Samantha Holender
When it comes to dandruff, the conversation is about as chic as the furniture in your grandparents’ den. And yet, summer after summer, it's a topic I need to take very seriously. (Days spent in the Pacific Ocean—no matter how much I love them—inevitably leave me with a dry, flaky scalp.) After many consultations with my hairstylists and dermatologists, I've found the solution is to incorporate the best dandruff shampoos into my routine before summer officially hits.
Before I dive in, though, let's get to the root of dandruff. (See what I did there?) “Causes can be fueled by many factors: genes, lifestyle, and medication,” says certified trichologist and “The Scalp Expert," Bridgette Hill. “Periods of stress can also cause oil production, flares, and neglect of the scalp,” adds board-certified dermatologist Robert Finney, M.D. While specific lifestyle changes (like lowering stress levels or switching medications) might be the key, a strategic shower set-up can also make a big difference.
There’s no shortage of expert-based recommendations for dandruff shampoos on the internet and Reddit threads (I've been there), so I did the hard work of weeding through the oversaturated market for you. While curating this guide, I interviewed two board-certified dermatologists—Dr. Finney and Jenny Liu, M.D. FAAD—in addition to Hill. Here, shop the 12 best dandruff shampoos, vetted by editors. Because let's be honest: no one wants a flaky scalp.
Best Dandruff Shampoos
- Best Dandruff Shampoo Overall: Verb Dandruff Shampoo With Salicylic Acid for Dry and Flaky Scalp
- Best Drugstore Dandruff Shampoo: CeraVe Anti-Dandruff Hydrating Shampoo
- Best Luxury Dandruff Shampoo: OUAI Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
- Best Dandruff Shampoo for Itchiness: Briogio Scalp Revival Megastrength+ Dandruff Relief Shampoo
- Best Fragrance-Free Dandruff Shampoo: Neutrogena Tea & Sal Therapeutic Shampoo
A shampoo with healing powers? Count me in. Verb’s no-frills formula contains three percent salicylic acid and zinc, which are gentle exfoliators ideal for addressing flakiness and fungus overgrowth. The shampoo isn't drying at all. In fact, I find it to be pretty moisturizing, controlling both scalp irritation and flakiness. Senior Beauty Editor Samantha Holender, who struggles with seborrheic dermatitis, also gives this her stamp of approval.
Hair Type: All hair types and textures
Scent: Clary sage oil (eucalyptus, orange peel, crisp magnolia, white sandalwood)
Active Ingredients: Salicylic acid
Size of Bottle: 8 fl oz
What I Love: Hydrates; Repairs roots; Lathers seamlessly
What I Don’t: Fizzy consistency takes some getting used to
Review for MC: “This shampoo left my hair feeling fresh for all the right reasons. After just a few washes, my hair felt comparable to a keratin treatment. The scent reminds me of staying at a high-end resort and using all of their lavish products. Verb’s paraben-free, gluten-free, no harmful sulfates, PETA certified cruelty-free, vegan formula not only rehydrated my scalp, but left it feeling as good as a salon-style wash.” — Malcia Greene, Contributing Marie Claire Writer
Contributing Marie Claire writer Malcia Greene uses Verb Dandruff Shampoo with Salicylic Acid for Dry and Flaky Scalp
This to-the-point product is top-tier. Developed by dermatologists, this affordable formula includes zinc pyrithione, an ingredient proven to treat the itchiness and flakiness of dandruff), alongside three hydrating essential ceramides. It'll instantly reduce itchiness while still giving hair a shiny, silky feel. Bonus: It's allergy-tested and great for sensitive skin.
