Dry Scalp vs Oily Scalp: Scalp Care in Buffalo, NY

Scalp Care Part 2: Dry vs. Oily Scalp — How to Care for What You Have

Now that we’ve covered why scalp care matters, let’s talk about one of the most asked questions we hear at Elysian Salon in Buffalo, NY:

“Do I have a dry scalp or an oily scalp?”

The answer matters — because treating the wrong issue can actually make things worse.

First Things First: Dry Scalp and Oily Scalp Are Not the Same

Dry scalp and dandruff often get lumped together, but they’re very different. A dry scalp lacks moisture, while an oily scalp produces excess oil. Both can flake, itch, and feel uncomfortable — which is why so many people misdiagnose themselves.

Understanding your scalp type is the key to choosing the right routine and products.

If You Have a Dry or Itchy Scalp

A dry scalp often feels tight, itchy, or sensitive. You might notice small, dry flakes and sometimes redness, especially in the colder Buffalo months.

Dry scalp is usually caused by things like cold weather, indoor heating, overwashing, harsh shampoos, or skipping conditioner on the scalp altogether.

The goal here isn’t to “scrub” the flakes away — it’s to restore moisture and protect the scalp barrier.

A healthy routine for a dry scalp focuses on gentle cleansing, hydration, and soothing ingredients. Washing too often or using aggressive shampoos can make dryness worse, so it’s important to be intentional rather than excessive.

Light scalp oils or hydrating scalp serums can be incredibly helpful when used sparingly, especially once or twice a month as a treatment rather than daily. Think nourishment, not stripping.

Here are some of my favorite at home remedies for dry, itchy flaking scalp. Side note - start with the shampoo if the shampoo does not do the trick move on to treatments.

Head and Shoulders $ - it smells gross, the packaging is not pretty and if you have colored treated hair it may strip the color a bit BUT it's an inexpensive solution.

Oway Purifying Hair Bath - dry scalp $$ - This is my go to in the winter months of Buffalo, NY. Olfactory bouquet: rosemary & bergamont.

Oway Purifying Hair Lotion - dry scalp $$$ - This product is only a necesity if your scalp is not healing from the shampoo alone.

check out Oway

$5 off Oway coupon code HHT4077

Malibu C - Scalp Therapy Remedy $ - This little packet has a whole lot of punch. I use this once a month along with the Oway Purifying Hair Bath as scalp treatment. Add a little water to this powdery packet which turns into a paste, apply to wet scalp, work into scalp, leave on 5 minutes, wash & condtion and your scalp is fresh and clean.

Check out Malibu C

If You Have an Oily or Flaky Scalp

An oily scalp usually feels greasy quickly — sometimes within a day or two of washing. You may notice larger flakes, buildup, or even odor at the roots. This is often where people assume they have a dry scalp, when in reality, their scalp is producing too much oil.

Overwashing, underwashing, heavy products at the root, improper cleansing techniques and hormones ( tweens usually go through a oily hormone phase to go along with the sassy attitude) can all contribute to oil imbalance.

The goal for an oily scalp isn’t to dry it out — it’s to balance oil production and keep follicles clear.

Regular cleansing is essential. Skipping washes can lead to buildup, clogged follicles, and scalp irritation. A clarifying or exfoliating shampoo used strategically can help reset the scalp without over-stripping.

Scalp exfoliation once a month can be a game-changer for oily or congested scalps, especially if you use dry shampoo, styling products, or have hard water.

Here are some of my favorite at home remedies for oily scalp. Side note - start with the shampoo if the shampoo does not do the trick move on to treatments.

Oway Sebum Balance Hair Bath - oily scalp $$ - A purifying shampoo that normalizes oily scalps and extends freshness between washes without stripping your hair. Olfactory buouquet: sage and anise.

Oway Purifying Hair Lotion - oily scalp $$$ - This product is only a necesity if your scalp is not healing from the shampoo alone.

Check out Oway

$5 off Oway coupon code HHT4077

How Often Should You Wash Your Hair?

This is one of the biggest myths we clear up in the salon.

If your scalp is oily, wash it when it’s oily. If your scalp is dry, wash it when it needs cleansing — but don’t avoid washing altogether. A clean scalp is a healthy scalp.

Your washing schedule may change with seasons, lifestyle, workouts, and even stress. There’s no universal rule — just awareness.

Product Choice Matters More Than Frequency

Using the wrong products can make both dry and oily scalp issues worse.

Dry scalps need gentle, hydrating formulas with calming ingredients. Oily scalps need thorough cleansing without heavy silicones or oils at the root.

This is why professional guidance matters. At Elysian Salon in Buffalo, we help clients choose products based on their scalp, not just their hair length or texture.

When to Seek Professional Help

If flakes, itchiness, redness, or irritation persist despite proper care, it’s time to consult a professional. Sometimes scalp issues go beyond dryness or oil imbalance and require a dermatologist’s care.

And if you’re unsure which category you fall into, a professional scalp consultation can save you time, money, and frustration.

Healthy Scalp, Healthy Hair — It’s That Simple

Whether your scalp is dry or oily, the goal is the same: balance. When your scalp is comfortable, clean, and nourished, your hair grows better, styles easier, and looks healthier overall.

At Elysian Salon in Buffalo, NY, scalp health is part of our approach to beautiful hair — because long-term results always start at the root.