15 Best Dandruff Shampoos That Give You A Flake-Free Scalp – 2023
For a healthy, flake-free scalp that lets you have the long or short, luscious hair of your dreams.
Vaishnavi Kothuri Certified Skin Care Coach
Expertise: Skin Care & Hair Care
Experience: 4 years
Vaishnavi is a techie-turned-content writer and a certified skin care coach with four years of experience. She did her postgraduation from Vignan Institute of Technology & Sciences, Telangana. She... more
Image: Shutterstock
From a medical perspective, dandruff isn’t a condition that can negatively affect your 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!
In This Article
The Top 15 Dandruff Shampoos That Fight A Flaky Scalp
1. Best Antibacterial Properties:Maple Holistics Sage Shampoo
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 the oily hair and helps relieve scalp itchiness. 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 of the product for more information.
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
Cons
- Some users reported hair loss
2. Best Salon-Tested:Nizoral A-D Dandruff Shampoo
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. Besides eliminating dandruff, it also controls 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 the product.
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
3. Best Dermatologist-Approved:Neutrogena T/Gel Extra Strength 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 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 the product.
Pros
- Dermatologist-approved
- When used with conditioners makes hair manageable and healthy
- Budget-friendly
Cons
- Some users reported smell issues
4. Best For All Skin Types:Head and Shoulders Dandruff Shampoo
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 and hydrates your crowning glory and relieves you from the dry, itchy scalp. It provides long-lasting hydration to the scalp and hair. The entire Royal oils line includes scalp relief for kinky and coily hair besides natural hair as well.
Pros
- Free from parabens and dyes
- Suitable for all skin types
- Smells like coconut
- Lightweight moisturization
Cons
- Some users reported scalp dryness post use
5. Best Lightweight:Dove DermaCare Scalp Coconut & Hydration Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
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.
Pros
- Leaves your hair soft and nourished
- Smells amazing
- Lightweight moisturization and hydration
Cons
- It may irritate sensitive skin.
6. Best Cruelty-Free:Jason Dandruff Relief Treatment Shampoo
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.
Pros
- Cruelty-free product
- Controls recurrence of dandruff
- Reduces flaking to quite an extent
Cons
- Some users found the smell unappealing
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.
Pros
- Safe on color-treated hair too
- Budget-friendly
- Refreshing fresh smell
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 recommended and is mild and gentle, free of common chemical irritants.
Pros
- Gluten and sulfate-free product
- No smell
- This product is best for people with sensitive skin.
Cons
- May cause excessive drying in some cases
9. Best For Scalp Irritation:BIOLAGE Scalpsync Dandruff Shampoo
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 reducing dandruff.
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
10. Best For Psoriasis:Amazon Brand – Solimo Therapeutic Dandruff Shampoo
Solimo Therapeutic Dandruff Shampoo with a 5% coal tar topical solution helps control the itchy and flaky scalp caused by dandruff. This therapeutic shampoo helps control seborrheic dermatitis, dandruff, and psoriasis. The result is shiny and manageable hair that adds glory to your crown. Make sure you try this one!
Pros
- A paraben-free product
- Free from cruelty
- Contains 5% coal tar topical solution
Cons
- May cause irritation for some
11. Best Environmental-Friendly:Luseta Tea Tree And Argan Oil Shampoo
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.
Pros
- Suitable for mild dandruff
- Nourishes your hair and scalp
- Color-safe
- Paraben-free
- Sulfate-free
- Environmental-friendly
- Cruelty-free
Cons
None
12. Best Nourishing:Botanic Hearth Tea Tree Shampoo
Botanic Hearth Tea Tree Shampoo is formulated with 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.
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
13. Best For Hair Strengthening:Selsun Blue Antidandruff Shampoo
The Selsun Blue Antidandruff Shampoo is formulated with 1% Pyrithione zinc to remove flakes and calm your itchy scalp. It also has caffeine to nourish your scalp, strengthen your hair, and make it appear thicker and strong. It is gentle enough to be used daily and is suitable for all hair types.
Pros
- Easy to use
- Soothe the scalp
- Pharmacist-recommended
Cons
None
14. Best For Color-Treated Hair:Oribe Serene Scalp Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
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 healthy, hydrated hair with zero flakes. It helps relieve dryness and helps refresh and rejuvenate the hair and scalp. It also maintains a healthy moisture balance for hair and scalp.
Pros
- Safe for color-treated hair
- Paraben and sulfate-free product
- Dermatologically tested and approved
Cons
- Slightly overpriced
15. Best Cleanser:Kenra Dandruff Shampoo
Kenra Dandruff Shampoo helps with skin and scalp conditions like dandruff, seborrhea, and also itchy, and dry scalp. It prevents the recurrence of dandruff and adds volume to the hair. This shampoo is good to detangle hair smoothly without losing excess hair. The shampoo consists of Zinc Pyrithione which is effective in healing the scalp. The addition of jasmine oil is simply therapeutic, especially after a long day at work!
Pros
- Great cleanser
- Offers lightweight conditioning
- Gentle on hair
- Smells amazing
Cons
- May cause dryness
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.
Dandruff shampoos are the need of the hour! These shampoos help in revitalizing your locks while attending to the issue of dandruff in your hair and scalp. 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.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
Vaishnavi Kothuri, 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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