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Photo: Mytour / Alli WaatajaDid you know that nearly half of all adults suffer from dandruff? Finding the right shampoo is essential for alleviating symptoms, but the sheer variety of options can be overwhelming. Start by examining the shampoo's active ingredients to determine its suitability for your type of dandruff and hair type.
“If a shampoo isn’t effective for your hair type, you’re less likely to continue using it,” explains Hayley Goldbach, MD, a double-board-certified dermatologist, dermatologic surgeon, and assistant professor of dermatology at Brown University. It's also crucial to understand why you're dealing with dandruff. Dr. Goldbach suggests consulting with a dermatologist who can guide you toward the right active ingredients for your hair and scalp needs.
We’ve researched top dandruff shampoos with attention to their formulation, compatibility with different hair types, and scalp sensitivity. We also turned to Dr. Goldbach for expert guidance on selecting the best shampoo for your specific dandruff concerns, and compiled our list of products based on their overall effectiveness, taking into account factors like active ingredients, gentleness on color-treated hair, and cost.
Top Pick
Nizoral Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
PHOTO: AmazonThe active ingredient targets scalp fungus, the primary cause of dandruff.
Some users find its thinner texture makes it difficult to lather effectively.
At the top of our best dandruff shampoos list is a product that’s clinically proven to eliminate flakes. Nizoral’s key ingredient, ketoconazole (1%), is the only over-the-counter dandruff shampoo to feature this powerful compound. It’s known to be 10 times more effective at eliminating scalp fungus, the main culprit behind itchy, flaky scalps.
If you're concerned about the impact on your hair, don't be. This formula is gentle enough for color-treated and chemically processed hair. Plus, it has a clean, fresh fragrance, so you can follow the recommended twice-weekly use without worrying about harsh medicinal odors lingering on your scalp.
Key Ingredients: Ketoconazole (1%) | Size: 7 ounces | Scent: Fresh, clean fragrance
Best Value
Dove DermaCare Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
PHOTO: AmazonIt's an affordable solution for soothing an itchy, flaky scalp.
The scent might not be to everyone’s liking.
For a quick fix to both the itch and flakes, Dove DermaCare Anti-Dandruff shampoo is the go-to choice. With pyrithione zinc as its active ingredient, it targets dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis, all while leaving your hair feeling fresh, clean, and smooth.
Dove DermaCare features a mild coconut and shea butter scent, eliminating any worry about lingering medicinal smells after use. And the best part? You don’t have to break the bank—this 12-ounce bottle is priced under $5.
Key Ingredients: Pyrithione zinc (1%) | Size: 12 ounces | Scent: Coconut and shea butter
Perfect for Sensitive Skin
Jupiter Balancing Shampoo
PHOTO: AmazonIt includes soothing coconut oil and algae extract for the scalp.
It is somewhat costly.
If you have sensitive skin, you might be worried about using a dandruff shampoo that could worsen the issue. Fortunately, Jupiter’s balancing shampoo offers the relief you need without irritating your scalp further. Each wash leaves your scalp feeling cleaner and nourished.
This soothing dandruff shampoo features zinc pyrithione to target scalp problems right at the root. Coconut oil and algae extract help lock in moisture, while decylene glycol controls oil production, keeping your hair from looking or feeling flat. The scent is light and refreshing, perfect for sensitive scalps.
Key Ingredients: Zinc pyrithione, coconut oil, and algae extract | Size: 9.5 ounces | Scent: Light and fresh
Best Medicated Option
Vanicream Free & Clear Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
PHOTO: AmazonIt effectively tackles dandruff while being gentle enough for children's sensitive scalps.
It may feel slightly drying for some users.
Vanicream is a trusted name among dermatologists, especially for sensitive skin. This anti-dandruff shampoo offers maximum strength zinc pyrithione to combat the flakes, itching, scaling, and redness caused by seborrheic dermatitis and dandruff.
In addition to its active ingredients, Vanicream is free from fragrance and dyes. It also omits parabens, formaldehyde, cocamidopropyl betaine, botanical extracts, sulfates, protein, and gluten. All that’s left is a clean, flake-free scalp and soft, healthy hair.
