We take pride in perfecting our wash routine (which includes using the best shampoo and conditioner for our hair), but have you ever thought about your scalp regimen? Believe it or not, your hair can't reach it's full potential without taking scalp health into consideration. Whether you’re on the dry or oily side, adding a scalp serum is key to maintaining strong, hydrated and healthy locks. We asked a panel of experts to share everything they know about scalp serums and how to best use one in your routine.
20 Scalp Serums That Are Worth Adding to Your Haircare Routine, Vetted By Editors and Experts
A list for oily, dry or irritated scalps
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The Best Scalp Serums at a Glance
Meet the Experts
- Shab Caspara is a certified trained trichologist based in New York. She has a decade of experience as an expert source on scalp health, trends and haircare. She's also a brand ambassador for It's a 10, a haircare brand dedicated to all hair types.
- Kindale Godbee is a hairstylist and owner of The Heir Salon in North Carolina. She specializes in coloring, extensions and natural hair services. She has worked with brands like Virtue and Paul Mitchell.
- Philip B. (also known as Philip Berkovitz) is a scalp expert, celebrity hairstylist and founder of Philip B. He has over 30 years of experience and launched his first product—the Rejuvenating Oil Treatment—in 1992. The founder has worked with celebrities like Sharon Stone, Gwyneth Paltrow and Sandra Bullock.
- Jay Small is a celebrity hairstylist and founder of Arey, a haircare brand that specializes in grays. He has over 20 years of experience in the haircare space. His previous clients include Matt Damon and Luke Grimes.
- Dr. Mona Gohara, M.D., is a board-certified dermatologist in Connecticut who holds a degree from the Medical College of Ohio and trained at Yale New Haven Hospital. She serves on the board of directors for the Women's Dermatologic Society and is an associate clinical professor at Yale.
- Kerry Yates is a certified trichologist and partner of Colour Collective, a beauty agency that offers various services to brands, including marketing support, testing and training programs. She has over 20 years of experience in beauty and has previously worked with Unilever, Revlon and Matrix.
How We Chose the Best Scalp Serums
We asked editors to share their favorite scalp serums, while including the benefits (and downsides) of each product they recommended. We also chatted with dermatologists, hairstylists and trichologists, who provided their top picks. From there, we looked closely at key ingredients, before categorizing each serum based on scalp concerns and hair types. Here are the 20 best scalp serums for all hair types and needs.
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Best Overall
1. dpHUE Apple Cider Vinegar Daily Scalp Serum
What We Like
- safe for color-treated hair
- lightweight formula
What We Don't Like
- may feel greasy on some hair types
- pricey
dpHUE
With over 500 5-star reviews, this lightweight serum promises to soothe and nourish the scalp. The key ingredient—apple cider vinegar—boosts hydration and protects against inflammation, while also promoting healthy hair growth. Plus, the formula helps control sebum production and balance the scalp’s pH.
"I got turned on to dpHUE ACV Daily Scalp Serum when I was getting my hair done. The combination of getting highlights and applying chemicals on my head—plus, the overall winter dryness was irritating my scalp. I use this a few times a week on my sensitive scalp to help rebalance things and get rid of itchiness and flakiness," says Dana Dickey, senior editor at PureWow. "I also massage in a few drops before bed, which helps relax me and stimulates my hair’s pH and growth cycle. I’m just so happy it doesn’t smell like vinegar, but still contains those cleansing properties."
Fast Facts
- Key Ingredients: apple cider vinegar, glycerin
- Best for: irritated, dry scalps
Best for Dandruff
2. Straand The Crown Fix Scalp Serum
What We Like
- safe for color- and chemically-treated hair
- non-greasy formula
- soothes scalp
What We Don't Like
- not great for very fine hair
Straand
Dealing with flakes and irritation? This scalp serum is for you. Its nourishing formula features lactic acid, which helps relieve and hydrate an itchy scalp. Plus, the dropper lets you target areas to keep your scalp fresh and calm for the rest of the day. "During postpartum, my scalp got really itchy—which is apparently a thing—and a combination of Head & Shoulders shampoo and this serum post-shower made a world of a difference in relieving the itch. My scalp is no longer dry and I only needed to use it once every few days to see results," says Candace Davison, VP of editorial at PureWow.
