While we often focus on how our hair looks—its shine, bounce, and color—what happens at the root is just as crucial. Dandruff, which affects about half of all people, can now be treated with various options beyond just shampoo, thanks to a growing focus on overall hair health that tackles both visible symptoms and underlying causes. Using the right dandruff shampoo along with a scalp detox product can help manage common issues like flaking, excess oil, itchiness, and clogged follicles.
Below, top experts explain what causes dandruff, the best way to wash your scalp, key ingredients in dandruff shampoos, and whether prevention is realistic—plus, the top formulas to try now.
Vogue’s Top Dandruff Shampoos:
Best Balancing
Jupiter Balancing Shampoo
$30 at AMAZON
Best Classic
Head & Shoulders Clinical Dandruff Shampoo
$24 at AMAZON
Best Gentle
Oribe Serene Scalp Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
$52 at BLUEMERCURY
In This Article:
– What is dandruff?
– What causes dandruff?
– What is the most effective shampoo for someone with dandruff?
– How to choose a dandruff shampoo
– How to use a dandruff shampoo
– How should you wash your scalp if you have dandruff?
– Can you use conditioner after a dandruff shampoo?
– How often should you wash your hair if you have dandruff?
– Should you follow your dandruff shampoo with a traditional shampoo?
– Is it possible to prevent dandruff altogether?
– What ingredients are in dandruff shampoos?
– Meet the experts
Jupiter Balancing Shampoo
$30 at AMAZON
Why We Love It: A favorite among Vogue editors and dermatologists, Jupiter delivers on its promise to balance the scalp. Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Nazanin Saedi says, “I first tried Jupiter’s shampoo and conditioner a couple of years ago and instantly loved them.” It’s ideal for sensitive, easily irritated scalps and doesn’t look or smell like a typical dandruff shampoo.
Key Ingredients: Zinc pyrithione 1%, squalane, coconut oil, sugar kelp extract
Usage: 3 to 4 times per week
Sulfate-free: Yes
Scent: Mint, vanilla, sage, lavender
Size: 280 ml
Best For: Mild to moderate dandruff
Love It: Pleasant scent, effectively removes dandruff, targets flakes and itchiness
Leave It: May leave hair greasy
Head & Shoulders Clinical Dandruff Shampoo
$24 at AMAZON
Why We Love It: A trusted choice for dandruff treatment, Head & Shoulders is reliable and affordable. Dr. Saedi notes, “Whenever a patient asks about dandruff, I always recommend picking up Head & Shoulders.” It soothes itching, removes flakes, and balances the scalp. She adds, “Try the green apple scent—it’s lovely.”
Key Ingredients: 1% selenium sulfide, aloe vera
Usage: 2 times per week or as directed by a doctor
Sulfate-free: No
Scent: Yes
Size: 400 ml
Best For: Oily scalp, stubborn dandruff
Love It: Gentle on the scalp, effective for oily hair
Leave It: Strong smell
Oribe Serene Scalp Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
$52 at BLUEMERCURY
Why We Love It: Oribe’s gentle, dermatologist-tested formula fights dandruff while calming irritation and redness. Dr. Marissa Garshick explains, “Its blend of salicylic acid exfoliates and clears dandruff flakes while hydrating and nourishing the scalp. It’s perfect for those who want dandruff relief without sacrificing luxury hair care.”
Key Ingredients: Salicylic acid, bilberry fruit and sugar maple extracts, Oribe signature complex
Usage: 2 times per week
Sulfate-free: Yes
Scent: Côte d’Azur, with notes of Calabrian bergamot, white butterfly jasmine, and sandalwood
Size: 250 ml
Best For: All hair types
Love It: Fights flakiness, gently exfoliates
Leave It: Expensive for its effectiveness
Leonor Greyl Paris Gentle Dandruff Shampoo
Leonor Greyleyl Gentle Dandruff Shampoo
$55 AMAZON | $42 NORDSTROM | $42 DERMSTORE
Why We Love It: According to Garshick, this gentle dandruff shampoo blends natural botanicals with zinc to minimize flakes and irritation, leaving hair soft and smooth. It’s perfect for sensitive scalps looking for a natural solution to dandruff. The lightweight formula is safe for regular use and works well on fine or thinning hair. With a subtle ylang-ylang flower fragrance, your hair and scalp will feel and smell wonderful.
