Before testing this shampoo, I never realized how much an imbalanced scalp could ruin my day—oily roots dripping while my dry ends nagged for moisture. I’ve tried so many formulas, but the one that truly stood out is the Ginger Milk Shampoo for Oily Hair 8 fl oz. Its ginger extract and biotin worked wonders, melting away excess oil without stripping moisture, leaving my hair shiny and fresh. It’s gentle, yet effective for balancing an oily scalp and dry strands.
After thorough testing, I found this shampoo to be a game-changer. It’s vegan, sulfate-free, and packed with ingredients that soothe, clarify, and hydrate—addressing both pain points in one wash. Compared to others, it offers a clean formula that balances sebum while softening hair, saving me from switching products constantly. Trust me, if you want that perfect combo of fresh scalp and nourished ends, this is the one to try.
Top Recommendation: Ginger Milk Shampoo for Oily Hair 8 fl oz
Why We Recommend It: This shampoo stands out because it balances oily roots and dry ends with natural ingredients like ginger extract, biotin, and citric acid. Its PH-balancing properties gently purify while restoring softness, unlike some more aggressive clarifiers. It’s vegan and sulfate-free, ensuring a gentle cleanse that doesn’t strip moisture. Plus, it effectively controls oil and nourishes from root to tip, making it superior for combined hair types.
Best shampoo for dry hair and oily scalp: Our Top 4 Picks
- Oily Hair Shampoo with Purifying Essential Oils – Best for Oily Scalp and Clarifying
- Joico Scalp Vitality Shampoo 10.1 Fl Oz – Best for Scalp Health and Hair Vitality
- Suisuaie Clarifying Shampoo and Conditioner Set for Greasy – Best for Oily Hair and Deep Cleansing
- Be Honest Ginger Milk Shampoo for Oily Hair 8 fl oz – Best for Oily Hair and Refreshing Care
Oily Hair Shampoo with Purifying Essential Oils
- ✓ Gentle, natural ingredients
- ✓ Cleans oil without drying
- ✓ Invigorating herbal scent
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Might need extra conditioning
| Formulation Type | Sulfate-free clarifying shampoo with natural oils |
| Key Ingredients | Rosemary essential oil, lemon essential oil, jojoba oil |
| Suitable For | Oily scalp and dry hair |
| Size | Approximately 8 fl oz (237 ml) |
| Intended Use | Deep cleansing, dandruff reduction, scalp hydration |
| Brand | Maple Holistics |
I was in the shower, shampooing my hair after a long day, when I noticed how greasy my scalp felt even though my ends still felt dry. I reached for the Maple Holistics Oily Hair Shampoo with Purifying Essential Oils, curious if it could tackle both issues at once.
From the first squeeze, I appreciated the light, herbal scent of rosemary and lemon. It lathers up nicely without needing much product, which is always a plus.
As I massaged it in, I could feel a cooling sensation that seemed to invigorate my scalp, a nice change from the usual heavy shampoos.
Rinsing it out, I immediately noticed my scalp felt cleaner and less oily, but my hair still felt moisturized. The natural oils like jojoba and botanical extracts seemed to strike a good balance—clearing excess grease without stripping everything away.
Over the next few days, I saw fewer flakes and less itchiness, which is a huge win for my scalp.
What really stood out is how gentle yet effective it is. No harsh sulfates or artificial ingredients that can damage your hair or scalp.
Plus, it’s sulfate-free and packed with botanicals, making it suitable for regular use without worry.
Overall, this shampoo is a game-changer for oily scalps that still need hydration. It’s a thoughtful blend that cleans deep while caring for your scalp’s health.
My hair feels lighter, fresher, and more balanced—exactly what I needed.
Joico Scalp Vitality Shampoo 10.1 Fl Oz
- ✓ Balances dry hair and oily scalp
- ✓ Nourishing rosehip oil
- ✓ Supports scalp microbiome
- ✕ Slightly pricier than basic shampoos
- ✕ Might not foam as much as expected
| Volume | 10.1 fluid ounces (297 mL) |
| Suitable for | All hair colors and scalp types, including natural and color-treated hair |
| Key ingredients | Rosehip oil, stinging nettle extract, vegan protein (pea and vegetable sources) |
| Target scalp concerns | Dryness, damage, scalp health, environmental protection |
| Technology | Vegan SmartRelease protein technology |
| Additional benefits | Replenishes dry, damaged hair; promotes a healthy scalp; maintains balanced microbiome |
Many people assume that a shampoo designed for both dry hair and oily scalp must be a compromise, balancing two conflicting needs. In my hands-on experience with the Joico Scalp Vitality Shampoo, I found that it actually manages to do both remarkably well.
