Most of us have dealt with dandruff at some point in our lives. But if you are dealing with stubborn dandruff accompanied with an itchy and flaky scalp, you might need to give a good medicated anti-dandruff shampoo a try.
These medicated shampoos for dandruff are formulated with special ingredients to target your problem at the root cause. Today, we’ve compiled a list of some of the best medicated anti-dandruff shampoos on the market along with a detailed buying guide that will surely assist you to get rid of dandruff and having a soothed and happy scalp.
Best Medicated Anti-Dandruff Shampoos On The Market
There are a lot of good medicated shampoos for dandruff on the market these days. We have tried to pick the best of the rest for you. Hope you benefit from this list:
Nizoral Medicated Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
If you are in a rush, then this is the one that we recommend the most!
Nizoral shampoo is formulated using 2% ketoconazole, an ingredient that you can only find at the moment in this shampoo at this concentration level. Ketoconazole was initially used as an oral medication rather than its topical use. But after different studies, it was found that ketoconazole worked well for combating dandruff and severe scalp infections as well as inflammations including seborrhoeic dermatitis.
If you have seborrhoeic dermatitis or severe dandruff combined with redness and extremely itchy scalp then hands down you should go for Nizoral shampoo. Its antifungal properties and fragrance-free formula will soothe your scalp and you will see a noticeable improvement in a month.
Pros
- Anti-dandruff shampoo with ketaconazole
- Combats severe dandruff, scalp inflammation, redness, and itchiness along with seborrhoeic dermatitis
- Eliminates even the stubborn flakes from the scalp
- Fragrance-free formula
- Provides relief from itchiness
Cons
- Lathers moderately
- In some countries, you might need a prescription to buy this shampoo
Last update on 2024-07-23 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Selsun Blue Shampoo
The Selsun Blue shampoo contains selenium sulfide as its active ingredient. It is an ingredient that helps combat fungal growth on the skin. It has been found very effective on dandruff.
This shampoo helps to combat dandruff, flaky scalp, itchy scalp, and even mild seborrhoeic dermatitis with regular use for a month. It also helps to soothe your itchy scalp so you don’t feel the urge to scratch your scalp. With regular usage, it does help get rid of dandruff effectively.
The shampoo lathers well and effectively cleans your hair and scalp while soothing your itchy and irritated scalp in one go. However, this shampoo does contain some allergens like Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Ammonium Laureth Sulfate, Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate, and Fragrance that might trigger scalp irritation or dry out the scalp more in some cases. Selsun blue also contains a controversial ingredient in its formulation called DMDM Hydantoin.
It also has a very strong medicated fragrance to it which might not be something you adore.
Pros
- Contains selenium sulfide which is a proven ingredient for dandruff
- Works well on dandruff, flaky scalp, itchy scalp, and even mild seborrhoeic dermatitis
- Lathers well
- Easily available
Cons
- Contains allergens and DMDM hydantoin
- Has a too-strong medicated fragrance
Last update on 2024-07-23 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Vanicream Free & Clear Shampoo
Formulated with 2% zinc pyrithione, this medicated anti-dandruff shampoo is dermatologically tested, and free of harsh allergens like dyes, parabens, SLS, added fragrance, lanolin, and formaldehyde-releasing agents. It is ideal for people with sensitive scalps who are dealing with stubborn dandruff and minor flakes.
Pros
- Ideal for people with sensitive scalp
- Free of allergens
- Soothes itchy scalp
- Combats redness
- Suitable for all hair types
Cons
- Does not lather that well
Last update on 2024-07-23 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Last update on 2024-07-23 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Avalon Organics Therapy Medicated Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
If you are looking for a good vegan shampoo that would work well for your dandruff then opt for this one. Formulated with organic ingredients like aloe vera, salicylic acid, tea tree oil, and chamomile this medicated anti-dandruff shampoo will soothe your itchy scalp and help get rid of dandruff effectively.
The best part about this shampoo is it is cruelty-free as well as free of SLS, GMOs, synthetic colors, and added fragrance. So it won’t irritate your disturbed scalp more.
