15 Best Dandruff Shampoos Of 2024, Recommended By A Hairstylist

For a healthy, flake-free scalp that lets you have the long or short, luscious hair of your dreams.

Reviewed by Alicia Igess, Hairstylist
Written by Medha Deb, Integrated MA
Edited by Shiboli Chakraborti, MA (English Literature), Certified Skin Care Coach
Fact-checked by Ramona Sinha, MA (English Literature), Certified Skin Care Coach  • 

From a medical perspective, dandruff isn’t a condition that can negatively affect your hair health. But it can prove to be pretty annoying and embarrassing to fight the urge to itch and hide those white flakes. However, some of the best dandruff shampoos on the market can help you get rid of dandruff effortlessly and prevent it from returning.

No one likes to have a flaky and itchy scalp. Anti-dandruff shampoos help combat this pesky scalp condition as they are formulated with anti-fungal ingredients such as selenium sulfate, pyrithione zinc, and more. These over-the-counter shampoos keep flakes and itching at bay. With many dandruff shampoos available in the market, it can be hard to choose the one that works best on your scalp and condition. Let’s scroll through the list of the best dandruff shampoos now!

Top PicksCheck Price
Best Antibacterial Properties:Maple Holistics Sage ShampooPrice on Amazon
Best Salon-Tested:Nizoral A-D Dandruff ShampooPrice on Amazon
Best Dermatologist-Approved:Neutrogena T/Gel Extra Strength Therapeutic ShampooPrice on Amazon
Best For All Skin Types:Head and Shoulders Dandruff ShampooPrice on Amazon
Best Lightweight:Dove DermaCare Scalp Coconut & Hydration Anti-Dandruff ShampooPrice on Amazon
Best Cruelty-Free:Jason Dandruff Relief Treatment ShampooPrice on Amazon
Best Budget-Friendly:L'Oreal Paris EverFresh Antidandruff Sulfate-free ShampooPrice on Amazon
Best For Sensitive Skin:Free & Clear Medicated Dandruff ShampooPrice on Amazon
Best For Scalp Irritation:BIOLAGE Scalpsync Dandruff ShampooPrice on Amazon
Best For Dry Scalp:The Body Shop Ginger Scalp Care ShampooPrice on Amazon

15 Best Dandruff Shampoos That Give You A Flake-Free Scalp In 2024

1. Best Antibacterial Properties:Maple Holistics Sage Shampoo

4.3
Maple Holistics Sage Shampoo – Best Overall Image: Maple Holistics

Maple Holistics Sage Shampoo is a wonderfully blended mixture of Jojoba oil, Botanical keratin, Peach kernel oil, and rosemary oil. The balancing properties of Sage help stimulate the scalp and add volume to your hair. This anti-dandruff shampoo gently cleanses oily hair, helps relieve scalp itchiness, and improves hair texture. The keratin present in this special formula helps strengthen the brittle hair for better elasticity. The Tea Tree oil present in this shampoo is especially beneficial in fighting scalp dandruff, and its antibacterial and antifungal properties help prevent the return of the oh-so-unwanted dandruff. Watch this video detailing a tester’s experience of using the product for more information.

Hair Type: Oily, Dry, Curly, Normal, Straight | Product Dimensions: 2.5 x 2.5 x 6.24 inches | Weight: 8 Ounces

Pros

  • Sulfate and paraben free product
  • Enhances all types of hair be it normal, oily, or even color-treated one
  • Works well for both men and women
  • Volumizing formula

Cons

  • Some users reported hair loss

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

It has gained over 10,586 positive reviews on Amazon, making it an all-time best-seller.

2. Best Salon-Tested:Nizoral A-D Dandruff Shampoo

4.5
Nizoral AD AntiDandruff Shampoo Image: Nizoral Anti-dandruff

The Nizoral A-D Dandruff Shampoo is specially made for those who are struggling to get rid of stubborn dandruff. Made with Ketoconazole 1% this is an effective ingredient in controlling and fighting dandruff outbreaks. The Nizoral shampoo has proven to be more effective at fighting fungus, the root cause of dandruff. It is clinically proven to control flaking, scaling, and itching caused due to dandruff. Several reviewers recommend this product for soothing scalp irritation and controlling hair loss caused by dandruff. It has a rich lather that rinses clean leaving your hair looking and smelling fresh. Go through this video review for a detailed understanding of a tester’s experience of using the product.

