Before You Buy: The 12 Best Dandruff Shampoos

While dandruff is extremely common, there’s nothing more embarrassing than itching your scalp only to discover that your hair looks like you’ve been frolicking out in the snow — yikes. And there’s nothing worse than having to go through your day with an itchy and burning scalp. Luckily, the quick solution for how to get rid of dandruff starts (and hopefully ends) in the shower.

What Exactly Is Dandruff?

A chronic scalp condition, dandruff is caused when skin on the scalp begins to flake off. (Gross, we know.) Its symptoms are pretty easy to spot since you’ll usually notice white, oily flakes of dead skin on your hair and shoulders. You’ll also have an itchy, scaly scalp. And dandruff may get worse in winter when you’re at the mercy of indoor heating. Believe it or not, you can also get dandruff from not shampooing enough since it allows oils and skin cells to build up.

What Shampoo Gets Rid of Dandruff?

The best anti-dandruff shampoos are the ones with the right active ingredient, like pyrithione zinc or ketoconazole. You also need to look out for shampoos designed to address your hair and scalp needs. If you color or chemically process your tresses, there’s a dandruff shampoo for that. Scalp super oily? Look for a formula that reduces excess sebum. If you still want to use a specialty shampoo for shine, extra moisture or repairing damaged strands, look for a dandruff shampoo that you only have to use a few times a week.

Can You Permanently Get Rid of Dandruff?

It’s not called a chronic condition for nothing. While anti-dandruff shampoos (often teamed with their conditioner counterparts) can successfully keep flakes at bay, if you stop using them, those pesky flakes may return. Certain lifestyle changes may help head off flakes too, requiring you to use anti-dandruff treatments less often. Learn to manage stress (key in managing a whole host of conditions) and get a little sun, as long as you wear SPF. And, as mentioned, shampoo regularly.

Derma Care Scalp Dryness & Itch Relief Anti-Dandruff Shampoo

For those suffering from the annoyance that is dandruff, here’s your go-to list for the best dandruff shampoos:

Leonor Greyl Paris
Dove
Philip Kingsley
NIZORAL
Christophe Robin
Kenra
Sachajuan
Matrix
Nioxin
SheaMoisture
Redken
Head & Shoulders

Click through above to find out more about the best dandruff shampoos, according to customer reviews.

Before You Buy: The Best Dandruff Shampoos According to Consumer Reviews

Best Shampoo for Dry Scalps: Leonor Greyl Paris

Gentle Anti-Dandruff Shampoo, $46 at Nordstrom

If you really want to banish flakes, you need to take care of your scalp. Our scalps can be super sensitive when dealing with dandruff, so this gentle formula addresses dandruff and scalp sensitivity, offering instant results. It also boasts antiseptic bee propolis to help prevent further irritation.

Monicossio from Nordstrom: "It does exactly what it says, it’s a gentle shampoo that really eliminates dandruff. It’s very soft for the scalp and leaves the hair soft and hydrated. Really impressed with this shampoo."

eryant from Nordstrom: "This shampoo made my hair and scalp feel soothed and clean! I enjoyed the mild scent. It did take me a bit to get used to the fact that it doesn't lather up like many shampoos that I have used in the past. This was a nice alternative to some of the harsh, chemical-based shampoos that are on the market for sensitive scalps."
Best Shampoo for Itchy Scalps: Dove

Derma Care Scalp Dryness & Itch Relief Anti-Dandruff Shampoo, $4.89 at Target

An Allure 2017 Best of Beauty Award winner, Dove’s shampoo treats dandruff while hydrating and soothing your dry, itchy scalp thanks to pyrithione zinc. The pH-balanced formula will also help your strands be smooth and noticeably less frizzy. Plus, it has an indulgent coconut and shea butter scent.