Key Ingredients: Houseleek extract, wild pansy extract, propolis
Usage: Apply twice—first to cleanse, second to treat
Sulfate-free: No
Scent: Ylang-ylang flowers
Size: 200 ml
Best For: Sensitive scalp, mild dandruff
Love It: Bee propolis offers anti-inflammatory benefits; gentle formula
Leave It: Not effective for severe dandruff
Dove DermaCare Scalp Anti Dandruff Shampoo
$5 $4 (20% off) AMAZON
Why We Love It: Priced under $10 and widely available, this shampoo is a must-have for your bathroom cabinet. Despite its affordability, it doesn’t compromise on performance. Dr. Kseniya Kobets notes that the active ingredient, pyrithione zinc, works alongside moisturizers like glycerin, dimethicone, coconut oil, and shea butter. Be aware that it contains fragrance, so those with sensitive skin should use it with care.
Key Ingredients: Pyrithione zinc
Usage: Twice a week or as directed by a doctor
Sulfate-free: No
Scent: Coconut and shea butter
Size: 12 fl oz
Best For: All hair types
Love It: Budget-friendly, nourishes while fighting dandruff
Leave It: May weigh down fine hair
Nizoral Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
$16 AMAZON
Why We Love It: For tougher dandruff, Nizoral’s shampoo with 1% ketoconazole is a powerful choice, especially for oily scalps as it targets yeast overgrowth. Dr. Kobets advises applying it only to the scalp to avoid hair brittleness and breakage with frequent use.
Key Ingredients: Ketoconazole 1%
Usage: Apply twice; use every 3–4 days for up to 8 weeks or as directed
Sulfate-Free: No
Scent: Fresh
Size: 7 fl oz / 14 fl oz
Best For: All hair types
Love It: Helps reduce hair loss from scalp issues, clinically proven, safe for color-treated hair
Leave It: Chemical-like scent
Ouai Anti Dandruff Shampoo
$38 AMAZON
Why We Love It: Salicylic acid isn’t just for acne—it’s also effective in dandruff shampoos. Ouai’s version with 2% salicylic acid tackles flakes while hydrating the scalp. Garshick recommends it for balancing scalp health and keeping hair soft and manageable, thanks to its mild scent and silicone-free formula, ideal for sensitive or breakout-prone scalps.
Key Ingredients: 2% salicylic acid, propanediol caprylate, surfactants
Usage: Twice a week or as directed
Sulfate-free: Yes
Scent: Cape Town with ginger, basil, and spearmint notes
Size: 300 ml
Best For: All hair types
Love It: Soothes irritation and redness, leaves hair clean
Leave It: Doesn’t produce much lather
Briogeo Scalp Revival Dandruff Relief Charcoal Shampoo
$42 NORDSTROM
Why We Love It: Briogeo’s shampoo uses charcoal and peppermint oil to cleanse the scalp and reduce dandruff and itching. Garshick highlights the 3% salicylic acid that exfoliates dead skin cells, promoting healthy hair growth. It’s excellent for those prioritizing scalp care, though Dr. Kobets warns that individuals with sensitivities should proceed with caution.Be cautious: While essential oils like peppermint and menthol can feel soothing, they may cause allergic reactions or irritant contact dermatitis, especially in people with eczema or atopic dermatitis.
Key Ingredients: 3% salicylic acid, lactic acid, binchotan charcoal
Usage: Twice a week or as directed by a doctor
Sulfate-free: Yes, no harsh sulfates
Scent: Whipped cream with fresh mint and warm vanilla finish
Size: 8.4 oz
Best For: Oily scalps
Love It: Medical-strength, reduces flaking and irritation, leaves scalp fresh and clean
Leave It: May cause allergic reactions in sensitive skin
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Neutrogena T/Sal Therapeutic Shampoo
$7 AMAZON
Why We Love It: Neutrogena’s T/Sal is a classic scalp-clarifying dandruff shampoo that remains popular. It contains 3% salicylic acid to break down buildup and scales, along with traditional sulfates for a deeper cleanse at the scalp and roots, according to Dr. Kobets. The salicylic acid exfoliates and soothes inflammation, lifting dead skin and product residue. It works best when rotated with gentler sulfate-free shampoos, especially for those with sensitive or eczema-prone skin.
