10 Best Dandruff Conditioners Of 2024, As Per A Hairdresser
The soothing effects of these gentle anti-dandruff conditioners will change your locks!
Alexandro Vasquez has been a hairdresser since 1997 and has worked in various countries, including Brazil, Spain, Ireland, Indonesia, Singapore, and UAE. His experience spans salon brands such as Toni&Guy, Aveda, and Leekaja. He specializes in traveling and training hair salon staff around the world.
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Experience: 5 yearsMedha Deb is a commerce editor with a master's degree in applied linguistics from the University of Hyderabad, which has allowed her to develop a deep understanding of language and its application in various contexts. She specializes in the areas of beauty, health, and wellness and is committed to ensuring that the content on the website is of the highest quality.
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Experience: 4 yearsShiboli has a master’s degree in English literature from The English and Foreign Languages University, Hyderabad, and is a certified skincare coach with four years of experience. As a commerce editor, she guides her team members on the best practices to create crisp and authentic content.
Read full bio of Shiboli Chakraborti
Experience: 8 yearsArshiya Syeda is the Co-Editor-in-Chief of StyleCraze with 8 years of experience. Prior to that, she was a content writer who combined her writing and research skills to write over 200 high-performing articles on hairstyles, hair care, and skin care.
Read full bio of Arshiya Syeda
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If you suffer from severe dandruff, itchiness, and flaky scalp, simply using an anti-dandruff shampoo might not be enough to control the condition. You need to pair it with the best anti-dandruff conditioner to uproot the visible whitish flakes on the scalp. Dandruff might be as stubborn as pimples, and it can be challenging to get rid of it completely. So, to manage those stubborn visible flakes, the best thing to do is to soothe the common symptoms that cause dandruff.
For those who are not aware, dandruff causes excessive shedding of dead skin cells in the form of whitish flakes, mostly found on the roots of your hair and sometimes on your shoulders if you are someone with short hair. Besides causing itchy and irritated scalp, dandruff might also cause discomfort in your scalp. So, to manage uncontrollable dandruff issues, you need to have a healthy hair care routine. Coupling your trusted anti-dandruff shampoo with an anti-dandruff conditioner might do the trick for you. An anti-dandruff conditioner will nourish your hair, and at the same time, protect your scalp from damage and inflammation. Check out our best picks of anti-dandruff conditioners on the market. Keep scrolling!
In This Article
Top 10 Conditioners To Battle Dandruff In 2024
1. Best pH Balance Formula: Dove Dermacare Scalp Anti-Dandruff Conditioner
This Dove conditioner is moisturizing and incredibly soothing. With active ingredients like pyrithione zinc, this conditioner effectively tackles dandruff with a formula that nourishes and soothes the scalp and gets rid of the dry scalp symptoms that contribute towards the buildup of dandruff. The pH-balanced, gentle formula of this conditioner blends in with the natural oils of your scalp, allowing gentle conditioning. This Dove product tops our list as the best conditioner for dandruff due to its flake-free formula and has countless positive online reviews as well. It not only gets rid of dead skin cells that linger in your hair but also alleviates itchiness and scalp irritation. It leaves behind a fresh scent, keeping your hair and nose happy! As a part of the new Dove DermaCare Scalp Series, this product is your best bet in banishing dandruff and having smooth and manageable hair, all in one go!
Pros
- Affordable
- Soothing fragrance
- Moisturizing
- Helps reduce itchiness
- Ideal for normal to dry hair
Cons
- Not ideal for very oily hair
Did You Know?
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
This product is so liked by shoppers that it has gained over 1,680 great reviews on Amazon.
2. Best For Colored Hair: Head & Shoulders Deep Moisture Dandruff Conditioner
This paraben-free product is the best bet for our colored-hair readers who suffer from dandruff. It provides deep moisture to your hair and protects your scalp against dandruff. With up to 100% flake-free results, Head & Shoulders claims that you will see results almost instantly after regular and prescribed use. Infused with avocado oil, this best anti-dandruff conditioner is healthier than your breakfast. The dermatologist-recommended product helps support moisture retention in the scalp and promotes lustrous tresses.
Pros
- Deep moisturizing
- Up to 100% flake-free results
- Ideal for colored hair
- Dermatologist-recommended
Cons
- Some may find the fragrance too strong.
