All products featured on Allure are independently selected by our editors.

However, we may receive compensation from retailers and/or from purchases of products through links in this article.

This shampoo also contains sulfates for a thorough cleanse and satisfying lather.

best dandruff shampoos three products on burnt sienna backround

Collage: Laneen Wells; Source images: Courtesy of brands

Use it one to three times a week, letting it sit for one to two minutes after lathering.

It lathers so well on the scalp for that extra squeaky-clean feel."

Who says dandruff shampoos have to be boring?

Nizoral A-D Dandruff Shampoo on light gray background

It’s also sulfate-free, which helps prevent further dryness.

“This can help reduce flaking and break up the scaly patches.”

Key ingredients:salicylic acid |Fragrance-free:yes |Who it’s for:People with thick or large flakes.

CLn Clarifying Shampoo white and gray bottle with orange stripe across the middle on light gray background

It helps wash away dirt and oil and is made for all hair types, too.

The results: minimal flakes and much-needed relief from scalp irritation.

It’s available in ajumbo size, ideal for those who anticipate regular use.

shampoo in branded soft mint bottle with white cap on light gray background with red and white 2024 allure best of beauty seal

Ringing in at $13, Vanicream Dandruff Shampoo fits the bill just like its popularmoisturizerandface washsiblings.

Bonus points for the warm, refreshing fragrance of cardamom, pineapple, and lavender.

Though dandruff is commonly mistaken for adry scalp,the two conditions are quite different.

Kérastase Bain Crème Antipelliculaire Antidandruff Shampoo flat gray bottle with silver cap on light gray background

Accordingly, it makes sense that dandruff tends to develop on those withoily scalpsrather than dry ones.

Why do I have dandruff?

“Increased levels ofstresscan trigger dandruff, she previouslytoldAllure.

Philip Kingsley Flaky Scalp Cleansing Shampoo white bottle with green stripe and pointed tip cap on light gray background

When our cortisol, the stress hormone, rises, it triggers inflammation and sebum production.

If the sebum builds up on the scalp, that can lead to dandruff.”

Dr. Robinson added that both overly frequent and overly infrequent washing can both lead to dandruff.

Neutrogena T/Sal Therapeutic Shampoo bottle of pale yellow dandruff shampoo with white cap on light gray background

What ingredients are in dandruff shampoos?

According to Dr. King, pyrithione zinc-infused formulations are especially gentle yet effective, making them great forsensitive scalps.

How often should I use dandruff shampoos?

Paul Mitchell Tea Tree Special Shampoo clear bottle of light green shampoo with dark green label on light gray background

Each dandruff shampoo has its own usage instructions, often relating to the concentration of active ingredients.

Testers considered performance across four primary categories: efficacy, texture and experience, fragrance, and packaging.

For more on what’s involved in our reporting, check out our completereviews process and methodology page.

Ouai Anti-Dandruff Shampoo light green bottle on light gray background

Our staff and testers

A beauty product is a personal purchase.

Find moreAllureeditor-approved picks for your hair-care routine:

Done reading?

Now, watch beauty mogul Huda Kattan nail her everyday glam routine.

DpHue Apple Cider Vinegar Soothing Shampoo beige bottle with white label and black cap on light gray background

Bumble and Bumble Sunday Shampoo bright blue bottle with black cap on light gray background

Maria Nila Head and Hair Heal Shampoo with red 2024 Allure Best of Beauty Award winner seal on light gray background

Vanicream Dandruff Shampoo white bottle with blue text and purple cap on light gray background

R+Co Submarine Water Activated Enzyme Exfoliating Shampoo tube of shampoo with black and blue porthole window design on light gray background