AmyGP from Target: "My scalp had been extra dry this winter and I noticed that no matter what I was doing that I was still itchy and flaky. Looked into several shampoo products that targeted this problem. Since I use Dove soap already and love it I thought about sticking to the brand. I haven't regretted that decision ever since. I immediately was not itchy, it was soothing. I noticed the lack of flakiness after about a week. I won't switch back to my old shampoo anytime soon."

azian from Target: "I've tried so many dandruff shampoos, none have worked. Dove shampoo and conditioner is the only one that works on my hair. Dove stops the itching and the flaking and helps to soothe my dry scalp."
Best Shampoo for Flaky Scalps: Philip Kingsley

Flaky Scalp Shampoo, $40 at Philip Kingsley

This treatment all comes down to the numbers. While its $40 price tag may seem a bit hefty for dandruff shampoo, 99 percent of users in consumer trials reported clearer, less flaky scalps. And 92 percent said it was more effective than other anti-dandruff products they tried. The extremely gentle and soothing shampoo is mild enough for daily use and doesn’t dry out or strip color-treated locks.

Merisha from Philip Kingsley: "I have suffered for many years with seborrheic dermatitis in the scalp. I have tried home remedies, consultant prescriptions and nothing has worked. Although the big version of this shampoo is expensive it lasts so long and it works leaving my scalp flake-free and clear! Really recommend."

Freyja from Philip Kingsley: "A relative of mine put me on to the Philip Kingsley brand and I have fallen in love with this shampoo!!! Worth the money and I will never turn to another shampoo again. Perfect scalp once again!"
Best Dandruff Shampoo: NIZORAL

A-D Anti-Dandruff Shampoo, $14.69 at Amazon

If you’ve already fallen in love with a regular shampoo, this anti-dandruff version will be your new BFF. That’s because you only need to swap in this formula twice a week to notice a difference. Relying on 1 percent ketoconazole, a proven dandruff-fighting ingredient, it’s gentle enough for chemically processed or colored hair.

Moo Moo from Amazon: "This stuff is absolutely amazing. I was one step away from going to the dermatologist. I had severe dandruff that was so bad I could shake my head and it would come off. With just a few uses per week, I got rid of all of my flakes. My scalp also stopped burning from dryness. My hair has never been healthier."

Xiao Liwu from Amazon: "This works really well. I love the scent and that you do not need to use this every day. I can still use specialized shampoos majority of the week for color, breakage, shine, etc. And when I do use it I don’t have to worry about people smelling a medicinal smell like other dandruff shampoos. Definitely worth a try if you suffer from dry scalp, buildup, itchy scalp, or flakes."
Best Shampoo for Oily Scalps: Christophe Robin

Purifying Shampoo With Jujube Bark Extract, $38 at Sephora

When used regularly, this shampoo reduces excess sebum and tackles dandruff and itchiness — all while leaving hair super soft, shiny and frizz-free. Users call it the "holy grail" for oily scalps.

JMBR3 from Sephora: "This shampoo is seriously amazing! I have an extremely oily scalp that is also super itchy - I started feeling the difference after just one use of this shampoo, and started seeing it after the first week. I don't have to wash my hair everyday anymore! "

MsRickett918 from Sephora: "Everything from the scent and the amount of lather to the enormous help with dry scalp (itchiness and flaking) and it's delightfully gentle on my fine curly hair. I honestly cannot say every single reason this shampoo is a game changer and I'll be buying it again and again."
Best Dandruff Shampoo for Color-Treated Hair: Kenra

Professional Dandruff Shampoo, $17 at Ulta

For those who get their hair colored regularly and find themselves with a bit of dandruff, this product is perfect for keeping your color bright and vibrant, and your scalp healthy and itch-free. Thanks, Kenra, for always delivering.

Jocey from Ulta: "I would definitely recommend this product! I used it two times a week for just one week and my dandruff was GONE. Plus, it doesn't dry out your hair."

jo from TotalBeauty: "I have been using this for about 2-3 weeks now. I was in a vicious cycle of itchy scalp, dry scalp, and oily hair that I had to wash daily. I had bad dandruff that required me to wash everyday. This has helped me so much! I don't have any flakes in my scalp even after a few days, and helps get rid of a lot of oil. The itchiness has gone away a lot as well."
Best Clarifying Anti-Dandruff Shampoo: Sachajuan

Scalp Shampoo, $28 at Sephora

Tried every dandruff shampoo without success? Many users claim that this clarifying shampoo is the only one that reliably removes dandruff and itchiness. Rosemary oil, menthol and ginger extract not only soothe scalp irritation but leave hair smelling divine.

