Dermatologists Recommend These Dandruff Shampoos to Help Relieve an Itchy Scalp
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A dry scalp plagued with dandruff not only feels irritating, but it also keeps you from looking and feeling your best. But dealing with dandruff is more common than you’d think—in fact, 50% of the general adult population worldwide deal with it, and it’s nothing to be ashamed of. I myself have dealt with dandruff for most of my life, but I have found relief and actual results when washing with an effective, soothing anti-dandruff shampoo. That’s because dandruff-fighting shampoos exfoliate and cleanse the scalp while using medicated ingredients to target the problem.
“Dandruff is essentially scalp flaking caused by inflammation,” explains board-certified dermatologist Joshua Zeichner, M.D., director of cosmetic and clinical research at Mount Sinai Hospital. “This inflammation is driven by our skin reacting to yeast on the scalp. Yeast lives on everyone’s scalp, but some people react to it, leading to inflammation, itchy scalp, and flaky skin.”
Meet the experts: Francesca Fusco, M.D., board-certified dermatologist in New York City; Joshua Zeichner, M.D., director of cosmetic and clinical research at Mount Sinai Hospital.
“A lot of people are ashamed of dandruff and think it’s a reflection of poor hygiene, but that doesn’t have anything to do with it,” adds Francesca Fusco, M.D., assistant clinical professor of dermatology at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai Hospital and board-certified dermatologist in New York City. The good news is that using a dandruff shampoo—and the right washing technique—can make all the difference, Dr. Fusco says.
With our experts’ personal recommendations and insights in mind, keep reading for the best shampoos for minimizing dandruff.
Anti-Dandruff Shampoo With 1% Ketoconazole
I turned to Nizoral’s Anti-Dandruff Shampoo after noticing that my dandruff would appear even after a good hair wash. After months of regular use, I can confidently say I notice a significant reduction in dandruff. The formula is a bit strong, so I personally like to use just a small amount every other time I shampoo my hair.
Nizoral contains ketoconazole, a potent anti-fungal that’s often used in prescription-grade dandruff medications, Dr. Zeichner explains. But unlike some other formulas, Nizoral is still gentle enough to use on color-treated hair and offers a thick lather that leaves a clean scent behind.
What a reviewer says: “What sets Nizoral apart from other anti-dandruff shampoos is its long-lasting effectiveness. While some products provide temporary relief, Nizoral keeps dandruff at bay even after regular use. It’s become an essential part of my hair care routine, and I can’t imagine ever going back to anything else.”
Anti-Dandruff Shampoo With 1% Ketoconazole
amazon.com
$15.88
NizoralDryness & Itch Relief Anti Dandruff Shampoo
Both Dr. Fusco and Dr. Zeichner recommend the Dove Dermacare line. It utilizes the ingredient pyrithione zinc, which works to reduce the inflammation-causing yeast on your scalp, a driving force behind flakes. On top of that, this shampoo includes hydrating ingredients, like shea butter, which many anti-dandruff products lack, says Dr. Fusco. The result? Flake-free hair that looks shiny and healthy.
What a reviewer says: “Suffering from a persistently dry and itchy scalp has been a constant battle, but this shampoo has truly provided the relief I’ve been seeking. From the very first use, I noticed a significant reduction in both dryness and itchiness. The formula feels gentle yet effective, leaving my scalp feeling refreshed and hydrated without any harshness.”
Dryness & Itch Relief Anti Dandruff Shampoo
amazon.com
$4.49
DoveAnti-Dandruff Shampoo
Another personal favorite, the Ouai Anti-Dandruff Shampoo helps reduce flakes, and unlike some anti-dandruff formulas, actually smells good. I love the fresh, cleaning feeling I get from it during and after use.
Containing 2% salicylic acid, this anti-dandruff shampoo from Ouai targets flakes, itching, redness, and irritation while soothing dry scalps. It also includes surfactants and conditioning agents to leave hair feeling soft. For best results, lather it into the scalp and leave it on for five minutes before giving your head a thorough rinse at least twice a week.
What a reviewer says: “It helped keep my hair so clean and I feel like my dandruff has gotten a lot better if not gone after using this product. I would definitely recommend this product and would buy again.”
Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
sephora.com
$28.50
OuaiDandruff Shampoo
I’ve used Vanicream skincare products in the past to cleanse my sensitive skin, and I was pleased with how gentle and non-irritating the formulas were. The same goes for the line’s dandruff shampoo.
“This medicated shampoo contains the tried-and-true ingredient zinc pyrithione to address the cause of dandruff,” explains Dr. Zeichner. Fragrance-free, dye-free, and sulfate-free, this medicated dandruff shampoo is approved for those with “really sensitive skin” or fragrance allergies without causing irritation, according to Dr. Zeichner. Like many other dandruff shampoos, it’s formulated with 2% pyrithione zinc to help remediate flakes and relieve itching, dryness, redness, and scaling.