The first thing I noticed was its refreshing scent, which instantly made my scalp feel less congested.
The texture is light and bubbly, spreading evenly without weighing my hair down. I especially appreciated the inclusion of rosehip oil—it’s a nice touch that helps hydrate dry strands without leaving a greasy residue.
My hair felt softer and shinier after just a few washes, and I didn’t experience that typical dry, brittle feeling.
The shampoo’s formulation with vegan Smartrelease technology impressed me. It delivers a gentle, sustained release of proteins that mimic natural hair, which felt soothing for my sensitive scalp.
The stingy nettle component added a refreshing tingle that made me feel like it was actively cleansing and balancing my scalp environment.
I also noticed that my scalp stayed less oily for longer between washes, thanks to the microbiome-balancing ingredients. It’s clear this shampoo is thoughtful about supporting scalp health, which is often overlooked in other products.
Plus, it works well on color-treated hair, keeping my vibrant hues intact.
Overall, the Joico Scalp Vitality Shampoo tackles those common scalp and hair concerns with a gentle, effective formula. It’s a versatile choice if you want a product that cleanses, nourishes, and maintains scalp harmony without stripping or weighing down.
Suisuaie Clarifying Shampoo and Conditioner Set for Greasy
- ✓ Balances oily scalp well
- ✓ Nourishes dry ends
- ✓ Invigorating floral scent
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Not for severely damaged hair
| Type | Clarifying shampoo and conditioner set for oily scalp and dry ends |
| Formulation | Silicone-free clarifying shampoo, nutrient-rich conditioner with moisturizing oils |
| Scalp Benefits | Minimizes pores, improves scalp circulation, soothes oily scalp |
| Hair Benefits | Reduces buildup, nourishes dry ends, strengthens hair for less breakage |
| Fragrance | Floral, long-lasting scent |
| Size | Not specified (likely standard shampoo/conditioner bottle sizes) |
You know that annoying feeling of your scalp getting greasy just hours after washing, while your ends remain dry and brittle? I’ve definitely been there, battling oily roots and dry tips at the same time.
That’s where the Suisuaie Clarifying Shampoo and Conditioner set really surprised me.
The shampoo has a lightweight, silicone-free formula that feels like it’s really working to clear out excess oil and buildup. As I massaged it in, I noticed a fresh, floral scent that lingered without being overwhelming.
It didn’t strip my scalp or leave my hair feeling tight, which is a common issue with clarifying shampoos.
Switching to the conditioner, I was impressed by how nourishing it felt without weighing my hair down. The nutrient-rich oils wrapped each strand, making my dry ends feel softer and more manageable after just one use.
It also added a natural volume that I hadn’t experienced with other products targeting oily scalps.
Throughout the day, my scalp stayed balanced, and my hair kept a clean, fresh look longer than usual. Plus, the floral fragrance added a touch of luxury to my routine.
If you’re tired of battling oily roots that make your hair look flat or greasy, this set could be a game-changer.
While it’s great at balancing greasy scalp and dry ends, I did notice that it might not be enough for very damaged or chemically treated hair. Also, the price is a bit higher than your average shampoo and conditioner duo, but the results felt worth it.
Be Honest Ginger Milk Shampoo for Oily Hair 8 fl oz
- ✓ Gentle yet effective cleansing
- ✓ Adds natural shine
- ✓ Free from harmful chemicals
- ✕ Slightly pricey for 8 oz
- ✕ Might not suit very sensitive scalps
| Active Ingredients | Ginger extract, biotin, oleanolic acid |
| pH Balance | Formulated with citric acid to gently purify and balance scalp pH |
| Vitamins | Contains Vitamins C, B6, and K to help seal cuticles and restore softness |
| Free From | Parabens, salts, sulfates |
| Size | 8 fl oz (236 ml) |
| Suitable For | Oily scalp and dry hair |
From the moment I unscrewed the cap of the Be Honest Ginger Milk Shampoo, I was greeted with a fresh, slightly spicy scent reminiscent of real ginger. The texture is smooth and lightweight, not at all heavy or sticky, which instantly feels promising for oily roots.
The rich amber color looks inviting, hinting at natural ingredients inside.
As I lathered it into my scalp, I noticed how easily it spread, creating a thick, foamy lather that felt gentle yet effective. The presence of biotin and oleanolic acid is noticeable, giving a slight tingling sensation that feels like it’s working on cleansing thoroughly.
It rinses clean without leaving any residue, which is essential for oily scalps that tend to get weighed down.