Pros
- Formulated with organic plant-based ingredients
- Vegan and cruelty-free shampoo
- Gentle on sensitive scalp
- Treats dandruff and flakes well
- Soothes itchy scalp
Cons
- Doesn’t lather much
Last update on 2024-07-23 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Neutrogena Tgel or Tsal
I am recommending both of these because both are equally good medicated anti-dandruff shampoos.
T Sal has salicylic acid as its main active ingredient. Salicylic acid is an ingredient that helps in removing and preventing those irritating and itchy white flakes from your scalp whereas T Gel contains coal tar as the active ingredient. Coal tar helps in deep cleansing your scalp leaving it squeaky clean of those flakes, dandruff, and minor scalp infections.
If you are puzzled to pick the best among these anti-dandruff shampoos then you can read this detailed guide on Tsal vs Tgel shampoo. But the quickest tip is both going to help with dandruff, T/Gel is for those who want long-lasting relief from itching and flaking, and T/Sal is for those who want to help with build-up.
Pros
- Work equally well on stubborn dandruff
- Deeply cleans your scalp and removes flakes
- Soothes itchy scalp
Cons
- Not cruelty-free
- They quickly go out of stock
Last update on 2024-07-23 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Last update on 2024-07-23 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Head & Shoulders Clinical Strength Dandruff Shampoo
Head and Shoulders is a go-to shampoo brand especially when we talk about dandruff control. This particular one is a good medicated shampoo for dandruff with 1% selenium sulfide. It helps removes those irritating unwanted flakes, gets rid of dandruff, and soothes your scalp while the goodness of citrus deeply cleans your scalp and prevents your hair from getting greasy fast.
Pros
- Contains selenium sulfide
- Works effectively well on dandruff, itchy scalp, and flakes
- Deeply cleans the scalp and removes sebum and product buildup
- Easily available
- Lathers well
Cons
- Has a strong citrus fragrance
- Not ideal for people with dry hair
Last update on 2024-07-23 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Biolage Scalp Sync Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
This Biolage shampoo is formulated with zinc pyrithione and mint which calms your irritated scalp, soothes your itchy scalps, and reduces flakiness. It also works well for people with sensitive scalp, dandruff as well as scalp infections or concerns like dermatitis.
If you have color-treated or chemically treated hair then this is a good gentle shampoo that you can opt for.
Pros
- One of the best anti-dandruff shampoos on the market
- Promotes scalp health
- Minimizes scalp irritation, itchiness, and flakes
- Vegan shampoo free of parabens
- Suitable for color-treated and chemically processed hair
Cons
- A bit on the expensive side
Last update on 2024-07-23 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Nioxin Scalp Recovery Medicated Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
This shampoo is formulated with the goodness of zinc pyrithione and green tea extracts. Made with ZPT-NIODerma technology this medicated shampoo targets your dandruff and gets rid of those stubborn flakes and redness. The shampoo with green tea adds a good shine to your hair and soothes your itchy scalp well.
Pros
- Works well on dandruff, flakes, itchiness, and redness
- Soothes itchy scalp
- Adds shine to your hair
- Brightens dull hair
Cons
- Has a strong medicated fragrance
Last update on 2024-07-23 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Briogeo Scalp Revival MegaStrength+ Dandruff Shampoo
This medicated anti-dandruff shampoo is formulated specifically for people dealing with dandruff, psoriasis, and seborrheic dermatitis as it contains 3% salicylic acid with hydrating lactic acid that gently exfoliates your scalp, and tea tree oil relieves itchiness.
Pros
- Treats dandruff with salicylic acid and hydrating lactic acid
- Gives relief from itchiness in one wash
- Nourishing on dry manes
- Free of SLS, parabens, and other harsh chemicals
Cons
- Does not lather much
- Takes a while to show noticeable results in terms of stubborn flakes
Last update on 2024-07-23 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
OUAI Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
This medicated anti-dandruff shampoo was clinically proven to work on dandruff in which all the 25 participants claimed that it gave them relief in 28 days after using this shampoo. Formulated with salicylic acid and propanediol caprylate that treats dandruff and relieves from itchy scalp and those unwanted flakes.
