Best anti-dandruff shampoos: 10 top picks for healthy scalp

A clean and healthy scalp is essential for strong and shiny hair. But dandruff, a common scalp condition can lead to itchiness, irritation and hair breakage. From dry skin, and excess oil production to fungal infections, there are various factors which contribute to the formation of dandruff. And the one effective way to get rid of it is using an anti-dandruff shampoo. They are specially designed to combat dandruff, reduce scalp irritation, prevent flake formation and promote overall scalp health. These shampoos are packed with the goodness of ingredients like zinc pyrithione, ketoconazole, salicylic acid, coal tar and botanical extracts. By targeting the root cause of dandruff, these shampoos provide long-lasting relief. We have curated a list of the best anti-dandruff shampoos that you may try for cleaner, healthier scalp and more manageable hair.

10 best anti-dandruff shampoos

1. L’Oréal Professionnel Scalp Advanced Anti-Dandruff Dermo-Clarifier Shampoo

This shampoo can be your ticket to a dandruff-free paradise. L’Oréal Professionnel’s Scalp Advanced Anti-Dandruff Dermo-Clarifier Shampoo is formulated with the antifungal ingredient Piroctone Olamine. It is a lightweight cream-based shampoo that gently cleanses your scalp and fixes dry and oily dandruff.

B0BS6TQG87

2. Biolage Scalppure PROFESSIONAL Anti-Dandruff Shampoo

Looking for a vegan formula that is cruelty free and paraben free? Go for Biolage Scalppure PROFESSIONAL Anti-Dandruff Shampoo, powered by bergamot and piroctone. These ingredients reduce excess sebum production and keep the scalp hydrated. The special mint infusion gives it a refreshing feel.

B01IJX8WUE

3. Meera Anti Dandruff Shampoo

For those with sensitive scalps, Meera Anti-dandruff shampoo can be a game-changer. Formulated with small onion and fenugreek, this shampoo is like a soothing hug for your scalp. It doesn’t just treat dandruff but also helps to reduce irritation and discomfort. The brand promises to strengthen your hair strands and leave you with healthy tresses.

B08J8MSYLV

4. Biotique Fresh Neem Anti Dandruff Shampoo and Conditioner

Neem, the superhero of Ayurveda, takes centerstage in Biotique’s Fresh Neem Anti Dandruff Shampoo and Conditioner. This two-in-one marvel can help you bid farewell to flakes. What’s more? Its neem extracts also provide a deep conditioning effect. Your hair will end up feeling soft and your scalp will be clean.

B07YWMQHYJ

5. Head & Shoulders Smooth and Silky, 715ML, Anti Dandruff Shampoo for Women & Men

Head & Shoulders has established itself as a household name for dandruff problems for a reason! The Smooth and Silky Anti Dandruff Shampoo defeats flakes and helps you win the game of maintaining silky and smooth hair. It offers long-lasting protection against dandruff and is suitable for both women and men.

B0BVW7XSG5

6. Bare Anatomy Anti-Dandruff Shampoo

Bare Anatomy Anti Dandruff Shampoo might be a good choice for you. This is one of the best shampoos for hair fall and dandruff as it promises to promote frizz-free hair. Regular use of this shampoo may help promote blood circulation and moisturise the scalp to ensure grease-free hair. It is packed with salicylic acid, biotin, and other ingredients, which can help target dandruff-causing fungus, strengthen strands, prevent hair loss and remove dead skin cells. The brand also states that this product is free from sulphate and phthalates, which makes it safe to use.

B0BJZXKH12

7. Selsun Daily Anti-Dandruff Shampoo

Selsun Daily Anti-Dandruff Shampoo is suitable for all hair types. This sulphate-free shampoo may help target dandruff-causing fungus and provide relief from itching and flaking. By controlling excessive oiliness and the production of new flakes, this shampoo may help promote a clean and healthy scalp environment. The brand states that this shampoo is pH-balanced and paraben-free, which makes it safe and gentle for the scalp.

B07PMKV7SL

8. Dr Batra’s PRO+ Dandruff Clear Shampoo

Use the best shampoo for dandruff in India and improve your hair health. Dr Batra’s PRO+ Dandruff Clear Shampoo might be a good choice for you as it is enriched with the goodness of tea tree oil and hibiscus. It may gently cleanse the scalp, fight infections and balance scalp oil protection. Regular use of this shampoo may even help reduce dandruff, and flakiness and soothe irritation. The brand states that this product is free from cruelty, and chemicals and is 100 per cent vegan.

B09Q3FY539

9. St. Botanica GO Anti Dandruff Shampoo

St. Botanica GO Anti Dandruff Shampoo can provide you with a healthy scalp and nourished hair. It is formulated using tea tree oil, ichthyol pale, lavender oil, peppermint oil, grapefruit oil, sunflower seed oil, argan oil, pro-vitamin B5 and horsetail oil. This shampoo for dandruff may help cleanse the scalp, reduce itchiness, lesions, and greasiness and prevent the formation of dandruff. The brand claims that its product is free from paraben, mineral oils, SLS and phthalates.

B08PZ9F5J5

10. Joy Anti Dandruff Shampoo

Joy Anti Dandruff Shampoo may help you flaunt your healthy strands. Packed with the goodness of argan, ginger, lemon and tea tree oils, this shampoo may fight imbalances on the scalp and contribute to healthy hair. Regular use of this shampoo may help neutralise the negative charges on hair strands, reduce scalp infections and promote hair growth. This toxin-free shampoo may even help improve blood circulation, which can lead to healthier strands.

