The 3 Most Common Scalp Types (and How to Identify Yours)
Oily or Flaky Scalp
If your hair looks oily within a day or two of washing, or you frequently experience flakes or buildup, you likely have an oily scalp. Excess oil can trap dead skin cells, contributing to dandruff and making hair feel heavy at the roots.
Common signs:
- Hair becomes oily quickly
- Visible flakes or dandruff
- Itchy scalp
- Buildup at the roots
- Hair feels flat or heavy
What your scalp needs
The goal isn't to strip away every bit of oil. Your scalp naturally produces oil to protect itself. Instead, focus on cleansing thoroughly while helping maintain a balanced scalp environment.
Recommended shampoo: Warrior Shampoo
Remember: Choose your shampoo based on your scalp. Choose your conditioner based on your hair.
Dry or Sensitive Scalp
A dry or sensitive scalp often feels tight, itchy, or easily irritated. While it may also flake, these flakes are typically smaller and drier than dandruff and are often caused by a lack of moisture rather than excess oil.
Common signs:
- Tightness after washing
- Dry, powdery flakes
- Itching or discomfort
- Redness or sensitivity
- Scalp feels dry between washes
What your scalp needs
A dry or sensitive scalp benefits from gentle cleansing that helps maintain the scalp's natural moisture barrier without over-drying.
Recommended shampoo: Luna Clear Shampoo
Remember: Choose your shampoo based on your scalp. Choose your conditioner based on your hair.
Fluctuating or Combination Scalp
Your scalp isn't always the same—and that's completely normal. Hormones, stress, weather, age, and lifestyle can all influence how your scalp behaves. If it seems oily one week and dry the next, or your needs change throughout the year, you likely have a fluctuating or combination scalp.
Common signs:
- Oily roots with dry ends
- Scalp changes throughout the year
- Hair feels different from week to week
- Hormonal or seasonal changes affect your scalp
- Difficult to find one routine that always works
What your scalp needs
A changing scalp benefits from balance. Rather than overcorrecting oil or dryness, choose a shampoo that supports the scalp as its needs shift over time.
Recommended shampoo: Tulsi Bloom Shampoo
Remember: Choose your shampoo based on your scalp. Choose your conditioner based on your hair.