Fast Facts
- Key Ingredients: lactic acid
- Best for: irritated scalps, chemically-treated hair, dryness
Best Vegan Formula
3. Vegamour GRO Scalp Detoxifying Serum
What We Like
- has a vegan formula
- exclusive discount for members
- cruelty-free
What We Don't Like
- small bottle
- pricey
Vegamour
This hair serum takes a holistic approach to hair thinning and shedding. Its vegan formula (consisting of phyto-actives, silk proteins and minerals) is designed to soothe the scalp, remove buildup and increase your hair density (by up to 58 percent, per the brand). The Vegamour pick is also loved by many of our editors. As Commerce Editor Olivia Dubyak shares, "My scalp gets oily very quickly. After a few days of build up, the Vegamour GRO Scalp Detoxifying Serum is great for really cleaning my scalp. I also usually have a very dry scalp right out of the shower with freshly washed hair. But when I use this once a week, I've noticed it's less itchy and dry—it just feels clean."
Fast Facts
- Key Ingredients: zinc, evening primrose, red clover, vegan silk protein
- Best for: thinning, fine hair
Best Pre-Wash Treatment
What We Like
- sulfate-free
- pleasant scent
- soothes scalp
What We Don't Like
- pricey
Philip B
Philip B recommends this treatment before shampooing to prep your scalp for a thorough cleanse. The self-heating mixture stimulates blood flow and reduces thinning. The key ingredient—rednesyl—is proven to thicken locks in the long run. Just let it sit on your scalp for five to 20 minutes (depending on your sensitivity) before rinsing and continuing with your haircare routine as usual.
Fast Facts
- Key Ingredients: rednesyl, vitamin E, lavender oil
- Best for: thinning
Newcomer
What We Like
- targets hair loss
- encourage healthy hair growth
- strengthens strands
What We Don't Like
- only available on their site
Goldie Locks
We'll save you the whole spiel, because the ingredients speak for themselves. This scalp serum has capixyl (a peptide and red clover extract blend) known to target hair loss and encourage hair growth. The formula also includes bakuchiol, gingseng root, niacinamide and probiotics to improve overall scalp and hair health. For Associate SEO Editor Marissa Wu, she has slowly started seeing a difference in her hair after implementing the product in her routine for a few months. "I have very fine hair, so if something is oily, it shows [up on my scalp]. But, with this [serum] it doesn't at all! I use it in tandem with other hair-stimulating products and I have noticed a lot of baby hairs spring up, so I guess it's working," she says.
Fast Facts
- Key Ingredients: capixyl, bakuchiol, ginseng root extract, niacinamide, ginseng root extract, probiotics
- Best for: shedding, fine hair
Stylist Pick
6. Virtue Refresh Scalp Supplement
What We Like
- sulfate-free
- great for oily scalps
- fast-absorbing
What We Don't Like
- may feel greasy for some hair types
Virtue
This Virtue serum gets a stamp of approval from our experts. Formulated with peptides, ceramides and keratin, along with plant and water-based ingredients like watercress and Indian cress extract, it's praised for improving scalp and hair health overtime. “I recommend this lightweight serum because it’s great for nightly use and is filled with peptides and hyaluronic acid to lock in moisture at the scalp without clogging the follicles,” explains Godbee.
Fast Facts
- Key Ingredients: biomimetic peptide, ceramides, watercress extract, keratin
- Best for: oily scalps, flakiness
Best for Gray Hair
What We Like
- hypollergenic
- oil-free formula
- dermatologist-tested
What We Don't Like
- some reviewers found it felt sticky on their hair
Arey
Packed with antioxidants, extracts and peptides, this Arey pick promises to target aging hair and work with early stages of gray hair. According to Small, it's a product he relies on for his hair and his beard: "I'm about 15 percent gray and I don’t want to use hair dye to maintain my natural hair color. I apply this serum to both my scalp and my beard area and since using I have noticed less gray hair growth and a more vibrant color."
