10 Best Antifungal Shampoos Of 2024, Recommended By A Hair Expert
Try these antifungal shampoos to deal with scalp infections and nourish your hair.
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: 2 yearsOyendrila holds a master's degree in English Literature from the University Of Calcutta, West Bengal, and is a certified skin care coach. As a beauty and lifestyle writer with two years of experience, she writes about everything that the modern woman needs to know about grooming and self-care.
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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.
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Experience: 7 yearsAnjali is an associate editor at StyleCraze. She specializes in hairstyles and hair and skin care and has written over 200 articles in these domains. She has 7 years of experience, and her philosophy about hair and skin care is simple: if you love and care for it, it will be healthy.
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Fungal infections on the scalp like seborrheic dermatitis and tinea versicolor are characterized by things like dandruff, flaking, and itching. To combat these infections and their symptoms, you need to invest in the best antifungal shampoo. It will not only ensure that these pesky problems are at bay but will also protect and nourish your hair and scalp. Unlike regular shampoos, these are crafted using a medicated formula that will surely give you the desired results. To help you pick the perfect one, we’ve listed the 10 best ones in the market after going through various reviews online. So, scroll on and find your perfect hair match.
Let’s take a look!
In This Article
10 Best Antifungal Shampoos Of 2024, According To Reviews
1. Best Overall Antifungal Shampoo: Nizoral A-D Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
The Nizoral A-D Anti-Dandruff Shampoo is formulated with an active ingredient called ketoconazole that works best to get rid of dandruff. This shampoo is an excellent choice as it is recommended by most doctors as a permanent dandruff solution. It is also effective on the fungal acne-like pimples or whiteheads on your skin. It also gets rid of dead skin cells and dry scalp issues. Dermatologists also swear by this clinically-proven formula as it helps in getting rid of unwanted bumps. Additionally, Nizoral is considered to be the best shampoo for treating ringworm. If you want to know more about the results of the Nizoral A-D Anti-Dandruff Shampoo, check out this tester’s experience in the YouTube review.
Also Recommended By: Pinkvilla has also listed Nizoral Anti-Dandruff Shampoo in their top 10.[1]10 Best Antifungal Shampoos for a Healthy Scalp! – Pinkvilla https://www.pinkvilla.com/select/best-antifungal-shampoo-1216723
Pros - Effective dandruff treatment
- Treats fungal acne
- Reduces itching
- Quick results
Cons
- May cause an allergic reaction
- May cause dryness
Did You Know?
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
With over 9,552 Amazon acclaimed reviews, this product is sure to find a place in everyone’s shopping bag.
2. Best For Flaky Scalp: Healthy Hair Plus Anti-Fungal Shampoo
The Healthy Hair Plus Anti-Fungal Shampoo is the right fit for you if you have fungal acne and flaky scalp problems. The formula of this shampoo consists of emu oil, which has anti-inflammatory properties and helps alleviate swollen or painful areas on the scalp. It eliminates bacteria and fungus at the same time. It also contains coconut oil that is rich in caprylic, capric, and lauric acids. These fatty acids have potent antifungal, antiviral, and antibacterial effects. These also help reduce dry skin issues on the scalp. The grapeseed oil in this shampoo boosts hair growth. To learn more about the benefits of this shampoo, have a look at this YouTube video.
Pros
- Treats flaky scalp and acne
- Moisturizes the hair
- Antibacterial properties
- Stimulates hair growth
Cons
- Not suitable for sensitive skin
3. Best Clarifying Formula: Maple Holistics Tea Tree Oil Special Formula Shampoo
The Maple Holistics Tea Tree Oil Special Formula Shampoo contains tea tree oil that hydrates your scalp and hair. Its antifungal and antibacterial formula treats dryness, itching, and flaking on the scalp. It also contains rosemary and lavender that naturally eradicate lice and helps smell amazing throughout the day. It promotes fast hair growth and prevents hair loss and hair thinning. It also eliminates scaly patches, treats dry scalp, and reduces dry skin issues. This hypoallergenic shampoo is free from harsh ingredients like sulfates and parabens. It is one of the best organic antifungal shampoos out there. For a detailed review of the Neutrogena T/Gel Therapeutic Shampoo, have a look at this video.