Product Dimensions: 6 x 1 x 6 inches | Weight: 3.99 Ounces

Pros

  • Works gently even on color-treated and gray hair
  • Salon-tested
  • Works well for men and women

Cons

  • Some users reported itchiness post use

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

This product has received 16,176 reviews from customers on Amazon, indicating its popularity and reliability.

3. Best Dermatologist-Approved:Neutrogena T/Gel Extra Strength Therapeutic Shampoo

4.5
Neutrogena T-Gel Therapeutic Shampoo Image: Neutrogena

Neutrogena T/Gel Extra Strength Therapeutic Shampoo is a popular brand that provides redness and scalp itch relief to those who suffer from chronic scalp psoriasis and seborrheic dermatitis, besides pesky flakes. Recognized by The National Psoriasis Foundation, this scalp therapy has proven to give the extra strength due to the presence of 1% coal Tar formulated in it. This repairing shampoo can be used daily and starts showing results in the first use itself giving relief from dandruff for the whole week.  Check out this video for a detailed review of a tester’s experience of using the product.

Hair Type: Dry | Product Dimensions: 1.28 x 2.38 x 7.25 inches | Weight: 6.24 Ounces

Pros

  • Dermatologist-approved
  • When used with conditioners makes hair manageable and healthy
  • Budget-friendly

Cons

  • Some users reported smell issues

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

The product has more than 16,173 reviews claiming its efficacy.

Maple Holistics Sage Shampoo
Best Antibacterial Properties
Nizoral A-D Dandruff Shampoo
Best Salon-Tested
Neutrogena T/Gel Extra Strength Therapeutic Shampoo
Best Dermatologist-Approved
Hair Type Oily, Dry, Curly, Normal, Straight- Dry
Dimensions 2.5 x 2.5 x 6.24 inches 6 x 1 x 6 inches 1.28 x 2.38 x 7.25 inches
Weight 8 Ounces 3.99 Ounces 6.24 Ounces
Rating
Reviews10,58616,17616,173
Price$23.95$11.19$8.9

4. Best For All Skin Types:Head and Shoulders Dandruff Shampoo

4.5

Head and Shoulders Shampoo is a well-known brand. Upon using it regularly, it balances and restores scalp health. With the presence of coconut oil, this Head and Shoulders Royal Oils Collection gives a luxurious scent that is long-lasting. The rich, creamy lather cleanses impurities, hydrates your crowning glory, and relieves you from the dry, itchy scalp. Its ability to provide long-lasting, deep hydration to the scalp and hair has garnered positive customer reviews online. The entire Royal oils line includes scalp relief for kinky and coily hair besides natural hair as well.

Hair Type: natural and curly hair | Product Dimensions: 1.73 x 3.07 x 8.31 inches | Weight: 14.08 Ounces.

Pros

  • Free from parabens and dyes
  • Suitable for all skin types
  • Anti-itch formula
  • Smells like coconut
  • Lightweight moisturization

Cons

  • Some users reported scalp dryness post use

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

With over 11,197 reviews, this product has become a fan favorite among users.

5. Best Lightweight:Dove DermaCare Scalp Coconut & Hydration Anti-Dandruff Shampoo

4.5

Dove Dermacare Scalp Coconut & Hydration Dandruff Shampoo gives relief from the itchy and flaky scalp. Being formulated with Pyrithione Zinc, it hydrates hair from within and gives you healthy and luscious tresses. This pH-balanced formula helps reduce dandruff and soothe the itching and flaking caused by it. It gives instant nourishment to the dry hair leaving them looking refreshed and nourished after a few washes. Formulated with coconut oil and sweet lime, it leaves your hair well-nourished along with the long-lasting sweet smell as well.

Hair Type: Dandruff | Product Dimensions: 1.92 x 3.03 x 8.5 inches | Weight: 0.03 Ounces.