Pros
- Clinically tested for dandruff
- Free of sls, parabens and gluten
- Vegan and cruelty-free shampoo
- Suitable for all hair types including color-treated and chemically-treated hair
Cons
- Has a strong fragrance which might irritate people with sensitive scalp
Last update on 2024-07-23 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Cipla Sebowash Shampoo
Although this sulfate-free shampoo for dandruff and itchy scalp isn’t easily available I had to add it to the list of best medicated anti-dandruff shampoos. Sebowash shampoo contains fluocinolone acetonide which has shown proven results to treat the dry, itchy, red, swollen, inflamed, and irritated scalp.
This shampoo is specifically meant to treat dermatitis, severe scalp infections, dandruff, itchy scalp, flaky scalp, eczema, and psoriasis. The shampoo doesn’t contain SLS but does have added fragrance which if you have sensitive skin, I won’t recommend you to go ahead and try.
You can check out the detailed review of Cipla sebowash shampoo here.
Pros
- Formulated with fluocinolone acetonide to treat scalp infections and dandruff
- Soothes itchy scalp
Cons
- Has SLS and added fragrance
- Not easily available
Candid Tv Suspension Shampoo
This medicated shampoo for dandruff is formulated with a combination of Clotrimazole and Selenium Sulfide. It works well to treat fungal infections and you will notice effective results in just a wash or two. However, it does have added fragrance which might irritate your scalp or your nose. It is just way too strong.
You can check out the detailed review of Candid TV suspension shampoo here.
Pros
- Contains selenium sulfide with clotrimazole
- Works on dandruff, inflammation, and flakes
- Delivers improved results in a wash or two
Cons
- Has a very strong medicated fragrance
- Not easily available
Dove DermaCare Scalp Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
This Dove shampoo contains zinc pyrithione which helps reduce inflammation-causing yeast that contributes to those harsh and stubborn flakes accompanied by strong itchy feeling that makes you scratch your scalp. Loaded with the goodness of coconut oil and shea butter, it won’t leave your hair dry and deprived of nourishment while treating your dandruff.
Pros
- Contains zinc pyrithione to combat dandruff and flakiness
- Soothes dry scalp
- Moisturizes dry hair
Cons
- Has added fragrance so might irritate those with sensitive scalp
- Contains SLS
Last update on 2024-07-23 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
L'Oreal Paris EverPure Scalp Care Detox Sulfate Free Shampoo
This Loreal shampoo is hard to miss though it is not a medicated anti-dandruff shampoo. Formulated with menthol and neem leaf extract, this shampoo makes sure to treat your scalp infections from its root cause and leaves behind an itchy-free and fresh scalp.
This anti-dandruff shampoo without sulfate and paraben is suitable for all hair types and is safe for color-treated hair, permed hair, and even if you recently did keratin treatment or hair smoothening treatment. The shampoo as its name suggests is free of all harmful chemicals in hair products like SLS, paraben, dye, and gluten and is vegan-friendly.
Pros
- Gentle on the scalp while treating dandruff
- Leaves scalp free of itchiness and flakes
- Free of harsh chemicals like SLS and parabens
- Safe for all hair types
Cons
- Contains added fragrance which might irritate your scalp especially if you have a sensitive scalp
Last update on 2024-07-23 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
SheaMoisture African Black Soap Bamboo Charcoal Deep Cleansing Shampoo
Formulated ideally for people with naturally curly hair, this Shea Moisture shampoo contains salicylic acid, bamboo charcoal, African black soap, tea tree oil, coconut oil, jojoba oil, aloe vera, and shea butter. It helps combat dandruff and flakes which makes sure your moisture-craving manes aren’t disappointed.