3. Best For Permed Hair: Avlon Keracare Dry & Itchy Scalp Anti-Dandruff Moisturizing Conditioner
Avlon’s new technologically-advanced anti-dandruff conditioner for a dry and itchy scalp is a godsent miracle for all chronic dandruff sufferers. It actively relieves scalp irritation, so you no longer need to constantly fight the urge of keeping your hands off your head and live an itch-free life! This hair product rehydrates and rebuilds hair fibers to reduce breakage. It is gentle enough to be used frequently on relaxed, permed, color-treated, and even natural hair! The natural and nourishing ingredients such as flaxseed extract, coconut, and aloe leaf juice in this antioxidant conditioner improve dandruff flake management. So, go ahead and test it out today!
Pros
- Ideal for an itchy and irritable scalp
- Suitable for relaxed, permed, and color-treated hair
- Infused with flaxseed extract, coconut, and aloe leaf juice
- Moisturizing properties
Cons
- Slightly expensive
Dove Dermacare Scalp Anti-Dandruff Conditioner Best pH Balance Formula | Head & Shoulders Deep Moisture Dandruff Conditioner Best For Colored Hair | Avlon Keracare Dry & Itchy Scalp Anti-Dandruff Moisturizing Conditioner Best For Permed Hair | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hair Type | Dry | Dry | Dry |
| Dimensions | 1.92 x 3.02 x 8.47 inches | 2.17 x 3.41 x 9 inches | 3.15 x 3.15 x 11.02 inches |
| Weight | 13.76 Ounces | 12.63 Ounces. | 2.1 Pounds |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 1,680 | 983 | 409 |
| Price | $9.94 | $5.84 | $22.5 |
4. Best Non-Greasy Fomula: MIZANI Scalp Care Conditioner
A big shout out to our curly-haired readers who find it hard to find anti-dandruff treatment products that suit their curls while tackling specific problems. Well, look no further! We have the perfect hair product for you. This Mizani Scalp Care Conditioner is the best product out there to give your curls some much-needed moisturization. This creamy scalp care conditioner nourishes and calms the scalp using peppermint oil and cucumber extracts. According to numerous reviewers, this repair and protection anti-dandruff conditioner relieves scalp issues and discomfort and keeps your hair and scalp healthy and beautiful. The best way to get optimum results is to apply the conditioner to your hair, cover it with a plastic cap, let it sit for a couple of minutes, and let it work its magic.
Pros
- Non-greasy
- Softens hair
- Suitable for curly hair
- Best for deep conditioning
Cons
- Slightly expensive
Caution5. Best For Deep Cleanse: L’ange Slické Blowout Hair Conditioner
Flaunt your clean shoulders with the anti-dandruff formula of the L’ange Slické Blowout Hair Conditioner. The natural formula is a blend of avocado oil, sage leaf extract, witch hazel extract, fatty acids, and grapefruit extract to nourish and moisturize your scalp. The lightweight conditioner contains sulfate-free and paraben-free content that makes your hair shiny and manageable without any flakes for a prolonged period. It is highly-recommended for fine hair to boost volume, shine and body. The soothing product helps in detoxifying and exfoliating the scalp for free-flowing, smooth tresses. It deep conditions and gently cleanses your hair and scalp and also effectively removes dirt, dandruff, and harmful bacteria, keeping your mane happy and healthy.
Pros
- Anti-dandruff formula
- Natural formula
- Lightweight
- Adds volume and shine
- Paraben-free
- Sulfate-free
Cons
- None
6. Best For All Hair Types: Nioxin Scalp Recovery Anti-Dandruff Moisturizing Conditioner
Here’s a conditioner that helps you tackle all dandruff causing agents like a pro. Yes, you read that right! The unique formula helps in de-stressing your scalp and improving the overall health of your hair. It is suitable for all hair types and all levels of hair thinning. It battles dandruff-causing bacteria and soothes an itchy flaky scalp from the very first use. Infused with pyrithione zinc and green tea extracts, this medical-grade conditioner won’t disappoint you. With FDA-approved active ingredients, this conditioner cleanses your scalp and restores its natural balance. Don’t need to look anywhere else, as this product would be the perfect treatment for dandruff and your thinning hair!
Pros
- Ideal for a dry scalp
- Visible results from first use
- Medically-graded
- FDA-approved active ingredients
Cons
- It contains parabens.
