If you struggle with a flaky scalp, you are not alone. The scalp is home to a yeast called Malassezia, which feeds off the oil secreted there and produces difficult-to-cure yellowish flakes.
Despite their apparent similarities, flakiness caused by dandruff and a dry scalp has different root causes. Your skin becomes itchy and painful when you have a dry scalp. Dandruff flakes are brought on by an excess of oil produced by a Malassezia overgrowth.
Let's take a look at what causes a flaky scalp and then find out the best hair oils you can use to get rid of the flakiness!
Table of Contents:
- Causes of a Flaky Scalp
- Best Oils for a Flaky Scalp
- Tea tree oil
- Coconut oil
- Olive oil
- Argan oil
- Castor oil
Causes of a Flaky Scalp
Flakes can be caused by either dryness of the scalp or due to excess oil (sebum) production, as mentioned above. The most common cause of flakiness is often seborrheic dermatitis, which is caused by excess sebum production in the scalp. This may lead to fungal infections and severe skin problems if it's not addressed in time.

On the other hand, if your flakiness is caused by dryness, it can lead to red patches, excessive itching, and breaking of the skin if the dryness isn't addressed promptly.
Let's look at the best oils to combat both types of flakiness.
Best Oils for a Flaky Scalp
Most of the oils listed below can be found either as essential oils that must be diluted or blended oils that can be used directly. For best results, use the oil that suits your skin type (dry or oily).
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Tea tree oil
For many years, tea tree oil has been praised for its antimicrobial, antiseptic, and antifungal qualities. Additionally, it possesses anti-inflammatory qualities. Tea tree oil can irritate the skin; thus, it should be used moderately or diluted before use. It can help lessen or get rid of the flakiness that seborrheic dermatitis causes.
Try adding 10–20 drops of the WOW Skin Science Tea Tree Essential Oil to a gentle shampoo or massaging your scalp with a blend of olive and tea tree oils.
Remember that tea tree oil should never be ingested.

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Coconut oil
The numerous advantages of coconut oil for skin and hair issues are well-known. Along with all the aforementioned advantages, using coconut oil that is 100 percent organic can also aid with itchy scalp problems. Lauric acid, a kind of saturated fat that has antifungal properties, is present in it. This aids in reducing dandruff brought on by skin disorders.
Coconut oil can be used by slightly warming it and massaging it throughout your scalp. After that, massage it into your scalp for at least five minutes to ensure that it is absorbed completely.
Try the WOW Skin Science 10-in-1 Hair Oil, which contains a blend of coconut oil and nine other nourishing oils like jojoba, olive, tea tree, and Moroccan argan oil.

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Olive oil
This is an oil that is frequently discussed, not only in relation to cooking but also in relation to all-natural cosmetics. Indeed, olive oil has luscious, moisturizing qualities that are wonderful for your hair. It covers the damaged strands of hair and protects the hair shaft from heat, giving your hair a softer look. Hair will look healthier, thicker, and glossier after it's treated with olive oil.
Every week, evenly and thoroughly distribute 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil through damp or dry hair. Leave on for approximately 30 minutes while covered with a towel or shower cap. Feel free to omit the conditioner and rinse with cold water.
You can also use the WOW Skin Science Onion Black Seed Hair Oil, which contains olive oil along with a nutritious blend of almond, coconut, castor, and jojoba oils.

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Argan oil
Argan oil, commonly referred to as Moroccan oil, is made from the nuts of the Moroccan argan tree and is wonderful for your hair. Vitamin E, ferulic acid, fatty acids, and antioxidants that protect against UV light and hair cell damage are all found in abundance in argan oil.
Just a few drops of this oil will nourish and hydrate your hair, preventing dullness, flaking, and frizz while also shielding it from heat.
Try the WOW Skin Science Moroccan Argan Hair Oil to get rid of flakes caused by dry skin.

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Castor oil
Castor oil is made from castor beans. The antioxidants in castor oil strengthen the hair, boosting its health, strength, and smoothness. It also prevents split ends, conditions and moisturizes the hair, fights dandruff and scalp infections thanks to its antifungal characteristics, and controls hair loss.
It has a very thick consistency, so it's best to dilute it with a carrier oil like coconut or olive.
Try mixing the WOW Skin Science Castor Oil with your favorite carrier oil to get rid of pesky flakes and promote a healthy scalp environment. You can use it as an overnight treatment once a week.

Dealing with a flaky scalp can be a struggle, regardless of whether it's caused by dandruff or dryness. Using the best oil for a flaky scalp can help restore your scalp's health and get rid of those pesky flakes. It can also help restore healthy hair growth by providing intense nourishment to your roots and getting rid of microbial infections.
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