As a beauty writer, I’ve tested some of the best scalp serums for all types of scalp woes including oiliness, hair thinning, dryness. Over the years, I’ve found some standout options but my top pick is the Act + Acre Cold Pressed Stem Cell Scalp Serum, which addresses hair loss, scalp balance, and overall hair strength. I simply won’t go a day without it. But, scalp serums aren’t a one-size-fits-all solution, so I tapped dermatologists and hairstylists to share their favorites, and then our team of Glamour reviewers put them to the test. Ahead are the tried and true options we recommend.
The best scalp serums, at a glance
- Best Overall: Act + Acre Cold Pressed Stem Cell Scalp Serum, $52
- Best for Hair Growth: Nutrafol Hair Serum, $49
- Best for Thinning Hair: Isdin Lambdapil Hair-Density Leave-In Lotion, $70
- Best for Oily Scalp: The INKEY List Salicylic Acid Oily Scalp Treatment, $16
- Best for Dry Scalp: Kerastase Nutritive Hydrating Scalp Serum, $62
- Best for Hair Loss: Vegamour GRO Serum, $64
Your scalp serum questions, answered
Can scalp serums address build up?
AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron
According to the experts we spoke with, scalp serums can address irritation from product buildup like dryness and flakiness. “Gentle chemical exfoliants with hydroxy acids (like lactic acid and salicylic acid) can help to reduce flaking and can help make sure that hair follicles aren’t clogged with product buildup or oil and keratin debris,” says Hadley King, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in NYC. On the other hand, some scalp serums might be heavy in oils (with ingredients like pumpkin seed oil, castor oil, or coconut oil), which can be effective for hair growth, but might lead to even more product buildup, so it’s best to speak with a board-certified dermatologist about your specific scalp needs.
What’s the difference between hair oil and a scalp serum?
AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron
Candace Spann, MD, a board-certified dermatologist who specializes in hair loss, says there’s a major difference between hair oils and scalp serums. “Ingredients like castor oil, coconut oil, and rosemary oil in hair oils help moisturize the hair and scalp, but are not typically comprehensive treatments for specific scalp issues (like itching, dryness, inflammation and flakes),” she says. On the other hand, scalp serums use a combination of ingredients like clarifying oils and exfoliators to help address these issues.
Should you apply scalp serum to wet or dry hair?
AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron
Scalp serums can be applied to wet or dry scalps but most importantly, should be used consistently, says Dr. Spann. It’s also important that your scalp is clean during application for better penetration of ingredients and that you follow the instruction of each product, says Dr. Rambhia.
Can scalp serums help hair growth?
AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron
“Scalp serums are designed to nourish the scalp, stimulate hair follicles, and create an optimal environment for healthy hair growth,” says Pooja Rambhia, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Union Derm. Typically, scalp serums contain ingredients like peptides, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory compounds that can improve scalp circulation, reduce hair thinning and strengthen hair. However, for folks with underlying hair loss conditions, medical treatment from a board-certified dermatologist is recommended, says Dr. Rambhia. “Scalp serums can be a valuable addition to a comprehensive hair care regimen, but they are not a substitute for clinical management,” she says.
How we tested scalp serums
AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron
We tested scalp serums over a period of a month, and some of us (ha, me!) have been testing some of these serums for years. When testing, we paid attention to the consistency of the serum, how effortlessly it absorbed, and how our scalp looked and felt post-application. We also looked at how our strands progressed over time, if it looked thicker and if it was less prone to breakage, thinning and greyness.
Meet the experts
AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron
- Candace Spann, MD and board-certified dermatologist specializing in hair loss
- Pooja Rambhia, MD and board-certified dermatologist at Union Derm
- Hadley King, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in NYC
Best Overall: Act + Acre Cold Pressed Stem Cell Scalp Serum
Act + Acre Cold Processed Stem Cell Scalp Serum
Amazon
Sephora
Act + Acre
I first heard about this pressed stem cell serum when it launched a few years ago, and I’ll be honest, it kind of seemed a little too good to be true. It has a lot of lofty claims, so I was apprehensive about how well it could actually work. I tried it for the first time about two years ago when I was experiencing hair thinning around the crown of my head, and applied it at night everyday for a few months. After that trial, I instantly saw hair growing in the applied area, and now I can’t go a night without it. It’s made such a huge difference in my hair health, and the application is easy to incorporate into any haircare routine too, which experts say is very important. “Consistency is key when using scalp serums, and they work best when paired with other healthy hair practices like gentle washing,” says Dr. Rambhia. Although it can take some time to see results, take it from me, it’s worth it.
