The 10 Best Dandruff Shampoos
This wiki has been updated 23 times since it was first published in May of 2018. If you've worn hats, headscarves, and even wigs to conceal your flaky hair from the world, then you're probably ready for a solution. These anti-dandruff shampoos can treat and prevent future breakouts of this frustrating and unsightly condition. Some are ideal for combating dry skin while others are commonly prescribed for the medical issues that often cause flakes. When users buy our independently chosen editorial picks, we may earn commissions to help fund the Wiki.
1. Dermal Laboratories Capasal
2. Selsun Blue Moisturizing
3. MG217 2-in-1
Editor's Notes
October 29, 2019:
There are many different reasons why people get dandruff, and it's actually not always just because of a dry scalp. For common dandruff that isn't terrible but won't go away, try Selsun Blue Moisturizing or MG217 2-in-1, which don't have a ton of harsh chemicals and are formulated to help moisturize the scalp. Some flaking comes from an overabundance of a certain fungus that's always present around the follicles, and Nizoral A-D is the go-to for those cases; it's often recommended by dermatologists, in fact.
Those who don't have serious chronic dermatitis issues and prefer a gentler, more natural formula should check out Maple Holistics Tea Tree, Briogeo Scalp Revival, or Sachajuan Professional, as while they're not on the same level as pharmaceuticals, they can moisturize the scalp while also drawing away some of the oils that lead to dandruff-causing imbalances.
And finally, there are the coal tar shampoos. Coal tar contains many, many different chemicals and is by far the most effective and most-prescribed option by doctors. Dermal Laboratories Capasal, Neutrogena T/Gel, and DHS Tar are some of the best, with the Capasal leading the way.
There's a frustratingly wide range of causes for itchy and flaky scalps, so if you try and try and just can't get it under control, consider seeing a specialist. A dermatologist can evaluate your exact symptoms and recommend the ideal course of action; in extreme cases, severe eczema and psoriasis can be indicative of allergies or even more serious conditions within the body. But when used according to the label, all of our selections are perfectly safe. Also, if one stops working after a while, try switching and you might see a difference. In addition to changing to a new shampoo, eating healthy, reducing alcohol consumption, and especially getting enough quality sleep can do wonders for your skin and by extension your scalp's health.
4. Head and Shoulders Instant Relief
5. Neutrogena T/Gel
6. Nizoral A-D
7. DHS Tar
8. Maple Holistics Tea Tree
9. Briogeo Scalp Revival
10. SachaJuan Professional
Building PCs, remodeling, and cooking since he was young, quasi-renowned trumpeter Christopher Thomas traveled the USA performing at and organizing shows from an early age. His work experiences led him to open a catering company, eventually becoming a sous chef in several fine LA restaurants. He enjoys all sorts of barely necessary gadgets, specialty computing, cutting-edge video games, and modern social policy. He has given talks on debunking pseudoscience, the Dunning-Kruger effect, culinary technique, and traveling. After two decades of product and market research, Chris has a keen sense of what people want to know and how to explain it clearly. He delights in parsing complex subjects for anyone who will listen -- because teaching is the best way to ensure that you understand things yourself.