What a reviewer says: “This is a good product for scalp cleansing. It does may my hair dry but followed with conditioner alleviates all dryness. Good product, good price. I will be buying again.”
Dandruff Shampoo
amazon.com
$12.55
VanicreamNioxin Scalp Recovery Purifying Shampoo
Thanks to a blend of potent active ingredients, your flakes won’t know what hit them once they’re slathered with this soothing anti-dandruff shampoo. According to Dr. Zeichner, the formula “combines zinc pyrithione to address yeast on the scalp, along with green tea polyphenols, which have potent antioxidant effects to calm and soothe the skin.” It also contains peppermint oil and menthol to offer some cooling relief as you wash.
In a Nioxin consumer test, more than three-fourths of users felt relief and comfort in their scalp when used regularly at least four times a week.
What a reviewer says: “Only shampoo that actually works for my dry scalp. Been using for years and will never switch. Smells good too.”
Nioxin Scalp Recovery Purifying Shampoo
amazon.com
$60.00
NioxinBalancing Shampoo
This formula from Jupiter features a blend of anti-flake pyrithione zinc, moisturizing coconut oil, and anti-aging algae extract to provide the perfect balance for a dry and itchy scalp.
Reviewers find that it smells nice, doesn’t feel drying, and lathers nicely. We also like that the shampoo is safe to use on color- or chemical-treated strands.
The one downside? You don’t get a lot for what you pay for, considering one 9.5oz bottle costs $32.
What a reviewer says: “I have been loving this shampoo and scalp treatment. Both my husband and I have been using these products for three to four weeks now and they do a great job at treating your scalp without completely drying you out.”
Balancing Shampoo
amazon.com
$31.99
JupiterSerene Scalp Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
For a salon-inspired wash, reach for this splurge-worthy dandruff shampoo. It contains salicylic acid and caffeine to exfoliate and energize the scalp but doubles up on moisture with shea butter and nourishing vitamin E.
The formula is perfect for those looking for more of a luxury experience on wash day. It even features a nice floral scent that isn’t too overpowering. Just keep in mind that some users found that they missed that fresh and clean feeling post rinse.
What a reviewer says: “I’ve had dandruff my whole life and tried every product on the market and nothing worked. Oribe Serene Scalp Anti-Dandruff Shampoo is a game changer; my dandruff is gone for the first time ever, and my hair is super soft.”
Serene Scalp Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
sephora.com
$52.00
OribeT/Gel Therapeutic Shampoo
This shampoo should be used more like a scalp treatment in conjunction with a mild dandruff shampoo and conditioner, Dr. Zeichner says. It contains tar, which helps reduce scalp inflammation (and can even relieve seborrheic dermatitis and scalp psoriasis) but doesn’t really clean or moisturize hair. For best results, apply and gently massage the T-Gel into your scalp for five minutes. Then, thoroughly rinse your hair, and wash again as you would normally.
What a reviewer says: “It is very concentrated, so I use only a conservative amount (less than a silver dollar) and really work it into my scalp—think vigorous scrubbing with fingernails. Leave it on a few minutes, rinse, and then repeat once more. The relief and reduction in flakes and itching are immediate.”
T/Gel Therapeutic Shampoo
amazon.com
$37.49
NeutrogenaScalp Sync Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
This soothing dandruff shampoo combines pyrithione zinc with cooling mint to relieve an irritated scalp while treating the problem at the source. The creamy formula lathers up generously for a deep cleanse, but a little bit goes a long way.
The formula is highly praised by long-time users, with reviewers commenting about how clean their scalp felt with regular use. Sadly, however, it’s being discontinued. The good news? You can still find the shampoo on Amazon, Ulta, or Walmart. But it won’t be around for much longer once it’s off the shelves.
What a reviewer says: “This is hands down the best dandruff shampoo I’ve ever used. I get pretty bad dandruff, and it clears up with one shampoo of this. It’s the only shampoo I use anymore because my dandruff comes back if I don’t.”
Scalp Sync Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
amazon.com
$27.99
Flaky Scalp Shampoo
Whether you have curly or wavy hair or deal with an oily scalp, this pick by Philip Kingsley might be for you. Reviewers find that this shampoo gently clarifies the scalp without affecting natural texture.
Trichologists developed the formula, which contains the ingredient cocamidopropyl betaine to thoroughly clean the scalp, plus piroctone olamine to help protect hair strands. It is a soothing formula that aims to clarify more oily scalps.
What a reviewer says: “This is seriously the best product I’ve tried for flakes and itchy. It is about 98% effective for eliminating itching, and it is maybe 85% effective at eliminating flakes. The best part is it does not ruin your hair texture and really even helps it while getting rid of itching.”
