A healthy scalp is the foundation for beautiful hair, yet it’s often overlooked in our haircare routines. From dryness and irritation to buildup and oiliness, scalp problems can affect hair growth and overall hair health. Fortunately, the right scalp serum can soothe, hydrate, and balance your scalp for stronger, healthier hair.
Here are 7 of the best scalp serums from trusted brands like OUAI, Kérastase, The Ordinary, and more—each designed to tackle different scalp concerns and promote scalp wellness.
Image: dpHUE
1. Act + Acre Scalp Detox Oil
A 20-minute pre-wash oil formulated with 1.28% Baobab Oil that breaks down build-up, sweat, and other impurities while intensely moisturizing to relieve dry scalp.
Best for: Deep cleansing and exfoliation
2. The Ordinary Multi-Peptide Serum for Hair Density
Multi-Peptide Serum for Hair Density is a concentrated leave-in formula designed to support the scalp and give you thicker, denser, fuller-looking hair. The formula is lightweight and offers a combination of peptide technologies alongside a series of plant-based extracts.
Best for: Thicker, fuller-looking hair
3. Briogeo Charcoal + Tea Tree Scalp Treatment Drops
This hydrating leave-in scalp treatment detoxifies, balances, and calms an itchy, irritated, flaky scalp.
Clinically shown to increase scalp hydration by up to 2X*, this soothing treatment helps balance the scalp.
*Clinical study using skin hydration measurement instrumentation.
99% naturally-derived, vegan + Leaping Bunny certified cruelty-free.
Best for: Soothing itchiness and flakes
4. Vegamour GRO Scalp Detoxifying Serum
Remove impurities for a healthier looking scalp with GRO Scalp Detoxifying Serum. Formulated as a weekly treatment, this scalp serum works to sweep away buildup, helping to absorb excess oils, and leaving your scalp feeling soothed and refreshed.
Best for: Unclogging follicles and soothing sensitive scalps
5. OUAI Scalp Serum
Helps support the appearance of thicker, healthier hair. Featuring Adaptogens like Arctic Root, Siberian Ginseng, and Chaga Mushroom combined with Hyaluronic Acid, this serum can help promote hydration and a healthy barrier. Good for all hair types.
Best for: Hydrating and balancing the scalp
6. Dr. Barbara Sturm Balancing Scalp Serum
The BALANCING SCALP SERUM is an ingredient science-rich treatment which restores the scalp’s natural balance for optimal hair health.
A special ingredient complex containing Japanese Camellia, Brown and Green Algae and Lavender soothes the appearance of irritation, redness and itching and reduces flakiness caused by a dry scalp. Pro-Vitamin B5 promotes the resiliency of the hair shaft and achieves an ‘anti-splitting effect,’ improving hair condition.
Best for: Redness-prone or sensitive scalps
7. dpHUE Apple Cider Vinegar Daily Scalp Serum
The lightweight, oil-free blend works to nourish and hydrate the scalp as it helps calm irritation, dryness, and imbalance. This serum keeps the scalp balanced while also actively helping to protect against hair shedding and promote healthy hair growth. It also makes an excellent protective pre-treatment prior to hair coloring or bleaching to help prevent scalp discomfort.
Best for: Nourishing and revitalizing the scalp
Taking care of your scalp is just as important as caring for your hair. Incorporating a scalp serum from reputable brands like OUAI, or The Ordinary into your haircare routine can reduce irritation, promote hair growth, and improve overall scalp health.
Start with one of these top serums today and experience the difference a healthy scalp can make.