Best Dry Scalp Treatments in Singapore (2025 Dermatologist-Approved)

Singapore is a city with a high-humidity climate and air-conditioned environments that pose multiple challenges for hair and skin health. One such concern that affects the majority of Singaporeans is a dry scalp. Have you ever caught yourself in a situation where you feel an itchy scalp, and upon scratching, you see a snowfall of tiny white flakes? You are not alone! Many people struggle with a dry scalp that is further exacerbated by the country’s hard water. A dry scalp is not only a nuisance on its own; it negatively impacts hair health, calling for effective dry scalp treatments and solutions.

In this guide, we will cover some of the most common causes of dry scalp, how to differentiate between dry scalp and dandruff, an overview of the best dry scalp treatments in Singapore for 2025, affordable home remedies, and effective prevention tips. Let’s dive in!

What is a Dry Scalp?

A dry scalp occurs when the skin on your head lacks sufficient moisture, which leads to flaking, itching, and irritation. Dry scalp is different from dandruff as dandruff is often caused by a fungal overgrowth, whereas dry scalp results from dehydrated skin cells shedding more visibly.

Some common signs and characteristics of dry scalp include:

●  Flakes: Small, white, and dry (not greasy or yellow like dandruff).

●  Sensation: Tightness, itchiness, or a "stretchy" feeling.

●  Appearance: No redness or inflammation (unless scratched excessively).

●  Triggers: External factors (weather, products) more than internal biology.

Causes of Dry Scalp in Singapore

Dry scalp is a common issue in Singapore that results from a mix of environmental, lifestyle, and biological factors. Understanding these causes can help you prevent and treat flakiness effectively.

Hard Water (High Mineral Content)

Singapore’s tap water contains calcium and magnesium, which can strip natural oils from the scalp and leave a residue that clogs hair follicles. A common sign of this is that the hair feels rough and the scalp feels tight after washing.

Air-Conditioning & Indoor Dryness

Because of Singapore’s high humidity climate, the use of air conditioners is quite common in every household and office area. This constant exposure to aircon reduces humidity around the scalp and disrupts the skin’s moisture barrier. This can result in a dry scalp.

Overwashing or Harsh Hair Products

Daily shampooing with sulfates (SLS/SLES) strips moisture from the hair and scalp. Moreover, alcohol-based styling products (hairsprays, gels) worsen dryness. The most common sign of a dry scalp because of harsh hair products is that the scalp feels squeaky clean but itchy afterward.

Humidity & Sweat Buildup

High outdoor humidity and sweat can irritate the scalp, which can lead to overwashing, thus drying the scalp further.

Diet & Dehydration

Another common cause of a dry scalp is directly linked with your diet and level of hydration. Low water intake can cause dry skin and scalp. Diets lacking omega-3s or vitamin E weaken scalp health.

Stress & Hormonal Changes

Stress is another common culprit of a dry scalp. Stress triggers cortisol spikes that disrupt oil production in the scalp. Also, hormonal shifts (pregnancy, menopause) can dry out the scalp.

Underlying Skin Conditions

Some underlying skin conditions can also lead to a dry and flaky scalp, along with dried hair. Conditions such as Eczema (atopic dermatitis) can cause patches of dry, itchy skin. Similarly, psoriasis can lead to thick, scaly flakes (silver-white).

Dry Scalp vs. Dandruff – How to Tell the Difference

Many people confuse dry scalp with dandruff, but they are different conditions and, subsequently, require different treatments. Here’s how to identify which you have:

Best Dry Scalp Treatments in Singapore (2025)

If you're battling a dry, flaky scalp in Singapore's tropical climate, you need targeted solutions that hydrate, repair, and protect your scalp barrier. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the most effective treatments available locally—from drugstore buys to clinical procedures.

Medicated Shampoos (Drugstore & Prescription)

Medicated shampoos offer effective relief for a dry scalp. Some medicated shampoos are easily available at drugstores and are effective for mild cases. However, for severe cases of dry scalp, your dermatologist may prescribe a stronger prescription medicated shampoo.

For Mild Cases:

●  Neutrogena T/Sal Therapeutic Shampoo: Contains salicylic acid which exfoliates dead skin

●  Aveeno Skin Relief Shampoo: Key ingredient is oatmeal that helps soothe itching and is ideal for sensitive scalps.

For Persistent Flakes (Dermatologist-prescribed):

●  Nizoral (Ketoconazole 2%): It is an antifungal and anti-inflammatory shampoo that shows good results for persistent dry scalp conditions.

●  Dermovate Scalp Lotion (Clobetasol): It is prescribed for severe eczema/psoriasis-related dryness.

Professional Scalp Treatments

Hydrating Scalp Facials

These scalp facials deeply cleanse and infuse hyaluronic acid into the scalp to hydrate it and combat dryness. They also help detoxify the scalp to provide instant results and immediate relief from dryness and itchiness.

LED Light Therapy

LED light therapy is also an effective dry scalp treatment Singapore option as the blue light kills bacteria, while the red light reduces inflammation. The process also boosts hydration in the scalp.

