It might evoke strong feelings to watch dandruff softly drift from your head onto your favorite clothing. Dandruff is a minor but chronic issue with hair and skin care for many people. Fortunately, specialists believe that using a dandruff shampoo can readily treat it.
I discussed the reasons of dandruff and how to find a shampoo that can help with it with experts. For your consideration, I have also compiled a list of highly regarded shampoos and alternatives that are recommended by our experts.
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Best overallNizoral Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
$15.88$29.99Amazon
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Best for flakingHead and Shoulders Classic Clean Dandruff Shampoo
$6.00$7.79Walgreens
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Best for sensitive scalpsVanicream Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
$undefined$12.55Amazon
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Best for coolingSelsun Blue Medicated Antidandruff Shampoo
$7.98$9.09Amazon
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How I picked the best dandruff shampoos
Dermatologists advise taking into account the following elements if you want to fight dandruff and its related symptoms, such as itching and flakiness:
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Ingredients
: The biggest difference between yourstandard shampoo
and a dandruff shampoo is the ingredients. Look for dandruff-combatting ingredients, including
salicylic acid
, ketoconazole and selenium sulfide all of which relieve common occurrences like dandruff flakes and itchiness. More on ingredients
below
.
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Price
: Dandruff shampoos can vary in price depending on ingredients, size and bundles. However, all of the products on our list cost less than $25.
Related
Should you consider switching to a shampoo bar? We asked experts
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The best dandruff shampoos in 2025
Use one of these shampoos that dermatologists recommend to treat your dandruff. However, remember to ask your physician for a prescription shampoo if an over-the-counter dandruff shampoo isn’t working.
Best overall dandruff shampoo:
Nizoral Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
Nizoral Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
- Controls scalp bacteria
- Fast acting
- Safe for color-treated hair
- Has added fragrance
Board-certified dermatologists Drs. Julie Jackson and Isabela Jones suggest this shampoo if you’re searching for one that works for all hair types and textures and can reduce the flaking and itching that comes with dandruff. According to Jones, this is the only over-the-counter product that contains ketoconazole, the best anti-yeast drug according to dermatologists. (According to our specialists, dandruff is associated with yeast, primarily Malassezia yeast, thus managing this is crucial to preventing, treating, and combating this skin and hair care problem.)
Ketoconazole is the main component. The size is 7 fl oz. Scent: clean and fresh
Best dandruff shampoo for sensitive scalps:
Vanicream Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
Vanicream Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
- For dandruff and dermatitis
- Gentle formula
- Soothing
- Can be drying
Take into consideration this gentle Vanicream choice if your scalp is sensitive. According to the manufacturer, it hydrates the scalp with substances like glycerin and panthenol and targets itching, redness, and flaking. In addition to being free of common irritants like dyes, parabens, and sulfates, this shampoo has an average rating of 4.5 stars based on over 8,700 reviews on Amazon.
Important components: pyrithione zinc; size: 8 fl oz; fragrance: non-fragrance
Best 2-in-1:
Cerave 2-in-1 Anti-Dandruff Hydrating Shampoo and Conditioner
Cerave 2-in-1 Anti-Dandruff Hydrating Shampoo and Conditioner
- For all hair types/textures
- Safe for daily use
- Free of common irritants
- Nothing to note at this time
This option quickly removed moderate dandruff after a few uses following a recent brush. Furthermore, my hair didn’t feel like dried hay after using it. Despite Cerave’s adandruff shampoo and conditioner, I adore how convenient this dual-purpose version is. I can’t suggest it enough because it’s the greatest and gentlest dandruff product I’ve ever used.
Important components: niacinamide, ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and pyrithione zinc; size: 12 fl oz; fragrance: non-fragrance
Best dandruff shampoo for curly and coily hair:
As I Am Dry & Itchy Scalp Care Dandruff Shampoo
As I Am Dry & Itchy Scalp Care Dandruff Shampoo
- Moisturizing
- Improves manageability
- Promotes hair health
- Can have a tingle sensation
This dandruff shampoo is designed especially for 4C hair, which is wavy, curly, and coily. It has an average rating of 4.5 stars based on more than 1,200 reviews on Amazon. According to the brand, it is safe for people with dry and sensitive scalps and helps fight off dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis. Reviewers report that their scalp felt relieved and unirritated, and if they are concerned about their hair drying out, they advise adding an additional moisturizing product, such as a conditioner or hair mask.
Important components: peppermint oil, olive oil, and tea tree; size: 12 fl oz; scent: natural tea tree scent without fragrance
Best dandruff shampoo for color-treated hair:
Jupiter Balancing Shampoo
Jupiter Balancing Shampoo
- Safe for daily use
- Controls oils and flakes
- Soothing
- Not for severe dandruff
The manufacturer claims that this color-safe shampoo helps with dry scalp, itching, and mild to moderate dandruff. According to Jupiter, it also contains nutrients including sugar kelp extract for its moisturizing and antibacterial qualities, squalane to stop hair breakage, and coconut oil to soften and nourish hair. Based on more than 1,700 reviews, the shampoo has an average rating of 4.3 stars on Amazon.