7. Best Organic Formula: Avalon Organics Therapy Medicated Anti-Dandruff Conditioner
The Avalon Organics Medicated Anti-Dandruff Conditioner deeply nourishes your hair while reducing scalp dryness and scaly patches. This plant-based product moisturizes the hair from the follicle to the entire shaft to treat itching and flakiness brought on by scalp issues, like contact dermatitis, seborrheic dermatitis, and psoriasis. It is made with organic botanicals and essential oils. Aloe vera, rosemary extracts, tea tree, lavender, rosemary, chamomile, and 2% salicylic acid are carefully combined to cure and prevent dandruff, leaving your beautiful hair feeling smooth and looking healthy. The tea tree oil also exhibits antifungal properties that help in maintaining a clean and nourished scalp. The certified organic and mild ingredients in this soothing conditioner does not include parabens, harsh preservatives, synthetic colors or perfumes, phthalates, or sulfates. The conditioner is manufactured with non-GMO and vegan ingredients.
Pros
- Organic formula
- Nourishing ingredients
- Eliminates scalp dryness
- Cruelty-free
- Preservatives-free
Cons
- Does not work for all hair types
Quick TipApply this conditioner only to your hair roots instead of the strands to lift your hair and achieve a thickening effect.
8. Best Nourishing Formula: DERMA-E Scalp Relief Conditioner
The DERMA-E Scalp Relief Conditioner soothes, calms, and nourishes an itchy scalp while replenishing and moisturizing it. The scalp care conditioner with medicinal psorzema herbal combination soothes a scaly, flaky, and dry scalp while encouraging glossy, manageable, and healthy-looking hair. It contains tea tree and menthol, which are well-known herbal ingredients for calming any inflammation or irritation. The salicylic acid in the formula removes surface buildup and excessive flakes and reveals a clearer scalp. Aloe vera and provitamin B5 profoundly nourish your hair and scalp for healthier hair growth. The conditioner can be your ultimate choice for achieving softened, moisturized, and beautiful hair, so test it out now and thank us later!
Pros
- Paraben-free
- Dermatologically tested
- Vegan and cruelty-free
- Sulfate-free
- Color-safe
- Fragnance-free
- Gluten-free
- Mineral oil-free
- Natural ingredients
- No harmful preservatives
- Safe for all hair types
- Improves hair texture and growth
Cons
- Very thick consistency
9. Best Cruelty-Free Formula: Luseta Tea Tree And Argan Oil Conditioner
This hydrating conditioner is ideal for treating dry and damaged hair. It helps reduce dandruff and contains nourishing amino acids that help in smoothing and repairing thinning, frizzy, or brittle hair. This Luseta product contains tea tree oil known for its antiseptic properties, and it directly heals dryness from the scalp and reduces itchiness. The argan oil-infused into this scalp-treatment conditioner contains high quantities of vitamins A, C, and E and antioxidants that helps repair damaged hair. The formula is also infused with lavender oil that alleviates itchiness and prevents lice infestations. To make things even better, it is a chemical-free product that is organically formulated to maintain the natural pH balance of your scalp. Not to mention, the argan oil and tea tree oil-infused formula of this flaky scalp savior helps detangle hair and promotes free-flowing tresses. The product is also not tested on animals, thus can be a great cruelty-free option to try.
Pros
- Cruelty-free
- Chemical-free
- Ideal for all hair types
- Tames frizzy hair
- Contains antiseptic properties
- Suitable for chemically-treated hair
Cons
- Slightly expensive
10. Best For Quick Results: Alevai Stem Cell Anti Dandruff Conditioner
The Alevai Stem Cell Anti-Dandruff Conditioner uses clean ingredients that are gluten- and cruelty-free, while also being vegan-certified. Primarily created using stem cells, the nourishing ingredients of this conditioner have been extracted from the argania plant, which offers extra stimulation and nourishment for your hair follicles – from the roots to the tips. The dandruff treatment formula also contains 2% pyrithione zinc and offers noticeable results within 24 hours of application. Remember to apply a gentle shampoo first, followed by the Alevai Stem Cell Anti Dandruff Conditioner to your wet hair. Massage for at least 2 to 3 minutes, and then rinse properly. Expect your scalp to see the difference in just 1 to 2 weeks.