Please note that while this product is medicated, consulting a dermatologist is still recommended for a proper diagnosis of your scalp condition.
Key Ingredients: Pyrithione zinc 2% | Size: 8 ounces | Scent: Unscented
Ideal for Oily Scalps
Briogeo Scalp Revival MegaStrength+ Shampoo
PHOTO: AmazonThe formula controls oil without stripping moisture from your hair.
The price is on the higher side, and the fragrance might not appeal to everyone.
Briogeo Scalp Revival is designed for people dealing with excess oil, not just dry, flaky scalps. This shampoo works for all hair types, combining salicylic and lactic acids to balance scalp health while retaining essential moisture in the hair.
It’s also packed with detoxifying binchotan charcoal, and tea tree oil to calm itchy, flaky scalps. Free from sulfates, parabens, and silicones, it’s safe for relaxed, color-treated, or chemically processed hair. Plus, the vegan formula is gluten- and cruelty-free.
Key Ingredients: Salicylic acid, lactic acid, and binchotan charcoal | Size: 8.4 ounces | Scent: Tea tree
Best for Dry Scalps
Nioxin Scalp Recovery Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
PHOTO: AmazonThis shampoo works to soothe dry, itchy scalps right from the first use.
Despite being a large bottle, it remains quite expensive.
When dry, itchy scalp is caused by dandruff, a shampoo that offers fast relief is essential. This pyrithione zinc-based formula from Nioxin is the first step in a dermatologist-approved three-step system, and it begins to work with the first use.
Though Nioxin effectively tackles dandruff, it also contains soothing ingredients like niacinamide (vitamin B3) and oils from peppermint and mentha arvensis. While the shampoo alone might do the job, the full system includes a moisturizing conditioner and serum for a deeper, yet gentle, treatment.
Key Ingredients: Pyrithione zinc and green tea extracts | Size: 33.8 ounces | Scent: Not listed
Best Itch Relief
Selsun Blue Moisturizing Dandruff Shampoo
PHOTO: AmazonThe aloe provides soothing relief for dry, irritated scalps.
The coconut fragrance may not appeal to everyone.
Selsun Blue contains selenium sulfide, an active ingredient that targets the scalp fungus responsible for dandruff. It also includes aloe, which hydrates both the scalp and hair. With regular use, this shampoo will eliminate dryness and itching, leaving your scalp and hair feeling nourished.
This anti-dandruff shampoo is affordable (under $10!), providing relief for both your scalp and your budget. Unlike other medicated treatments, it produces a rich lather and is infused with a light coconut scent.
Key Ingredients: Selenium sulfide and aloe | Size: 11 ounces | Scent: Coconut
Best for Color-Treated Hair
Oribe Serene Scalp Shampoo
PHOTO: AmazonThis shampoo effectively tackles dandruff while remaining gentle on color-treated and keratin-treated hair.
Not ideal for those with fragrance sensitivities.
Don't be deceived by the elegant pink bottle—Oribe Serene is a powerful anti-dandruff shampoo that not only works wonders on dandruff but is also mild on color-treated hair. The main ingredient, salicylic acid, fights dandruff while soothing a dry, itchy scalp. It’s enriched with calming ingredients like bilberry fruit and sugar maple extracts that ease stressed scalps while shielding them from harmful free radicals. The Oribe Signature Complex provides added protection from oxidation, photoaging, and environmental damage.
Oribe Serene is suitable for all hair types and textures, especially for color-treated hair. True to the Oribe brand, this anti-dandruff shampoo features a vegan, sulfate-free, and paraben-free formula. It's also gluten-free and cruelty-free, earning the endorsement of PETA.
Key Ingredients: Salicylic acid, bilberry fruit, and sugar maple extracts | Size: 8.5 ounces | Scent: Côte d’Azur
Best Natural
Head & Shoulders Bare Pure Clean Dandruff Shampoo
PHOTO: TargetThis shampoo has a concise yet effective list of ingredients to combat dandruff.
