13 Best Hairstylist-Recommended Color-Safe Dandruff Shampoos – 2024

Shampoos that are tough on dandruff but gentle on your scalp and tinted hair.

Reviewed by Alicia Igess, Hairstylist Alicia Igess Alicia IgessHairstylist facebook_iconinsta_icon
Written by , MA (English Literature), Certified Skin Care Coach Shiboli Chakraborti MA (English Literature), Certified Skin Care Coach Experience: 4 years
Edited by , MA (English Literature), Diploma In Health & Wellness Aditi Naskar MA (English Literature), Diploma In Health & Wellness Experience: 5 years
Fact-checked by , BA (Literature & Psychology), PG Diploma Arshiya Syeda BA (Literature & Psychology), PG Diploma Experience: 7 years
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If you have the best color-safe dandruff shampoo, you can say goodbye to itchy white flakes and itchy scalp that always ruins the look of your mane. This shampoo makes it easier to treat your dandruff even without having to wash the color out of the tresses. Also, it comes with active anti-dandruff ingredients, and it can hydrate the strands of your hair along with preventing the hair color from fading. Keeping that in mind, below, we have listed the 13 most effective dandruff-fighting shampoos safe for colored hair, perfect for all types.

Top PicksCheck Price
Best Overall:Maple Holistics Sage Shampoo – Best OverallPrice on Amazon
Best For Dandruff:Maple Holistics Degrease ShampooPrice on AmazonPrice on Walmart
Best For Sensitive Scalp:Maple Holistics Tea Tree ShampooPrice on AmazonPrice on Walmart
Best Drugstore:Head and Shoulders Clinical Strength ShampooPrice on AmazonPrice on Walmart
Best Vegan:BIOLAGE Scalpsync Anti-Dandruff ShampooPrice on Amazon
Best For All Hair Types:Nizoral Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
Price on Amazon
Price on Walmart
Best For Color-Treated Hair:Luseta Tea Tree & Argan Oil Shampoo
Price on Amazon
Price on Walmart

13 Best Color-Safe Dandruff Shampoos For All Hair Types – 2024

1. Best Overall:Maple Holistics Sage Shampoo – Best Overall

Maple Holistics Sage Shampoo – Best Overall

The Maple Holistics Sage Shampoo is the best therapeutic formula for dandruff and color-treated hair. This anti-dandruff shampoo balances a flaky scalp by gently cleansing the follicle-clogging oils, dirt, and grease. The superior anti-itch scalp treatment formula reduces inflammation in itchy and irritated scalp.

This color-safe shampoo is enriched with the hydration power of nourishing ingredients such as Moroccan argan oil, jojoba oil, and peach kernel oil that replenish moisture and restore vibrancy. The botanical-infused dandruff-fighting shampoo for colored hair strengthens color-treated and processed dry and brittle hair and boosts hair elasticity. Antifungal ingredients, like sage, rosemary, and tea tree, prevent microbial growth on the scalp and boost hair volume and hair growth.This dandruff shampoo for color-treated hair also prevents hair loss and split ends. The nourishing formula reduces frizz and is suitable for all hair types and textures. This review video will give you more insights into the product with respect to a tester’s experience of using it consistently.

Pros

  • Anti-dandruff therapeutic formula
  • Boosts scalp health
  • Treats itchy scalp
  • Improves hair health
  • Strengthens hair follicles
  • Hydrates color-treated hair
  • Prevents color fading
  • Boosts hair elasticity
  • Reduces frizz
  • Paraben-free
  • Sulfate-free
  • Cruelty-free
  • Affordable
  • Natural oils nourish hair strands.
  • Adds shine, volume, bounce, and makes the hair soft.
  • Suitable for all hair types and textures.
  • Suitable for sensitive scalp.

Cons

  • Not suitable for permed hair.
  • Not suitable for people with psoriasis.
  • In a few cases, it may make the scalp drier.

protip_icon Quick Tip
Use the Maple Logistics Tea Tree conditioner with this color-safe shampoo for lustrous, moisturized, and healthier hair.