He continues, "I have been using this serum for a little over two years and I have fewer grays now, while constantly getting comments about the fullness of my hair. For a person soon to turn 40 I will take all the hair compliments I can get!"
Fast Facts
- Key Ingredients: antioxidants, peptides
- Best for: grey hair, fine hair
Editor's Pick
8. Matrix Total Results Instacure Scalp Serum
What We Like
- offers a cooling sensation
- great nozzle applicator
- hydrating ingredients
What We Don't Like
- not great for thin hair
Matrix
If I'm rocking a protective style or wearing a super tight hairstyle, I use this scalp serum to relieve any tension and refresh my scalp whenever I need it. The soothing formula features biotin, avocado oil and liquid proteins, so it moisturizes and calms any irritation. The nozzle applicator also makes it easy to apply the product directly to my scalp and don't get me started on the cooling sensation it leaves behind.
Fast Facts
- Key Ingredients: biotin, avocado oil, proteins
- Best for: dryness, flakiness
Best Budget
9. Dove Scalp + Hair Therapy Fullness Restore Scalp Serum
What We Like
- hydrating ingredients
- dermatologist-tested
- soothes scalp
What We Don't Like
- strong scent
Dove
Developed by dermatologists, this Dove serum vows to restore the scalp and revive strands. As Dr. Gohara explains, "The clinically-proven ingredients strengthen the scalp and boost hair density [after] about three months with regular use. It has active ingredients such as niacinamide (B3), peptides and zinc to provide nourishment. Plus, glycerin to support a healthy scalp and protect strands from future breakage."
And if you’re looking for a wallet-friendly option, this one falls just under $15. "Another reason I love this serum is that you can use it in the morning before styling, or at night before going to bed. It gives the flexibility to your haircare routine to figure out what works best for you," adds Dr. Gohara.
Fast Facts
- Key Ingredients: vitamin B3, peptides, zinc, glycerin
- Best for: dryness, flakiness
Best Overnight Serum
10. Aveda Overnight Scalp Serum
What We Like
- pleasant scent
- has clean ingredients
- great for all hair types
What We Don't Like
- not great for oily scalps
Aveda
Yates recommends this Aveda overnight serum that contains probiotics, amino acids (like ectoin) and hyaluronic acid to improve scalp health overtime. "It maintains [a] healthy microbiome, soothes scalp irritation and helps maintain proper moisture balance," she says. "It's suitable for all hair types and I love that this formula has been reviewed by a dermatologist."
Fast Facts
- Key Ingredients: lactobacillus ferment, ectoin, hyaluronic acid
- Best for: dryness, irritation, redness
Best Clean Formula
11. Augustinus Bader The Scalp Treatment
What We Like
- fragrance-free
- has clean ingredients
- great for hair types
What We Don't Like
- not great for sensitive scalps
Augustinus Bader
This treatment plays the long game in improving and supporting your scalp health. Powered by Augustinus Bader's TFC8 technology (which contains a blend of amino acids, vitamins and peptides), the treatment has been shown to stimulate the scalp, reduce hair loss and encourage healthy hair growth. On that note, the serum promises to thicken strands, while simultaneously conditioning and smoothing your hair. "It supports follicle health and helps maintain moisture balance on the scalp. Plus, it really takes care of the scalp," says Yates.
Fast Facts
- Key Ingredients: amino acids, vitamins, peptides
- Best for: thinning
Most Lightweight
12. Fable & Mane SahaScalp Amla Soothing Serum
What We Like
- has clean ingredients
- great for sensitive scalps
- silicone-free
What We Don't Like
- strong scent
Fable & Mane
The last thing you need is for a serum to feel heavy on your scalp. This one promises to soothe itching, while hydrating without making things greasy. It’s rich in amia (an Indian super berry), bakuchi and aloe to rejuvenate sensitive scalps. One reviewer shares, “I’ve used this twice and both times I could tell a noticeable difference in my scalp. It was very clean and [I] felt like my head could breathe. Incorporating a scalp serum to your hair routine is key!! [Though] I did feel like I needed more than one syringe, as directed, to cover the area evenly.”
