14 Best Shampoos For Seborrheic Dermatitis, As Per A Hairstylist (2024)

Have healthy, clean, and beautiful hair while ensuring you control scalp inflammation.

Reviewed by Laura Dale, Licensed Cosmetologist
Written by Oyendrila Kanjilal, MA, Certified Skin Care Coach
Edited by Shiboli Chakraborti, MA (English Literature), Certified Skin Care Coach
Fact-checked by Eshna Das, BA, MSc  • 
All products recommended on StyleCraze are independently selected by our editorial team. If you make a purchase through any of these links, we may receive a commission. Learn more about our product selection process here.

Seborrheic dermatitis is a dermatological condition affecting your scalp characterized by symptoms like redness, flakiness, itchiness, and stubborn dandruff. This chronic inflammatory condition is due to improper diet, genes, lifestyle disorders, and hormonal imbalances. Using the best shampoo for seborrheic dermatitis might help control the severity of the condition. Laura Dale, a licensed cosmetologist, states, “If you suffer from seborrheic dermatitis, look for shampoos that contain ingredients which have antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties. It is also important to avoid products that contain sulfates or fragrances, as they can irritate the scalp.” If you want to get rid of those stubborn flakes, read this article to find out the best shampoo for seborrheic dermatitis. Scroll down!

Top PicksCheck Price
Best-Rated Medicated Shampoo: Nizoral A-D Anti-Dandruff ShampooPrice on AmazonPrice on Walmart
Best For Dandruff:Neutrogena T/Gel Therapeutic ShampooPrice on AmazonPrice on Walmart
Best For Instant Relief:DHS Zinc ShampooPrice on AmazonPrice on Walmart
Best Budget: Head and Shoulders Anti-Dandruff ShampooPrice on AmazonPrice on Walmart
Best pH-Balanced Shampoo: Selsun Blue ShampooPrice on AmazonPrice on Walmart
Best Salon Quality Product: BIOLAGE Scalpsync Anti-Dandruff ShampooPrice on AmazonPrice on Walmart
Best Overall: As I Am Dry And Itchy Scalp Care ShampooPrice on AmazonPrice on Walmart
Best For Itchy Scalp:MG217 Psoriasis Medicated Conditioning ShampooPrice on AmazonPrice on Walmart
Best Medicated Formula:Medicasp Coal Tar Gel Anti-Dandruff ShampooPrice on AmazonPrice on Walmart
Best Smelling:Solimo Therapeutic Dandruff ShampooPrice on AmazonPrice on Walmart

14 Best Shampoos For Seborrheic Dermatitis: Reviews + Buying Guide

1. Best-Rated Medicated Shampoo: Nizoral A-D Anti-Dandruff Shampoo

4.5
Nizoral A-D Anti-Dandruff Shampoo Image: Nizoral

Nizoral A-D is one of the highest-rated over-the-counter anti-dandruff shampoos available. This clinically-proven formula contains 1% ketoconazole, which is effective as an antifungal ingredient. It helps treat stubborn dandruff by binding with natural hair proteins. It is a medicated luxurious shampoo with a clean, fresh aroma that not only helps relieve flaking, scaling, and itching associated with seborrheic dermatitis but also leaves your hair smelling great. You can use this twice a week in between your regular shampoos to control dandruff.This ketoconazole shampoo also helps prevent hair loss associated with hormonal imbalances, stress, and an improper diet.

Pros

  • 10x more effective to kill fungus than regular anti-dandruff shampoos
  • Controls hair loss associated with dandruff
  • Clinically-proven formula
  • Leaves the hair soft, clean, and smelling fresh
  • Safe for color-treated, chemically processed, or gray hair
  • Reduces itching and redness of the scalp
  • Works faster than regular anti-dandruff shampoos
  • Eliminates dryness of the scalp

Cons

  • None

protip_icon Pro Tip
For seborrheic dermatitis, leave the anti-dandruff shampoo on the scalp for 10-20 minutes and use it on alternate days for best results.