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

This product is so liked by shoppers that it has gained over 10,586 great reviews on Amazon.

2. Best For Dandruff:Maple Holistics Degrease Shampoo

Maple Holistics Degrease Shampoo

This Maple Holistics Degrease Shampoo washes away excess grease and oil by restoring healthy moisture and sebum balance. This color-friendly dandruff shampoo is enriched with pro-vitamin B5, jojoba oil, and peach kernel oil. It is a color-safe dandruff shampoo that reduces oily scalp and scalp inflammation.

The moisturizing lightweight formula hydrates hair strands and prevents over-drying of the scalp. The rosemary oil boosts circulation and strengthens hair roots. The vitamins, minerals, fatty acids, and antioxidants promote healthy, shiny, and bouncy hair. The shampoo is suitable for color-treated hair (all hair types). Additionally, the shampoo has a paraben- and sulfate-free formula. A personal blogger, Tina, likes the natural composition of this product. She writes, “I like that this shampoo is all-natural and works with my body’s natural oil production to reduce the amount of oil my scalp usually produces due to over-washing and using styling products. I feel good about using it and know it’s helping rather than hurting like shampoos with sulfates (i).”

Pros

  • Clarifying anti-dandruff color-safe shampoo
  • Rebalances sebum and moisture balance
  • Reduces flaky scalp
  • Reduces itchy scalp
  • Lightweight formula
  • Strengthens hair roots
  • Paraben-free
  • Sulfate-free
  • Cruelty-free
  • Washes away excess oil and grease.
  • Vitamins, minerals, fatty acids, and antioxidants promote hair health.
  • Locks color and prevents fading.
  • Adds shine, body, volume, and bounce to hair.
  • Makes hair strands soft and smooth.
  • Suitable for all hair types.
  • Suitable for straight, wavy, and curly hair.
  • Affordable

Cons

  • Has a strong smell.
  • Not suitable for sensitive scalp.

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

Almost 1,957 happy users have mentioned the value and quality of this product.

3. Best For Sensitive Scalp:Maple Holistics Tea Tree Shampoo

Maple Holistics Tea Tree Shampoo

The Maple Holistics Tea Tree Special Formula Shampoo is formulated with cleansing oils and natural ingredients that help reduce scalp inflammation and an itchy scalp in just a few washes. This dandruff shampoo for dyed hair contains nourishing ingredients, like Moroccan argan oil, tea tree oil, rosemary oil, lavender essential oil, and keratin complex, which hydrate the hair follicles and hair strands.

The repairing dandruff shampoo for colored hair contains tea tree oil and has antibacterial and cleansing properties that help reduce dandruff. The vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants revitalize and improve scalp health and add shine and bounce to the hair. This shampoo is suitable for sensitive scalp and color-treated hair. Regular use of the shampoo also strengthens hair and prevents hair fall and brittle hair. The refreshing dandruff shampoo for colored hair is cruelty-free and free of parabens, sulfates, and silicones. To make an informed decision before buying, you can check out this video to gain information about the reviewer’ experience.

Pros

  • Antibacterial
  • Clarifying shampoo
  • Hydrates hair follicles
  • Strengthens and smoothens hair strands.
  • Makes hair soft.
  • Adds shine, volume, and bounce.
  • Suitable for sensitive scalp.
  • Paraben-free
  • Sulfate-free
  • Silicone-free
  • Cruelty-free
  • Affordable

Cons

  • May leave a residue.
  • Not suitable for people with psoriasis.
Maple Holistics Sage Shampoo
Best Overall
Maple Holistics Degrease Shampoo
Best For Dandruff
Maple Holistics Tea Tree Shampoo
Best For Sensitive Scalp
Hair Type Oily, Dry, Curly, Normal, Straight Oily, Color Treated, Curly, Thin dry scalp, oily scalp, flaky scalp, normal scalp, itchy scalp
Dimensions 2.5 x 2.5 x 6.24 inches 20.6 x 6.4 x 6.4 inches 15 x 2 x 7 inches
Weight 8 Ounces 15.2 Ounces 8.8 Ounces
Rating
Reviews10,5861,9571,074
Price$23.95$21.95$12.95

