Best Scalp Treatments of 2026
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Scalp treatments are an essential part of hair care routines that help maintain healthy and nourished hair. These treatments are designed to target various scalp issues such as dandruff, dryness, and flakiness. They work by exfoliating the scalp, removing dead skin cells, unclogging hair follicles, and providing hydration to the scalp. Scalp treatments come in various forms such as shampoos, conditioners, masks, and serums. They are formulated with natural ingredients such as tea tree oil, peppermint, and aloe vera that have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. Regular use of scalp treatments can improve hair growth, reduce hair fall, and promote overall hair health.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks
Top 10 Scalp Treatments
The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA Scalp Serum
The Ordinary Scalp Serum is a lightweight, milky treatment designed to keep your scalp hydrated and comfortable. It uses ingredients that imitate your skin’s natural moisture, helping to protect and strengthen your scalp’s barrier. This serum includes hyaluronic acid and squalane, which are naturally found in the skin, providing deep hydration without leaving your hair feeling greasy or heavy. You can easily use it daily by massaging a few drops into your clean, dry scalp, preferably before bedtime, making it a convenient part of your routine to soothe dryness and improve scalp health.
Head & Shoulders Scalp Elixir Treatment
Head & Shoulders Elixir is a leave-in scalp treatment from the Royal Oils Collection. It helps balance and restore scalp health with regular use, providing instant relief without rinsing. The formula includes cooling menthol and peppermint oil, which invigorates and soothes the scalp. This product is great for protective styles, twists, and locs. It offers 24-hour scalp protection when used as directed and is free of alcohol, sulfates, parabens, and dyes. Head & Shoulders Elixir is a convenient solution for those looking to maintain a healthy scalp and reduce dandruff.
OGX Rosemary Mint Scalp Treatment
OGX Scalp Treatment is designed to refresh your scalp while promoting shiny, healthy hair. Infused with rosemary oil and peppermint extract, this treatment provides a delightful tingling sensation that invigorates your scalp. Its gentle formula includes witch hazel, which helps eliminate buildup without stripping essential oils from your hair. After washing, simply apply this leave-in treatment directly to your scalp and work it through your hair for a nourishing experience. Enjoy the convenience of a lightweight formula that leaves your hair feeling soft and revitalized.
Scalpicin Max Strength
Scalpicin Max Strength Scalp Itch Treatment is America's #1 scalp itch medicine. This fragrance-free and greaseless formula is designed to provide relief for scalp itch associated with psoriasis, seborrheic dermatitis, and eczema. The enhanced formula not only helps to relieve scalp itch but also improves scalp condition, making your hair easier to comb. With Scalpicin Max Strength, you can say goodbye to the discomfort of scalp itch while ensuring that your hair looks and feels great. It is the go-to solution for those looking for an effective and convenient scalp itch treatment.
Pacifica Rosemary Apple Cider Scalp Detox Tonic
Pacifica Scalp Detox Tonic is a powerful formula designed to decongest your scalp and clarify your strands. Just like the pores on your face, your scalp can get congested too, which leads to product buildup, dirt, and oil. This detoxifying tonic is packed with AHAs, BHAs, and other effective ingredients found in skincare products, such as niacinamide, glycolic acid, lactic acid, and salicylic acid. It can be used on all hair types to help loosen, exfoliate, and wash away pore-clogging debris. The formula is also free of harsh chemicals like parabens, phthalates, SLS, and mineral oil. Plus, the pretty bottle is made with 100% PCR plastic, making it better for the environment. Choose Pacifica Scalp Detox Tonic for a refreshing and revitalizing experience that is 100% vegan and cruelty-free.
Pacifica Beauty Scalp Serum, Rosemary Mint Scented
Experience the gentle yet effective detox and hydration of Pacifica Beauty Scalp Love Rosemary Mint Serum. Infused with natural ingredients like rosemary, witch hazel, sage, and thyme, this vegan and cruelty-free serum purifies and revives your scalp while moisturizing it. Enjoy the refreshing rosemary mint scent that soothes dry and flaky scalps without leaving behind an oily residue. Apply 2 to 4 droppers and massage into your scalp; use it as an overnight treatment or shampoo after use. Free from harsh chemicals like parabens, phthalates, SLS, mineral oil, and petrolatum, this sulfate-free serum is a weekly must-have for all skin types, whether oily or dry.
AROMATICA Rosemary Root Enhancer 100ml
The AROMATICA Rosemary Scalp Spray is designed to provide deep hydration and soothing relief for oily scalps. You will appreciate its ability to promote hair regrowth and combat concerns about hair loss. This treatment effectively addresses issues like scalp buildup and dandruff, giving you a cleaner, healthier scalp. Additionally, the product features a blend of plant-based ingredients, including six types of Black Food Complex, which work together to nourish and treat your scalp, ensuring a refreshing experience.
Briogeo Scalp Revival Rosemary Pre-Wash Oil
Briogeo Scalp Oil is a nourishing treatment oil enriched with rosemary, vitamins, and lipids to calm your scalp and strengthen your hair. Its lightweight formula washes out easily, leaving no oily residue, suitable for all hair types. Simply apply to dry scalp and hair, massage, and leave on for 10-15 minutes or overnight for optimal results. This 99% natural and vegan oil is cruelty-free, ensuring a soothing experience for your scalp and promoting healthier hair growth.