If you prefer a fragrance-free option, this may not be for you.
This Skin Health Alliance-approved shampoo from Head & Shoulders features a minimalistic formula with just nine ingredients, including the powerful zinc pyrithione to eliminate dandruff and prevent its recurrence. It’s free from harsh sulfates, silicones, and artificial colorants, which could irritate your scalp or hair—even if you're dealing with stubborn flakes and itching.
The large, environmentally-conscious bottle and cap are made with 45% less plastic, making them recyclable. Plus, the container can be rolled up like a toothpaste tube for easy, compact disposal. While the real magic lies in its dandruff-fighting abilities, this eco-friendly feature is a pleasant bonus.
Key Ingredients: Pyrithione zinc | Size: 1 ounces | Scent: Orchid and aloe
Best Exfoliating
Briogeo Micro-Exfoliating Shampoo
PHOTO: AmazonThis shampoo gently exfoliates while refreshing your scalp.
The price may be high, and you may prefer an unscented version.
For those dealing with dandruff, this exfoliating shampoo from Briogeo offers a refreshing solution. It uses binchotan charcoal to clear scalp buildup, while coconut oil adds moisture and eliminates flakes. The combination of tea tree and peppermint oils soothes the scalp, relieving itchiness and reducing redness.
Unlike many dandruff shampoos that don’t create much lather, Briogeo’s formula foams up like a mousse, offering a creamy, whipped texture. It's a pleasant treat for your scalp with a fresh mint and vanilla scent.
Key Ingredients: Binchotan charcoal, coconut oil, tea tree oil, and peppermint oil | Size: 8 ounces | Scent: Peppermint (with notes of mint and vanilla)
Ideal for Curly Hair
Head & Shoulders Royal Oils Scalp Care Shampoo
PHOTO: AmazonThis shampoo effectively eliminates scalp itch, flakes, and frizz.
The subtle fragrance it leaves may not be to everyone's liking.
With Head & Shoulders Royal Oils, you can maintain your bouncy curls while enjoying a healthy, itch-free scalp. The active ingredient, pyrithione zinc, tackles dandruff, while nourishing coconut oil and apple cider vinegar hydrate and lock in moisture to keep your hair soft and smooth.
This shampoo claims to enhance your scalp’s health in just three weeks with regular use. It nourishes your curls without sulfates, parabens, or artificial colors, making it a great choice for individuals with sensitive skin.
Key Ingredients: Pyrithione zinc, coconut oil, and apple cider vinegar | Size: 12.8 ounces | Scent: Not listed
Best for Textured Hair
OUAI Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
PHOTO: SephoraIt helps alleviate flakes and scalp itch, all while leaving your hair feeling smoother.
It is on the more expensive side.
For those with coarse, textured hair, you may have struggled with dandruff shampoos that just don’t do the job. While this formula from Ouai doesn't create as much lather as other shampoos, you'll appreciate how it leaves your hair clean and, most importantly, soothes your itchy scalp.
During your shower, apply this shampoo to your hair and scalp, allowing it to sit for five minutes. Salicylic acid works to calm flakes and itchiness, while propanediol dicaprylate provides soothing relief. With regular use, you'll notice fewer flakes and reduced irritation, while the conditioning agents continue to promote soft, smooth hair.
Key Ingredients: Salicylic acid and propanediol caprylate | Size: 10 ounces | Scent: Not listed
Best for Moisturization
Philip Kingsley Flaky Scalp Cleansing Shampoo
PHOTO: AmazonIt combats dandruff while hydrating your hair and soothing the scalp.
It may alleviate itching faster than it clears flakes.
Looking for a dandruff shampoo that's gentle enough for everyday use without drying out your hair? Philip Kingsley Flaky Scalp Cleansing Shampoo offers a deep cleanse, removing flakes and excess oil from your scalp and hair. Key ingredients like cocamidopropyl betaine act as a mild surfactant to clean and condition, while aloe vera calms the scalp.