Key ingredients: pyrithione zinc; size: 9.5 fl oz; scent: natural mint, vanilla, sage, and lavender scent; no fragrance.
Best for flaking:
Head and Shoulders Classic Clean Dandruff Shampoo
Head and Shoulders Classic Clean Dandruff Shampoo
- Safe for daily use
- Nourishing
- Promotes scalp health
- Has added fragrance
According to Jones, this shampoo is a suggested choice by experts since it smells nice, lathers nicely, and contains zinc, a mild chemical that helps control the yeast that can cause dandruff. According to the brand, it will clean your hair, fight dryness, ease itching and irritation, lessen redness and apparent flakes, and regulate oil levels.
Important components: zinc pyrithione | Weight: 12.5 fl oz Scent: clean and fresh
Best multipurpose dandruff shampoo:
Kenkoderm Psoriasis Therapeutic Shampoo
Kenkoderm Psoriasis Therapeutic Shampoo
- Reduces build-up
- Controls symptoms
- Small bottle
In addition to treating tamepsoriasis, this shampoo also helps treat seborrheic dermatitis, which the American Academy of Dermatology states can cause rashes and itchy, flaking scales on the scalp and other parts of the face. According to Jones, the odorless shampoo contains a high concentration of salicylic acid (3%), which is excellent for eliminating dandruff flakes and oils that fuel the growth of yeast.
Important components: salicylic acid; dimensions: 4 fl oz; fragrance: non-fragrance
Best cooling dandruff shampoo: Selsun Blue
Selsun Blue Medicated Antidandruff Shampoo
Selsun Blue Medicated Antidandruff Shampoo
- Anti-fungal
- Soothing
- Prevents symptom reoccurrence
- Potent formula
According to Jones, Selsun Blue’s shampoo contains menthol, a soothing chemical that helps ease moderate irritation, and selenium sulfide. Regular use of the shampoo (at least twice a week for around two minutes, according to the company) will also help prevent and fight flaking.
Essential components: selenium sulfide; dimensions: 11 fl oz; fragrance: n/a
Best for build-up:
Neutrogena T/Sal Therapeutic Shampoo-Scalp Build-Up Control
Neutrogena T/Sal Therapeutic Shampoo
- Free of common irritants
- Fast acting
- Relieves multiple symptoms
- Small bottle
The mild mix of this scalp shampoo cures severe scalp disorders like psoriasis, dermatitis, and dandruff while also reducing itching and flaking. In addition to preventing future symptoms and buildup (including dead skin cells) and maintaining the integrity of their scalp, reviewers say it helps deliver relief fast. The brand claims that the shampoo, which has earned the Seal of Recognition from the National Psoriasis Foundation, also aids in lowering inflammation and thick plaque accumulation. Based on more than 10,400 reviews, it has an average rating of 4.5 stars on Amazon.
Salicylic acid is one of the main components. It weighs 4.5 fl oz. and has no aroma.
Best for mild to severe dandruff:
Vichy Laboratoires Dercos Selenium Sulfide Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
Vichy Laboratoires Dercos Selenium Sulfide Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
- For all hair/scalp types
- Strengthens hair
- Reduces breakage
- Has added fragrance
Because it calms my scalp and keeps my dark brown hair from getting apparent white flakes, I use this choice as a weekly preventative treatment during the winter. The brand claims that by increasing shine, decreasing breakage, enhancing smoothness, and avoiding dryness, it also improves the general health of hair.
Important components: glycerin, niacinamide, and selenium sulfide; size: 6.76 fl oz; scent: clean and fresh
Best splurge:
Ouai Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
Ouai Anti Dandruff Shampoo
- Safe for color-treated hair
- Smells great
- Soothing
- Higher price point
- Has added fragrance
The manufacturer claims that this sulfate-free dandruff treatment soothes the scalp, relieves irritation and itching, and lessens the appearance of flaking and redness. Salicylic acid and propanediol caprylate are two of the components used in the shampoo, which is appropriate for all hair types and textures, to lessen the quantity of bacteria that causes dandruff, according to Ouai. According to reviews, this scalp shampoo effectively fights dandruff and associated symptoms, and after using it twice a week, users report feeling as though their hair and scalp have been thoroughly cleansed. Based on more than 1,000 reviews, Ulta has given it an average rating of 4.4 stars.
salicylic acid as one of the main ingredients; size: 10 fl oz; scent: earthy with ginger and minty notes
Most moisturizing:
Dove Dryness & Itch Relief Damage Therapy Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
Dove DermaCare Scalp Anti Dandruff Shampoo
- Soothing
- Lightweight shampoo
- Combats frizz
- Not sulfate-free
This Dove product, which has a 4.5-star average rating from more than 5,100 reviews on Amazon, is a good choice for people who want to fight dry hair and dandruff. According to the brand, the shampoo prevents and controls dandruff flakes, itching, and irritation while gently cleansing the scalp. Although it doesn’t make their hair seem as dry as other options, reviews claim that it relieves their symptoms.
Important components: shea butter, coconut oil, and pyrithione zinc; size: 12 fl oz; scent: n/a but with additional smell
Related
Save your dry hair with these 12 shampoos
What is dandruff?
