13 Best Hairstylist-Approved Drugstore Dandruff Shampoos Of 2024
These haircare essentials are an affordable solution for dandruff, itchiness, or oily scalp.
Alicia Igess is an accomplished and award-winning stylist with over two decades of experience in hair design. She is the owner and founder of Urban Tangles, a hair and makeup studio focusing on makeovers. She, along with her team, has experienced tremendous success in building an exclusive “referral-only” clientele consisting of many of the who’s who of Atlanta.
Read full bio of Alicia Igess
Experience: 3 yearsKrati is an associate commerce editor, a certified skin care coach, and a beauty enthusiast. She has a master’s degree in advertising and publishing relations from DAVV University and three years of experience in writing and editing for different niches.
Read full bio of Krati Darak
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.
Read full bio of Medha Deb
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
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Itchy scalp, white flakes, redness, and oily scalp, you know it’s dandruff, and it is undoubtedly a pain on the head! Searching for the best drugstore dandruff shampoo that will be perfect for you and save you from this distress is a challenging quest indeed. To help you in this quest, we have put together a list of 13 shampoos to say goodbye to your dandruff and say hello to a night out in your favorite black dress! Please scroll down to the next section to find out what they are, and pick the best one based on the active ingredients and how well-suited it is for your hair. How annoying is it that you have to give up wearing your favorite blacks because of dandruff and flakes? Even worse is the itchiness that follows, making you feel like you haven’t washed your hair in ages! Confidence is lost, the mood is ruined, and of course, you can no longer flaunt your tresses as you want.
Though there are several anti-dandruff shampoos out there, choosing the one that suits you best feels like a Herculean task. So, to make it easier for you, we have put together a list of the 13 best drugstore dandruff shampoos based on their unique formulas and positive reviews online that will make your dandruff problems vanish miraculously!
Read on to know more.
In This Article
13 Most Effective Drugstore Dandruff Shampoos To Keep Flakes Away
1. Best For Frizz Control: Maple Holistics Sage Special Formula Shampoo
Wipeout dandruff, the therapeutic way! Give your hair its natural bounce with the help of enriching oils blended in this shampoo. Staying true to its name, it is undoubtedly a holistic treatment for hair with the goodness of jojoba oil, Moroccan argan oil, and peach kernel. It eliminates excess oil, dirt, and dead skin cells from your scalp. And it doesn’t stop here; it is rich in hair revitalizing ingredients that improve texture, repair split ends, and nourish hair from the root to tip.
Pros
- Gently cleanses the hair and scalp
- It contains natural oils and minerals
- Suitable for all types of hair from normal, curly to color-treated
- Color-safe formula
- Reduces itchiness, frizzy hair and split ends
- Revitalizes natural shine and healthiness
Cons
- Not suitable for very dry hair
- It has a strong fragrance
Pro Tip
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
More than 10,586 rave reviews on Amazon prove why we are so in awe of this product.
2. Best Fast Acting Formula:Nizoral A-D Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
Hormones, diet, stress, etc. are a few of the reasons that can cause an onslaught of dandruff. But there’s one ingredient that can keep dandruff off your head and shoulder, and that is Ketoconazole. This clarifying shampoo helps eliminate the bacteria causing dandruff while also controlling the itchiness and flakiness. It is effective, mild, and fast-acting, so you will see a change after the first few washes! Clinically proven to be one of the best anti-dandruff shampoos, it aids in making hair shinier and manageable. If you want a detailed review of the product along with the reviewer’s experience of using it, make sure to take a look at this video.
Pros
- Contains Ketoconazole
- Clear formula
- Controls itchiness, scaling, and flakiness
- Maintains a healthy and clean scalp
- Recommended for severe dandruff
Cons
- It leaves hair dry, hence conditioner is recommended
- It contains sulfate
- Expensive
Pro TipWhy We Think It's Worth Buying
This product has made it to our top favorite list with more than 9,552 rave reviews on Amazon.
3. Best Hypoallergenic:Maple Holistics Tea Tree Special Formula Shampoo
When all else fails, tea tree oil always comes to the rescue. Whether you are battling dandruff, dryness, hair loss, or flaky scalp, pure tea tree oil is the best natural hair care tonic you can switch too. Add to this the goodness of argan oil and aloe vera in a shampoo, and you have the perfect remedy for dandruff! It cleanses the hair follicle and encourages healthy scalp and hair growth. Other than tea tree oil, it also contains rosemary and lavender oil that target head lice in natural and color-treated hair. You can also check out a tester’s experience in this YouTuber’s detailed review to know more about the results after using this product.
