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While much of the haircare conversation is dominated by its outward appearance—the shine, the bounce, the color—what occurs at the root is equally important. Those looking to address dandruff (a common concern that affects about half the population) can find treatments in and outside the shampoo aisle nowadays, thanks to a greater emphasis on overall hair health that addresses both tell-tale and underlying signs of dandruff. The best dandruff shampoo, used in tandem with a detoxifying scalp product, can help remedy the various ways dandruff makes itself known— flaking, excess oil, itchiness, and even clogged hair follicles.
Below, leading experts break down what causes dandruff, the best way to wash your scalp, what ingredients are in dandruff shampoos, and if prevention is truly possible—plus, the best formulas to shop now.
Vogue’s Favorite Dandruff Shampoos:
Featured 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 sandruff 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
- Why We Love It: A Vogue editor- and dermatologist-favorite, Jupiter does exactly what it promises—balances the scalp. “I first tried Jupiter’s shampoo and conditioner a couple of years ago and instantly loved them,” says board-certified dermatologist Dr. Nazanin Saedi. This is a great choice for a sensitive, easily irritated scalp. And the best part is it doesn’t look or smell like a dandruff shampoo.
- Key Ingredients: Zinc pyrithione 1%, squalane, coconut oil, sugar kelp extract
- Usage: Use 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 | Leave It |
|---|---|
| Great smell, efficiently removes dandruff, targets flakes and itchiness | May leave hair greasy |
Head Shoulders Clinical Dandruff Shampoo
- Why We Love It: Synonymous for many as a go-to dandruff treatment, Head Shoulders is a tried-and-true for a reason. “Whenever a patient asks about dandruff, I always recommend picking up Head Shoulders,” says Saedi, noting that it’s inexpensive and, most important, effective. It helps calm itching, remove flakes, and balance the scalp. “Try the green apple scent—it’s lovely,” she adds.
- 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 | Leave It |
|---|---|
| Gentle on scalp, effective for oily hair | Strong smell |
Oribe Serene Scalp Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
- Why We Love It: Oribe’s Serene Scalp Shampoo tackles dandruff while soothing irritation and redness with its gentle, dermatologist-tested formula. “Its blend of salicylic acid helps exfoliate and clear the scalp of dandruff flakes while providing hydration and nourishment for a healthy scalp. It’s ideal for those seeking relief from dandruff without compromising on high-end hair care,” says board-certified dermatologist Dr. Marissa Garshick.
- 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, notes of Calabrian bergamot, white butterfly jasmine, and sandalwood
- Size: 250 ml
- Best For: All hair types
| Love It | Leave It |
|---|---|
| Combats flakiness, gently exfoliates | Expensive for its efficacy |
Leonor Greyl Paris Gentle Dandruff Shampoo
- Why We Love It: “This gentle dandruff shampoo combines natural botanicals with zinc to reduce flakes and irritation while leaving the hair soft and smooth,” says Garshick. “It’s ideal for sensitive scalps seeking a more holistic approach to dandruff relief.” The lightweight formula is suitable for frequent use and works well with fine or thinning hair. It has a delicate ylang-ylang flower scent, so not only will your hair and scalp feel amazing afterward, it will smell incredible, too.
- Key Ingredients: Houseleek extract, wild pansy extract, propolis
- Usage: Apply twice; the first wash cleanses while the second application treats
- Sulfate-free: No
- Scent: Rich scent of ylang-ylang flowers
- Size: 200 ml
- Best For: Sensitive scalp, mild dandruff
| Love It | Leave It |
|---|---|
| Bee propolis provides anti-inflammatory benefits, gentle formula | Not strong enough for severe dandruff |
Dove DermaCare Scalp Anti Dandruff Shampoo
- Why We Love It: At under $10 and available at nearly every drugstore, there’s almost no excuse not to keep one of these on hand (hidden under the sink for when needed). However, the low price doesn’t mean the formula sacrifices efficacy. Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Kseniya Kobets explains that the active ingredient, pyrithione zinc, is complemented by hydrating ingredients like glycerin, dimethicone, coconut oil, and shea butter. However, it does contain some fragrance, so those with sensitive skin should be cautious.
- Key Ingredients: Pyrithione zinc
- Usage: 2 times per 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 | Leave It |
|---|---|
| Affordable, nourishes while treating dandruff | Can feel heavy on finer hair |
Nizoral Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
- Why We Love It: When gentler exfoliants don’t cut it, a more effective option may be Nizoral’s anti-dandruff shampoo—containing 1% ketoconazole, which is highly effective for oily or mildly oily scalps as it targets yeast overgrowth. “Apply this only to the scalp, as it can make the hair brittle and prone to breakage with regular use,” says Dr. Kobets.