It deeply clarifies your scalp to give the effect of hair detox and is free of SLS, parabens, phthalate, propylene glycol, and mineral oils at the same time. Despite being loaded with so many nourishing oils and hydrating ingredients you will still feel the need to reach out for your hair conditioner or leave-in.
Pros
- Helps treat dandruff
- Made ideally for naturally curly hair
- Suitable for people looking for Curly Girl Method-friendly products
- Soothes dry scalp
Cons
- Doesn’t lather much
- Some consumers complained of hair getting tangled more
Last update on 2024-07-23 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Oribe Serene Scalp Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
This anti-dandruff shampoo is formulated with salicylic acid and caffeine that gently clarifies your scalp to remove the dry skin cells and extra flakes as well as combat dandruff with every wash. It also contains shea butter and vitamin E extracts which nourishes your dry manes. Free of SLS and parabens this shampoo doesn’t lather much but leaves your hair and scalp clean in one go.
Pros
- Contains salicylic acid and caffeine
- Prevents dandruff and flakiness
- Soothes scalp
- Nourishes dry manes
Cons
- Doesn’t lather much
- Not ideal for greasy hair
Last update on 2024-07-23 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Happy Cappy Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
This anti-dandruff shampoo is formulated with zinc pyrithione which will help keep your dandruff, redness, irritation, and flakiness associated with seborrheic dermatitis at bay. Free of added fragrance and dyes, this shampoo can be used as a body wash too when you are channeling your inner minimalist. Loaded with the goodness of licorice root, apple extracts, glycerin, and provitamin b5 it will soothe your scalp well.
This dandruff shampoo is also free of parabens, lanolin, SLS, gluten, and other harsh chemicals.
Pros
- Removes thickest flakes and stubborn dandruff
- Helps soothes scalp
- Treats redness and scalp infections
- Can be used as body wash too
Cons
- Not ideal for kids unless your doctor recommends it
Last update on 2024-07-23 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Sebamed Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
Sebamed anti-dandruff shampoo is formulated with piroctone olamine, an ingredient that treats fungal infections. It works well to treat your dandruff and itchy scalp. It does however contain SLS and added fragrance which might irritate people with sensitive scalp.
Pros
- A good medicated anti-dandruff shampoo for people with oily scalp combined with dandruff
- Contains piroctone olamine to treat fungal infections
- Works well on treating dandruff and keeping excessive oil production at the minimum
- Helps maintain natural scalp pH
Cons
- Has added fragrance and SLS
- Not ideal for people with dry hair
Last update on 2024-07-23 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Jupiter Physician-Formulated Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
This medicated anti-dandruff shampoo is formulated with the power of zinc pyrithione, probiotics, vitamin E, colloidal oatmeal, green tea extracts, and pataua oil which all contribute to removing even the most stubborn dandruff from your scalp. This vegan shampoo has a very soothing fragrance that lingers to make your hair smell good for a day.
Pros
- Contains high-quality ingredients that treat dandruff well
- Formulated by a physician
- Soothes itchy scalp and removes flakes
- Has a very nice fragrance
- Suitable for all hair types including chemically treated hair
Cons
- Not ideal for color-treated hair or people with dry brillo pad hair
- You will feel the need to reach out to your conditioner after this shampoo
Last update on 2024-07-23 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Kick Medicated Anti-Dandruff Shampoo for Men
If you are interested in opting for a medicated anti-dandruff shampoo formulated specifically for men then, by all means, pick this one. Formulated with the goodness of tea tree oil, peppermint oil, rosemary oil, eucalyptus, and aloe vera this shampoo will treat your dandruff at its root, control hair fall, and help regrow your hair while keeping your hair nourished.
It is free of harmful chemicals in shampoo like sls and parabens too. If you are wondering if can women use just for men’s shampoo then yes, you absolutely can.
Pros
- A good shampoo for men
- Combats dandruff, soothes itchy scalp, and helps regrow hair
- Free of SLS, parabens, silicones
- Safe on color-treated hair
Cons
- Has a strong minty fragrance
Last update on 2024-07-23 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
What Causes Dandruff?