Hair Types: All (suitable for color-treated hair)
Scent: Fragrance-free
Active Ingredients: Zinc pyrithione
Size of Bottle: 12 fl oz
What I Love: Affordable; Dermatologist-approved; A little product goes a long way
What I Don’t: Unsexy packaging
Review from MC: “Not only is CeraVe’s shampoo light, airy, and free of fragrance, but it leaves my hair looking full and luscious. More importantly, my scalp itself feels rejuvenated and fresh, even in Manhattan's polluted air. Above all, I know I can trust CeraVe as their products maintain a strong reputation in the beauty community at an affordable price.” — Malcia Greene, Contributing Marie Claire Writer
Contributing Marie Claire writer Malcia Greene uses CeraVe Anti-Dandruff Hydrating Shampoo
If you’re looking for the Rolls-Royce of scalp shampoos, the OUAI Anti-Dandruff Shampoo is the OUAI to go. Unlike other dandruff shampoos, OUAI prioritizes a sensory experience with an uplifting, fresh scent and a texture that oozes luxury (and just so happens to treat a not-so-cute scalp condition).
Hair Types: Straight, wavy, curly and coily; Fine, medium and thick
Scent: Capetown (ginger, basil, spearmint)
Active Ingredients: Salicylic acid
Size of Bottle: 10 fl oz
What I Love: Uncharted sudsy levels; Smells like a spa
What I Don’t: Expensive; Might need to add more for a proper lather
Review for MC: “The OUAI Anti-Dandruff Shampoo reminds me of a getaway, or how I imagine the spa at a White Lotus hotel to smell. It’s the perfect addition to add to your post-beach, pre-dinner routine. This easy, squeezy, beautiful bottle also makes it really easy to get the shampoo out.” — Malcia Greene, Contributing Marie Claire Writer
Contributing Marie Claire writer Malcia Greene uses OUAI Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
When it comes to an all-in-one, Briogeo is the crème de la crème. Despite a very intense active ingredient profile, complete with salicylic and lactic acid, this shampoo softens the scalp and keeps natural oils intact with a slew of hydrating oils. The dark color comes from a detoxing agent called Binchotan charcoal, which absorbs toxins and buildup. "When I use this, my scalp feels less irritated pretty much instantly. I try not to overdo it, so once a week has been my routine," says Holender.
Hair Types: All
Scent: Tea tree
Active Ingredients: Salicylic acid
Size of Bottle: 8.4 fl oz
What I Love: Formula houses an abundance of hydrating ingredients
What I Don’t: Feels like residue stays in hair even after a thorough scrub; Tea tree fragrance irritated my eyes
Review for MC: “Upon first use of the Briogeo Scalp Revival MegaStrength+ Dandruff Relief Shampoo, my scalp immediately looked and felt less dry than before. It is the cherry on top of an everything shower and removes sneaky buildup. Definitely make sure you scrub hard to get into every section, and be careful when rinsing near your eyes.” — Malcia Greene, Contributing Marie Claire Writer
Contributing Marie Claire writer Malcia Greene uses Briogio Scalp Revival Megastrength+ Dandruff Relief Shampoo
With three percent salicylic acid, a fragrance-free profile, and claims that it calms seborrheic dermatitis after one wash, this drugstore buy is a great option for anyone battling dandruff on a budget. Word from the wise: a little goes a long way here, so only use a dime-size amount.
Hair Types: All
Scent: Fragrance-free
Active Ingredients: Salicylic acid
Size of Bottle: 4.5 fl oz
What I Love: Dependable product; Dermatologist-recommended reputation; Lathers well
What I Don’t: Formula is a tad thick
Review for MC: “Before a night out, my hair and scalp felt all kinds of dry and dull. But in just a single wash, I could turn things around. My hair felt softer and more vivacious than ever, with no weird film to stress over.” — Malcia Greene, Marie Claire Contributing Writer
Contributing Marie Claire writer Malcia Greene uses Neutrogena Tea & Sal Therapeutic Shampoo
Other Dandruff Shampoos I Love
For those desperate to calm their out-of-control, painfully flaky scalps, try Nizoral’s clinically proven formula. It's a no-brainer addition for anyone with severe scalp irritation, formulated with ketoconazole, an antifungal that targets itchiness and scaliness. Editor tip: you can use a little of this on your face to treat fungal acne, too.