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

The product has received 9,552 positive Amazon reviews from its users, stating its numerous benefits.

2. Best For Dandruff:Neutrogena T/Gel Therapeutic Shampoo

Neutrogena TGel Therapeutic Shampoo

The dermatologically approved Neutrogena T/Gel Therapeutic medicated shampoo helps treat a dry, itchy, flaky scalp. This dermatologist-recommended shampoo contains 0.5% coal tar that slows down the skin turnover rate while removing dead cells and flaky dandruff from the scalp. It is gentle enough for using on a sensitive scalp regularly. It helps relieve seborrheic dermatitis and chronic scalp psoriasis as it is a clinically proven formula that continues to work for hours even after rinsing. Use it twice a week or as prescribed by the doctor. Massage it gently onto the scalp until it forms a lather, wait for few minutes, and rinse.

Pros

  • Dermatologist recommended
  • Approved by National Psoriasis Foundation
  • Relieves itching and flaking
  • Gentle for sensitive scalp
  • Works well against eczema and psoriasis
  • Safe for colored and chemically treated hair
  • Reduces inflammation
  • Gentle for daily use

Cons

  • Strong chemical smell
  • Contains sulfates

protip_icon Pro Tip
Wait a few months till the dandruff is completely gone before using any styling products, such as gels, sprays, mousse, or pomade.

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

This product has made it to our top favorite list with more than 3,106 rave reviews on Amazon.

3. Best For Instant Relief:DHS Zinc Shampoo

DHS Zinc Shampoo

The dermatologist-recommended DHS Zinc Shampoo contains 2% pyrithione zinc. It is a clinically proven formula that has antibacterial, antimicrobial, and antifungal properties. This clinical strength shampoo kills the fungus that causes seborrheic dermatitis. It provides relief from itchy, flaky, dry scalp. Pyrithione zinc is one of the OTC ingredients that help reduce antifungal activity.

Pros

  • Clinically proven formula
  • Prevents recurrence of scalp itching
  • Reduces dandruff flakes
  • Reduces soreness and inflammation
  • Perfect for all scalp types

Cons

  • Contains sulfates
  • Heavy synthetic fragrance
Nizoral A-D Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
Neutrogena T/Gel Therapeutic Shampoo
DHS Zinc Shampoo
Hair Type All Dry, Damaged Oily
Dimensions 1.54 x 2.99 x 7.17 inches 9.06 x 2.13 x 9.06 inches 8 x 2.6 x 2.6 inches
Weight 6.98 Ounces 1.23 Pounds 1.2 Pounds
Rating
Reviews9,5523,1063,588
Price$13.99$33.99$12.15

4. Best Budget: Head and Shoulders Anti-Dandruff Shampoo

Best Budget Head and Shoulders Anti-Dandruff Shampoo

Head and Shoulders Shampoo is a popular choice to alleviate dandruff and itchy scalp. Its dermatologist-recommended and clinically proven formula reduces fungal growth. The active key ingredient of this clinical strength shampoo is 1% selenium sulfide. This ingredient actively deals with severe dandruff and is effective against seborrheic dermatitis and other related symptoms like itching, flaking, redness, and inflammation. Selenium sulfide targets specific Malassezia irritants, which are fungi that cause dandruff. Using this dermatologically tested shampoo twice a week or as directed by the physician can give you the desired results. Have a look at this video to learn more about the product from the tester’s experience with it.

Pros

  • Clinically proven formula
  • Dermatologist recommended
  • Targets dandruff-causing fungi and reduces their cell growth
  • Moisturizes hair
  • Camphor oil soothes hair follicles
  • Suitable for eczema
  • Safe for colored and chemically treated hair

Cons

  • Contains sulfates
  • Unpleasant smell
  • May leave the hair dry.