Pros
- Washes away dandruff flakes
- Hydrates your scalp and hair
- Boosts hair volume
- Promotes hair growth
- Suitable for chemically-treated hair
- Sulfate-free
- Paraben-free
- Hypoallergenic
- Not tested on animals
Cons
- Leaves your hair tangled
- May cause skin irritation
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
There are more than 9,064 Amazon reviews attesting to the quality of the product and endorsing its value.
| Nizoral A-D Anti-Dandruff Shampoo Best Overall Antifungal Shampoo | Healthy Hair Plus Anti-Fungal Shampoo Best For Flaky Scalp | Maple Holistics Tea Tree Oil Special Formula Shampoo Best Clarifying Formula | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hair Type | All | All | Oily, Color Treated, Dry, Normal, Dandruff |
| Dimensions | 1.54 x 2.99 x 7.17 inches | 1.54 x 2.99 x 7.17 inches | 1.85 x 1.85 x 6.75 inches |
| Weight | 6.98 Ounces | 6.98 Ounces | 8 Ounces |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 9,552 | 939 | 9,064 |
| Price | $13.99 | $16.0 | $13.95 |
4. Best For Inflammed Scalp: ProBliva Fungus Shampoo for Hair & Scalp
If you’re longing for healthy hair and scalp for days now, the ProBliva Fungus Shampoo for Hair & Scalp is the best cure. This antifungal shampoo deals with several problems like itching, flaking, and irritation on the scalp. It reduces inflammation and soothes your damaged scalp. It is made up of rich nourishing ingredients such as coconut oil, jojoba oil, and grapeseed extract that can heal any damage caused by fungus. The emu oil in it is a tough emulsifier that boosts the health of your scalp and hair. It is one of the best, natural antifungal shampoos that help treat inflamed scalp.
Pros
- Reduces scalp issues caused by fungus, bacteria, and ringworm
- Decrease oil secretion from sebaceous glands
- Reduces itchiness, flaking, and inflammation
- Moisturizes your hair from root to tip
Cons
- May cause mild irritation
- Excessive use might lead to hair loss
"This shampoo feels gentle on my sensitive scalp. It soothes my scalp and reduces itchiness. I like that it suds up easily and foams up nicely. I have noticed less dandruff after the consistent use of this shampoo. It also washes off my hair easily without leaving residues."
Pro Tip5. Best For Psoriasis: Neutrogena T/Gel Therapeutic Shampoo
The Neutrogena T/Gel Shampoo is one of the top-rated products that works wonders for severe scalp issues like seborrheic dermatitis, scalp psoriasis, and dandruff. It contains menthol that has a long-lasting soothing effect on the scalp and it leaves a fresh scent lingering in your hair. This dermatologist-recommended antifungal shampoo contains Neutar (coal tar extract) that slows down the overproduction of skin cells on the scalp and reduces inflammation. For a detailed review of the Neutrogena T/Gel Therapeutic Shampoo, have a look at this video.
Pros
- Effectively treats seborrheic dermatitis, scalp psoriasis, and dandruff
- Reduces inflammation and flaking
- Recommended by dermatologists
- Safe for color-treated hair
Cons
- May cause hair staining
Pro Tip6. Best Sulfate-Free Formula: pHat 5.5 Manuka Honey Seborrheic Dermatitis Shampoo
The pHat 5.5 Manuka Honey Seborrheic Dermatitis Shampoo contains medical-grade manuka honey with potent antimicrobial and antiviral properties to effectively treat eczema, psoriasis, and seborrheic dermatitis. This medicated shampoo is also infused with aloe vera, orange peel oil, tapioca, coconut extract, and australian cehami that smell amazing, invigorate your scalp, eliminate stubborn dandruff, treat itchy scalp, prevent hair breakage, while leaving your hair strong, shiny, soft, and smooth. This sulfate-free shampoo is suitable for oily, dry, and normal hair types and has a pleasant scent.
Pros
- pH-balanced formula
- Organic
- Quick results
- Effective on rosacea
- Sulfate-free
- Paraben-free
- Gluten-free
Cons
None
Fun Fact7. Best Dermatologist Recommended: DHS Zinc Shampoo
The DHS Zinc Shampoo is one of the easiest ways to clear all sorts of fungi and bacteria from your scalp. It contains 2% zinc pyrithione, which is highly effective in treating dandruff. Dermatologists highly recommend this shampoo for treating all types of scalp issues. It forms a protective barrier on the scalp and reduces the chances of dry scalp issues. DHS Zinc Shampoo improves the growth cycle of your hair, calms irritated skin, provides relief from itching and flaking, and reduces hair thinning.
