Why Dry Scalp and Dandruff Strike in Winter – And How to Banish Them for Good!

As the winter months roll out, many people start to notice something else: an itchy, dry scalp or even dandruff. If you find yourself constantly scratching your head or noticing flakes on your shoulders, you're not alone. Winter can be particularly harsh on our scalp and hair, but understanding why it happens and how to combat it can make all the difference.

Why Does Dry Scalp and Dandruff Happen in Winter?

Cold weather and low humidity can strip your skin and scalp of its natural oils, leaving it feeling dry and flaky. Indoor heating, while cozy, can also exacerbate the issue by making the air even drier. When your scalp loses moisture, it can trigger the flakiness you associate with dandruff, often along with an itchy sensation.

Dandruff is caused by an overgrowth of a naturally occurring yeast on the scalp, combined with dry skin. In winter, the combination of lack of moisture in the air and the increase in dead skin cells can cause more noticeable flakes to form. Remember, I always talk about how we JUST NEED MOISTURE 😉

But don’t worry! There are simple ways to manage dry scalp and dandruff during the colder months.

How to Get Rid of Dry Scalp and Dandruff

1. Wash Your Hair Regularly (But Don’t Overdo It!) Washing your hair too infrequently can contribute to a buildup of oils and dead skin, which can worsen dandruff. But washing too often can strip your scalp of the oils it needs to stay hydrated. Aim for washing your hair around two to three times a week, depending on your hair type. (ask your stylist for her professional recommendation for your hair type!)

The key is to use the right products that hydrate and cleanse without leaving your scalp feeling stripped.

2. Use Hydrating, Scalp-Focused Products Choosing products specifically designed to nourish and hydrate your scalp is crucial to getting rid of dandruff. Here are some of my personal favorites:

K18 Detox Shampoo
The K18 Detox Shampoo is an incredible product for combating dryness. It works by removing buildup without stripping your scalp’s natural oils, which is key to keeping it healthy and moisturized. It helps refresh your scalp, balancing the moisture levels to reduce dryness and irritation.

Surface Awaken Regimen
This is an amazing collection of products that addresses dry scalp while stimulating healthy hair growth. My favorites within this regimen are:

  • Detox Scrub – The Detox Scrub provides a gentle exfoliation, removing dead skin cells and buildup that can cause flakes.

  • Shampoo – Surface Awaken Shampoo is designed to hydrate and restore moisture to the scalp, leaving your hair feeling fresh without being weighed down.

  • Mask and Conditioner – The hydrating mask and conditioner provide deep nourishment and lock in moisture, promoting a healthier scalp and smoother hair.

    Paul Mitchell Tea Tree Products
    Paul Mitchell’s Tea Tree collection is perfect for soothing and revitalizing the scalp. The Tea Tree Oil provides a refreshing, cooling sensation that helps alleviate itching, while also fighting bacteria and fungi that could contribute to dandruff. It’s especially helpful if you’re dealing with irritated skin under all those flakes.

    Why These Products Work for Dry Scalp and Dandruff
    Each of the recommended products above is designed to cleanse, exfoliate, and hydrate your scalp without harsh chemicals that can make things worse. They balance oil production, deeply nourish your scalp, and remove buildup, all while leaving your hair soft and shiny.

Tips for Maintaining a Healthy Scalp in Winter

  • Moisturize – Add a hydrating leave-in treatment to your routine, or consider using natural oils (like argan or coconut) to give your scalp an extra boost.

  • Avoid Hot Water – Hot water strips your scalp of essential oils. Instead, wash with lukewarm water to maintain moisture.

  • Protect Your Hair – Wear a hat or scarf when braving the elements to protect your hair and scalp from the drying effects of the cold air.

  • Stay Hydrated – It’s easy to forget about hydration in the winter, but drinking plenty of water helps keep your skin and scalp moisturized from the inside out.

Ready to Get Rid of Dry Scalp and Dandruff?

If you're ready to say goodbye to dry scalp and dandruff, I highly recommend trying out the products I mentioned above. You can easily shop for your favorites through the link below, and if you’re local, why not book a wash and style using these amazing products?

Shop these products here
Book your wash and style today

Don't let winter dryness get the best of you—take control of your scalp health and keep your hair feeling nourished all season long!

Summer is just around the corner 😉

Xoxo

your beauty babe,

Riley

Riley Craig