Hair Types: All
Scent: Clean, fresh
Active Ingredients: Ketoconazole
Size of Bottle: 7 fl oz
What I Love: Clinically proven to control; Fights dandruff with full force on first go
What I Don’t: May be too strong for more sensitive scalps; Can be drying
Customer Review: “I had large flakes on my sideburns, behind my ears, on my earlobes, on my eyebrows and nose. It was very painful to scrub away, looked extremely dry too. No matter how much I washed and scrubbed, it would hurt and then come right back. I tried putting on tons of lotion but it was never enough. Needless to say it was embarrassing with these massive flakes of skin everywhere. I tried nizoral one time and it all went away. Just one wash. I let it sit in my hair while it was dry first, then rinsed away.” — Amazon
If your dandruff is well managed but you're looking for a maintenance shampoo, try this option from Virtue. It leaves your scalp refreshed and hydrated with every wash. Plus, oil-absorbing ingredients like white willow bark will keep your scalp's oil production balanced.
Hair Types: Oily or dry
Scent: Fragrance-free
Active Ingredients: (All are technically key ingredients because none are FDA-approved)
Size of Bottle: 8 fl oz
What I Love: Perfect for daily use; Uses in-house hair protein technology to restore scalp
What I Don’t: Expensive
Customer Review: “i don't know what magic is in this product but as a scalp psoriasis sufferer for 40 years (had it since i was a kid), this is the only product that has repaired my scalp and i don't have any flaky patches any longer. (i've tried so many including steroid prescriptions. ) it's truly amazing, absolutely cured my scalp! thank you, thank you, thank you!!” — Neiman Marcus
For those who struggle predominantly with scaling and itchiness irritation from protective styling, Mizani belongs in your routine. It combats buildup through one percent zinc pyrithione, which is ideal if you have color-treated hair.
Hair Types: Wavy, curly and coily; Fine, medium and thick
Scent: Cucumber, peppermint
Active Ingredients: Zinc pyrithione
Size of Bottle: 16.9 fl oz
What I Love: Perfect for everyday use
What I Don’t: Some report it can feel a bit drying
Customer Review: “This review is my honest, raw experience during 4 years now. For a long time I had the WORST scaling, dandruff-filled, oily, ITCHY scalp. I would pick at it constantly due to dandruff accumulation and I would even bleed. A beauty school instructor told me of this shampoo. It was INSTANT RELIEF!” — Sephora
Dandruff shampoos and color-treated hair normally don't get along. Actives like salicylic acid and ketoconazole can strip hair color and make it fade much faster. If you regularly get your hair dyed, make sure to pick a color-safe formula—like this one—with zinc pyrithione as the main ingredient.
Hair Type: All
Scent: Vanilla, rosemary, mint
Active Ingredients: Zinc pyrithione
Size of Bottle: 8.5 fl oz
What I Love: Combats scalp tightness; Color and chemical treatment safe; Scent is refreshing but not overpowering
What I Don’t: May not be able to see results after just one wash
Customer Review: “I have psoriasis that flares up on the back of my scalp. I used to use clinical strength head and shoulders, which worked but full of chemicals. I switched to Jupiter and it really works. I also wash my hair daily, and don't have any complaints about the everyday use either. I won't be switching shampoo and conditioner!” — Target
The point of dandruff shampoo is to deliver active ingredients to the problem area. Scoop up this bottle if you're struggling to get a foam close to your scalp with a traditional head massage. You can diffuse the shampoo directly onto itchy, flaky spots with a targeted nozzle. Work it in for a minute or two, rinse, and your scalp will feel instantly smoothed. Bonus: the inclusion of peppermint provides an invigorating tingle.