Pros

  • Leaves your hair soft and nourished
  • Smells amazing
  • Lightweight moisturization and hydration

Cons

  • It may irritate sensitive skin.

protip_icon Pro Tip
After shampooing your mane, follow it up with Dove DermaCare Anti-Dandruff conditioner. Enriched with pyrithione zinc, this will leave you with healthy, luscious, and nourished tresses after every wash.

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

With 6,816 positive reviews on Amazon, this product has become a bestseller.

6. Best Cruelty-Free:Jason Dandruff Relief Treatment Shampoo

4
Jason Anti-Dandruff Scalp Care Shampoo Image: Jason Natural Care

Jason Dandruff Relief Treatment Shampoo as the name suggests helps treat seborrheic dermatitis. This liquid formula is a combination of sulfur and salicylic acid that helps treat mild psoriasis. Also the essential oils namely jojoba, rosemary, and olive are great healers that soothe, heal, and moisturize the scalp. The Jason Dandruff Relief Treatment Shampoo reduces flaking and itchiness caused by the onset of dandruff. 

Hair Type: Dandruff | Product Dimensions: 2.2 x 2.2 x 7.52 inches | Weight: 12 Ounces

Pros

  • Cruelty-free product
  • Controls recurrence of dandruff
  • Reduces flaking to quite an extent

Cons

  • Some users found the smell unappealing

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

The extensive 4,039 rave reviews on Amazon prove why we are vouching for this product.

7. Best Budget-Friendly:L’Oreal Paris EverFresh Antidandruff Sulfate-free Shampoo

L’Oreal Paris EverFresh Antidandruff Shampoo formulated with 1% pyrithione zinc restores scalp balance thereby reducing the itching and flakiness associated with dandruff. This clinically tested product is sulfate, salt, and surfactant-free and will help prevent dullness and damage of your precious locks. The aromatic fragrance and luxurious lather make it an even go-for shampoo. Combining this shampoo with EverFresh Micro-Exfoliating Scrub will give optimal results.

Hair Type: Damaged | Product Dimensions: 1.89 x 2.97 x 8.43 inches | Weight: 2.4 Ounces

Pros

Cons

  • It may dry out your hair.

8. Best For Sensitive Skin:Free & Clear Medicated Dandruff Shampoo

Free & Clear Medicated Dandruff Shampoo is a creamy formula with a strength of 2% pyrithione zinc having antifungal properties to control and reduce dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis. With absolutely no fragrance and completely free of dyes, this product tends to solve hair-related medical issues. This medicated shampoo is dermatologist-tested and is mild and gentle, free of common chemical irritants.

Hair Type: All | Product Dimensions: 2 x 2 x 7.25 inches | Weight: 9.6 Ounces.

Pros

  • Gluten and sulfate-free product
  • No smell
  • Dermatologist tested
  • Non-irritating formula
  • This product is best for people with sensitive skin.

Cons

  • May cause excessive drying in some cases

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

More than 5,076 customers have given the product positive reviews on Amazon.

9. Best For Scalp Irritation:BIOLAGE Scalpsync Dandruff Shampoo

4.6

The Biolage Scalpsync Dandruff  Shampoo is inspired by the anti-bacterial and calming properties of the mint leaf. The pyrithione zinc acts as a soldier targeting dandruff and controls the oh-so-visible flakes and reduces scalp irritation at the same time. Using it twice a week and massaging gently on wet hair helps greatly in deep cleansing the scalp and effectively reducing dandruff.

Hair Type: All | Product Dimensions: 3.15 x 3.15 x 9.76 inches | Weight: 1 Pounds

Pros

  • Can be used by both men and women
  • Mint cleanses and gives a cooling effect to the affected scalp
  • Relieves irritation

Cons

  • Slightly overpriced

protip_icon Pro Tip
The most common cause of dandruff is a dry scalp, so use tea tree oil or neem oil before washing your hair. It will not only help to condition the scalp but also soothe scalp irritations by killing dandruff-causing fungi.