- Size: 2.2 fl oz
- Addresses: Hair weakness, dryness
- Who it’s best for: Someone who is experiencing hair thinning and breakage
Best for Hair Growth: Nutrafol Hair Serum
Nutrafol Hair Serum
Amazon
Nutrafol
“Formulated with ashwagandha exosomes, this serum helps reduce scalp inflammation and stimulates hair follicles, which can support stronger, fuller hair,” says Dr. Rambhia, who’s a major fan of this pick. It adresses hair loss and should be applied to areas where the hair is thinning. Dendy Engelman, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in NYC, is also a huge fan and recommends to use the Nutrafol hair vitamin to support every stage of the growth cycle.
“I really love the Nutrafol drops, but I did find that they take a second to dry, which is funny because they feel like the exact consistency of water. That said, once dry they don’t leave behind any residue or semblance of oiliness. I applied about three quarters of a dropper to spots at my temples, particularly on my part and the very back top of my head, and then rubbed it in. Since they take a second to dry, I found that the best time to apply them was at night right before bed,” says Glamour contributor Brittany Loggins.
- Size: 1 fl oz
- Addresses: Hair thinning and breakage
- Who it’s best for: Someone who is looking for a lightweight, minimal hair loss solution
Best for Thinning Hair: Isdin Lambdapil Hair-Density Leave-In Lotion
Isdin Lambdapil Hair-Density Leave-In Lotion
Amazon
Dermstore
Hope Mitchell, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Mitchell Dermatology recommends this scalp serum for anyone experiencing loss of density. “This serum boosts microcirculation in the scalp and nourishes the roots, which in turn, promotes thicker and healthier hair,” she says. “Its lightweight, non-greasy formula is enriched with key ingredients like biotin and zinc, which supports hair strength and improves density. The spray format is also convenient to apply.
“Since this is called a leave-in lotion, I was initially a little nervous that it would leave my hair looking oily, especially after initial applications. That said, the precise sprayer applicator made it so easy to get right up close to my scalp and eliminated all oily concerns. It feels super nourishing on the scalp—almost a cooling sensation—and dried incredibly quickly. It has gingko biloba to serve as an antioxidant that is both protective and gives the strands an added dash of nutrition,” says Loggins.
- Size: 4.2 fl oz
- Addresses: Hair elasticity, hair thinning
- Who it’s best for: Someone who wants an effective scalp treatment that’s no fuss and easy to apply
Best for Oily Scalp: The INKEY List Salicylic Acid Oily Scalp Treatment
The Inkey List Salicylic Acid Oily Scalp Treatment
Sephora
Amazon
“For those who struggle with oily hair, I recommend products that will provide a deep cleanse without stripping the scalp, which can actually cause oil production to increase,” says Dr. Engelman. This is why an exfoliating scalp treatment can be beneficial for those who need to maintain a healthier, balanced scalp environment to help prevent hair from getting too greasy.
I’m no stranger to this feeling. Much of my skin is combination, so I’m sometimes very dry or very oily, depending on the time of year. I’ve learned that so is my scalp, as it tends to get oily during seasonal changes and when it’s met with too much product build up. This exfoliating scalp treatment contains salicylic acid to help give my scalp a bit of a detox, and reduce excess oil and sebum. This treatment is not for the faint of heart (scalp?) as I found it to be quite effective, but I can only use it about once a week. It absorbs rather quickly, and really improves any cracked or flaky areas that could use some TLC. I also haven’t felt that this dries out my scalp post-use, which might be due to the panthenol ingredient that helps hydrate and moisturize hair. Overall, I definitely use this a few times of year when my scalp is feeling particularly moody, and it’s been a great addition to my hair routine.
- Size: 5 oz
- Addresses: Oily hair, unbalanced scalp
- Who it’s best for: Someone who deals with excess oil, flakes and itching
Best for Hair Loss: Vegamour GRO Serum
Vegamour Gro Serum
Amazon
Sephora
Both Dr. Rambhia and Dr. Mitchell recommends this scalp serum that provides major hydration and enhances hair growth over time. “This serum combines ingredients like mung bean, red clover, and curcumin to support scalp health and reduce inflammation, creating an optimal environment for hair growth. Its key compounds, including Capixyl (a proprietary ingredient) and peptides, help block DHT (the hormone that causes hair loss), stimulate follicles, and strengthen hair for fuller, healthier results,” says Dr. Rambhia.
Glamour contributor Brigitt Earley put this one to the test and has a few tips. “This scalp serum is very runny, so you have to be careful during application—I’ve definitely had it trickle down my face a time or two. But I love that you use it with dry hair, so you can be more consistent. It doesn’t leave strands at all oily, so don’t worry about your fresh blowout. Instead, it sinks right into the scalp for a really refreshing and hydrating effect that people with a dry scalp like mine will find nice and soothing—especially if you’re prone to itchiness.”
