🏆 In a hurry? Here’s our #1 pick:
What is the BEST Shampoo for Dandruff ?
The SimplyBestOf.com editor's choice is the AXE Anti-Dandruff 2-in-1 Shampoo and Conditioner
Dealing with a dry scalp is just the worst, which is why we have put together a list of the best shampoos for dandruff.
Often dandruff shows up at the most inopportune time and it always seems to find a way to make itself the most noticeable thing on your clothes. The best dandruff shampoos help to stop this problem quickly once you realize it is happening.
But of course, YOU don’t notice it until the end of the day or night, and there is nothing that can be done about it anymore – but you may be left feeling embarrassed and self-conscious for shedding all that dandruff.
There is nothing wrong with having dandruff, but it is a sign that your scalp needs some extra love.
There are several factors that can cause dandruff on the scalp, including having dry skin or just usin
g the wrong hair productsfor your scalp. If you have dandruff due to psoriasis or eczema, you may find it especially hard to tame those dandruff flakes even with shampoos that advertise as being specifically for dandruff.
From time to time, I personally will experience flakiness due to having a dry scalp because I do not wash my hair every day (actually I tend to wash it every 3 – 5 days).
While washing your hair less frequently is tempting because it saves time and keeps your hair soft, not washing your hair often enough can also cause the dead skin on your scalp to build up and start flaking down onto your shoulders.
Dandruff happens because excess oil in your hair can cause the dead skin cells on the scalp to clump together, which ends up looking like white flakes.
If you face any of the above symptoms or issues and have decided it is time for you to take matters into your own hands and treat your dandruff, read on to find the best shampoo for dandruff that can heal your scalp once and for all!
Contents [hide]
-
The 8 Best Shampoos for Dandruff
- 1. AXE Anti-Dandruff 2-in-1 Shampoo and Conditioner
- 2. DHS Zinc Shampoo for Dandruff
- 3. Nioxin Scalp Recovery Anti-Dandruff Cleanser for Dry and Itchy Scalp
- 4. Maple Holistics Tea Tree Shampoo for Moderate Dandruff
- 5. Head & Shoulders Clinical Strength Dandruff and Seborrheic Dermatitis Shampoo
- 6. Nizoral A-D Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
- 7. K + S Salon Quality Men’s Shampoo and Conditioner for Dandruff Set
- 8. Neutrogena T/Gel Therapeutic Shampoo for Dandruff (2 pack)
AXE Anti-Dandruff 2-in-1 Shampoo and Conditioner |
I’m not sure how true that claim is, but people seem to love AXE’s anti-dandruff shampoo.
It is a combined shampoo and conditioner with a “zinc-based formula th…
I’m not sure how true that claim is, but people seem to love AXE’s anti-dandruff shampoo.
It is a combined shampoo and conditioner with a “zinc-based formula that fights flakes and helps keep dandruff symptoms away.”
I don’t think many men tend to use conditioner, but having it combined with the shampoo can really help hair to become soft and, you guessed it – touchable and irresistible.
What’s more, those who reviewed this product had nothing but great things to say about it, making it an obvious choice for our list of Best Shampoos for Dandruff.
Pros:
• Most men seem to love the scent of this shampoo because it does not smell like typical dandruff shampoo.
• They love that it leaves their hair feeling clean and free of dandruff.
• Because this link is for a 3-pack for $16.97, people feel that they are getting a great deal for the price they are paying.
• People also love that the bottles seem to last quite a long time, meaning that you are not spending money on it as often.
Cons:
• The scent is too masculine for women to use this dandruff shampoo, and AXE 2-in-1 is probably not as effective as using both a dandruff shampoo and dandruff conditioner.
DHS Zinc Shampoo for Dandruff |
One of the active ingredients in DHS Zinc Shampoo shampoo is Zinc Pyrithione, which, according to the manufacturer, can help provide immediate relief to redness and itchiness on the scalp.
It …
One of the active ingredients in DHS Zinc Shampoo shampoo is Zinc Pyrithione, which, according to the manufacturer, can help provide immediate relief to redness and itchiness on the scalp.
It is also extremely gentle on skin and can be used on all skin types.
The manufacturer recommends that this shampoo be used at least twice per week to ensure effectiveness.
Pros:
• This shampoo is safe to use on color-treated hair, although you should keep in mind that using it too much can damage the color.
• The shampoo will not dry out hair if it is not used too much. It is important to remember that some of these products tend to contain strong chemicals that can damage or dry out hair if used too many times too close together.
• Most people seem to love that this shampoo does not have a medicinal or chemical smell to it. Several people reported that it is either odorless or has a gentle smell (depends on your own sensitivity to smell, I’m sure).