Makeuplova2009 from Sephora: "Wow!!! For the first time in 5 years I don't have dandruff after trying every scalp shampoo known to man. This shampoo is a godsend. This is my new favorite brand!!"

Ladypink from Sephora: "I've used this shampoo for a couple of years now. I have scalp psoriasis and this is the only thing that works. Totally stops the itching. I truly hope this is never discontinued."
Best-Smelling Dandruff Shampoo: Matrix

Biolage Scalpsync Anti-Dandruff Shampoo, $18 at Ulta

Need a little spa treatment while you lather up? The cooling mint aroma will target your dandruff and help you relax as you wash your problems (particularly hair-related) down the drain. Mmmm.

girlgoneULTAcrazy from Ulta: "I had awful dandruff and an itchy scalp. I have tried a lot of different things, but I felt a difference the first time I used it, and it smells good too."

BrieB from TotalBeauty: "I get flakes during season changes, or in extreme weather (hot or cold), and this shampoo clears everything up in a matter of a couple days. I color my hair, and this is safe for that -- as well as is gentle, hydrating and cleanses the scalp of all leftover product residue. Awesome value, and awesome product by Matrix Biolage!"
Best Shampoo for Serious Scalp Issues: Nioxin

Scalp Recovery Cleanser, $10.44 at Walmart

If you're suffering from dandruff and more serious scalp issues like seborrheic dermatitis and psoriasis, this (somewhat pricey) shampoo is for you. Users claim almost instant results.

Michelle from Ulta: "My scalp gets quite dry around this time of year. Someone recommended this product to me. After the first use, my hair was considerably less itchy/dry. I highly, highly recommend this product if you have a few extra dollars to spend on shampoo."

Grly13 from Ulta: "Quickly relieves dry itchy scalp and eliminates dandruff."
Best Dandruff Shampoo for Thick Hair: SheaMoisture

African Black Soap Dandruff Control Shampoo, $9.97 at Amazon

There's honestly nothing better than products with a dual purpose. This shampoo not only strips away dandruff, but it also removes built up residue from the products you've caked in your hair throughout the week. Even your scalp needs a little detox. Plus, its perfect for extra thick hair.

cupcakes&wine from Ulta: "I wish I had found out about this product sooner. I've always used another brand for itchy scalp or dandruff. I wash my hair about every other day or two. This stuff works -- plain and simple. Works better than anything I've tried and it's all natural."

Lauren from TotalBeauty: "Great for thick, coarse hair! Made my hair feel so soft even before adding conditioner. The lather isn't that great but some shampoos don't have a high lather. Smells amazing!"
Best Shampoo to Fight Flake Fallout: Redken

Dandruff Control Shampoo, $19.79 at Amazon

Scared to itch your scalp for fear of flaking? No worries, this product is especially designed to fight flake fallout and puts hydration back into your dry scalp.

Jenny913 from Totalbeauty: "I have tried so many products that just did not work! I thought something was seriously wrong with my poor scalp! I was ready to finally give up but I read some good reviews on this product, so I decided to give it a try. I am so glad I did! It has a clean smell, makes my hair so soft, and (the best part) it really works on dandruff!"

mrswlv from Totalbeauty: "I have tried a lot of other dandruff shampoos which either smelled like medicine or left my scalp oily. This product is the first that I have tried that has done neither. Help has arrived."
Best Shampoo for Light Dandruff: Head & Shoulders

Extra Volume, $12.72 at Amazon

Scalps and wallets rejoice! The search for the perfect drugstore solution to dandruff has officially ended. If you're suffering from an itchy and flaky scalp, this shampoo eliminates your sorrows and even gives your hair some life for a night out on the town. How nice is that?

ckmommy from Totalbeauty: " I tried this for the first time last week after using my expensive shampoo for months, and I got so many compliments. Everybody asked what I had done to my hair because it looked so shiny and thick."

OhMandy from Totalbeauty: "This one is very moisturizing and gives your hair a lift and shine, along with controlling the dandruff. Plus, it smells very nice! No reason to spend more if you have the average case of dandruff. It works and leaves you with great hair."