- Size: 1 fl oz
- Addresses: Thinning hair and hair loss
- Who it’s best for: Someone who wants thicker, fuller hair in spots that are sparse
Best for Flat Hair: The Ordinary Multi-Peptide Serum
The Ordinary Multi-Peptide Serum
Amazon
Sephora
“Packed with peptides and caffeine, this serums promotes circulation and can improve hair thickness, making it a great choice for overall scalp health,” says Dr. Rambhia. As someone with a very flat hair type myself, I was excited to give this peptide serum a whirl to see if it added bounce and thickness. The good news: my hair actually did look thicker post-application, so much so that I put on a headband to keep it from falling toward my face. This serum also did wonders for my typically knotty hair around the winter, and hydrated my roots even after just one application and blow dry. I’ll definitely continue to use this one throughout the colder months to keep my hair looking resilient, strong and velvety.
- Size: 2 fl oz
- Addresses: Fine hair that’s prone to breakage
- Who it’s best for: Someone who wants to thicken, plump and add more body to their hair
Best for Damaged Hair: IGK Sponsored Hair Density Scalp Treatment
IGK Sponsored Hair Density Scalp Treatment
Amazon
Sephora
“Once a hair strand reaches beyond the surface of the scalp, it’s physiologically dead,”says Dr. King. “This is why a hair care regimen that allows the protective layer, or cuticle, to remain intact for as long as possible will decrease breakage and drying out of the hair strands,” she says. This pick has hair-strengthening and nourishing ingredients including biotin, pumpkin seed oil and peptides, which can promote hair growth and healthy scalp. “Pumpkin seed oil specifically has been shown to block the action of 5-alpha reductase, which is an enzyme that contributes to hair loss,” says Dr. King. Studies have hypothesized that the ingredient may be just as effective as prescription minoxidil (a hair growth medicine), but more data is needed.
After using it, I was impressed with the growth of some baby hairs around my crown where my hair has been thinning over the past couple of years. The areas by my bangs look a bit fuller and less sparse, so I’m excited to see how they continue to grow as I continue to use this treatment. My favorite part has to be the applicator. The spray form makes it super easy to apply (a lot easier than some of the other liquid serums on this list), and I’ve been able to very easily incorporate it into my routine without having to deal with rubbing in sticky or runny liquid.
- Size: 2 fl oz
- Addresses: Sparse hair
- Who it’s best for: Someone who wants to add nutrients to their hair care routine for thicker, more resilient tresses
Best Oil Scalp Serum: The Rootist Densifying & Thickening Serum for Thinning Hair
The Rootist Densifying & Thickening Serum
Amazon
Sephora
NYC-based hairstylist Rogerio Cavalcante is a big fan of this densifying treatment because it can be used all over the head. “I love to use this formula on clients because it nourishes the scalp and roots to promote thicker, fuller and healthier-looking hair, and minimizes signs of thinning. Not to mention, I also love the smell!”
And he’s not wrong. This ultra-lightweight oil isn’t greasy upon application, and instead melts effortlessly onto the scalp, mid-shaft or roots, and sort of acts like a scalp serum-hair oil hybrid. I tested this product for a week and my hair simply drank it up. It’s ultra moisturizing and gave my hair a ton of body and volume without weighing it down in the slightest.
- Size: 2 fl oz
- Addresses: Flat, lifeless hair
- Who it’s best for: Someone who wants to add volume, shine and body to their hair
Best with Hyaluronic Acid: Eva NYC H2-Whoa Hydrating 3-in-1 Scalp Serum
Eva NYC H2-Whoa Hydrating 3-in-1 Scalp Serum
Amazon
The major difference between a hydrating scalp serum and a hydrating hair oil is how and where they’re applied, says Dr. Rambhia. “Scalp serums tend to be lighter in texture and are applied directly to the scalp, whereas hair oils are used more for overall hair nourishment, and to prevent dryness and frizz,” she says.
But a hydrating scalp serum can help kickstart the process. Enter: this hydrating scalp serum that’s infused with hyaluronic acid and glycolic acid, to gently exfoliate and majorly hydrate. With my combination skin (and scalp), I deal with dryness and oiliness in the winter time so finding this serum is a major plus as it helps support both ends of the spectrum. After using this pick for about a week, I found that the hair at my root had less flyaways and wasn’t as rough to the touch. Instead it was much smoother and fresh, which made it easier to style. I definitely would recommend this pick if your hair is feeling extra dry—especially in sub 40-degree weather!