5. Best pH-Balanced Shampoo: Selsun Blue Shampoo

Best pH-Balanced Shampoo Selsun Blue Shampoo

The Selsun Blue Anti-dandruff shampoo is known to reduce seborrheic dermatitis by almost 80%. The active ingredient is 1% selenium sulfide that targets the fungus that causes dandruff. This expert-recommended shampoo is pH-balanced to reduce dandruff and provide relief from irritation, itchiness, and redness. It contains aloe vera leaf juice with proteolytic enzymes that soothe your scalp, remove dead cells, and leave the hair soft and manageable after every wash. Many reviewers on Amazon highly recommended this product for making the hair look well nourished.

Pros

  • Medicated shampoo
  • Moisturizes hair
  • Suitable for daily use
  • Reduces dry, brittle hair
  • Suitable for all hair types
  • Can be used for colored or chemically treated hair

Cons

  • Contains synthetic ingredients.
  • May cause allergic reactions.
  • Contains sulfates
  • Medicinal smell

6. Best Salon Quality Product: BIOLAGE Scalpsync Anti-Dandruff Shampoo

Best Salon Quality Product BIOLAGE Scalpsync

The BIOLAGE Scalpsync Anti-Dandruff Shampoo is infused with 1% pyrithione zinc that helps remove dandruff flakes and treats dry, flaky skin. It provides relief from itching scalp, redness, soreness, and inflammation. This OTC anti-dandruff shampoo is infused with mint that has antifungal and antibacterial properties. These cleanse the scalp from within and impart a cooling sensation. This salon-quality anti-dandruff shampoo is safe for color-treated hair. It also may help relieve scalp bumps. As for testing on animals, this hair care brand steers clear from such practices.

Pros

  • Cleanses scalp
  • Antifungal and antibacterial properties
  • Safe for color-treated hair
  • Reduces scalp bumps
  • Removes scalp debris
  • Deep cleansing effect
  • Seals in the moisture
  • Smells great

Cons

  • Contains sulfates
  • Contains parabens
  • Leaves hair greasy

7. Best Overall: As I Am Dry And Itchy Scalp Care Shampoo

Best Overall As I Am Dry And Itchy Scalp

The As I Am Dry And Itchy Scalp Care Shampoo is a 100% vegan formula that balances and restores scalp health. This brand formulates products without using any animal testing. The active ingredient of this therapeutic shampoo is 1% zinc pyrithione. It reduces inflammation, fights against dry and itchy scalp, and removes all the scalp debris. The infusion of olive, tea tree, linseed, and peppermint oils exhibits antifungal properties that reduce dandruff flakes. The oil also has omega-3 fatty acids that provide relief from itchy scalp. The peppermint oil soothes an irritated scalp and has a calming effect. Use this therapeutic anti-dandruff shampoo twice a week for a healthy scalp and hair. Here is an informative video that tells you about the reviewer’s experience of the product.

Pros

  • Removes scalp debris
  • Reduces tangles and combing damage
  • Moisturizes the scalp
  • Removes environmental pollutants
  • Paraben-free
  • Sulfate-free
  • Refreshing smell
  • for winters

Cons

  • None

protip_icon Pro Tip
Sweating can aggravate seborrheic dermatitis, so keeping your scalp clean is essential. For those who work out a lot, shampoo your hair regularly, but alternate with plain water to prevent over-shampooing.

8. Best For Itchy Scalp:MG217 Psoriasis Medicated Conditioning Shampoo

MG217 Psoriasis Medicated Conditioning Shampoo

The expert-recommended MG217 Psoriasis Medicated Conditioning Shampoo contains 3% coal tar that suppresses fungal growth and reduces inflammation. This medicated over-the-counter shampoo slows down dandruff cell growth, controls further build-up, and sheds dead skin cells from the top layer. This is a perfect line of treatment for psoriasis and seborrheic dermatitis and leaves your scalp feeling clean and well nourished. Check out this video to learn about the tester’s experience of using this product.