4. Best Drugstore:Head and Shoulders Clinical Strength Shampoo

Head and Shoulders Clinical Strength Shampoo

Head & Shoulders is a popular and trusted shampoo brand that is dermatologist-tested and clinically proven to provide maximum dandruff removal with regular usage. The clinical strength shampoo from this brand is a good color-safe anti-dandruff shampoo. The therapeutic and anti-seborrheic dermatitis formula helps treat severe dandruff. This medicated shampoo is formulated with active ingredients, like 1% selenium sulfide and zinc pyrithione (ZPT), that prevent scalp flaking. The non-stripping dandruff shampoo for colored hair also removes excess oil, protects the scalp from dandruff, and moisturizes each hair strand from root to tip.

This pH-balanced gentle shampoo is suitable for color-treated hair. The dandruff shampoo for all hair types and colors does not strip the color away and instead maintains the vibrant color even after several washes. This scalp-protecting shampoo adds volume, bounce, and shine to hair and makes it smooth and soft. It is suitable for all types of hair. Click here to check out this YouTuber’s unbiased review.

Pros

  • pH-balanced
  • Gentle
  • Removes excess oil.
  • Protects the scalp.
  • Provides 100% flake-free hair.
  • Hydrates and nourishes hair
  • Helps maintain the vibrancy of color-treated hair.
  • Adds volume, bounce, and shine to hair.
  • Makes hair smooth and soft.
  • Suitable for all hair types.
  • Affordable

Cons

  • Strong smell.
  • May contain some harsh chemicals.

protip_icon Trivia
Head & Shoulders developed their first shampoo with a revolutionary active ingredient, zinc pyrithione, after eight years of research.

5. Best Vegan:BIOLAGE Scalpsync Anti-Dandruff Shampoo

BIOLAGE Scalpsync Anti-Dandruff Shampoo

The BIOLAGE Scalpsync Anti-Dandruff Shampoo is formulated with mint leaves that have antibacterial and calming properties. The active ingredient zinc pyrithione in the color-safe shampoo targets dandruff and controls the appearance of visible flakes. This professional-grade dandruff shampoo for colored hair, also relieves itchy scalp and irritation. It does not strip your natural hair color. Instead, it protects color-treated hair from sun damage. It helps maintain the vibrancy of the color and adds volume, body, shine, and bounce to the hair. It promotes scalp health and hair growth while leaving the hair feeling fresh, clean, and super soft.

Pros

  • Formulated with antibacterial and cooling mint leaves.
  • Zinc pyrithione controls dandruff and visible flakes.
  • Relieves itchy scalp and irritation.
  • Maintains vibrancy of hair color
  • Strengthens hair roots.
  • Adds volume, shine, bounce, and body to hair.
  • Promotes scalp and hair health.
  • Leaves hair feeling fresh and soft.

Cons

  • Contains parabens.
  • Not suitable for sensitive scalp.

protip_icon Pro Tip
Use this shampoo for dandruff twice weekly to keep your scalp clean and healthy. Form lather with the shampoo and leave it on your scalp for 1-2 minutes before washing.

6. Best For All Hair Types:Nizoral Anti-Dandruff Shampoo

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

The Nizoral Anti-Dandruff Shampoo is a clinically proven shampoo formulated with the antifungal ingredient ketoconazole 1%. It combats dandruff outbreaks and relieves the scalp from flaking, scaling, and dandruff-prone itching. This scalp-cleansing dandruff shampoo for colored hair, also prevents the recurrence of flakes by eliminating the fungus responsible for causing dandruff. The salon-tested formula lathers well and is gentle on the scalp. It cleanses dirt effectively, leaving the scalp clean and healthy. In addition, it has a fresh, clean scent that leaves your hair refreshed.