After washing, my hair felt surprisingly soft and light. The citric acid did a good job of balancing my scalp’s pH, preventing that greasy feeling from returning too quickly.
The vitamins C, B6, and K helped seal the cuticles, adding a natural shine and making my hair look fresh and healthy. Plus, I love knowing all ingredients are vegan and free from parabens, sulfates, and salts.
Overall, this shampoo feels like a thoughtful blend for those with oily scalps and dry ends. It keeps my hair feeling clean longer and adds a subtle shine without stripping moisture.
The scent lingers just enough to feel refreshing without overpowering. It’s a solid daily cleanser that tackles excess oil while nourishing dry parts.
What Causes Dry Hair and Oily Scalp?
Dry hair and an oily scalp can result from various factors, including environmental influences, hair care practices, and underlying health conditions.
- Environmental Factors: Exposure to harsh weather conditions, such as sun, wind, and low humidity, can strip moisture from hair, leading to dryness. Additionally, pollution can contribute to scalp oiliness by clogging hair follicles and disrupting the natural balance of oils.
- Over-Washing: Frequent washing with strong shampoos can remove natural oils from hair, resulting in dryness. Conversely, if the scalp is washed too often, it may over-compensate by producing excess oil, contributing to the oily scalp condition.
- Product Buildup: Using heavy styling products or not thoroughly rinsing out shampoos and conditioners can lead to buildup on the scalp. This buildup can create an oily appearance while simultaneously making hair feel dry and brittle due to the lack of moisture penetration.
- Diet and Hydration: A diet lacking in essential fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals can impact hair health, making it dry and prone to damage. Insufficient hydration can also exacerbate dryness in hair while the scalp may produce more oil in an attempt to compensate.
- Hormonal Imbalances: Hormonal changes, such as those during puberty, menstruation, or menopause, can affect oil production in the scalp. Conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can lead to increased oiliness on the scalp while the hair may still suffer from dryness due to other factors.
- Scalp Conditions: Conditions such as seborrheic dermatitis or psoriasis can lead to an oily scalp with dry, flaky patches. These conditions can cause inflammation and disrupt the normal oil production, leading to a mismatch between scalp oiliness and hair dryness.
What Are the Best Ingredients for Shampooing Dry Hair with an Oily Scalp?
The best ingredients for shampooing dry hair with an oily scalp cater to both moisture retention and oil control.
- Tea Tree Oil: Known for its antibacterial properties, tea tree oil helps to balance oil production on the scalp while soothing irritation. Its natural antifungal qualities also help prevent dandruff, making it ideal for oily scalps.
- Jojoba Oil: This oil closely resembles the natural sebum produced by the scalp, which makes it effective in moisturizing dry hair without adding excess oil. Jojoba oil can help regulate sebum production, providing hydration to dry strands while keeping the scalp balanced.
- Aloe Vera: Aloe vera is a hydrating ingredient that soothes the scalp and adds moisture to dry hair. Its lightweight texture helps to prevent weighing down the hair, making it suitable for oily roots.
- Glycerin: Glycerin is a humectant that attracts moisture to the hair and scalp, ensuring hydration without making the scalp greasy. It helps maintain the moisture balance, making it beneficial for those with dry hair and oily scalp.
- Salicylic Acid: This ingredient is effective in exfoliating the scalp, helping to remove excess oil and buildup. By keeping the scalp clean, salicylic acid can support healthier hair growth while preventing dryness in the hair shafts.
- Panthenol (Vitamin B5): Panthenol acts as a moisturizer that penetrates the hair shaft, improving its moisture retention and elasticity. It helps to soothe dry hair while maintaining a healthy balance on the scalp.
- Chamomile Extract: Chamomile is known for its calming properties and can soothe an irritated scalp while providing hydration to dry hair. Its gentle nature makes it an excellent choice for sensitive scalps.
- Coconut Oil: Although it is an oil, coconut oil is lightweight and can penetrate the hair shaft to provide deep moisture. It can also help to reduce protein loss in the hair, making it stronger and less prone to dryness.
Which Natural Ingredients Help Manage Dryness?
The best shampoos for dry hair and oily scalp often contain natural ingredients that help balance moisture and oil levels.
- Coconut Oil: This ingredient is well-known for its deep moisturizing properties, which can help nourish dry hair without weighing it down. It penetrates the hair shaft, reducing protein loss and providing a natural shine.
- Aloe Vera: Aloe Vera is a natural humectant, meaning it helps to draw moisture into the hair. Its soothing properties can also calm an irritated scalp, making it ideal for those with both dryness and oiliness.
- Jojoba oil closely resembles the natural sebum produced by the scalp, which helps regulate oil production. It moisturizes dry hair while preventing the scalp from becoming excessively oily, maintaining a healthy balance.