Key Ingredients: 3% salicylic acid
Usage: Apply twice, use 2 times per week or as directed by a doctor
Sulfate-free: No
Scent: None
Size: 4.5 fl oz
Best For: Oily scalps
Love It: Clears buildup quickly, fragrance-free, dermatologist-recommended
Leave It: Sulfates may be too harsh for very dry or sensitive scalps
—
CeraVe Dandruff Shampoo
$12 $10 (17% off) AMAZON
Why We Love It: CeraVe products are known for being gentle on skin and scalp, and their dandruff shampoo is no exception. It contains 1% pyrithione zinc to target dandruff-causing yeast and is less stripping than other ingredients like salicylic acid. The formula also includes barrier-supporting glycerin, hyaluronic acid, and ceramides to maintain scalp health. It’s sulfate-free, using gentle surfactants that still cleanse effectively. Hypoallergenic and free of fragrance and essential oils, it’s an excellent choice for those with eczema, as residue from other shampoos can linger and worsen symptoms.
Key Ingredients: Pyrithione zinc, niacinamide, ceramides, hyaluronic acid
Usage: Wet hair, massage into scalp, rinse and repeat if desired
Sulfate-free: Yes
Scent: Fragrance-free
Size: 355 mL
Best For: All hair types
Love It: Safe for color-treated hair, gentle formula, suitable for curly hair
Leave It: Too mild for severe dandruff
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Everything You Need to Know
What is dandruff?
Dandruff can appear as dryness (flakes on shoulders), oiliness (greasy scalp), or inflammation (redness, itching). In severe cases, it may lead to hair loss due to inflammation.
What causes dandruff?
Dandruff can stem from dry skin, oil buildup, skin sensitivity, or an overgrowth of the fungus malassezia globosa. This fungus is normally present on the scalp and helps break down sebum, but it produces oleic acid, which many people are sensitive to. Dr. Kobets notes that factors like stress can also contribute.Stress can increase cortisol levels, leading to a more oily scalp and a weaker immune system, which may worsen dandruff. A diet high in processed foods and sugars can cause inflammation in the body and scalp, while sweating and warm weather—like in summer or during exercise—create ideal conditions for the yeast that contributes to dandruff to thrive.
Caspara notes that if you’re experiencing scalp issues without any changes to your environment, products, diet, or washing routine, it’s a good idea to see a doctor to rule out any underlying health problems. Keep in mind that dandruff is different from a dry scalp, which can feel tight and itchy due to harsh cleansers, dry weather, or indoor heating stripping away natural oils.
What is the most effective shampoo for someone with dandruff?
Caspara recommends shampoos with charcoal, clay, or glycolic acid to gently clarify the scalp and remove flakes. Tea tree oil is also excellent for tackling buildup, flakes, and fungi.
How to use a dandruff shampoo
Kobets advises choosing products without heavy fragrances, sulfates, parabens, or preservatives to reduce scalp irritation and inflammation over time. A balanced pH is key for a healthy scalp and fighting dandruff.
She adds that ketoconazole, available over-the-counter or by prescription, targets the yeast or fungus behind dandruff. Other effective ingredients include selenium sulfide and zinc pyrithione, which also combat yeast, and salicylic acid, which exfoliates dead skin. Essential oils like tea tree and rosemary can soothe and hydrate a dry, flaky scalp but should be used in moderation to avoid excess oil and reduced volume.
How should you wash your scalp if you have dandruff?
Focus on the roots for the best results. Caspara suggests using a scalp brush to spread shampoo evenly and loosen flakes, warning against using nails to prevent inflammation and follicle damage. Apply shampoo mainly to the scalp, as some ingredients can make hair brittle.
After rinsing, you can use your regular shampoo to moisturize the scalp and hair—look for hydrating ingredients like glycerin—and finish with conditioner on the ends.
Can you use conditioner after a dandruff shampoo?
Yes! Saedi says that for active dandruff, a dandruff-specific conditioner is ideal, but a regular conditioner is fine if applied only to the ends to avoid increasing oil on the scalp. Dandruff conditioners are designed for scalp use.
How often should you wash your hair if you have dandruff?
Saedi explains that if your scalp is dry, wash less often; if it’s oily, wash more frequently—every other day or daily—to control excess oil. Kobets recommends using a dandruff shampoo one to three times a week, alternating with a clarifying shampoo.Should you use a traditional shampoo after a dandruff shampoo?
Shab Caspara recommends, “I personally use a dandruff shampoo for the first wash, then follow with my regular daily shampoo for the second wash to prevent my hair from drying out.”