- Key Ingredients: Ketoconazole 1%
- Usage: Apply twice; use every 3 to 4 days for up to 8 weeks or as directed by a doctor
- Sulfate-Free: No
- Scent: Fresh scent
- Size: 7 fl oz / 14 fl oz
- Best For: All hair types
| Love It | Leave It |
|---|---|
| Helps control hair loss from scalp issues, clinically proven, safe for color treated hair | Chemical scent |
Ouai Anti Dandruff Shampoo
- Why We Love It: You might be familiar with salicylic acid in your acne-fighting skin-care products, but did you know it can also be used in dandruff shampoos? Infused with 2% salicylic acid, Ouai’s Anti-Dandruff Shampoo effectively treats flakes while soothing the scalp with hydrating ingredients. “This shampoo is great for those looking to balance scalp health while keeping hair soft and manageable. With its subtle fragrance and silicone-free formula, it’s perfect for those with sensitive scalps or prone to breakouts,” says Garshick.
- Key Ingredients: 2% salicylic acid, propanediol caprylate, surfactants
- Usage: 2 times per week or as directed by a doctor
- Sulfate-free: Yes
- Scent: The Cape Town scent has top notes of ginger, basil, and spearmint
- Size: 300 ml
- Best For: All hair types
| Love It | Leave It |
|---|---|
| Reduces irritation and redness, leaves hair feeling clean | Doesn’t lather well |
Briogeo Scalp Revival Dandruff Relief Charcoal Shampoo
- Why We Love It: Combining charcoal and peppermint oil, Briogeo’s Dandruff Relief Shampoo detoxifies the scalp while reducing dandruff and itchiness. Garshick explains that the formula contains 3% salicylic acid to exfoliate and remove dead skin cells, creating an ideal environment for healthy hair growth. It’s a great option for anyone seeking hair care with a focus on scalp wellness. However, Dr. Kobets cautions that patients with sensitivities should be careful: essential oils such as peppermint and menthol can feel soothing but may trigger allergic or irritant contact dermatitis, particularly in individuals with a history of eczema or atopic dermatitis.
- Key Ingredients: 3% salicylic acid, lactic acid, binchotan charcoal
- Usage: 2 times per week or as directed by a doctor
- Sulfate-free: No harsh sulfates
- Scent: Whipped cream infused with fresh mint and a warm vanilla finish
- Size: 8.4 oz
- Best For: Oily scalps
| Love It | Leave It |
|---|---|
| Medical-strength, addresses flaking and irritation, leaves the scalp feeling fresh and clean | May trigger an allergic reaction in sensitive skin types |
Neutrogena T/Sal Therapeutic Shampoo
- Why We Love It: Neutrogena’s T/Sal is one of the original scalp-clarifying dandruff shampoos and remains popular for good reason. It combines 3% salicylic acid, which breaks down buildup and scales, with traditional sulfates that deliver a more thorough cleanse at the scalp and roots, explains Dr. Kobets. The salicylic acid in this fragrance-free formula acts both as an exfoliator and inflammation soother, “lifting dead skin buildup and product residue,” she says. It may work best in rotation—used as a deeper cleanse when needed—alongside gentler sulfate-free shampoos, which are better suited 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: No
- Size: 4.5 fl oz
- Best For: Oily scalps
| Love It | Leave It |
|---|---|
| Clears buildup quickly, fragrance-free, dermatologist-recommended | Sulfates may be too harsh for very dry or sensitive scalps |
CeraVe Dandruff Shampoo
- Why We Love It: One of the main draws of CeraVe products is that they are formulated to be gentle on both skin and scalp, and their dandruff shampoo is no exception. Dr. Kobets explains that it contains 1% pyrithione zinc, which targets the yeast that causes dandruff, and is generally less stripping than other actives like salicylic acid. “In addition, CeraVe includes barrier-supporting ingredients such as glycerin, hyaluronic acid, and ceramides, which help maintain scalp health. The formula is sulfate-free, relying on gentler surfactants that still provide a cleansing lather to remove oil and debris.” She adds that because it is hypoallergenic and free of fragrance and essential oils, this shampoo is an excellent option for patients with eczema. Even after rinsing, shampoo residue can linger on the neck, shoulders, and skin folds, which may exacerbate eczema, making a fragrance-free, gentle formula like this particularly valuable.
- Key Ingredients: Pyrithione zinc, niacinamide, ceramides, hyaluronic acid
- Usage: Wet hair and massage shampoo into scalp, rinse and repeat if desired
- Sulfate-free: Yes
- Scent: Fragrance-free
- Size: 355 mL
- Best For: All hair types
| Love It | Leave It |
|---|---|
| Safe for color-treated hair, gentle formula, suitable for curly hair types | Too mild for severe dandruff |
Everything You Need to Know
What is dandruff?
