The Best Scalp Treatments for Healthier, Shinier Hair

Healthy, thriving hair starts at the roots. Giving your scalp proper care is the real secret to stronger, shinier strands. Think of it as skincare for your head; cleansing, hydrating, and balancing all play a role.

Product buildup from dry shampoo, leave-ins, gels, or waxes can block hair follicles and even trigger extra shedding. To keep your scalp clear and balanced, consider products with exfoliating acids like AHAs or salicylic acid, or balancing ingredients like niacinamide.

If dryness is your main concern, a little pre-shower pampering can go a long way. Massage in oils like coconut, jojoba, or avocado and let them sit before rinsing. For an extra moisture boost, follow up with a calming serum. Like any good skincare routine, scalp care is all about consistency. Results take time, but your hair will thank you.

Here are a few scalp-loving essentials to consider.

 

Olaplex No. 0.5 Scalp Longevity Treatment, $44

Key ingredients: Glycerin, ceramide, hyaluronic acid and arginine

This treatment combines Olaplex’s bond-building technology with ceramide-rich botanical extracts to restore moisture and strengthen the scalp. Lightweight enough for daily use, it works on damp hair before styling or on dry hair before bed.

 

Aveda Scalp Solutions Exfoliating Scalp Treatment, $53

Key ingredients: Salicylic acid and centella asiatica

Perfect for oily scalps, this gentle gel exfoliant clears away buildup before shampooing. Salicylic acid balances sebum, while centella asiatica calms the skin. Use once or twice a week for a refreshed feel.

 

Briogeo Scalp Revival Rosemary Pre-Wash Oil, $19,20

Key ingredients: Tea tree oil, bisabolol, tocopherol, glycerin and ceramide

A comforting pre-wash oil for stressed-out scalps. Rosemary and tea tree oils rebalance sebum and soothe irritation, while coconut, avocado, sunflower, and grape seed oils deliver moisture. Apply before your shower, let it sit, then rinse.

 

Living Proof Scalp Care Exfoliator, $42

Key ingredients: Glycolic acid, beta hydroxy acid (BHA) and polyhydroxy acid (PHA)

If styling products are part of your daily lineup, this gentle exfoliator is a must. Glycolic acid, BHA, and PHA lift away buildup and control oil without drying out your strands.

 

Yves Rocher Balance Scalp Serum, $50

Key ingredients: Niacinamide, panthenol, tocopherol and macadamia oil

Featuring the brand’s patented plant-based saccharide complex, this serum helps strengthen the scalp. Niacinamide regulates oil, vitamin E protects against free radicals, and panthenol and macadamia oil provide hydration.

 

Crown Affair The Calming Scalp Serum, $58

Key ingredients: Aloe vera, hyaluronic acid, panthenol and tea tree oil

When your scalp needs extra TLC, this serum delivers. Aloe vera soothes, tea tree oil targets dandruff, and a mix of hyaluronic acid and camellia seed oil locks in moisture. Apply on damp hair wherever needed.

The Inkey List Salicylic Acid Scalp Treatment, $17

Key ingredients: Salicylic acid and panthenol

A pre-wash scalp detox that gently exfoliates and calms irritation. Salicylic acid clears buildup while panthenol hydrates. Use weekly to maintain balance and reduce flaking.

Moroccanoil Dry Scalp Treatment, $42

Key ingredients: Argan oil, tocopherol and salicylic acid

For dry or flaky scalps, this nourishing formula brings instant relief. Argan oil and vitamin E deeply condition, while salicylic acid smooths away buildup. Massage into dry hair, let it sit for 10 minutes, and rinse.

Foreo FLIP Play Advanced LED Light Hair Brush, $59

More than just a brush, this tool delivers LED light therapy with blue, green, and red wavelengths to support scalp health. It boosts shine, balances oil, and strengthens follicles—all while gently detangling.