- Size: 2 fl oz
- Addresses: Dry, crunchy hair
- Who it’s best for: Someone who needs a boost of hydration
Best for Aging Hair: Augustinus Bader The Scalp Treatment
Augustinus Bader The Scalp Treatment
Augustinus Bader
Sephora
Dermstore
Aging hair can equate to dryness and hair loss, which is why a scalp serum might just be a temporary solution worth the try if you’re looking to thicken your hair. Glamour contributor Earley gave this scalp treatment a try to see how well it was able to add volume and shape to her hair. “My medium, wavy hair doesn’t skew oily—more dry—but I liked that I still got plenty of volume after styling. It didn’t weigh down my roots at all,” she said of her trial. Something to note during application, though: “You’re supposed to use this serum on a damp scalp two to three times per week. As someone who only washes once or twice, this is a little bit problematic for consistency, but the product does have a really nice silky texture that feels great on the scalp. And I like that the serum isn’t runny like some others I’ve tried, which makes it a little easier to get that targeted application, especially on any problem areas.”
- Size: 1 fl oz
- Addresses: Dry, mature hair
- Who it’s best for: Someone who wants to breathe life back into their hair
Best for Shiny Hair: Kérastase Initialiste Scalp & Hair Serum
Kérastase Initialiste Scalp & Hair Serum
Amazon
Sephora
This serum is a favorite of Dr. Rambhia. It strengthens the scalp and hair at the root, helping to reduce breakage and create a healthy environment for hair growth. If your hair is dull and prone to breakage, this serum is packed with gluco-peptides and wheat protein to help restore elasticity and strengthening the cuticle.
“Now that I’m styling my hair more often, I’m noticing some hair breakage at the top of my hair where I tend to pull it the most. This serum keeps that area hydrated and adds some shine to my strands. I’ve also noticed that my hair normally gets greasy after a day, but when I started using this Kérastase hair serum, my scalp stayed fresh for longer, says Glamour senior commerce editor Jenifer Calle.
- Size: 2 fl oz
- Addresses: Dull, breakage-prone hair
- Who it’s best for: Someone who wants to add elasticity and resilience back to their hair
Best for Greying Hair: Living Proof Scalp Care Density Serum for Thinning & Greying Hai
Living Proof Scalp Care Density Serum
Amazon
Sephora
“This scalp serum seems to work great for hair regrowth and is extremely easy to use. You only need to apply it to the trouble areas, so you only need a little of it to go a long way,” says Cavalcante. It contains antioxidants and amino acids that help reduce the appearance of gray hair, plus peptides to help strengthen hair fibers and promote natural growth.
A Glamour reviewer used this serum for two months and said it’s made a noticeable difference in the way her hair looks. “The areas along my hair line that were thinning now have new growth and are less grey. The areas around my crown that were thinning have more density. Overall, my hair is stronger and less prone to breakage. I do color my hair, so I can’t say for sure all the new growth is my former natural color, but it sure seems like I have less grey along my part line. Even my hair stylist has noticed the difference.”
- Size: 1.7 fl oz
- Addresses: Aging hair
- Who it’s best for: Someone who wants to address greying and thinning hair
Best for Itchy Scalp: Fable and Mane Amla Soothing Serum
Fable and Mane Amla Soothing Serum
Amazon
Sephora
This soothing scalp serum is a pre-wash pick that helps relieve irritation, dandruff and product build up. For makeup artist and Glamour contributor Amanda Tralle, it’s a non-negotiable in her routine. “It really does help take the itch away and I like to use it every night,” she says. This serum has helped eliminate congestion and even contains bakuchi, an anti-aging herb that helps revitalize sensitive scalps, to keep them comfortable. Tralle also loves the sweet smell of this one because it contains blackcurrant, tea rose, wood and orange blossom.
- Size: 1.8 fl oz
- Addresses: Itchy scalp
- Who it’s best for: Someone who wants to address uncomfortable itching and inflammation
Best for Dry Scalp: Kérastase Nutritive Hydrating Scalp Serum
Kérastase Nutritive Hydrating Scalp Serum
Amazon
If shampoos for dry scalps aren’t cutting, give this hydrating serum a try. It’s a favorite of dermatologists because it contains niacinamide to lock in hydration and vitamins to nourish, hydrate, and protect the hair all at once. It also promotes a lot of shine, and is great for slicking back hair, all while treating it with nutrients. Tralle is also a fan of this pick: “I love this scalp serum for daily use, and my only gripe is it’s pretty pricey and you can go through it pretty fast. But I love that it’s a thinner serum and doesn’t make my hair look oily,” she says.
- Size: 3 fl oz
- Addresses: Dry, parched scalp
- Who it’s best for: Someone who wants to address dryness from root to tip
The post 14 Best Scalp Serums 2025, According to Dermatologists & Editors appeared first on Glamour.