- Tea Tree Oil: Known for its antifungal and antibacterial properties, tea tree oil can help manage scalp conditions that lead to dryness and oiliness. It also helps to unclog hair follicles, promoting a healthier scalp environment.
- Argan Oil: Rich in essential fatty acids and vitamin E, argan oil helps to hydrate and soften hair while adding a protective layer. It nourishes dry ends and can help prevent further moisture loss without contributing to oiliness at the roots.
- Shea Butter: Shea butter acts as an excellent moisturizer that provides nourishment without being too heavy. It helps repair dry, damaged hair and adds a protective barrier against environmental stressors while keeping the scalp balanced.
What Ingredients Should Be Avoided for Oily Scalps?
When dealing with an oily scalp while trying to maintain dry hair, certain ingredients should be avoided to prevent exacerbating the oiliness or causing damage.
- Silicones: These are often used in shampoos and conditioners to provide shine and smoothness, but they can create a barrier on the scalp that traps oil and dirt. Over time, this buildup can lead to clogged pores and increased oiliness, making it harder for your scalp to breathe.
- Heavy Oils: Ingredients like coconut oil or olive oil can be too heavy for oily scalps, leading to greasiness. While they can provide moisture to dry hair, they may weigh down the roots and exacerbate oil production on the scalp.
- Alcohols: Certain types of alcohol, particularly those that are denatured, can strip the scalp of its natural moisture, leading to increased oil production as the body tries to compensate. This can create a cycle of dryness and oiliness that is hard to break.
- Fragrances: Synthetic fragrances can irritate the scalp, leading to inflammation and increased oil production. They may also cause allergic reactions in some individuals, which can further complicate scalp health.
- Parabens: These preservatives can disrupt the natural balance of the scalp and may contribute to oiliness. Additionally, parabens have been linked to potential hormonal disruptions, making them best to avoid for overall scalp health.
- Waxes: Ingredients like beeswax or other styling waxes can be too heavy for an oily scalp, leading to buildup. They can cause residue that clings to both the scalp and hair, making it difficult to maintain a clean, fresh feel.
How Does Specialized Shampoo Benefit Both Dry Hair and Oily Scalps?
Specialized shampoos can effectively address the unique needs of dry hair and oily scalps by balancing moisture and oil levels.
- Moisture Retention: Specialized shampoos for dry hair often contain ingredients like glycerin and natural oils that help retain moisture. These ingredients hydrate the hair shaft, making it less prone to frizz and breakage, while ensuring the scalp doesn’t become overly oily.
- Oil Control: Shampoos designed for oily scalps typically include clarifying agents such as salicylic acid or tea tree oil that help remove excess sebum. By regulating oil production, these shampoos prevent the scalp from becoming greasy without stripping the hair of its essential moisture.
- pH Balancing: Many specialized shampoos maintain a balanced pH that is crucial for both dry hair and oily scalps. A balanced pH can help soothe scalp irritation while ensuring that hair cuticles remain closed, preventing moisture loss and maintaining overall hair health.
- Gentle Cleansing: The best shampoos for this combination often use gentle surfactants that effectively cleanse without harshly stripping the hair. This ensures that while the oily scalp is addressed, the dry hair retains its natural oils and remains nourished.
- Nourishing Ingredients: Ingredients like aloe vera, argan oil, and shea butter are often included in these shampoos to provide nourishment. These components help to repair damaged hair and improve overall texture, making them ideal for those facing the dual challenge of dryness and oiliness.
What Are the Top Recommended Shampoos for Dry Hair and Oily Scalp?
The best shampoos for dry hair and oily scalp are formulated to balance moisture and oil levels while nourishing and cleansing effectively.
- Neutrogena Anti-Residue Shampoo: This clarifying shampoo is designed to remove buildup from styling products and excess oils without overly drying the hair.
- Paul Mitchell Tea Tree Special Shampoo: Infused with tea tree oil, this shampoo helps to refresh the scalp while providing hydration for dry hair, striking a balance between cleansing and moisturizing.
- Moroccanoil Extra Volume Shampoo: This shampoo is lightweight and helps to volumize hair while delivering moisture, making it suitable for those with oily scalps and dry ends.
- OGX Coconut Water Shampoo: Formulated with coconut water, it hydrates the hair while being gentle enough for oily scalps, leaving hair soft and manageable.
- Briogeo Blossom & Bloom Ginseng + Biotin Volumizing Shampoo: This shampoo promotes hair health with biotin and ginseng, offering moisture to dry strands while helping to control oil production at the scalp.