Fast Facts
- Key Ingredients: amla (Indian gooseberry), bakuchi, aloe
- Best for: dry and sensitive scalps, flakiness
Best for Irritated Scalps
13. Bread Beauty Supply Scalp Serum
What We Like
- contains clean ingredients
- BIPOC-owned
- great for curly hair
What We Don't Like
- small bottle
Bread Beauty
This gentle serum refreshes and soothes any troubled areas with mandelic acid, chinaberry extract and eucalyptol. The anti-itch treatment also acts as an exfoliator to keep your scalp clean and flake-free before your next wash day. “I have an easily irritated, super sensitive scalp [and have to be careful] when it comes to products that state they're supposed to ‘cool/refresh’ the scalp. This [serum] does not cause any flare ups or irritation for me at all! Love that it's a very gentle cooling sensation—not like someone dumped a whole bottle of peppermint oil on your head,” shares one Sephora shopper.
Fast Facts
- Key Ingredients: mandelic acid, chinaberry extract, eucalyptol
- Best for: thinning, dandruff, dry scalps
Best for Dry Scalps
14. Moroccanoil Dry Scalp Treatment
What We Like
- pleasant scent
- great for all hair types
- a little goes a long way
What We Don't Like
- pricey
Moroccanoil
This serum features a blend of salicylic acid and geranium oil to reduce product build up, clear up flakes and soothe the scalp. The pre-treatment also has argan oil and vitamin E that adds shine and moisture to your strands. A helpful tip: Add three drops to your dry scalp (and dull strands), let sit for a few minutes and rinse before continuing with your wash routine.
One shopper shares, “I have had the worst scalp since I was a child... I'm in my 40s now. I have tried a lot of things like [changing my] diet, dermatologist treatments, etc. I added this to my already ridiculous routine. (I also have a mixed afro that is crazy dry and fine but thick, so it's already a lot of work.) I'm finding this treatment is a really big help. I wash my hair once a week. My scalp is now less flaky, and itchy, and the build-up is way less.”
Fast Facts
- Key Ingredients: argan oil, salicylic acid, geranium oil
- Best for: dry scalps, flakiness
Best for Oily Scalps
15. Briogeo Scalp Revival Charcoal + Tea Tree Scalp Treatment
What We Like
- has clean ingredients
- soothes scalp
- Black-owned
What We Don't Like
- can feel drying for some hair types
Briogeo
This serum is ready to balance your oily scalp once and for all. Loaded with charcoal, tea tree oil and witch hazel, it helps unclog pores, reduce irritation and control oil production. Apply a few drops and let the serum get to work on clearing away any build up. Oh, and the peppermint provides a nice cooling sensation for a moment of Zen in your shower.
“It gets rid of any dandruff I have and does not make my hair look greasy or different in any way! I just use it after washing and while my hair is still damp. I have been using a lot of different scalp scrubs lately cause my dandruff took a turn for the worse, but this stuff still works better,” says one Sephora customer.
Fast Facts
- Key Ingredients: binchotan charcoal, peppermint oil, tea tree oil, witch hazel
- Best for: oily or dry scalps, flakiness
Best for Thinning Hair
16. The Ordinary Multi-Peptide Serum
What We Like
- silicone-free
- has a vegan formula
What We Don't Like
- might feel greasy for some hair types
The Ordinary
This multi-peptide serum promises to improve hair density, especially for people with thinning hair. It's formulated with redensyl, procapil and baicapil to encourage growth, nourish strands and improve the overall appearance of your locks. It’s recommended to apply the product daily on a dry scalp to see the best results.