Pros

  • Clinically proven
  • Safe for chemically treated hair
  • Effective for flaking, scaling, and itching scalp
  • Prevents recurrence of dandruff
  • Fresh clean scent
  • Lathers well
  • Salon-tested
  • Cleanses well

Cons

  • Inconsistent results

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

The overwhelming 9,552 positive reviews on Amazon show how popular this product is with happy users.

7. Best For Color-Treated Hair:Luseta Tea Tree & Argan Oil Shampoo

Luseta Tea Tree & Argan Oil Shampoo is an environment-friendly and cruelty-free anti-dandruff shampoo made of nourishing and dandruff-fighting ingredients. It is formulated with natural ingredients such as tea tree, argan oil, and peppermint oil, that deliver restorative care to the dry, itchy scalp. This hydrating dandruff shampoo for colored hair has potent antibacterial properties, cleanse scalp build-up, fights dandruff, prevents hair loss caused by dandruff, and relieves itching and flaking. The shampoo also effectively repairs damaged hair, split ends, and promotes blood circulation to enhance healthy hair growth. Additionally, this natural dandruff shampoo for colored hair is free from harmful chemicals, making it safe for both curly and treated hair.

Pros

  • Natural ingredients
  • Environment- friendly
  • Cruelty-free
  • Sulfate-free
  • Paraben-free
  • Combats hair loss caused by clogged pores
  • Enhances hair health
  • Safe for curly hair
  • Leaves hair smooth and soft

Cons

  • None

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

It has gained over 895 positive reviews on Amazon, making it an all-time best-seller.

8. Best Unisex:Jupiter Balancing Shampoo

4.1
Jupiter Dry Scalp & Dandruff Shampoo Image: Jupiter

The Jupiter Balancing Shampoo is a medicated anti-dandruff shampoo formulated with the active antifungal ingredient zinc pyrithione. It controls flaking, dryness, and scalp irritation to combat dandruff and related problems. The coconut oil in the formula moisturizes the scalp to prevent dryness, while algae extract protects it with anti-aging properties.
It also effectively controls oil production, clears excess build-up, and leaves hair and scalp fresh and healthy. This anti-flake dandruff shampoo for colored hair is made of clinically proven ingredients with cleansing properties. It is free from sulfates, parabens, and suitable for dry and chemically treated hair. Additionally, It has a natural fragrance of a blend of rosemary, lavender, tangerine, mint, and vanilla that lifts your spirits all day long. The shampoo is also vegan and cruelty-free.

Pros

  • Suitable for all hair types
  • Natural fragrance
  • Reduces hair breakage
  • Controls flaking and itching
  • Improves scalp condition
  • Vegan
  • Cruelty-free
  • Safe for chemically treated hair

Cons

  • Expensive

9. Best For Instant Results:Alevai Stem Cell Anti-Dandruff Shampoo

4

Say goodbye to all the flakes, itching, and irritation dandruff from your scalp and hair with the Alevai Stem Cell Anti-Dandruff Shampoo. This powerful formula offers the best dandruff cleansing experience and keeps your hair healthy. This soothing dandruff shampoo for colored hair is made with natural and pure ingredients. Unlike other anti-dandruff shampoos, this treatment includes 2% pyrithione zinc, which offers the best results in just a few days.

The formula also contains extracts from the argania plant that provides extra nourishment and stimulation for proper hair growth from root to tip. For the best results, use this shampoo for dandruff with Alevai’s powerful conditioner.

Pros

  • Safe for all hair types
  • Sulfate-free
  • Paraben free
  • Gluten-free
  • Dye-free
  • Cruelty-free and vegan
  • Natural fragrance
  • Faster results

Cons

  • The scent is not pleasant for all.