Hair Types: All
Scent: Apple
Active Ingredients: Piroctone olamine
Size of Bottle: 8.5 fl oz
What I Love: Clinically tested and reviewed
What I Don’t: Fragrant shampoo, which may cause irritation
Customer Review: “I’ve used the flaky scalp shampoo for a few years now. And nothing works as well. I’m a hairdresser and have also got it for several clients who say the same thing.. a lot of times people look for a shampoo that will permanently heal their flaky scalp. But that will 99% never happen. The goal is to find the best products to manage it and keep the flakes at bay. And Philips kingsley does just that. I recommend shampooing twice rather than using a large amount for one wash. But this stuff is the best!” — Neiman Marcus
Keep your scalp and hair hydrated by seeking a dandruff shampoo that prioritizes treating flakes as much as restoring moisture. Bondi Boost comes in. It has two percent salicylic acid and soothing hydrolyzed quinoa and peppermint oil.
Hair Types: All
Scent: Peppermint
Active Ingredients: Salicylic acid
Size of Bottle: 10.14 fl oz
What I Love: Specializes in detoxifying the scalp; Lightweight; Smells like a spa
What I Don’t: Peppermint scent occasionally irritates some reviewers
Customer Review: “I've been using this shampoo 2 times per week to combat my flaky/itchy scalp, and my hair has never felt better! I used to struggle with an extremely dry scalp which made my hair look flat, brittle, and dull. It also caused hair breakage which made my hair look uneven/choppy in certain areas. This anti-dandruff shampoo hydrates and detoxifies my scalp, with no irritation at all. It contains peppermint oil which is so soothing and provides instant relief for itchiness. My hair feels softer, cleaner, and more hydrated since I began using this shampoo. While it's too early to determine any hair growth, I will say that there's been less fall out when I shower!” — Ulta
Just because you're using a more medical shampoo (treating dandruff is priority number one) doesn't mean you need to sacrifice aesthetics. Enter: Biolage, a shampoo that emphasizes a healthy scalp and shiny hair. It leaves hair with a silky finish. Plus, itchiness and irritation will subside in just a few washes.
Hair Types: All
Scent: Minty
Active Ingredients: Zinc pyrithione
Size of Bottle: 13.5 fl oz
What I Love: Contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties from tea blend; Deeply cleanses; Lasts for up to 72 hours; Anti-stripping
What I Don’t: Carries sulfates; Packaging doesn’t shout, “Pick me, choose me, love me”
Customer Review: “I have tried everything for my dandruff. This is the only shampoo that has helped with the itchiness, the flakiness, the irritation, etc. I am so glad I found this and it worked. I almost gave up. It also works on my 16 year old son who had pretty bad dandruff too.” — Ulta
How Does a Dandruff Shampoo Work?
While you might think dandruff is the result of a dry scalp, but it's actually caused by a fungus feeding on your scalp's oils (sexy, I know). You may also be dealing with seborheic dermatitis, which is the result of sensitivity to hair care products, or other conditions like eczema.
That being said, it's most important to pick a shampoo with anti-fungal ingredients like ketoconazole. "Salicylic acid is also commonly used," says Dr. Finney, adding that while it "may slightly reduce yeast, it's main benefit is for those dealing with flaking and scaling."
If your over-the-counter shampoo isn't cutting it, consult your board-certified dermatologist to discuss perscription options.
How Often Should I Use a Dandruff Shampoo?
“Dandruff shampoos are typically used two to three times per week, depending on the severity,” says Dr. Liu. “For chronic cases, a dermatologist may recommend alternating medicated shampoo with a gentle hydrating one. It’s also important to let the shampoo sit on the scalp for a few minutes before rinsing to allow the active ingredients to work.”
You'll also want to make sure you're using enough conditioner. Because dandruff shampoos can be a bit drying, it's important to rehydrate the hair in an effort to prevent breakage, explains Hill.
What to Look For in a Dandruff Shampoo
First, pick a dandruff shampoo containing an antifungal agent or exfoliator for itchiness and flakes. Think ketoconazole, zinc pyrethione, glycolic acid, or salicylic acid.
Then, make sure your formula has hydrating ingredients. “When choosing a dandruff shampoo, look for ingredients that hydrate and soothe without stripping the scalp’s barrier,” says Dr. Liu. “Glycerin, hyaluronic acid, aloe vera, and oat extract are great for hydration, while avoiding sulfates, drying alcohols, and synthetic fragrance can prevent further irritation."