For one customer, they noticed a difference after consistently using the serum. “If you stick with this it will do wonders! After a couple weeks, I didn’t notice much. But after a month of using this every day…oh my gosh! Amazing! I’ve had a horrible hair line for years from always wearing my hair in a tight high ponytail. I had a ‘dancer hairline’ always pulled back gelled down and tight. I now see growth in areas I was insecure about [and it] even helped my eyebrows!”
Fast Facts
- Key Ingredients: redensyl, procapil, biacapil
- Best for: thinning
Best for Hair Growth
17. Act + Acre Cold Processed Stem Cell Serum
What We Like
- promotes thicker hair
- great for oily scalps
- lightweight formula
What We Don't Like
- pricey
Act + Acre
A perk of using scalp serums are new hair growth. This one does exactly that and it helps improve fullness and reduces shedding to boot. The key ingredient—apple stem cell—hydrates the scalp, protects against thinning and promotes more voluminous locks. The serum also has aloe vera bamboo extract and pea sprout extract to soothe and smooth strands. “I bought this serum to help my hair grow thicker. It isn’t oily at all and blends in nicely into the scalp. I have been using it consistently daily and definitely feel like my hair is growing with resilience,” says one Sephora reviewer.
Fast Facts
- Key Ingredients: H2-grow complex, bamboo and pea sprout blend, hyaluronic acid
- Best for: thinning, dry scalps, flakiness
Best for Natural Hair
18. Pattern Beauty Scalp Serum
What We Like
- hydrating ingredients
- great for protective styles
- Black-owned
What We Don't Like
- might feel greasy for some hair types
Pattern
Whether you’re sporting your natural curls or rocking a protective style, this scalp serum is dedicated to boosting natural hair. It’s loaded with aloe juice, glycerin and castor oil to restore and refresh dry scalps. Plus, it's rich in peppermint and lavender oil, which offers a calming sensation to relieve any tension and inflammation.
“It does a great job of cooling [down] irritated spots and does not drip down all over my face. I apply it at night before wrapping up my hair. The problem is if you apply too much product it does cause buildup that can also cause dirt and more irritation,” says one Ulta shopper.
Fast Facts
- Key Ingredients: aloe juice, glycerin, castor oil, peppermint oil, rosemary oil, lavender oil
- Best for: dry scalps, flakiness
Best Multitasker
19. Ouai Scalp Serum
What We Like
- pleasant scent
- encourages healthy hair growth
- hydrating ingredients
What We Don't Like
- pricey
Ouai
Whether you’re dealing with dryness, flakes or shedding, this scalp serum can help. With a blend of adaptogens and hyaluronic acid, it offers a boost of hydration. There’s also red clover flower extract that soothes and protects your strands against styling. The finishing touch? Peptides to encourage fuller, thicker hair.
For one Sephora shopper, this scalp serum has rescued her dry, flat locks: “I’ve only been using this product for a few days, but I’m already in love! I was worried it would be oily and leave my hair greasy, but it’s so lightweight that you can apply quite a bit and you can’t even tell! It also gives your hair a nice lift, making it look more voluminous. I also have dry, flaky scalp and I think this helps soothe and hydrate it. I’m excited to see the hair growth results! I know this is a pricier item, but I think it’s worth the splurge.”
Fast Facts
- Key Ingredients: adaptogens, hyaluronic acid, red clover flower extract, peptides
- Best for: dryness, thinning, flakiness
Best Instant Relief
20. Sunday II Sunday Soothe Me Daily Scalp Serum
What We Like
- has a cooling effect
- great for natural hair
- Black-owned
What We Don't Like
- might feel drying for some hair types
Sunday II Sunday
Whether you’re on-the-go or need an instant fix, this scalp serum has your back. It promises itch and tension relief in about 15 minutes. Made with alternsis botantics and peppermint oil, the serum minimizes any inflammation and irritation upon application. Plus, the nozzle tip makes it easy to apply directly on the scalp, especially if you’re rocking a tight hairstyle (i.e, ponytails, high buns or braids). “I have a sensitive scalp that is prone to flares of itching and flaking. I use this product when I have braids or any other protective style and it is the only thing that constantly soothes my scalp,” says one Sephora reviewer.