10. Best For Dry Scalp: The Body Shop Ginger Scalp Care Shampoo

4.4
The Body Shop Ginger Scalp Care Shampoo Image: The Body Shop

The Body Shop Ginger Scalp Care Shampoo is a refreshing and invigorating formula designed to gently cleanse and soothe the scalp while leaving your hair feeling soft and manageable. This shampoo is formulated with a blend of natural ingredients, including ginger essential oil, birch bark, and white willow bark extracts that exfoliate and eliminate flakes and soothe your dry, itchy scalp. The ginger in the formula also fills your hair with a clean fragrance.

Hair Type: Dry

Pros

  • Made with 90% natural ingredients
  • Vegan
  • Cruelty-free
  • Easy to apply
  • Gentle
  • Flake reduction formula
  • Pleasant fragrance

Cons

  • Waters down
  • Greasy texture

11. Best Environmental-Friendly:Luseta Tea Tree And Argan Oil Shampoo

4.4

Clean your scalp thoroughly with the Luseta Tea Tree And Argan Oil Shampoo. It is specially formulated with natural ingredients for oily and damaged hair. It has tea tree oil, argan oil, lavender oil, peppermint oil, and other ingredients that keep your scalp free of dandruff and associated itchiness. These ingredients remove excess oil and dirt from the scalp for healthy follicles and new growth. In addition, it also conditions your hair, thickens it, and adds shine to make it radiant and healthy. The product is also opted for by ethically conscious customers because it has not been tested on animals.

Hair Type: All, Frizzy, Color Treated, Dry, Curly, Chemically Treated, Damaged

Pros

  • Suitable for mild dandruff
  • Nourishes your hair and scalp
  • Color-safe
  • Oil control formula
  • Shine-enhancing formula
  • Paraben-free
  • Sulfate-free
  • Environmental-friendly
  • Cruelty-free

Cons

None

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

Almost 895 happy users have mentioned the value and quality of this product.

12. Best Nourishing:Botanic Hearth Tea Tree Shampoo

4.1
Botanic Hearth Tea Tree Shampoo Image: Botanic Hearth

Botanic Hearth Tea Tree Shampoo is formulated with nourishing ingredients such as 100% pure tea Tree Oil, aloe vera, peppermint, and lavender oils making your hair and scalp healthy and strong. With the presence of tea tree oil, it soothes and deeply nourishes your hair and scalp. Without weighing your hair down it refreshes your hair to the tilt giving it that bouncy look and feel

Hair Type: All, Dry | Product Dimensions: 3 x 3 x 8.5 inches | Weight: 1 Pounds.

Pros

  • Sulfate and paraben free product
  • Safe for all hair types
  • Lightweight on hair

Cons

  • Has a medicinal smell that some users don’t like

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

With over 2,282 Amazon acclaimed reviews, this product is sure to find a place in everyone’s shopping bag.

13. Best For Itchy Scalp: DHS Coal Tar Shampoo

4.6

The DHS Tar Shampoo is a medicated formula designed to eliminate scalp itchiness and flaking associated with psoriasis, seborrhea, and dandruff. It contains 0.5% coal tar, which is a proven active ingredient in treating these conditions and provides maximum therapeutic benefit. This fast-acting shampoo is free of sulfates and fragrances, making it gentle on the scalp and suitable for daily use. It helps to soothe and nourish the scalp, leaving the hair soft and shiny.

Hair Type: All | Product Dimensions: 5.9 x 2 x 5.9 inches | Weight: 1.5 Pounds

Pros

  • Suitable for sensitive scalp
  • Safe for daily use
  • Gentle
  • Fragrance-free
  • Dye-free
  • PABA-free
  • Offers quick results

Cons

None

14. Best For Color-Treated Hair:Oribe Serene Scalp Anti-Dandruff Shampoo

4.3

Oribe Serene Scalp Anti-Dandruff Shampoo is a gentle cleanser and is formulated with salicylic acid. It eliminates dandruff while soothing the dry, itchy, and irritating scalp. The result is a healthy scalp with zero flakes and hydrated hair. It helps relieve dryness and helps refresh and rejuvenate the hair and scalp. It also maintains a healthy moisture balance for hair and scalp.