Is it possible to prevent dandruff completely?
Caspara explains, “Unless there is an underlying circulation issue or a long-term unhealthy diet, almost anyone can prevent dandruff by occasionally deep cleansing their scalp, even if they don’t feel any buildup.” Dr. Kobets adds that using a clarifying shampoo once a week or once a month (depending on scalp oiliness) can be particularly effective, especially during warmer months or after sweating heavily at the gym.
It’s important not to tie wet hair in a ponytail after washing; instead, let it air-dry to reduce the moist environment where yeast thrives. If you are prone to dandruff, the goal is to clear it and prevent it from coming back. “However, those with a sensitive scalp may find that dandruff recurs from time to time, and that’s okay. Just continue using the products and routine that help to clear and rebalance your scalp,” says Dr. Saedi.
If you’ve tried dandruff shampoos without relief or results, it might be time to see a dermatologist. Conditions like eczema can also irritate the scalp and may require different treatments.
What ingredients are in dandruff shampoos?
When it comes to dandruff, there are usually three main steps to address it. According to Dr. Kobets, the first is calming the overgrowth of yeast Malassezia, which is often linked to dandruff, especially when the scalp is oily and warm. “Such agents include ketoconazole shampoo, pyrithione zinc, and ciclopirox shampoo.”
The second step is targeting excess oil. “This is usually achieved with detergents that strip oil away, such as sulfates. However, because sulfates can be harsh and strip the natural oils and skin barrier of the scalp, many shampoos have gone sulfate-free. Some now use milder detergents, which are less harsh but still remove excess oil.”
The third approach is using a keratolytic, such as salicylic acid, and to a lesser degree, tea tree oil. “Salicylic acid is both anti-inflammatory and helps break down dead skin and buildup that can exacerbate dandruff. Tea tree oil is a mild keratolytic and also has antimicrobial properties, which may help decrease yeast overgrowth on the scalp.”
Ketoconazole can also be a great addition to a shampoo routine, especially for oily or mildly oily scalps. “It treats yeast overgrowth and has even been reported to help with common baldness (androgenetic alopecia). Salicylic acid or tea tree oil can help clarify and exfoliate, but they should be used with caution and not too often, as they may strip hair of its natural oils,” Dr. Kobets adds.
Meet the experts:
Shab Caspara is a New York City–based trichologist and founder of hair-care platform Leona.
Dr. Marisa Garshick, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist in New York and New Jersey.
Dr. Nazanin Saedi, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist and clinical associate professor at Thomas Jefferson University in Philadelphia.
Dr. Kseniya Kobets, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist at Montefiore Einstein Advanced Care in New York.
Frequently Asked Questions
Of course Here is a list of helpful and naturalsounding FAQs about the top shampoos for a flaky scalp
Understanding Flaky Scalps Shampoo Basics
1 Whats the difference between dandruff and a dry scalp
A dry scalp is due to a lack of moisture causing small white flakes Dandruff is often caused by an excess of oil and a yeast called Malassezia leading to larger oily yellowish flakes and itching
2 What ingredients should I look for in a shampoo for flakes
Look for active ingredients like
Pyrithione Zinc or Selenium Sulfide Fights the fungus that causes dandruff
Salicylic Acid Exfoliates and removes dead skin cells
Ketoconazole A strong medicated antifungal
Coal Tar Slows skin cell growth and reduces scaling
Tea Tree Oil A natural antifungal and antibacterial
3 Can I use a dandruff shampoo every day
Its usually not recommended Most medicated dandruff shampoos are potent and can be drying if overused Start by using it 23 times a week and use a gentle moisturizing shampoo on other days
Choosing Using the Right Shampoo
4 How do I know which type of flaky scalp shampoo is right for me
It often requires some trial and error If you have mild dry flakes a moisturizing shampoo with tea tree oil might work For persistent itchy oily flakes a formula with Pyrithione Zinc or Ketoconazole is a better starting point
5 I have colored or treated hair Can I use these shampoos
Yes but you need to be selective Some ingredients like coal tar can strip color Look for formulas labeled colorsafe or safe for treated hair often those containing Pyrithione Zinc or Salicylic Acid
6 How long should I leave the shampoo on my scalp
For it to work effectively you need to let it sit Dont rinse immediately Massage it in and leave it on for 35 minutes to allow the active ingredients to penetrate and work