Corticosteroid Injections

For exxtreme cases of scalp dryness such as scalp eczema with bleeding cracks, your dermatologist may prescribe corticosteriod injections along with other treatment procedures to treat eczema and dryness at the same time.

Dermatologist-Approved Home Remedies

Weekly Oil Treatments

Different kinds of vegetable oils are quite effective in restoring hydration to the scalp. The oil is typically warmed up and applied to the scalp or gently massaged. The oil is then left to work its wonders for a few hours or even overnight. Different oils offer different benefits for the hair, such as:

●  Coconut Oil: Locks in moisture and has anti-inflammatory properties.

●  Jojoba Oil: Mimics the scalp’s natural sebum to provide hydration.

●  Olive Oil: Rich in vitamin E, which is essential for good hair and scalp health.

●  Tea Tree Oil: Helps reduce itching in a dry scalp.

DIY Aloe Vera Gel Soothing Mask

You can create a DIY aloe vera gel mask by mixing fresh aloe vera gel with a teaspoon of honey. Apply this mask on the scalp for at least 15 minutes before rinsing with cool water. This mask cools itching and helps hydrate the scalp and hair.

Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse

Mix 1 part apple cider vinegar with 2 parts water. After rinsing off your shampoo, apply this apple cider vinegar rinse to the scalp and leave on for 2 minutes. Rinse after that. This rinse helps restores scalp pH and removes hard water buildup to offer refreshing results.

Prescription Oral Medications

For cases linked to nutrient deficiencies or autoimmune issues, a dermatologist may prescribe supplements and oral medicines.

●  Vitamin D Supplements (If blood test shows a Vitamin D deficiency).

●  Omega-3 Capsules (To reduce inflammation).

●  Antihistamines (If your scalp itching is related to some form of skin allergy).

When Should I See a Doctor For a Dry Scalp?

If you dry flakes persist for more than 2 weeks or your scalp starts to bleed or developes sores, it is recommended to consult a dermatologist to diagnose the underlying condition and start effective dry scalp treatment.

Prevention Tips and Lifestyle Adjustments for Singaporeans

Since dry scalp is caused by Singapore’s high-humidity weather and other local causes, it is important that people adjust their lifestyles accordingly. Following are some effective tips to prevent dry scalp in Singapore.

●  Combat hard water: Install a shower filter that will help reduce mineral deposits in the water (which can worsen dryness)

●  Reduce dryness caused by aircons: Use a humidifier to maintain a healthy humidity level in the room where the aircon is working. Also, use silk pillowcases while sleeping as they offer less friction as compared to cotton pillowcases.

●  Use chemical-free hair products: Use sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners. Also avoid alcohol-based stylers.

Two Herb’s Best Dry Scalp Treatment, Singapore

At Two Herbs, we have formulated effective dry scalp treatments to help relieve symptoms and soothe the dry and sensitive scalp. Our collagen deep moisturising mask helps hydrate the scalp while restoring moisture. The mask uses natural ingredients like hydrolyzed royal jelly protein, crambe abyssinica seed oil and hydrolyzed collagen to provide deep hydration to the dry scalp. This vegan-friendly and trichologist-tested treatment will leave your hair feeling soft, moistured, and fresh.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if I have dry scalp or dandruff?

In case of a dry scalp, you will feel small, white flakes in the scalp and a tight/itchy feeling with no redness. However, in case of dandruff, you will notice larger, oily, yellowish flakes and the feeling of an inflamed scalp.

What’s the fastest way to relieve dry scalp at home?

Massage coconut oil mixed with 2 drops of tea tree oil into your scalp and hair, leave for 30 mins, then rinse. For instant relief, you may even use chilled alow vera gel to soothe itching and provide relief from dryness.

Which shampoo is best for dry scalp in Singapore?

Some of the top drugstore shampoos for dry scalp in Singapore are:

●  Aveeno Skin Relief (soothes eczema-prone scalps)

●  Neutrogena T/Sal (exfoliates flakes with salicylic acid)

●  Sebamed Anti-Dry (pH-balanced for sensitive skin)

How often should I wash my hair if I have dry scalp?

Ideally, you should wash your hair 2-3 times per week with lukewarm water if you have a dry scalp. If you feel sweat in your scalp, for example after a workout, rinse with water only to avoid over-cleansing.

Can hard water in Singapore cause dry scalp?

Yes hard water is one of the leading causes of dry scalp in Singapore. The minerals in Singapore’s tap water strip moisture from the hair and scalp. Install a shower filter to combat hard water and use a chelating shampoo monthly.

Are scalp facials in Singapore worth the money?

Yes, scalp facials can offer various benefits including:

●  Deep hydration (hyaluronic acid infusions).

●  Exfoliation (removes dead skin buildup).

Can stress cause dry scalp?

Yes. Stress disrupts oil production in the scalp which can lead to dryness.

Is dry scalp linked to hair loss?

Yes, dry scalp can be indirectly linked to hair loss as constant scratching can damage hair follicles.