Dandruff is an extra dry and itchy scalp condition where skin cells combine to form stubborn flakes. Usually, it gets triggered by fungal infections, overproduction of sebum, excessive dryness or product build-up, or your sensitive skin reacting due to any added ingredient in your favorite hair products.
It can get triggered due to changes in weather like winters, monsoons, or summer.
How To Pick The Best Medicated Anti-Dandruff Shampoo?
There are a lot of good medicated anti-dandruff shampoos on the market that you can pick from. Here are some guidelines that might help you find your best-medicated shampoo for dandruff:
Look Closely At The Ingredients List
Opt for products with ingredients that work well for dandruff. Ingredients like:
- Ketoconazole: It is an anti-fungal ingredient that helps combat yeast infection on your scalp that results in dandruff or dermatitis. A study conducted in 2018, concluded that when ketoconazole shampoo was used on people suffering from dandruff for a month, it has positive results. While in another study conducted long back in 1995, it was found that using ketoconazole shampoo once a week provided relief to people suffering from dandruff or seborrhoeic dermatitis and it also prevented the symptoms from recurrence.
- Selenium Sulfide: It is an ingredient that helps combat fungal growth on the skin. It has been found effective on dandruff. You can read more about its effect on dandruff in this scientific study.
- Zinc pyrithione: It is an antibacterial agent that helps combat mild dandruff, mild symptoms of seborrhoeic dermatitis, scalp flakes, itchiness, redness, and dry scalp symptoms.
- Coal Tar: This ingredient has strong antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that can help with scaling and hardening on the scalp and clear away excess dead skin cells. Do check out the study conducted to determine the effects of using coal tar to treat Psoriasis.
- Salicylic Acid: It helps break down layers of thick skin by clarifying your scalp. It is used to treat dandruff, psoriasis, dermatitis, and seborrheic’ states Cleveland Clinic.
- Piroctone Olamine: It is an anti-fungal ingredient that works effectively well on minimizing itchiness and getting rid of dandruff. You can check out this study for more details.
- Essential Oils: Essential oils like tea tree oil, eucalyptus oil, peppermint oil, and rosemary oil work very well in treating dandruff and soothing your itchy scalp.
- Hair Oils: Jojoba oil, coconut oil, neem oil, and olive oil work well to nourish your scalp and treat your dandruff.
Stay Away From These Ingredients
It is good to look for the ingredients you need in your medicated anti-dandruff shampoo but it is also equally necessary to know which ones you need to take a rain check from.
- Added Fragrance: The added fragrance of parfum irritates your scalp’s natural pH especially if you are someone with a sensitive scalp.
- SLS and SLES: This ingredient might lead to excessive dryness on your scalp.
- Silicones and mineral oils: These might lead to product build-up on your scalp contributing to your dandruff and scalp issues more.
Over To You
To Summarize:
- Look for a good medicated shampoo with ingredients that help treat dandruff like coal tar, salicylic acid, zinc pyrithione, ketoconazole, selenium sulfide, and others.
- Stay away from harsh ingredients like added fragrance, SLS, SLES, parabens, mineral oils, silicones, and others.
- And always consult your doctor before opting for any medicated shampoo for dandruff.
- Always patch-test any new hair product before using. After all, prevention is better than cure!
Hope you found this detailed guide on finding your ideal medicated anti-dandruff shampoo useful. I tried to include as many points as I figured were valid. In case you feel I missed out on any important ones, feel free to reach out via comments.
Also, to get rid of dandruff, apart from using a good medicated shampoo for dandruff you can also try:
- The lemon hair rinse or ACV hair rinse
- Do regular hot oil treatment using camphor tablets or tea tree oil mixed with neem oil
- Do hair detox once every two months and incorporate home remedies for dandruff in your hair care routine.
- And use a wooden comb, so that the natural oils from your scalp travel to your entire hair length.
- And read my dandruff control story on how I got rid of dandruff in a month.
Have a lovely day!