scalp. Native Americans have used the oil for centuries for making skin, scalp, and hair preparations; and jojoba oil is prized for its irritation and inflammation reducing benefits. Many people use jojoba oil to help reduce dry scalp and dandruff, as it is rich in nourishing B vitamins, vitamin C, and zinc, which are important for scalp health.
3. Avocado Oil
With a high concentration of both polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fatty acids, avocado oil is ultra nourishing and helps boost a dry and dehydrated scalp. Avocado oil supports scalp strengthening collagen and helps reduce irritation in the scalp. It also contains antioxidants, like vitamin E, which help it reduce damage from scalp stressors like sun exposure. Avocados are also a good source of biotin, which may also help to strengthen the hair.
4. Baobab Oil
Baobab trees grow in hot, dry climates, and can be found in Madagascar and parts of Australia. The oil is produced from the seeds and fruit of the baobab tree and is used on the scalp to reduce irritation and dryness. Chock full of antioxidant polyphenols, it helps reduce damaging oxidative stress, which can exacerbate scalp irritation. Baobab oil is also rich in omega 3 fatty acids, like linoleic acid, which help to naturally moisturize the scalp, reduce irritation, and restore the scalp barrier, improving the suppleness and health of the scalp.
5. Almond Oil
Almond oil is prized for the scalp and hair because of its light and easily absorbable texture. Used for centuries in ancient ayurvedic medicine, almond oil is often used to help treat conditions like eczema and psoriasis, which commonly cause a dry, flaky scalp. Because of its light texture, almond oil is often used in scalp massage, where it delivers important minerals like magnesium, copper, and phosphorous to the scalp and follicles. It also contains fatty acids and vitamin E and is a good emollient for the scalp, helping to soften and moisturize it. Revita+Fol™ - Defense Serum is infused with argan, baobab and almond oils, and is helpful for reducing follicle fatigue and improving the health of a dry scalp.
Summary
Dry scalp and dandruff are common and bothersome conditions that can cause irritation, soreness, and a tight feeling scalp. Eczema, psoriasis, weather changes and dehydration are just a few causes of dry scalp. Natural plant-based oils such as argan, jojoba and almond can help reduce irritation and dryness and improve the health of the scalp.