According to Dr. Kobets, dandruff can manifest in various ways on the scalp, including dryness (flakes that fall onto the shoulders), oiliness (resulting in a greasy, oily scalp), and inflammation (characterized by redness, itching, and inflammation). In severe cases, dandruff can lead to hair loss and thinning due to the extent of the inflammation.
What causes dandruff?
“Dandruff can result from dry skin, a buildup of oils on the scalp, sensitive and irritated skin, or, very commonly, an overgrowth of a fungus called malassezia globosa,” explains Saedi, noting that it can affect both oily and dry scalps. A common misconception is that malassezia is harmful; in fact, it’s a normal part of the scalp environment that actually helps break down sebum or the oil on your scalp. However, this process produces oleic acid (a fatty acid found in yeast), which many people are sensitive to.
Dr. Kobets explains that factors such as stress (which can raise cortisol levels, increasing scalp oiliness and suppressing the immune system), poor diet (one that is heavy on processed foods and sugars which causes inflammation in the body and scalp), sweating, and warmer temperatures (such as those experienced in summer or during sports) can exacerbate dandruff. Yeast, which contributes to dandruff, thrives in these warm and moist conditions.
Caspara adds that if someone is experiencing a scalp imbalance and has not changed their environment, products, diet, or washing frequency, they should consult a medical professional to ensure the dandruff is not indicative of an underlying health condition. (This should not be confused with a dry scalp, which can feel tight and itchy due to being stripped of its natural oils by harsh cleansing products, dry weather, or indoor heat.)
What is the most effective shampoo for someone with dandruff?
Caspara recommends shampoos containing ingredients such as charcoal and clay, which are known for their ability to clarify and gently remove buildup from the scalp and flakes. Glycolic acid is similarly effective. Additionally, tea tree oil is an excellent essential oil for addressing scalp buildup, flakes, and fungi.
How to use a dandruff shampoo
Kobets suggests opting for products that are free of heavy fragrances, sulfates, parabens, and preservatives to minimize scalp sensitization to these allergens and irritants, which can reduce overall inflammation over time. The pH balance is also crucial for maintaining a healthy scalp microbiome and combating dandruff.
“Ketoconazole, whether in a 1% over-the-counter formula or a 2% prescription strength, is beneficial for treating dandruff by targeting the yeast or fungus causing the condition,” she says. Other effective anti-dandruff ingredients include selenium sulfide and zinc pyrithione, which also kill yeast. Clarifying agents like salicylic acid can exfoliate and lift dead skin off the scalp. Additionally, essential oils such as tea tree oil and rosemary oil have anti-inflammatory and hydrating properties for a dry, flaky scalp. “However, these oils can also lead to excess oiliness and reduced hair volume, so they should be used sparingly.”
How should you wash your scalp if you have dandruff?
Addressing scaling and buildup is most effective by targeting the roots. Caspara suggests using a scalp brush to help distribute the shampoo evenly and dislodge flakes. “Avoid using your nails to scrub, as this can cause inflammation and long-term damage to hair follicles,” says Caspara. Focusing application on the scalp is also important, as some ingredients (like salicylic acid or ketoconazole) can make the rest of the hair brittle and prone to breakage.
After rinsing out the dandruff shampoo, you can follow up with a second wash of your regular shampoo to moisturize both the scalp and the hair. (Ensure this shampoo contains hydrating ingredients, such as glycerin.) Finish with a conditioner on the ends of the hair.
Can you use conditioner after a dandruff shampoo?
Yes! Saedi says that for active dandruff, it may be best to use a conditioner specifically formulated for dandruff. However, it’s perfectly fine to use a traditional conditioner after washing your hair. Just make sure to apply it only to the ends of your hair and avoid the scalp, as it can cause more oil production, making the dandruff worse. (Dandruff conditioners are formulated differently from traditional ones and can be used on the scalp.)
How often should you wash your hair if you have dandruff?
Saedi explains that if you have a dry scalp, you can wash your hair less frequently. Conversely, if your scalp is oily, you should wash your hair more often—every other day or even daily—to help remove excess oil. Kobets adds that it’s best to use a dandruff shampoo one to three times a week and to alternate with a good clarifying shampoo containing salicylic acid or tea tree oil.
Should you follow your dandruff shampoo with a traditional shampoo?
Caspara says, “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 altogether?
“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,” says Caspara. 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 excessive sweating or gym workouts.
It’s important not to keep hair wet in a ponytail after washing; instead, let it air-dry to reduce the moist conditions where yeast thrives. If you are prone to dandruff, the goal should be to clear it and prevent it from recurring. “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 Saedi.
If you’ve tried dandruff shampoos without relief or results, it might be time to consult 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.