B095KYSQGW

Health Shots Recommends: Best shampoos for split ends: 5 top picks to combat hair breakage

What are the benefits of anti-dandruff shampoos for hair?

Some of the essential benefits of anti-dandruff shampoos are:

• Controls dandruff flakes: The presence of ingredients like zinc pyrithione, selenium sulfide, or coal tar in these shampoos help combat the fungi that is responsible for the formation of dandruff. Regular use of these shampoos may help minimise flaking and keep your scalp clean.
• Helps soothe scalp irritation: Anti-dandruff shampoos are loaded with soothing ingredients like tea tree oil, aloe vera and menthol which helps alleviate pain, discomfort, irritation and itching in the scalp.
• Regulates sebum production: Most of these shampoos contain ingredients that help balance sebum levels, preventing the scalp from becoming too oily or dry.
• Supports deep cleansing: Regular use of these anti-dandruff shampoos may help remove excess oil, dirt and product buildup from the scalp, which helps in keeping your scalp clean and refreshed.
• Promotes intense hydration: They also contain hydrating and moisturising ingredients like coconut oil or glycerin, which helps hydrate your scalp and prevent dryness.
• Supports healthy hair growth: These shampoos address dandruff, scalp issues and create a healthy scalp environment. They also infuse your hair with essential vitamins and minerals that nourish your scalp and support healthy hair growth.

Also Read: Best scalp serums for hair growth: 5 top choices for you

How to prevent dandruff?

Dandruff can have various causes, including fungal infections, skin conditions, and sensitivity to hair products. Here’s what you can do to prevent dandruff:

* Keep your hair clean: You must wash your hair at regular intervals with products that suit your hair type and skin condition. In seasons or situations when you sweat excessively, it is important to wash your hair and scalp to remove sweat and prevent dandruff. If you have dandruff issues, use an option from the best anti-dandruff shampoos in India.

* Scalp massage: Gently massage your scalp while shampooing to help exfoliate dead skin cells and improve blood circulation. This can prevent the buildup of flakes.

* Avoid using hot water to wash hair: Hot water can strip your scalp of its natural oils, leading to dryness and potentially dandruff. Use lukewarm or cool water instead.

* Consume a balanced diet: Eat a balanced diet rich in nutrients like zinc, B vitamins, and omega-3 fatty acids. These nutrients are essential for a healthy scalp.

* Hydration: Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. Proper hydration is crucial for skin health, including the scalp.

* Manage stress: High stress levels can contribute to dandruff. Indulge in stress-reduction techniques like yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises.

* Avoid excessive use of hair products: Overusing hair products, such as gels and sprays, can lead to product buildup on the scalp, which can exacerbate dandruff. Use these products sparingly.

* Choose the right hairbrush: Use a soft-bristle hairbrush or a wide-toothed comb to prevent scalp irritation. Be gentle when brushing your hair.

* Sun exposure: Limited sun exposure can be beneficial for your scalp as it can help control the growth of yeast that can contribute to dandruff. However, protect your scalp from excessive sun exposure to avoid sunburn.

* Manage oil in hair: If you have an oily scalp, use an appropriate shampoo for oily hair to control excess oil production. Oily scalps can be more prone to dandruff.

* Avoid tight hairstyles: Tight hairstyles like braids and ponytails can put stress on the scalp and potentially lead to dandruff. Choose looser styles whenever possible.

If your dandruff persists despite trying these preventive measures, consider consulting a dermatologist for a more targeted treatment plan.

How to choose the best anti-dandruff shampoo?

Here are a few things that you must remember while choosing the best hair shampoo for dandruff:

• Before selecting the best dandruff shampoo for women, it is essential to understand the root cause of dandruff. Some common factors which contribute to the formation of dandruff include fungal infections, dry skin, oily scalp and skin conditions like psoriasis.
• While buying an anti-dandruff shampoo, pay attention to the key ingredients of the product. Make sure that the product contains zinc pyrithione, ketoconazole, salicylic acid, coal tar, tea tree oil and other botanical extracts. These ingredients are packed with antibacterial properties, which can help remove dandruff and contribute to a healthier scalp environment.
• Consider your hair type and scalp condition while buying the shampoo. For a dry scalp, look for moisturising formulas that contain aloe vera or coconut oil to prevent dryness. In the case of oily scalp, opt for shampoos with ingredients like salicylic acid to control excess oil production.
• Make sure to perform a patch test before including the product in your daily routine. It will help you check for any adverse reactions. Ensure that you use the shampoo consistently for a few weeks to evaluate its effectiveness.
• You can also take recommendations from a dermatologist as they will suggest the right product considering your hair and scalp condition.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

• How often should I wash my hair?
  It depends on your hair type, scalp condition and overall health of your hair. The American Academy of Dermatology Association suggests that people with oily scalps should wash their hair at least once per day. But in the case of chemically-treated hair or dry scalp, you should avoid frequent shampooing as it can exacerbate the dryness.
• What causes dandruff?
  While several factors contribute to the formation of dandruff, Malassezia furfur is one of the main causes of this scalp condition as per a study published in the International Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research. Other factors include dry skin, oily scalp, sensitivity to hair products and skin conditions like psoriasis.
• Which shampoo is most effective for dandruff?
  The best anti-dandruff shampoo is the one that contains antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Some of the most effective hair shampoos for dandruff are mentioned above. So, you can choose the one that suits your needs.

(Disclaimer: At Health Shots, we make a constant effort to break the clutter for our readers. All products listed are carefully curated by the editorial team but use your discretion and an expert’s opinion before using them. Their price and availability may differ from the time of publication. If you buy something using these links in the story, we may earn a commission.)