Pros
- Relieves irritation and flaking
- Treats dandruff
- Soothes the scalp
- Conditions the hair
- Suitable for all skin and hair types
Cons
- May cause blistering issues in rare cases
8. Best Vegan Formula: Zatural Naked Neem Therapeutic Hair & Scalp Shampoo
The Zatural Naked Neem Therapeutic Hair & Scalp Shampoo contains several fatty acids that nourish your scalp. It contains neem oil that prevents free radical damage on the scalp and stimulates hair follicle growth. It revitalizes undernourished hair and hydrates it. It also reduces flaking and itchiness on your scalp and provides instant relief. Anti-inflammatory antifungal shampoo is effective against several fungi like candida, which is one of the leading causes of dandruff. It promotes thicker hair growth and reduces redness and irritation on the scalp.
Pros
- Anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties
- Suitable for dry and oily scalps
- Smoothens the hair
- Stimulates hair follicle growth
- Regulates the secretion of sebum on the scalp
Cons
- Not suitable for children
"This shampoo lathers up well and spreads evenly on my scalp. It soothes my inflamed scalp and eliminates impurities from my hair. My hair feels soft and looks clean after using this product for a few weeks. The formula never strips the natural oils of my scalp."
9. Best Gentle Formula: Ovante Folliculitis Solution Shampoo
The Ovante Folliculitis Solution Shampoo is a gentle, antibacterial, and antifungal shampoo formulated with natural oils and herbs. It deeply cleanses your scalp, cleanses clogged follicles, removes dirt, sebum, and eliminates yeast, bacteria, and fungi to prevent folliculitis. It treats bacterial and yeast infections, leaving your scalp itch and irritation-free. It also provides quick relief from dry skin issues on the scalp.
Pros
- Natural ingredients
- Treats bacterial infections
- Effective results
Cons
- Pungent odor
10. Best Antibacterial: Rida Hair Research Institute Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
The Rida Hair Research Institute Anti Dandruff Shampoo combats dandruff and flakiness and treats psoriasis. This antibacterial, antifungal shampoo eliminates the dandruff-causing fungus, malassezia furfur, to a great extent. It contains effective antibacterial and antifungal agents like zinc, tree tea oil, and peppermint oil, which also treat dandruff, add shine to your tresses, and make hair manageable. It is enriched with dermatologist-recommended ingredients such as salicylic acid and essential oil, which help to remove dead cells, stimulate the roots, increase shine, improve hair growth, and increase circulation in the scalp.
Pros
- Sulfate-free
- Paraben-free
- Dye-free
- Dermatologically tested
- Natural ingredients
- Effective results
Cons
None
"I like how nicely this formula lathers up on my hair, and the foam spreads easily. It deep cleans my hair follicles and restores their natural shine. My scalp does not itch as much anymore. It fights bacterial buildup and leaves my hair looking cleaner."
If you are concerned about an itchy, flaky scalp due to seborrheic dermatitis, dandruff, or other skin condition that might be caused by a fungal infection, it is important to find the right antifungal shampoo. This guide is all about what you need to know when shopping for these products.
Things To Remember While Choosing An Effective Anti-Fungal Shampoo
- Ingredients: The most important part of antifungal shampoo selection is the quality of the active ingredients. To avoid unnecessary yeast and bacterial infections, it is important to stick with products that contain only natural and organic ingredients. If you want a product to strengthen your hair, go for one that is rich in protein. However, it is also very important to make sure that you’re placing your trust in a product with high-quality active ingredients thoroughly researched by the manufacturers.
- Long-lasting Results: Antifungal shampoos are generally applied to the skin for about 5 minutes once or twice per week. This unfortunately means that you’ll be spending a lot of time sitting around in the shower waiting for things to happen. If you are looking for a more convenient option, it is helpful to choose an antifungal shampoo that is effective for at least a week.
- Price: Antifungal shampoos can be very expensive, especially if you’re dealing with a fungal infection that just would not go away. However, some brands are more affordable than the others and it is helpful to keep in mind that natural antifungal ingredients tend to be more expensive than artificial alternatives.
- Sensitivity: If you have very sensitive skin, it is important to choose an antifungal shampoo that contains the fewest ingredients possible and is guaranteed to be allergy-free. You can also conduct a patch test to avoid any potential allergic reactions on your delicate scalp. If your skin is a bit more resilient, you can opt for a product with a little more oomph in terms of antifungal properties.
