Derms Recommend This Ingredient to Fix Dry, Flaky Scalps (and It Only Costs $13)

No skin or hair issue is fun to deal with, but there are a few that go beyond irritating and verge into uncomfortable. A dry, flaky, itchy scalp is one of them. This might be TMI, but I deal with it all the time, especially since I recently moved back to a cold, dry climate. Since I put so much time, effort (and, let's be real), and money into making my hair and scalp the best it can be, it's discouraging when I see tightness, redness, and flakiness instead of a healthy, fertile scalp. 

So what can I do to remedy the situation? I can invest in the right scalp care products. I can also use a naturally anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial ingredient that costs less than $20. Yep, and it's recommended by dermatologists too. I'm talking about tea tree oil—an ingredient that can fix dry, flaky scalps in a pinch. Ahead, learn everything you need to know about this ingredient and how it can fix one of the biggest winter beauty woes. 

How Does Tea Tree Oil Benefit the Hair and Scalp?

Geeta Yadav, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Facet Dermatology. She says tea tree oil comes from the tea tree (melaleuca alternifolia), which is native to Australia. It's so good at fixing dry, flaky scalps, that it can even help manage full-blown dandruff… and reduce the greasiness of hair. Cool, right?

"Studies show that tea tree oil can be very beneficial in treating flaky scalps, especially in those managing mild to moderate dandruff," she says. "It can improve the appearance of the dandruff lesions as well as itchiness and perceived greasiness of the hair."

How Should It Be Used?

There are two options when it comes to using tea tree oil to soothe a dry, flaky scalp: You can use pure tea tree oil, or you can use products formulated with it. While the former is possible, Yadav recommends the latter. "I'd recommend products formulated with tea tree oil over using pure tea tree oil. Pure tea tree oil has to be diluted as it is very powerful and using it straight can cause significant irritation," she says.

As such, it's imperative to use pure tea tree oil correctly. "If you were to use pure tea tree oil, you should only use a few drops mixed into your shampoo; it's better to shop for formulas that were created with tea tree oil and have already been tested for safety and efficacy." 

Are There Any Downsides to Using Tea Tree Oil?

The best part about tea tree oil is that it can benefit anyone—regardless of hair type or texture. "So long as you don't experience a negative reaction to tea tree oil, it can be used daily," Yadav says. 

That doesn't mean you can go all in and start using tea tree oil with abandon. As with any new skincare ingredient or product, performing a patch test is key. "Though it is an anti-inflammatory ingredient, tea tree oil is potent and can cause some irritation. It's important to patch-test any new ingredient, especially if you have sensitive skin, before adding it to your regular routine," Yadav cautions. 

The Best Hair and Scalp Products With Tea Tree Oil