Pros
- Nourishing formula
- Quick results
- Easy to use
- Vegan
- Cruelty-free
- Sulfate-free
- Paraben-free
Cons
- None
Now that you have a list of products to choose from, here’s a list of things you should keep in mind before buying your next antifungal or anti-dandruff conditioner:
How To Buy The Best Dandruff Conditioner For Yourself
1. Hair type
Before you jump into another bottle of anti-dandruff conditioner, make sure you choose a product that is suitable for your hair type. This is especially important for our curly hair readers who need a little bit of a personal touch when it comes to hair care.
2. Scalp condition
Scalp condition involves things like an excessively dry scalp, an oily scalp, a sensitive scalp, or a scalp that is prone to buildup. All of these conditions are unique to everyone and contribute differently to dandruff.
3. Hair treatment
If your hair has undergone any kind of chemical treatment, it is important to look out for products that supplement and support the current condition of your hair. Colored hair is prone to shed color and becomes brittle if it is not taken care of properly.
Alexandro Vasquez, hairdressing & hair color expert, says, “Keep In Mind that conditioners need to be used with shampoos for the same problem for better results, also pay attention in rinse the conditioner very well because the scalp over moisturized can create more dandruff too. Never tie your hair wet or humid, avoid too much of any styling products is a good way to help the scalp to improve.”
Infographic: Anti-Dandruff Conditioners: Key Ingredients & Application Tips
If your tresses need immediate attention due to dandruff, choose anti-dandruff conditioners to keep them free of irritation and itchiness. Before choosing any, you must be aware of the ingredients that you must look out for. Some of these ingredients, namely zinc pyrithione and salicylic acid, are known to combat bad bacteria and cure dandruff. Check out the infographic below to know more about such ingredients and learn some usage techniques that may come in handy while applying these conditioners. Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
The Bottom Line
Dandruff can be annoying. We know this all too well. It makes our scalp itchy and painful, and sometimes even prevents us from wearing our favorite black T-shirt or that cute little dress. Dandruff can also be an embarrassing problem for many. But, not anymore. If you are looking for a conditioner that is soothing and reduces itchiness, you can check out the Dove Dermacare Scalp Anti-Dandruff Conditioner that nourishes and protects the scalp. Those with color-treated hair can try the Head & Shoulders Deep Moisture Dandruff Conditioner that does not fade away hair color easily or further damage processed or colored hair. Additionally, the Nioxin Scalp Recovery Anti-Dandruff Moisturizing Conditioner is ideal for dry scalp and soothes itchiness. Now that you have a long list of dandruff treatment products and a buying guide, go ahead and get that bottle of conditioner that provides instant relief and gets rid of all your dandruff problems.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a conditioner good for dandruff?
Yes, absolutely! Dandruff is usually caused due to dry scalps and the best solution to dry scalps (apart from deep oiling – of course) is conditioning. A moisturized scalp is soothing and relieves itchiness.
What is the best way to treat severe dandruff?
In addition to using a good anti-dandruff conditioner, it is always good to use a shampoo that helps your conditioner treat dandruff.
What is the best thing to use for dandruff?
The best way to get rid of dandruff is by having a full-blown hair care regime best suited to your hair type and using expert-recommended products with proven efficacy.
Is dandruff a fungus?
Yes, it is true! A fungus causes dandruff, and we have no idea why and how. But we do know that symptoms such as dryness, itchy scalp, and buildup lead to dandruff.
Does coconut oil increase dandruff?
No, not at all! Coconut oil is the best thing that’s happened to hair. It is moisturizing and healthy for your hair. We recommend a thorough wash within an hour or so of applying the oil. It will ensure your hair is conditioned and does not have any buildup.
Does hot water cause dandruff?
Hot water can cause moisture loss, which will inevitably cause dryness and lead to dandruff. However, it cannot be the sole cause of your dandruff. It is highly recommended by most hair care brands and doctors to wash your hair with cold water. We’d say keep it lukewarm. This applies especially to all our readers who tend to use hot-tools in high heat settings.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
The author of this article, Medha Deb, is a hair care enthusiast. After conducting hours of in-depth research and sifting hundreds of user reviews online, she compiled this list of the best anti-dandruff conditioners. She considered factors like hair type, ingredients, and efficacy before shortlisting the top options for her readers. The products can help reduce visible flaking and nourish the hair.
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