Pros

  • Medicated conditioning shampoo
  • Controls itching and flaking
  • Removes scalp debris
  • Relief from the symptoms of scalp diseases
  • Prevents recurrence of dandruff
  • Recognized by National Psoriasis Foundation

Cons

  • Contains parabens
  • Contains sulfates
  • Tar smell

9. Best Medicated Formula:Medicasp Coal Tar Gel Anti-Dandruff Shampoo

Medicasp Coal Tar Gel Anti-Dandruff Shampoo

The Medicasp Coal Tar Anti-Dandruff Shampoo is a gel therapeutic formula that contains 0.5% coal tar. It comes with proven efficacy and reduces the symptoms of seborrheic dermatitis, psoriasis, and stubborn dandruff. This fast-acting medicated shampoo provides relief from itchy scalp, soreness, inflammation, and controls excess sebum production. This clinical strength shampoo targets colonized Malassezia (the fungus responsible for dandruff) and stops it from further progressing. Apply this shampoo twice a week or as directed by the doctor. Massage gently, and leave it on for a few minutes, followed by thorough rinsing.

Pros

  • Gel formula
  • Reduces itching and irritation
  • Anti-inflammatory properties
  • Controls excess sebum formation
  • Reduces redness

Cons

  • Contains sulfates
  • Expensive

10. Best Smelling:Solimo Therapeutic Dandruff Shampoo

Solimo Therapeutic Dandruff Shampoo

The Solimo Therapeutic Dandruff Shampoo is made of 2.5% coal tar solution USP (0.5% coal tar) that controls the symptoms of dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis, and psoriasis. The coal tar formula reduces the development of dandruff cells, stops the colonization of the fungus, and removes debris. The luxurious lather and soothing smell make you feel fresh. It is also affordable.

Pros

  • Paraben-free
  • Cruelty-free
  • Leaves a refreshing smell
  • Removes dead cells
  • Budget-friendly
  • Reduces inflammation

Cons

  • Contains sulfates
  • Not suitable for those with thin hair.

11. Best Fragrance – Free:Neutrogena T/Sal Therapeutic Shampoo

Neutrogena TSal Therapeutic Shampoo

The Neutrogena T/Sal Therapeutic Shampoo is ideal for reducing flaky dandruff, which is a common complaint of psoriasis, seborrheic dermatitis, and other scalp disorders. This dermatologist-recommended shampoo contains salicylic acid that targets particular dandruff cells, blocks excess sebum formation, and gently sloughs off the dead skin and debris from the scalp. It is clinically proven to clear and prevent flakes and scalp build-up. The antifungal property of 3% salicylic acid provides immediate relief from itching and flaking, leaving your scalp and hair clean and fresh.

Pros

  • Works great for eczema, psoriasis, seborrheic dermatitis
  • Dermatologically-approved formula
  • Odorless
  • A clear gel formula
  • No dyes or preservatives
  • Maximum relief from itchy scalp

Cons

  • Expensive
  • Could be harsh for thin hair.

12. Best Cruelty – Free:Jason Dandruff Relief Treatment Shampoo

Jason Dandruff Relief Treatment Shampoo

The Jason Dandruff Relief Treatment Shampoo is a gentle cleanser. It provides nourishment to each hair strand while removing dandruff flakes, and controls mild dermatitis and psoriasis. The shampoo is a unique combination of salicylic acid (2.2%) and sulfur (2.4%) that provide relief from itchiness and redness while the botanical infusions of rosemary, olive oil, and jojoba oil soothe, heal, and moisturize the scalp. Using the shampoo at least three times a week provides promising results. Plus, this brand develops ethical products that are not tested on animals.

Pros

  • Medicated shampoo
  • Contains botanical extracts
  • Treats scalp itchiness and redness
  • Soothes hair
  • Moisturizes and nourishes the scalp from within
  • Simple, safe, and gentle ingredients
  • Certified organic ingredients
  • Contains natural oils
  • Paraben-free
  • Sulfate-free

Cons

  • Not for those with thick hair.
  • Medicinal smell
  • Contains alcohol

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

This product has garnered over 4,039 positive reviews on Amazon, and the number continues to grow.