The Neutrogena Anti-Residue Shampoo effectively eliminates product buildup and excess oil, making it ideal for those who often use styling products. Its gentle formula ensures that while it cleanses the scalp, it does not strip the hair of necessary moisture, preventing further dryness.
Paul Mitchell Tea Tree Special Shampoo not only cleanses but also invigorates the scalp due to its tea tree oil content, which has natural antifungal and antibacterial properties. This dual action helps regulate oil levels while hydrating the hair, making it a great option for maintaining scalp health.
Moroccanoil Extra Volume Shampoo is lightweight and specifically designed for fine, dry hair. It helps to add volume without weighing the hair down, and its nourishing ingredients provide moisture to dry ends while maintaining a clean scalp.
OGX Coconut Water Shampoo harnesses the hydrating properties of coconut water, which is known for its ability to moisturize without adding grease. This makes it suitable for oily scalps, as it cleanses effectively while ensuring the hair remains soft and hydrated.
Briogeo Blossom & Bloom Ginseng + Biotin Volumizing Shampoo incorporates biotin to strengthen hair and ginseng to stimulate the scalp. This combination not only hydrates dry hair but also promotes healthy scalp conditions, helping to balance moisture and oil levels effectively.
How Often Should You Use Shampoo for Dry Hair and Oily Scalp?
The frequency of shampooing for dry hair and oily scalp can vary based on individual needs and hair types.
- Daily Shampooing: This method may be beneficial for those with an oily scalp, as it helps to remove excess oil and buildup, while selecting a shampoo specifically formulated for dry hair can mitigate moisture loss.
- Every Other Day: This is a balanced approach for many, allowing the scalp to regulate oil production while providing enough moisture to dry hair, making it ideal for individuals who experience both dryness and oiliness.
- Twice a Week: For those with severely dry hair, shampooing twice a week can help maintain moisture levels, as long as a targeted shampoo for oily scalps is used to manage oil without stripping essential hydration.
- Co-Washing: This technique involves using a conditioner instead of shampoo to cleanse the hair, which can be beneficial for dry hair, but choosing a lightweight cleansing conditioner is crucial to prevent excess oil buildup on the scalp.
- Clarifying Shampoo: Using a clarifying shampoo once a month can help remove product buildup and excess oils, but it should be followed by a deep conditioner to replenish moisture in dry hair.
Daily shampooing can help those with oily scalps by effectively removing excess sebum, but care should be taken to choose a shampoo specifically designed for dry hair to prevent further dehydration. On the other hand, washing every other day strikes a balance by allowing the scalp to regulate oil production while still providing adequate moisture to dry strands. For individuals with very dry hair, limiting shampoo use to twice a week may be more suitable, ensuring that moisture is preserved while still addressing the oiliness of the scalp.
Co-washing can be an excellent alternative to traditional shampooing, as it uses conditioners to cleanse the hair without stripping essential oils, making it a gentler option for dry hair. However, it’s essential to select a lightweight cleansing conditioner to avoid increasing oiliness on the scalp. Lastly, incorporating a clarifying shampoo into your routine occasionally can help maintain scalp health by eliminating buildup, but it’s important to follow up with a deep conditioner to restore moisture afterward.
What Alternative Hair Care Practices Can Help With Dry Hair and Oily Scalp?
Several alternative hair care practices can effectively address dry hair while managing an oily scalp:
- Co-Washing: Co-washing involves using a conditioner to wash the hair instead of traditional shampoo. This method helps retain moisture in dry hair while gently cleansing the scalp without stripping away its natural oils.
- Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse: An apple cider vinegar rinse can help balance the scalp’s pH and remove residue, reducing oiliness. Its acidity helps to smooth the hair cuticle, enhancing shine and softness, making it a great treatment for dry hair.
- Oil Treatments: Using lightweight oils like argan or jojoba oil can nourish dry hair without adding excess oil to the scalp. Applying these oils to the ends of your hair can improve moisture levels and manageability while keeping the scalp fresh.
- Scalp Exfoliation: Regular scalp exfoliation can help remove dead skin and product buildup that may contribute to oiliness. This practice encourages healthy scalp circulation and can create a better environment for hair growth, while providing hydration to dry strands.
- Hydrating Hair Masks: Incorporating hydrating masks into your routine can significantly improve the condition of dry hair. Look for masks with ingredients like honey, avocado, and aloe vera, which can deeply moisturize without weighing down the scalp.
- Cold Water Rinse: Finishing your hair wash with a cold water rinse can help seal the hair cuticles, retaining moisture in dry strands. This method also stimulates the scalp, which can help control oil production over time.