Thanks to castor oil, this shampoo locks in moisture, extending its anti-flake benefits. Don’t worry about feeling weighed down—tetrasodium glutamate diacetate ensures a quick rinse. Plus, the green apple fragrance is subtle and refreshing.
Key Ingredients: Cocamidopropyl betaine, aloe barbadensis leaf juice, castor oil (glycerin), and tetrasodium glutamate diacetate | Size: 8.45 ounces | Scent: Green apple
Best Treatment
Neutrogena T/Sal Therapeutic Shampoo
PHOTO: AmazonIt effectively combats dandruff while being mild enough for sensitive scalps.
The lather isn’t as thick as some may prefer.
Neutrogena T/Sal offers an affordable solution for dandruff, psoriasis, and seborrheic dermatitis. Powered by salicylic acid, this therapeutic shampoo tackles scalp issues without costing you a fortune, making it a reliable go-to for many.
Relief often begins after just one wash as this shampoo works to dissolve scalp buildup, easing even the most persistent itching and flaking. T/Sal keeps working long after you rinse, but don’t mistake its effectiveness for harshness—this dermatologist-recommended formula is fragrance-free, colorant-free, and preservative-free, making it suitable for sensitive scalps.
Key Ingredients: Salicylic acid | Size: 4.5 ounces | Scent: Unscented
Final Verdict
Our top pick for dandruff shampoos is the Nizoral Anti-Dandruff Shampoo, which effectively targets scalp fungus to leave your scalp flake-free. For a more affordable option, we suggest Dove Dermacare Scalp Dryness and Itch Relief Anti-Dandruff Shampoo as a great budget-friendly alternative.
How to Shop for Dandruff Shampoos Like a Pro
Active Ingredients
Dr. Goldbach recommends selecting a shampoo that contains selenium sulfide, pyrithione zinc, or ketoconazole. These ingredients are crucial for preventing or disrupting fungal growth on the scalp.
In addition to these potent ingredients that tackle the root of dandruff, you should also seek out ingredients such as aloe vera, tea tree oil, and peppermint to hydrate and calm a dry, itchy scalp.
Hair and Skin Type
There are dandruff shampoos available for every hair type and texture, but if you have sensitive skin or particularly dry or oily hair, it's important to check the label. Although controlling dandruff is the main goal, you also want to ensure the shampoo’s ingredients soothe your scalp rather than irritate it. As Dr. Goldbach emphasizes, if the shampoo isn’t suited to your hair and skin type, you may not continue using it.
Questions You Might Ask
What is the best shampoo for eliminating dandruff?
The top dandruff shampoos target the underlying cause of dandruff, which is often fungal growth on the scalp. This is why Nizoral Anti-Dandruff Shampoo is highly recommended. Its active ingredient, ketoconazole, is an antifungal agent that effectively eradicates fungus and prevents its recurrence. Dr. Goldbach endorses this ingredient, alongside selenium sulfide or pyrithione zinc, for effective dandruff treatment.
How does dandruff shampoo work?
Dr. Goldbach explains that while yeast naturally exists on the scalp, an imbalance can sometimes trigger an inflammatory response, leading to dandruff and other scalp conditions. “Most dandruff shampoos aim to reduce the yeast population,” she explains.
It’s important to note that while some of these shampoos may offer immediate relief after the first use, regular use is advised to prevent dandruff from recurring.
Do you need to use a dandruff conditioner as well?
If you enjoy using both shampoo and conditioner, you can certainly pick up a dandruff-specific conditioner, but it’s not essential. “Shampoo alone is sufficient,” Dr. Goldbach says. “Conditioner is meant for the middle and ends of your hair, not your scalp, so it won't directly address the source of dandruff.”
Trust Our Expertise
This article was authored by Barbara Bellesi Zito, a lifestyle journalist from Staten Island, N.Y. To create this list of the top dandruff shampoos, she researched products from leading brands, taking into account active ingredients, hair types, and skin sensitivities. For expert insights on what consumers should consider when buying dandruff shampoos, she consulted Hayley Goldbach, MD, a double-board-certified dermatologist, dermatologic surgeon, and assistant professor of dermatology at Brown University.
