From the Guidelines
The best treatment for dry scalp, also known as xerosis of the scalp, typically involves using anti-dandruff shampoos containing active ingredients like zinc pyrithione, selenium sulfide, ketoconazole, or salicylic acid, alongside moisturizing with natural oils and maintaining a balanced diet. When considering treatment options, it's essential to prioritize the most recent and highest quality studies. According to the joint AAD-NPF guidelines of care for the management and treatment of psoriasis with topical therapy and alternative medicine modalities for psoriasis severity measures 1, topical corticosteroids are recommended for the treatment of scalp psoriasis. Some key points to consider when treating dry scalp include:
- Using a gentle shampoo containing zinc pyrithione (like Head & Shoulders) 2-3 times weekly, leaving it on the scalp for 5 minutes before rinsing
- Trying ketoconazole shampoo (like Nizoral 1%) twice weekly for 2-4 weeks for more persistent cases
- Moisturizing the scalp with natural oils such as coconut, jojoba, or tea tree oil by massaging a small amount into the scalp before bedtime and washing it out in the morning
- Avoiding hot water when washing hair, as it strips natural oils, and reducing the frequency of hair washing to 2-3 times weekly
- Staying hydrated and maintaining a balanced diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids and zinc to support scalp health from within Additionally, vitamin D analogues, such as calcipotriene, can be effective in treating mild to moderate scalp psoriasis, as shown in a study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology 1. It's also important to note that the choice of vehicle can significantly alter the use and penetration of the medication, and therefore alter the efficacy, as discussed in the guidelines of care for the management of psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis 1. Overall, the goal of treatment is to address the underlying causes of dry scalp, including fungal overgrowth, sebum overproduction, and skin cell turnover issues, while helping to restore moisture balance to the scalp.
From the FDA Drug Label
The preferable method of use is to apply Salicylic Acid 6% thoroughly to the affected area and to cover the treated area at night after washing and before retiring. Preferably, the skin should be hydrated for a least five minutes prior to application The medication is washed off in the morning and if excessive drying and/or irritation is observed, a bland cream or lotion may be applied.
The best treatment for a dry scalp, also known as xerosis of the scalp, is to apply Salicylic Acid 6% to the affected area, hydrate the skin before application, and cover the treated area at night. If excessive drying and/or irritation is observed, a bland cream or lotion may be applied after washing off the medication in the morning 2.
From the Research
Treatment Options for Dry Scalp (Xerosis)
- Coal tar shampoos, containing 2 to 10% coal tar solution, are effective in treating scalp conditions like psoriasis, which can cause dryness 3
- Salicylic acid 5 to 10% has a pronounced keratolytic effect and can be used to treat dry scalp conditions 3
- Topical corticosteroids are the most frequently used treatments for psoriasis of the scalp and can provide fast relief from dryness and inflammation 3
- Vitamin D3 analogues, such as calcipotriol and tacalcitol, have a substantial antipsoriatic effect and can be used to treat dry scalp conditions 3
Shampoos for Dry Scalp
- Shampoos containing anti-dandruff agents, such as zinc pyrithione, can help reduce scaling and itching associated with dry scalp 4, 5, 6
- Shampoos with piroctone olamine and climbazole can provide excellent anti-dandruff relief and cosmetic benefits 5
- Ketoconazole shampoo is a promising treatment option for seborrheic dermatitis of the scalp, which can cause dryness and irritation 7
Key Ingredients for Dry Scalp Treatment
- Coal tar: effective in treating scalp conditions like psoriasis 3
- Salicylic acid: has a pronounced keratolytic effect 3
- Zinc pyrithione: helps reduce scaling and itching associated with dry scalp 4, 5, 6
- Piroctone olamine and climbazole: provide excellent anti-dandruff relief and cosmetic benefits 5
- Ketoconazole: a promising treatment option for seborrheic dermatitis of the scalp 7