Fast Facts
- Key Ingredients: bio-marine active, himalayan mushroom complex, peppermint extract
- Best for: dryness, flakiness
What to Consider When Buying a Scalp Serum
Your scalp type plays a large role in finding the right serum that addresses your hair needs. Here’s what our experts have to say:
- If you have an oily scalp, consider formulas that clarify and control oil production. Reslan says ingredients like glycolic acid, apple cider vinegar and charcoal are a great start. (Her recommendation? The It's a 10 Scalp Restore Miracle Scalp Serum.)
- If you have a dry scalp, hydrating formulas are the way to go. Godbee suggests water-based, lightweight oils that won’t be too heavy on the scalp (which can create product build up). Instead, look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid, tea tree oil and argan oil to hydrate and maintain your scalp’s moisture.
- If you have thinning areas, you’ll want to find serums that encourage healthy hair growth. Look into zinc, biotin and vitamin-based products (like vitamins A and E) to improve fullness, reduce shedding and repair locks. Philip B. also suggests growth-activating ingredients like Redensyl: “It’s rich in vitamins and essential oils. It also provides nutrients to the scalp and hair follicles and increases the blood flow in the scalp—making hair stronger and thicker.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Scalp Serum?
“Scalp serums are concentrated topical formulas that help soothe, nourish and rebalance the scalp,” explains Godbee. “As a hairstylist, I stress to all of my clients the importance of a healthy scalp. It’s the foundation to having healthy, strong hair and encouraging hair growth,” she adds.
What Are the Benefits of Using a Scalp Serum?
Have irritation? Flakes? Dryness? Thinning? There’s probably a serum out there for you. The benefits include (and are not limited to) calming, nourishing and cleansing your scalp. Another major pro of using a scalp serum: it protects and prevents future issues from happening—if you’re consistent, of course. “They are an ideal 'solution solver' that [can be] added to the routine [to combat things like] product build up, environmental factors or other common stressors,” adds Philip B.
What Ingredients Should You Avoid in a Scalp Serum?
Find scalp serums that are paraben-, sulfate-, formaldehyde- and silicone-free. These ingredients can increase flakiness, sebum production and shedding. Reslan also points out that some natural ingredients can do more harm than good. “Although there is a conscious effort to avoid commonly known toxic ingredients in hair care, it’s equally important to be aware of natural ingredients that can irritate your scalp or worse, cause thinning,” says Reslan. “Many plant-based hair brands [use] high concentrations of botanical oils [in their products] that can be irritating. If combined with alcohol, the penetration is enhanced on the scalp, which may increase irritation in sensitive individuals. If you’re already thinning, it’s best to avoid these ingredients [altogether].”
What Are the Steps to Using a Scalp Serum?
The experts suggest using a scalp serum daily and following these three steps to get the most out of the product.
1. Start by combing (or brushing) your hair. Smalls suggest doing this first to get all the tangles out and making it easier to apply the serum. "I recommend using a wide tooth comb to make little 'lanes.' These lanes will be where you apply the scalp serum to allow even application directly to the scalp," he says.
2. Read the instructions on the dosage. Every scalp serum is different, so read through the instructions on how much to use on your scalp.
3. Use your fingertips to massage the scalp. Once applied, gently massage the product on the scalp in circular motions. "When using your finger tips to distribute product, try not to run your hands through you hair. Try keeping the product only on the scalp.
4. Apply more if needed. You can apply a bit more on any areas of concerns.
How Often Should You Use a Scalp Serum?
The frequency will depend on how often you normally wash your hair. That said, all of the experts recommend using a scalp serum on freshly shampooed hair for best results. As Yates explains, "Regardless of application, do NOT apply the serum and then wash your hair. The purpose of the serum is to leave it on for the most effective results."