- Skin Conditions: The antifungal ingredients found in most antifungal shampoos are generally very effective against seborrheic dermatitis and scalp fungal infections because they work by preventing fungi from producing the keratin protein it needs to survive. So choose the shampoo according to your skin condition.
- Harsh chemicals: Toxins, chemicals, and ingredients like silicones flatten out your hair cuticle. It can further cause build-up and can damage your hair. So make sure to stay away from harsh ingredients like parabens, sulfates, and phthalates.
Infographic: What To Look For In Your Antifungal Shampoo
Fungi and other microbes residing on your scalp can be the reason you are not able to achieve that “healthy hair” goal. It is not only a beauty concern but also a health issue, and it requires your immediate attention. Choosing the right antifungal shampoo is a major step towards healthier hair. The infographic below will help you find out what ingredients to look for in your antifungal shampoo. Take a look! Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
The Bottom Line
Fungal infections on your scalp like tinea versicolor or seborrheic dermatitis that causes flaking, dandruff, and itching need to be treated with the best antifungal shampoos. Besides keeping these pesky hair problems at bay, you can also nourish your scalp and tresses. They have a medicated formula that will help you achieve desired results. The Nizoral A-D Anti-Dandruff Shampoo is an effective dandruff treatment aid, the pHat 5.5 Manuka Honey Seborrheic Dermatitis Shampoo targets seborrheic dermatitis, and the Maple Holistics Tea Tree Oil Special Formula Shampoo helps manage scalp irritation and improve general scalp health. These shampoos can effectively treat fungal acne, reduce itching, have antibacterial properties, and deliver quick results. In addition, they have clinically proven antifungal shampoo formulas recommended by doctors to keep these scalp issues at bay.
Why Trust Stylecraze
Oyendrila Kanjilal, the author of this article, has a keen interest in hair care and styling. Her love for haircare makes her one of the bests to review hair care products. She has conducted in-depth research to find the best antifungal shampoos for her readers. She has picked products with medicated formulas that nourish the scalp and keep it healthy.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does antifungal shampoo take to work?
Medicated antifungal shampoos for scalp should be used according to the instructions given by your dermatologist. Using such products frequently may result in certain side-effects as these products contain potent ingredients. Nevertheless, if you follow a proper hair care routine, you’ll see visible results within 2-4 weeks of usage.
What causes scalp fungal infection?
One of the most common forms of scalp fungus is ringworm, scientifically known as Tinea capitis. However, this condition is not caused by worms but is named such because of the round rings that appear on your scalp. Such a fungal infection causes scalp issues like itchiness, flakiness, and major dandruff problems. Ringworm is most common among toddlers and school children and is a contagious infection. It may occur in various age groups.
How can you get rid of scalp fungal infection?
The right antifungal shampoo can help you eliminate the root cause of your scalp problem. Fungal infections can spread throughout your scalp if they are not treated adequately. As soon as you find notice any scalp problems, you must take the necessary precautions and consult a doctor.
Which shampoo is the best for fungal infection?
The Healthy Hair Plus Anti-Fungal Shampoo is the best for fungal infections. The gentle formula eliminates bacteria and fungi while reducing pains in the swollen areas. The deep cleansing antifungal shampoo also moisturizes the scalp while discharging its anti-inflammatory properties.
How do I know if I have a fungus on my scalp?
If you have fungus on your scalp, your scalp will have a constant itchy sensation. If your look carefully, you will notice that scaly and silvery patches of various shapes have formed all around your scalp. These rashes may crack and crusts may form. Crusts can also lead to drastic hair loss. It is important to address the issue immediately with some anti-fungal care and expert consultation.
Is it safe to use ketoconazole shampoo daily?
Using a ketoconazole antifungal shampoo regularly can either turn your tresses excessively dry or oily and can also discolor the strands. So, you can use it as a treatment for a maximum of 3 consecutive days.
Does scalp fungus go away on its own?
No. Fungus infection will spread if not treated immediately. If the symptoms are mild, you can try an OTC anti-fungal care product. But it is always wiser to consult a doctor to get proper treatment.
Do antifungal formulas cause hair loss?
Certain antifungal creams can clog your pores and dry your scalp. This may increase hair fall as well. So, it is recommended to consult a dermatologist prior to purchasing any cream.
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