13. Best Natural One:Wild Naturals Eczema Psoriasis Shampoo

Wild Naturals Eczema Psoriasis Shampoo

The Wild Naturals Shampoo soothes, nourishes, and restores the pH balance of the scalp by removing dead cells and dandruff flakes. It also reduces itching, dryness, redness, pain, and swelling. The highly concentrated formula is infused with nourishing ingredients such as aloe vera, manuka honey, orange oil, and cehami extract that reduce inflammation, pain, and swelling. The formula also promotes collagen synthesis, reduces scars, and strengthens hair follicles. You can replace your regular shampoo with this chemical-free coconut oil formula.

Pros

  • Natural ingredients
  • Suitable for eczema, psoriasis, and seborrheic dermatitis
  • No harsh chemicals
  • Fragrance-free
  • Sulfate-free
  • Paraben-free
  • Dye-free
  • Preservative-free
  • Safe for sensitive skin, children, or babies
  • High-quality ingredients
  • Soothing and moisturizing
  • pH-balanced at 5.5
  • Provides a protective barrier
  • Natural light foaming extract

Cons

  • Not suitable for those with Afro or American hair types.

14.Best Value For Money: Seborrheic Dermatitis Shampoo

Best Value For Money Seborrheic Dermatitis Shampoo

The Seborrheic Dermatitis Shampoo is a natural anti-dandruff solution that has manuka honey as the active ingredient. This variant of honey is native to New Zealand and has amazing antibacterial, antifungal, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties. The strong healing abilities of this variant treat eczema, psoriasis, and seborrheic dermatitis. Other promising ingredients in the shampoo include aloe vera, coconut extract, and orange peel oil. These act as anti-inflammatory ingredients to soothe irritation and redness and leave hair feeling clean and soft after every wash. The pH-balanced formula acts as a protective barrier to heal and protect the scalp.

Pros

  • pH-balanced
  • Effective for scalp diseases
  • Cruelty-free
  • Sulfate-free
  • Gluten-free
  • Paraben-free
  • Phthalate-free
  • Organic, natural ingredients
  • Improves hair texture
  • Moisturizes the scalp
  • Value for money
  • Safe for daily use
  • Eco-friendly

Cons

  • Not suitable for all hair types.
*The prices provided in this article are based on the latest available information. However, they may vary due to changes in pricing by the seller and/or promotional offers.

These are the top shampoos for treating seborrheic dermatitis that have generated numerous positive reviews. All these products are curated after a careful and in-depth analysis of their reviews. In the following section, we will discuss how you use these shampoos for effective results. Read on!

Tips For Effective Use

  • Follow the doctor’s instructions when using a medicated shampoo for effective results. The instructions may vary based on the severity of the symptoms and other underlying conditions.
  • Try to alternate between your regular shampoo and the therapeutic shampoo. This helps maintain a balance between nourishment and removing dandruff flakes.
  • Use olive oil to treat dandruff. Massage the oil over your scalp and cover it with a cap for 10-15 minutes. Follow with the shampoo.
  • Massage the medicated shampoo to form a gentle lather, and leave it on for a few minutes. Follow by rinsing and applying conditioner. Talk to an expert before conducting regular shampooing with these medicated shampoos.

Not all shampoos that claim to treat seborrhoeic dermatitis may be effective. The following buying guide can help you pick an effective shampoo.

How To Pick The Right Shampoo For Seborrheic Dermatitis

  • An anti-dandruff shampoo should contain salicylic acid, selenium sulfide, ketoconazole, pyrithione zinc, or coal tar among the active ingredients. These help remove stubborn dandruff and scaly patches.
  • You can choose natural botanical extracts like coconut oil, olive oil, honey, ginger extract, tea tree extract, and other essential oils to cleanse the scalp and moisturize it from within.
  • Use OTC ingredients that are easily available without a prescription for daily or alternate use.
  • Pick a chemical-free, paraben-free formulation for the most effective results.