Product Dimensions: 3.2 x 1.6 x 5.2 inches | Weight: 11.2 Ounces

Pros

  • Safe for color-treated hair
  • Soothing formula
  • Paraben and sulfate-free product
  • Dermatologically tested and approved

Cons

  • Slightly overpriced

15. Best pH-Balanced Formula: Sebamed Scalp Balancing Shampoo

4.2
SebaMed Anti-Dandruff Shampoo Image: Sebamed

The Sebamed Scalp Balancing Shampoo is a specialized hair care product designed to soothe and balance your scalp. The formula is clinically-tested with a pH value of 5.5, which is ideal for strengthening the natural protective barrier of the scalp. It also contains botanical extracts that nourish your scalp and hair. It reduces the incidence of dandruff and prevents irritation and itching.

Hair Type: Oily | Product Dimensions: 5.51 x 1.73 x 3.39 inches | Weight: 10.58 Ounces

Pros

  • Dermatologist-tested
  • Safe for sensitive skin
  • Gentle
  • Residue-free

Cons

None

How To Choose The Best Anti-Dandruff Shampoo- A Buying Guide 

  • Type of hair

The type of hair you have plays a major role in deciding which Anti-Dandruff Shampoo to purchase as many of these shampoos contain a few products that might cause drying and itching. Choosing a shampoo that has hydrating elements will prove useful to keep your hair soft and damage-free.

  • Check the ingredients

Always check the packaging of the shampoo and understand the ingredients that are present in it. There may be a wide variety of ingredients in the shampoo that will clear out your dandruff but end up damaging your hair. 

How To Use Anti-Dandruff Shampoo

The primary function of using anti-dandruff shampoo is to prevent the growth and removal of dandruff from the scalp. Rinsing your hair initially with warm water will open the cuticles so that the shampoo penetrates the scalp. Apply evenly all over the scalp, massage gently combing it right through your hair and leave it on for 3 to 5 minutes. Rinse off the shampoo with water thoroughly while combing with your fingers. Always dry your hair before brushing through it. 

Alicia Igess Jones, a hairstylist, says, “Never scratch up dandruff. If you need to loosen them up, allow the dandruff shampoo to sit on your scalp for at least 5-10 minutes and rub up the dandruff with your finger tips. Do not use your nails for scratching. The rubbing should resemble what it looks like to rub something sticky off a surface.”

The Bottom Line

Dandruff shampoos are the need of the hour! These shampoos offer restorative care and help in revitalizing your locks while attending to the issue of dandruff in your hair and scalp. The Maple Holistics Sage Shampoo is paraben- and sulfate-free, while the Neutrogena T/Gel Extra Strength Therapeutic Shampoo provides relief from if you have an itchy scalp. For a cruelty-free option, opt for the Jason Dandruff Relief Treatment Shampoo. These shampoos can help you get rid of excessive white flakes on your hair that ruin every hairstyle. Some shampoos are enriched with anti-fungal ingredients that can eliminate excessive itching and keep your scalp smooth. Choose dandruff shampoos that thoroughly cater to hair loss as well. Opt for dermatologist-recommended shampoos and conduct a patch test before application to check for scalp sensitivity.

Why Trust StyleCraze?

Medha Deb, the author of this article, is a haircare enthusiast. Understanding the pain users feel in their quest for the perfect dandruff shampoo, she has taken extra care and gone through hundreds of reviews by users to pick the best dandruff shampoos for her readers. This list offers a wide range of shampoos that keep dandruff and itching at bay on an affordable budget.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is anti-dandruff shampoo good for your hair?

While the use of anti-dandruff shampoos should be restricted to when you have dandruff, it may not necessarily cause damage to your hair.

Does anti-dandruff shampoo cause hair loss?

Anti-dandruff shampoos contain ingredients that kill the fungus that causes dandruff on your scalp. This can also lead to damage to your hair roots which can cause hair loss.

Can I use anti-dandruff shampoo every day?

Anti-dandruff shampoos are designed to treat the fungus on your scalp and may contain chemicals that are not suitable for prolonged use.

Does hot water cause dandruff?

Yes, as hot water tends to strip hair of its natural oils causing dryness which eventually leads to dandruff.

How often should you use anti-dandruff shampoo?

The use of anti-dandruff shampoo differs from person to person depending on the amount of dandruff they carry.


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