How Can I Protect My Hair During the Summer?
“To protect your hair during summer, focus on UV protection, hydration and limiting damage from chlorine, salt water and heat,” says Dr. Liu. “Wearing a wide-brim hat or using a UV-protective hair mist helps prevent sun damage." After swimming, rinse hair immediately and use a clarifying but gentle shampoo, followed by a deep conditioner or hair mask. Then, do your best to limit the use of hot tools and consider protective styles to reduce breakage and frizz during warmer months.
Why Trust Marie Claire
For more than 30 years, Marie Claire has been an internationally recognized destination for news, fashion and beauty trends, investigative packages and more. When it comes to the products Marie Claire recommends, we take your faith in us seriously. Every product that we feature comes personally recommended by a Marie Claire writer or editor, or by an expert we’ve spoken to firsthand. Learn more about how we review products.
How We Tested
Marie Claire contributor Malcia Greene went through an extensive testing block where she reviewed a number of shampoos for dry scalps and dandruff. After narrowing down her top contenders while consulting with dermatologists and scalp experts, she tested each shampoo on her combination scalp and medium-fine hair.
Of those shampoos, each was massaged into her scalp for up to 60 seconds, followed by a lather of conditioner from root to tip. In addition to her own results, along with notable additions to consider such as texture, fragrance, overall feel and and post-wash levels of lusciousness were the backbone of the top 13 shampoos for dry scalps and dandruff-prone individuals. Furthermore, she evaluated customer reviews from verified purchasers alongside chart-topping products from our favorite retailers.
Meet the Experts
Jenny Liu, M.D. FAAD is a Board-Certified Dermatologist and assistant professor at the University of Minnesota, where she practices general and cosmetic dermatology; resident education and sees predominately the skin of patients of color, including many complex hair loss conditions.
Robert Finney, M.D. is a Board-Certified Dermatologist, fellowship trained in Hair Restoration and Aesthetics. He completed his undergraduate and medical degrees at Pennsylvania State University. He completed a residency in dermatology at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, as well as a fellowship in hair restoration and aesthetics with Dr. Marc Avram in New York City.
Dr. Finney focuses on holistic aesthetics and long-term care, aiming for natural-looking results. As a hair expert, he innovates individualized treatments, including ScalpStim Pro, drawing from his personal experience with hair loss.
He has published on hair loss, lectures internationally, and is a clinical assistant professor at Mount Sinai-Icahn School of Medicine. In his free time, Dr. Finney enjoys reading, ice hockey, hiking and Peloton.
Bridgette Hill became a certified trichologist in 2016—but her journey to becoming “The Scalp Therapist” began over 20 years ago as an editorial stylist and a top colorist for some of the world’s most recognizable heads of hair. With a wealth of knowledge and a profound understanding of how our physical and mental wellness determine the health of our hair, she found her true calling in caring for an often neglected, yet highly visible part of our body: the scalp.
Trained and certified as a trichologist with the renowned David Kingsley, founder of the World Trichology Society, Bridgette’s unique and highly-specialized approach is rooted in a single guiding principle: heal the body on the inside, see the results on the outside. Her state of the art scalp analysis and treatments deliver visible, long-term results for individuals—while bringing a new perspective on scalp and hair care to the forefront of the industry.
Bridgette developed her colorist career in top New York City hair salons, such as Garren, Oscar Blandi and Paul Labreque, and served as the creative director for The Four Seasons in Palm Beach. Now, she is renowned as an authority on all things scalp, and passionate about educating the next generation of hair experts through her work with top beauty brands such as René Furterer and lecturing at industry events.
Most importantly, Bridgette is an advocate for beauty that is rooted in health and healing. She envisions the future of scalp care as a collaborative effort between the dermatological, medical and hair care communities to comprehensively understand and treat the scalp like never before.
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