Infographic: Seborrheic Dermatitis: Things To Avoid & Hair Wash Tips

Seborrheic dermatitis is a common scalp condition that is easy to manage with certain lifestyle changes. Check out the infographic below to learn what you must avoid to keep your scalp free of itchy patches and the right way to wash your hair to treat the condition.

Seborrheic Dermatitis: Causes, Things To Avoid, & Tips (infographic)

Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team

Get the high-quality PDF version of this infographic.

Download Infographic in PDF version

The Bottom Line

Seborrheic dermatitis causes itchiness, dandruff, and flakiness on your scalp. These common skin conditions are mainly caused by poor quality of life, improper diet, or imbalances in your hormones. You can tackle the condition with the help of good hair care products, including effective shampoos. The Nizoral A-D Anti-Dandruff Shampoo exhibits anti-fungal properties and is a powerful and targeted solution for dandruff-related issues. The Head and Shoulders Anti-dandruff Shampoo is one of the most popular and readily available anti-dandruff shampoos on the market. It helps control dandruff, reduce itching, and prevent its recurrence. If you are looking for a solution for psoriasis and seborrheic dermatitis, try the Neutrogena T/Gel Therapeutic Shampoo. It effectively treats various scalp conditions. These shampoos leave your hair softer and cleaner while removing dryness and redness from your scalp. Shampoos for seborrheic dermatitis are gentle on your scalp and do not aggravate the situation at any cost. These shampoos also reduce anti-fungal activity in your scalp. However, consider consulting a board-certified dermatologist to choose the best shampoo for your hair if you have a severely sensitive scalp.

Why Trust Stylecraze?

Oyendrila Kanjilal, the author of this article, is a hair care enthusiast who passionately searches for products reviews across websites. In this article, she enlists the best shampoos for managing seborrheic dermatitis. User friendly, pH balanced, and budget-friendly are a few of the many factors she has considered before shortlisting these products for her readers. You can read the details of these products before buying one to suit your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use normal shampoo with seborrheic dermatitis?

No. Seborrheic dermatitis is a serious scalp condition. Using a normal shampoo for this chronic inflammatory condition can worsen your scalp health and dry it further. You need to wash your hair daily or every other day with an anti-dandruff shampoo containing 2.5 % selenium sulfide or 1 to 2% pyrithione zinc. It will soothe your scalp and eliminate stubborn dandruff.

What shampoo do dermatologists recommend for seborrheic dermatitis?

The Neutrogena T/Gel Therapeutic Shampoo is a dermatologically approved product for seborrheic dermatitis. It slows the skin’s turnover rate while eliminating flaky skin.

How often should I wash my hair with seborrheic dermatitis?

Wash your hair daily with a formula containing 2.5% selenium sulfide or 1 to 2% pyrithione zinc until the symptoms improve. Then, slowly limit washing your hair to only once a week.

What is the root cause of seborrheic dermatitis?

The root cause of seborrheic dermatitis is an inflammatory reaction to Malassezia. It is a microscopic organism that stays on our skin and overgrows. The immune system reacts to it and leads to an inflammatory response. The results are flaky, red scalp filled with dandruff.

Does shampoo worsen seborrheic dermatitis?

No. A medicated or anti-dandruff shampoo helps control seborrheic dermatitis. However, washing your hair with regular shampoos can damage your infected scalp.

Can poor hygiene cause seborrheic dermatitis?

No. Poor hygiene is not the actual reason for seborrheic dermatitis. However, improper diet, genes, and hormonal imbalances are contributing factors. Also, washing your hair scarcely can develop dandruff on your scalp.

Does sunlight help seborrheic dermatitis?

Exposure to sunlight can be beneficial to some patients suffering from seborrheic dermatitis. This is because the UV rays inhibit the growth of yeast on the skin. However in some instances, extreme exposure to sunlight can trigger the symptoms.

What kills seborrheic dermatitis on the scalp?

Shampoos with zinc pyrithione, selenium sulfide, ketoconazole, sulfur, and salicylic acid may help treat seborrheic dermatitis on the scalp.


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