• One tip to ensure maximum effectiveness that several people shared: be sure to use it according to the instructions on the bottle. This includes leaving the shampoo on your head for several minutes, the rinsing effectively.
Cons:
• Of course, as everyone is different and products can react completely differently from one person to another, not everyone was happy with how this shampoo worked for them. Some users reported that their scalps continued to be itchy and flaky.
• A few people reported that they experienced hair loss once they started using this shampoo.
• Not everyone prefers the smell, reporting that it is a highly chemical, synthetic smell.
Nioxin Scalp Recovery Anti-Dandruff Cleanser for Dry and Itchy Scalp |
The manufacturer claims that this shampoo is e…
The manufacturer claims that this shampoo is effective in treating and preventing seborrheic dermatitis and dandruff.
It also works to reduce itching, while reducing their hair loss that can be a result of scratching your scalp.
It is also safe to use on color-treated hair and will not strip your hair of dye.
Pros:
• While the manufacturer does make a conditioner to compliment this shampoo, most people report that it is not necessary to purchase the conditioner in addition to this product. The shampoo is completely effective on its own. Of course, if you love this product and would like to fully commit to it, they do offer a kit that includes the shampoo, conditioner, and a scalp treatment.
• People love that this shampoo works effectively on both dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis because these are two different problems caused by different symptoms.
• Many people reported that this shampoo does not smell like chemicals and that they actually really like the smell.
Cons:
• Because everyone is different, this product may not work as desired for everyone. Some people did report itchier scalps and worse dandruff than before using this shampoo.
Maple Holistics Tea Tree Shampoo for Moderate Dandruff |
Thistea tree shampoo includes natural ingredients such as lavender, rosemary, argan, jojoba, and keratin, all of which are great for hair.
According to the manufact…
Thistea tree shampoo includes natural ingredients such as lavender, rosemary, argan, jojoba, and keratin, all of which are great for hair.
According to the manufacturer, it works well for all hair types and works to solve the cause of dandruff instead of just masking the symptoms.
One important thing to remember when using this shampoo – according to reviewers, it is imperative that you make sure to follow the directions on the bottle. Not only will this ensure best results, but it will help to make sure that your dandruff does not get worse.
Pros:
• This shampoo seems to be safe for color-treated hair. Most people reported not having trouble with it stripping their hair of color.
• People can feel safe using it, even if they do not have issues with dandruff, as this shampoo is healthy for scalps in general.
• People seem to love that this shampoo does not have a chemical smell to it at all, but instead smells fresh and natural.
• Many people reported that this shampoo cleans their hair and scalp very well and even better than most over-the-counter shampoos.
Cons:
• This product may not work well for everyone. A couple of people reported that the shampoo did not have a positive effect on their hair and actually damaged it.
• A few people reported that this shampoo left their scalp feeling too oily. This can also depend on different body chemistries, as no one person will likely have the same reaction to every product. If your hair tends to be on the oily side already, using this product may not be the best idea for you.
Head & Shoulders Clinical Strength Dandruff and Seborrheic Dermatitis Shampoo |
Thankfully, this Head & Shoulders shampoo is made specifically to treat both issues.
Not only is Head & Shoulde…
Thankfully, this Head & Shoulders shampoo is made specifically to treat both issues.
Not only is Head & Shoulders another household name for over-the-counter dandruff shampoos, but it was the #1 dermatologist-recommended shampoo based on a 2013 survey of US dermatologists.
The manufacturer recommends that this product be used at least twice per week, but it is also safe enough to be used each time you wash your hair.
Pros:
• Most people reported that this shampoo had a fresh-smelling scent, as opposed to a chemical, medicated smell.
• Many people reported that this has been the only product to work for them and get rid of the flakiness and red, itchy skin.
• This product tends to be much cheaper than most other highly-rated dandruff shampoos, giving people a great deal for their money.
Cons:
• If your hair is already damaged (such as bleached) or colored, you may need to be careful using this product. Because the ingredients in this shampoo are strong, it can damage your hair further or strip if of the color if you do not rinse it out enough. The manufacturer recommends rinsing for at least five minutes until it feels clean.
• Not everyone liked the smell of this product. Some reported that either the chemical scent was too strong, or that it made their scalp smell strange.
• As always, before using this product, it may be a good idea to consult a dermatologist, especially if you have sensitive skin already. This shampoo did not react well to everyone’s skin, causing redness and a rash for some.
• There is also a chance that the product may be too strong for your hair. A few people reported hair breakage after use.
Nizoral A-D Anti-Dandruff Shampoo |
However, one major drawback to medicated shampoos is when they smell like a medication.