Dr. Groot Miracle Hair Treatment
Dr. Groot Hair Treatment is designed to enhance your hair's health and appearance in just five seconds. You will notice a significant improvement in hair smoothness and a reduction in breakage-related hair loss over time. This innovative solution not only moisturizes your scalp but also cleanses and exfoliates, promoting better circulation and encouraging stronger hair growth. With a blend of beneficial ingredients, including rosemary oil, it is safe for color-treated hair and free from harmful additives, making it a convenient choice for all hair types.
DERMA-E Scalp Relief Treatment
DERMA-E Scalp Relief Treatment is a powerful water-based serum that provides soothing relief for itchy scalps. It calms and nourishes the scalp, promoting repair and leaving it balanced and healthy. With the cooling properties of Menthol and Tea Tree Oil, this serum provides instant relief from itching. Aloe Vera moisturizes dry skin, reducing flakiness and irritation. The natural formula of this treatment includes Sea Kelp and Amla Extract, which deeply moisturize, and a proprietary Herbal Blend with Neem, Burdock, and Bearberry, which hydrates the scalp. For best results, apply after washing and before styling. Simply part your hair into sections and apply a few drops to each section, massaging it into the scalp. DERMA-E Scalp Relief Treatment is a clean beauty product that is 100% vegan and cruelty-free, and it does not contain any harmful ingredients.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How can I improve my scalp?
To improve your scalp, avoid hair products with harsh irritants and reduce buildup by using silicone-free hair products. Use a nourishing scalp serum to balance the scalp, cleanse effectively, and exfoliate the scalp. Condition your hair well and reduce stress. Additionally, paying attention to your diet can also contribute to scalp health.
2. What is 3 step scalp treatment?
A 3-step scalp treatment typically consists of: 1. Crown Cleanse Shampoo: This shampoo cleanses, nourishes, and revives the scalp. 2. The Crown Fix: An intensive serum that treats and soothes scalp concerns. 3. The Scalp Scrubber: A massager tool that massages, exfoliates, and stimulates the scalp to encourage hair growth.
3. How do you treat a damaged scalp?
For a damaged scalp, applying an oil treatment can help. Castor or coconut oil can be directly applied to the scalp to soften flakes and repair the skin barrier. Coconut oil is particularly nourishing for both the scalp and hair.
4. Why do I have crusty scabs on my scalp?
Crusty scabs on the scalp can be caused by conditions like psoriasis, contact dermatitis, or head lice. While these scabs may sometimes clear up on their own, they can also be a sign of a condition that may require treatment.
5. What does an unhealthy scalp look like?
An unhealthy scalp can show signs such as hair loss, hair breakage, dandruff, redness, pain, acne, cysts, and itching. Various factors, including synthetic chemicals in styling products, hair dyes, bleach, shampoos, and conditioners, can contribute to an unhealthy scalp.
6. Are scalp treatments worth it?
Scalp treatments can be beneficial as they can help reduce dandruff by rebalancing sebum levels and infusing the scalp with essential nutrients. They can also help in keeping dandruff at bay.
7. How do I get rid of crusty scabs on my scalp?
To get rid of crusty scabs on the scalp, consider using a scalp oil or conditioner to moisturize the scalp and reduce scabs. Anti-dandruff shampoos containing active ingredients like salicylic acid, coal tar, zinc, and selenium can help address itching and flaking.
During our scalp treatment research, we found 48 scalp treatment products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 170,228 customer reviews through our big data system to write the scalp treatments list. We found that most customers choose scalp treatments with an average price of $24.62.
The scalp treatments are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of scalp treatments, including The Ordinary, Head & Shoulders, OGX, Scalpicin, Pacifica. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.
Lisa Bechard is a skin therapist with 12 years of working experience in the beauty industry and also an experienced beauty writer who has expertise in skincare, medical aesthetics and cosmetic surgery, and wellness. Her writing skills are excellent and all her content is very persuasive and insightful.
Scalp Treatments Comparison Table
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| Brand | The Ordinary | Head & Shoulders | OGX | Scalpicin | Pacifica | Pacifica | AROMATICA | Briogeo | Dr. Groot | Derma E |
| Item Form | - | Liquid | Liquid | Liquid | Liquid | Serum | Spray | - | Serum | Serum |
| Product Benefits | - | Freshening, Hydrating, Oil Control, Reduce Dandruff, Reduce Itch, Soothing | Refreshes the scalp, removes buildup, and leaves hair shiny | Itch Control | Anti-Dandruff, Detoxifying, Exfoliating, Rejuvenating, Soothing | Detoxifying, Exfoliating, Nourishing | Cooling and soothing benefits, Does not clog scalp pores, Lightweight and airy formula, Nutrition and vitamins with heat protection, Relieves itchy, dry, flaky scalp | - | See and feel smoother, healthier hair instantly! Liquid formula, with nourishing arginine, panthenol, niacinamide and salicylic acid, is designed to hug hair and transform into a creamy nourishing hair formula. | Soothes, nourishes, and hydrates scalp without greasiness; easy application and overnight treatment option. |
| Scent | - | Peppermint | Rosemary Mint_New | Unscented | Peppermint | Mint | - | - | - | Aloe, Tea Tree |
| Skin Type | - | Combination | - | All | All, Dry, Oily | All | - | - | - | All |
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