10. Best Smelling One:GOOD&ALL Tea Tree Oil Shampoo

4.2
GOOD&ALL Tea Tree Oil Shampoo Image: Good&all

The GOOD&ALL Tea Tree Oil Shampoo contains mint and vitamin B3 in addition to tea tree oil that relieves an itchy scalp condition and leaves your hair feeling cool and pleasant. This tea tree shampoo is a great remedy against dandruff and flaky scalp. It also assists in maintaining a healthy scalp pH level. This shampoo contains organic cleansers that cleanse out all dirt, grime, and build-up along with flakes and also help stimulate blood flow to the scalp. This pH-balanced dandruff shampoo for colored hair leaves your hair smelling fresh all day. The color-safe shampoo contains a fresh minty aroma that relaxes your mind and body.

Pros

  • Clinically-proven formula
  • 41% reduction in dandruff
  • Offers a strong cooling sensation
  • Vegan and cruelty-free
  • Silicone-free
  • Paraben-free
  • Sulfate-free
  • No artificial colors and artificial fragrance
  • Mild fresh and minty fragrance

Cons

  • Make your hair dry and brittle

11. Best For Dry Hair:SheaMoisture African Black Soap Deep Cleansing Shampoo

SheaMoisture African Black Soap Deep Cleansing Shampoo

The SheaMoisture African Black Soap Deep Cleansing Shampoo is formulated with natural ingredients, like shea butter, salicylic acid, plantain extract, tea tree oil, willow bark extract, avocado oil, coconut oil, mango seed butter, jojoba seed oil, rosemary leaf extract, aloe vera leaf juice, and hydrolyzed rice protein. These certified organic ingredients help alleviate dandruff and flaky scalp, and reduce buildup. It also adds moisture, shine, and volume and detoxes the scalp. Shelly, a personal blogger, is quite satisfied with the shampoo. She writes, “I fully saturated my hair with water and applied the shampoo to my roots and massaged my scalp. To be honest, I think it cleaned my scalp. This African soap shampoo left my hair feeling a little stripped but my scalp was clean and all signs of flakes from my eczema had disappeared (ii).”

This sulfate-free gentle formula cleanses, soothes, and calms a dry scalp. It is a color-safe formula and can be used on colored hair. This moisturizing dandruff shampoo for colored hair makes the hair shiny, smooth, and soft to touch. It is cruelty-free and free of parabens, mineral oils, phthalates, and petrolatum.

Pros

  • Certified organic ingredients
  • Gentle
  • Reduces buildup.
  • Relieves itchy and flaky scalp.
  • Detoxes the scalp.
  • Adds shine and volume.
  • Makes hair soft and smooth.
  • Soothes dry scalp.
  • Sulfate-free
  • Paraben-free
  • Phthalate-free
  • Mineral oil-free
  • Petrolatum-free
  • Cruelty-free

Cons

  • Expensive
  • Strong smell

12. Best Award Winner:PHILIP B Anti-Flake Relief Shampoo

PHILIP B Anti-Flake Relief Shampoo

The PHILIP B Anti-Flake Relief Shampoo is a premium range color-safe dandruff shampoo. The lightweight formula relieves itchy and flaky scalp. It is formulated with clinically proven ingredients like 0.95% zinc omanide, 13.6% pure plant extracts (aloe vera, sage, tea tee oil, juniper berry, and chamomile), and safflower oleosomes. This gentle anti-dandruff shampoo reduces microbial activity on the scalp. This anti-itch dandruff shampoo for colored hair, restores balance in dry or oily scalp. It is color-safe and keratin treatment-safe. It hydrates and moisturizes hair strands and adds volume, shine, and bounce to the hair.

Pros

  • 13.6% pure plant extracts
  • Reduces microbial activity on the scalp.
  • Lightweight and gentle
  • Restores balance in dry or oily scalp.
  • Keratin treatment-safe
  • Adds volume, shine, and bounce to the hair.

Cons

  • Expensive.