Flaky Scalp Shampoo
amazon.com
$42.00
Philip KingsleyMoisturizing Anti-Dandruff Shampoo With Aloe, 11 fl. oz., Selenium Sulfide 1%
Selsun Blue contains selenium sulfide, which combats the overproduction of yeast on your scalp, Dr. Zeichner explains. Plus, this moisturizing formula contains calming aloe vera, which will help nourish your hair and soothe your dry, itchy scalp. Pro tip: Make sure you do an extra thorough rinse if your hair is permed or colored. This will help retain its shape and hue.
This is a quick-action shampoo that provides immediate results and requires regular use. I’ve used the formula for years, but I can’t always get by the strong scent. However, it’s an extra strength formula that yields results.
What a reviewer says: “My son has had a hard time with cradle cap (he’s almost 2) and his pediatrician recommended this since he’s older now. We used it twice per week and let it sit for about 10 minutes before rinsing, and it totally cleared it up within a few weeks. The smell isn’t great in my opinion, but it works great!”
Moisturizing Anti-Dandruff Shampoo With Aloe, 11 fl. oz., Selenium Sulfide 1%
amazon.com
$7.98
Selsun BlueScalp Care Dandruff Shampoo
This anti-dandruff shampoo works on all hair types, but it’s ideal for those with wavy, curly, and coily hair. Its formula contains cucumber extract to soothe and moisturize the scalp, as well as peppermint oil and pyrithione zinc to relieve dryness. While the natural ingredients clean the scalp, they also offer a refreshing, tingly sensation.
What a reviewer says: “I tried some of the drug store brands, but they always left my curly hair feeling dry and kind of scratchy, no matter which conditioner I followed up with. This product smells better, works really well, and I only need to use it once or twice a week at most to keep my scalp healthy.”
Scalp Care Dandruff Shampoo
amazon.com
$31.00
MizaniHow to choose the best shampoo for dandruff
?? Scan for active ingredients: Pyrithione zinc, selenium sulfide, ketoconazole, salicylic acid, and coal tar can all work to reduce dandruff, says Dr. Zeichner, but you may need to experiment a bit to find the one your scalp reacts to the best.
?? Note your hair type: The ingredients listed above are effective at banishing dandruff, but they can sometimes feel a bit stripping if your locks need extra moisture. Especially for those with dry, coarse, curly, kinky, or coiled hair types, look for ingredients that will also hydrate the scalp and strands, like shea butter, coconut oil, and aloe vera.
?? Wash effectively: For best results, rub your dandruff shampoo into your scalp with your fingertips, letting it sit for at least five minutes before rinsing, Dr. Zeichner says. Make sure you pick up an anti-dandruff conditioner, too. Once you rinse, some of the dandruff-fighting ingredients are left behind to continue working, so using a regular conditioner might actually buff those active ingredients away, he notes.
?? Mind your frequency: Start by washing at least twice a week, says Dr. Fusco. Take note of how your scalp and hair looks and feels. If you don’t see results, work up to three or four days if needed. You might even find that you get the best results by washing daily—it all depends on how your scalp reacts to the product.
What ingredients help keep dandruff away?
While there are many powerful active ingredients used to fight a flaky scalp, the best shampoos to get rid of dandruff contain pyrithione zinc or selenium sulfide, according to Dr. Ziechner. These anti-fungal ingredients “get to the root of the problem, like cutting the fuel source for the fire,” Dr. Ziechner explains. “If there’s no yeast, then there’s no inflammation.”
What’s the difference between dandruff or dry scalp buildup?
A flaky scalp can signal a number of conditions—dandruff, psoriasis, and dry scalp are all possibilities. However, “If you have itch and flakes in your scalp, most likely you have dandruff,” Dr. Zeichner says. “In cases where the scale is very thick and overlies red plaques in the scalp, you may have a condition called psoriasis.”
A dry scalp is much less common, according to Dr. Zeichner, who explains that it will occur in those with dry skin and can develop after irritation from hair treatments or products.
How we chose the best shampoos for dandruff
I personally tested the Nizoral Anti-Dandruff Shampoo with 1% Ketoconazole, Ouai Anti-Dandruff Shampoo, and Selsun Blue Moisturizing Dandruff Shampoo.
We also gathered expert insights to further expand our list and spoke with Francesca Fusco, M.D., assistant clinical professor of dermatology at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai Hospital and board-certified dermatologist in New York City; and Joshua Zeichner, M.D., director of cosmetic and clinical research at Mount Sinai Hospital.
With their expertise in mind, we combed through countless ratings, reviews, and product descriptions to find the best dandruff shampoos available.
Why trust us
For more than 70 years, Prevention has been a leading provider of trustworthy health information, empowering readers with practical strategies to improve their physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Our editors interview medical experts to help guide our health-focused product selections. Additionally, Prevention also examines hundreds of reviews—and often conducts personal testing done by our staff—to help you make informed decisions.
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