No one wants to walk around smelling like strong chemicals, am I right?
Enter Nizoral , which basically brings the b…
However, one major drawback to medicated shampoos is when they smell like a medication.
No one wants to walk around smelling like strong chemicals, am I right?
Enter Nizoral , which basically brings the best of both worlds – it contains the powerful ingredient, ketoconazole, to help fight dandruff, but it also has a fresh scent and will not leave you smelling like chemicals.
According to the manufacturer, “ketoconazole binds to the natural protein of your hair so it keeps working between shampoos.” This means that you no longer need to keep constantly checking your clothes for those “snowflakes.”
What is even better about this shampoo is that the manufacturer recommends it be used only twice per week, as opposed to many dandruff shampoos that need to be used every time you shampoo.
Pros:
• This shampoo will leave you with a fresh-smelling scent instead of a medicated, chemical scent.
• Nizoral needs to be used only twice per week, as opposed to every time you wash your hair
• There is no need to purchase a certain conditioner to be used in conjunction with this shampoo – your normal conditioner will work perfectly.
• This shampoo is also gentle enough to use on color-treated hair and will not ruin your color.
• Some people reported that after using Nizoral, their hair has begun to get thicker, when it was thinning before use.
Cons:
• Because everyone is different, there is a chance that this product will not only not work for you, but may cause negative effects, such as hair loss and rash. It may be a good idea to consult a dermatologist before purchasing this product to ensure that you will not experience these side effects.
• Not everyone liked the scent of this shampoo – some complained that the chemical smell was still too evident, while others felt it was too perfume-y.
• Some peoples’ scalps became too dry after using this shampoo.
K + S Salon Quality Men’s Shampoo and Conditioner for Dandruff Set |
Sometimes things just produce better results together. Ingredients in K + S Men’s Shampoo and Conditioner include tea tre…
Sometimes things just produce better results together. Ingredients in K + S Men’s Shampoo and Conditioner include tea tree and peppermint oil to help prevent hair loss, dandruff, and dry scalp.
Though marketed for men, many women reported great results after using this shampoo.
The tea tree and peppermint scent is gender neutral and refreshing.
We have already learned that tea tree oil is great for hair, but peppermint oil works to calm a dry and irritated scalp.
It also helps to keep hair and the scalp hydrated to prevent further dry scalp issues.
What’s more, this set works great for all hair types, and provides a 100% satisfaction guarantee, so if for any reason you are unhappy with these products, you can return them hassle-free.
Pros:
• Most people seem to love the peppermint smell. Peppermint has also been known to be a mood-booster as well.
• Quite a few users report that their hair has been less frizzy since using this product set. Instead, their hair has been much smoother and more under control.
• Because this set can be on the expensive side for some people, they do like that it at least a little goes a long way, so they do not go through it too fast.
• Reviewers report that it helps hair to feel clean, but does not leave it feeling stripped of its natural oils, while helping it to feel soft and smooth.
Cons:
• Not everyone was happy with the effects that this product set had on their hair. A few reported that their hair was quite dry after use.
• A few people also dislike the peppermint smell. If you have a sensitive sense of smell, this product may not be the one for you.
Neutrogena T/Gel Therapeutic Shampoo for Dandruff (2 pack) |
Neutrogena T/Gel is something of a household name when it comes to over-the-counter dandruff shampoos, and the overwhelming number of positive reviews explains why.
It is best used for symptoms that include dandru…
Neutrogena T/Gel is something of a household name when it comes to over-the-counter dandruff shampoos, and the overwhelming number of positive reviews explains why.
It is best used for symptoms that include dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis and psoriasis.
This particular product is T/Gel’s Original Formula, and the manufacturer recommends it be used twice per week for effective results.
While there were no reports on this site of this happening to users, the manufacturer does warn that “In rare instances, discoloration of gray, blonde, bleached, or tinted hair may occur.”
Pros:
• People love that they are able to purchase two bottles at one time through this deal. They feel that it is a great price for what they are buying, especially because the bottles tend to last quite a while.
• Many users report that this shampoo completely eliminated their dandruff. As such, many have been using it for several years.
• One user reported suffering from severe eczema on their scalp. This shampoo was recommended by their doctor and is the only thing that has helped clear up the flakiness. As someone who suffers from eczema as well, I can tell you that finding something that brings relief is a wonderful thing.
Cons:
• This shampoo does have a strong, chemical scent. Users have recommended using another scented shampoo to help mask the medicine smell.
Feel free to tell us which of the best shampoos for dandruff on this list helped to clear up your dandruff! And don’t forget to vote for the best shampoo for dandruff above as well!