13. Best For Healthy Hair:First Aid Beauty FAB Anti-Dandruff Shampoo

4.2
First Aid Beauty FAB Anti-Dandruff Shampoo Image: First Aid Beauty

The First Aid Beauty FAB Anti-Dandruff Shampoo fights flakes, soothes scalp irritation, calms itching, and reduces the appearance of dandruff with 1% zinc pyrithione (ZPT). Calendula and vitamin E present in this nourishing, color-safe product to leave hair feeling and looking silky smooth and healthy. Its key ingredients help to deeply hydrate and balance the scalp’s natural moisture levels while calming and relieving irritation. With regular use, this nourishing dandruff shampoo for colored hair will help prevent further dandruff outbreaks, leaving your scalp feeling clean, healthy, and free of flakes.

Pros

  • Clean ingredients
  • Cruelty-free and vegan
  • Gluten-free
  • Dermatologist tested
  • No artificial fragrance or color
  • Safe for sensitive skin
  • Suitable for color-treated hair
  • Alcohol-free
  • Mineral oil-free
  • Paraben-free
  • Petrolatum-free
  • Phthalate-free
  • Sulfate-free
  • Talc-free

Cons

  • Takes time to deliver results.
*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 13 best color-safe dandruff shampoos. Before you decide which one to pick, here are some points to keep in mind.

How To Choose The Best Anti-Dandruff Shampoo For Colored Hair

  • Zinc Pyrithione – Zinc pyrithione has dandruff-fighting properties. Choose a color-safe shampoo that contains zinc pyrithione.
  • Gentle– Choose a shampoo that is gentle and does not strip the color from the hair strands.
  • Hydrating – Over-drying the scalp and the hair strands may aggravate dandruff. Choose a shampoo that provides adequate hydration and nourishment.

Infographic: Key Ingredients In Color-Safe Anti-Dandruff Shampoos

If you have colored hair but also have dandruff, it can be quite challenging to find the right shampoo. You must find the ideal balance between a color-safe shampoo and the right ingredients to treat dandruff. We have made the search easier for you in the infographic below. Scroll down to know about the ingredients you should look for in your color-safe shampoo to get dandruff-free hair.

Key Ingredients In Color-Safe Anti-Dandruff Shampoos (infographic)

Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team

The Bottom Line

Anti-dandruff shampoos with the right ingredients can heal your scalp and preserve the vibrancy of your hair color. To deal with dandruff, the Maple Holistics Sage Shampoo utilizes natural ingredients, the Nizoral Anti-Dandruff Shampoo provides a medicated solution, and the BIOLAGE Scalpsync Anti-Dandruff Shampoo offers a botanical-based formula. Alicia Igess Jones, an accomplished and award-winning stylist, suggests, “If you find that your hair is dry after using a dandruff shampoo, follow up with a hydrating or moisturizing shampoo that will soften. It’s ok to focus on your scalp when using a dandruff shampoo.” Now that you know there are a plethora of color-safe anti-dandruff shampoos, what are you waiting for? Pick your favorite from this list and give your scalp and hair the best treatment and nourishment they deserve!

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should you use a color-safe dandruff shampoo?

You can use a color-safe dandruff shampoo twice a week.

How can I get rid of dandruff without damaging my hair color?

Use a shampoo that gets rid of dandruff without affecting the vibrancy of your hair color. The Maple Holistics Sage Shampoo is perfectly suitable for this purpose.

Why Trust StyleCraze?

The author is a hair care enthusiast and loves reviewing hair-related products. The author believes that using the best dandruff shampoo can help keep the scalp healthy and prevent discomfort. In addition, the author understands that color-safe anti-dandruff shampoos are a safe bet as they prevent hair color fading and reduce flakiness. After conducting thorough research and checking multiple reviews and user feedback on different trusted platforms and brand websites, the author compiled the list.

References

Articles on StyleCraze are backed by verified information from peer-reviewed and academic research papers, reputed organizations, research institutions, and medical associations to ensure accuracy and relevance. Read our editorial policy to learn more.

    (i) Creativity Itches
    https://creativityitches.wordpress.com/2015/08/22/review-maple-holistics-degrease-shampoo/

    (ii) Glam Natural Life
    https://www.glamnaturallife.com/2013/05/product-review-shea-moisture-african.html

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