Dandruff is the flaking of the skin on the scalp and is a symptom of seborrheic dermatitis. The AAD states that it can range from mild to severe cases. Scales or white to yellow flaking on the scalp are symptoms of dandruff. On occasion, it will be more noticeable behind the ears or along the hairline. Mild itching occurs occasionally, but most people have no symptoms. In the more severe cases of seborrheic dermatitis, you might even notice redness on the scalp, larger scaly plaques and more severe itching, says Jones.
What causes dandruff?
As with many conditions, dandruff may be multifactorial, meaning multiple causes are at play, says Jones. Here are a few factors dermatologists say can cause dandruff:
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The presence of a yeast called Malassezia
. This yeast, which is part of the normal flora on the skin, may cause inflammation in some people. -
Excess sebum production.
We know that during puberty, our bodies produce hormones that make our oil glands create larger amounts of sebum. This oil is a significant factor in causing dandruff, and Malassezia yeast likes to grow in this oil. Because of this, dandruff is more common in teens and those in their 20s and 30s. Dandruff may also decrease later in life as oil production decreases. -
Genetics.
Scientists are finding more genes related to our skin structure and immune system that make certain people more likely to develop dandruff.
How to shop for dandruff shampoos
When shopping for a shampoo to combat dandruff, experts recommend keeping ingredients and hair type in mind.
Ingredients
Look foractive ingredientsthat help to combat yeast and are anti-inflammatory, such as pyrithione zinc, selenium sulfide, salicylic acid, ketoconazole or ciclopirox, says Jackson.
-
Ketoconazole
is an anti-yeast ingredient that is found in both prescription and over-the-counter shampoos. This ingredient may be more gentle on your hair, especially if your hair is very brittle, says Jones. -
Zinc
, like ketoconazole, is another gentle ingredient to look out for. Zinc and other ingredients like
selenium sulfide
will help control the yeast that is involved with dandruff. -
Salicylic acid
is good at helping remove the oils that are contributing to dandruff and can help exfoliate the dandruff flakes away. -
Coal tar
is another ingredient found in anti-dandruff shampoos, which helps reduce flaking and inflammation.
There are also a few ingredients you ll want to avoid, if possible. For example, many dandruff shampoos contain tea tree oil, which, in general, is great for combating seborrheic dermatitis. However, it is a common allergen, so if your scalp tends to be more sensitive, this ingredient might make your dandruff worse, says Jackson. Also, since the yeast that causes dandruff likes to grow in oil, experts I spoke to advise against shampoos that have oils as the primary ingredient.
Hair type
If you want to go the extra mile, consider shampoos for yourspecific hair type and texture, according to our experts. For example, if you have color-treated hair, shop for a color-safe option to remove dandruff while preserving your color. Also, depending on your hair type, make sure you are picking an appropriate conditioner for your strands to make sure you are counteracting any drying effects of your shampoo, according to Jones. It s a bit of a battle we want to degrease the scalp but moisturize your hair, says Jones. As most know, we don t want conditioner on your scalp, which will add oils that can worsen dandruff.
Frequently asked questions
Dandruff can affect people regardless of their skin type, hair type and hair texture, according to our experts. Those with oily skin also tend to have an oily scalp, making them more likely to develop dandruff and acne around the hairline because the Malassezia yeast can contribute to both issues, says Jones.
Seborrheic dermatitis may be a lifelong condition for some, according to Jackson. However, there are certain periods where the condition may worsen. I will see flares in a hot, humid environment, and I have even seen flares in susceptible individuals who have taken up activities such as hot yoga, says Jackson. However, other individuals will flare in the less sunny months.
How often you use a dandruff shampoo will depend on the severity of your condition. If you suffer from a mild form of dandruff, consider incorporating this type of shampoo once or twice a week. In more severe cases, you might rotate two to three different anti-dandruff shampoos, but overuse may also lead to your hair strands drying out, says Jones.
There isn t a specific amount you need to apply just make sure you use enough to cover the entire scalp, which will vary from person to person, says Jones. But be sure to use the balls of your fingers or a gentle scalp massager to work the shampoo into your scalp and let it sit for two to five minutes before rinsing, says Jones.
You should see improvement after a week, and if you don t, then you may need to see a dermatologist for prescription treatment, says Jones.
Meet our experts
At NBC Select, we work with experts who have specialized knowledge and authority based on relevant training and/or experience. We also take steps to ensure all expert advice and recommendations are made independently and without undisclosed financial conflicts of interest.
-
Dr. Isabela Jones
is a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Virginia Square Dermatology.
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Dr. Julie Jackson
is a board-certified dermatologist at Westlake Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery.
Why trust NBC Select?
I am anNBC Select associate reportercoveringnew product launchesas well as skin care and hair care, including roundups of the bestleave-in conditionersandheat protectants. For this story, I interviewed experts and researched highly rated dandruff shampoos that align with expert guidance.
Catch up on NBC Select s in-depth coverage oftech and tools,wellnessand more, and follow us onFacebook,Instagram,TwitterandTikTokto stay up to date.