Pros
- Tackles severe dandruff, itchiness, and head lice
- Alleviates dryness
- Anti-itch
- Encourages hair growth
- Hair thickening formula
- Suitable for natural or color-treated hair
- Free from sulfates
- Hypoallergenic
- Not tested on animals
Cons
- Not suitable for dry hair
- It has a strong fragrance
Quick TipWhy We Think It's Worth Buying
It has received 9,064 reviews on Amazon and is a popular choice among shoppers.
| Maple Holistics Sage Special Formula Shampoo Best For Frizz Control | Nizoral A-D Anti-Dandruff Shampoo Best Fast Acting Formula | Maple Holistics Tea Tree Special Formula Shampoo Best Hypoallergenic | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hair Type | Oily, Dry, Curly, Normal, Straight | All | Oily, Color Treated, Dry, Normal, Dandruff |
| Dimensions | 2.5 x 2.5 x 6.24 inches | 1.54 x 2.99 x 7.17 inches | 1.85 x 1.85 x 6.75 inches |
| Weight | 8 Ounces | 6.98 Ounces | 8 Ounces |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 10,586 | 9,552 | 9,064 |
| Price | $23.95 | $13.99 | $13.95 |
4. Best Volumizing:Jason Dandruff Relief Treatment Shampoo
Not all shampoos have potent formulas that can control flakes and itchiness. That’s why you need this product. Specially formulated for severe conditions like scalp dermatitis and mild psoriasis, Jason Dandruff Relief Treatment Shampoo is a savior. Its powerful yet gentle formula cleanses the hair, soothes the scalp, and eliminates flakes on the scalp. This hair product also moisturizes the scalp with lavender, olive, and jojoba oil extracts. A mild and safe cleanser aiding in the recovery from severe dandruff and other scalp conditions, it is definitely worth a try! For a thorough review of the product, have a look at a tester’s experience in this YouTuber’s video.
Pros
- Ideal for scalp dermatitis and mild psoriasis
- Eliminates dandruff, itchiness, flakes
- Moisturises and adds volume to hair
- Safe and gentle with natural healing ingredients
- Not tested on animals
Cons
- Greasy
- Scent can be overwhelming
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
It has gained over 4,039 positive reviews on Amazon, making it an all-time best-seller.
5. Best Flake Free Formula:Dove DermaCare Scalp Anti Dandruff Shampoo Dryness and Itch Relief
Is scalp itchiness giving you sleepless nights? Then you are probably using the wrong shampoo. Dove Dermacare Scalp Anti-Dandruff Shampoo is specially formulated to cleanse the hair and target the dandruff-prone scalp. It leaves the damaged hair flake-free, soothes scalp irritation and itchiness, reduces dryness, hydrates the hair, and fights against dandruff. It has pyrithione zinc and a pH-balanced formula that provides a healthy scalp, and smooth and manageable hair that flows freely. It also has a fresh and pure scent of coconut and shea butter.
Pros
- Dermatologically tested
- Soothes irritated scalp
- pH-balanced
- Volume-boosting
- Easy-to-use bottle
- Travel-friendly
- Targeted formula
- Fresh fragrance of coconut and shea butter
- Gentle
Cons
- Some may find the fragrance strong
Trivia6. Best Gentle Formula:True+Real Salicylic Acid Anti-Dandruff Shampoo 3% Salicylic Acid
If the scalp itchiness is giving you sleepless nights, get your hands on the True+Real Salicylic Acid Anti-Dandruff Shampoo for some relief. It is a gentle, nourishing, yet powerful formula that gets rid of dandruff and dry skin. This scalp shampoo is infused with the goodness of salicylic acid, which is clinically verified to reduce and control symptoms of dandruff. If you are suffering from psoriasis and seborrheic dermatitis causing hair fall, you can use this effective product. It also encourages rapid cell production, which helps increase hair count. It is made to fight itchy, flaky scalp, and excess build-up, and leave your hair shiny and manageable.
Pros
- Fast-acting
- Gives smooth and shiny hair
- Long-lasting relief from dandruff
- Fragrance free
- Gentle cleanser
Cons
- Not travel friendly
Quick Tip7. Best For Hair Loss Control:Zincon Medicated Dandruff Shampoo
Not a lot of people know this, but zinc is exceptionally beneficial for hair. It helps repair brittle hair and controls hair loss. This medicated shampoo is composed of Pyrithione Zinc, which is chemically known to fight against severe to moderate dandruff. Your hair feels clean, manageable, and full of life post-usage. Super gentle and driven by the power of zinc, this shampoo is suitable for severe dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis.
Pros
- Controls dandruff
- Makes hair manageable
- Tackles severe dandruff conditions
- Can be used as a regular shampoo
Cons
- It contains sulfate
8. Best Dermatologist-Recommended:Neutrogena T/Gel Therapeutic Shampoo
Do you know what the best thing about this shampoo from Neutrogena is? It is the hair-reviving therapeutic formula! Adding to this, it also contains coal tar extract, which works like magic when it comes to hair repair. Together, they not only reduce dryness and dandruff accumulation but also minimize potential inflammation and help with scalp issues. Itchiness, dandruff, flaky scalp, all gone for good. Also, it’s so gentle that it can be used daily!
Pros
- Anti-inflammatory
- Long-lasting relief from itchiness and dandruff
- Coal tar extract works on hair post rinse
- Gentle and dermatologist-recommended
Cons
- It has an overpowering scent
9. Best With Natural Ingredients:RAUSCH Coltsfoot Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
Rausch Coltsfoot Anti-Dandruff Shampoo is an herbal, safe, and gentle cleanser with rapid dandruff-controlling ingredients. This gentle shampoo is composed of an active complex of coltsfoot, burdock root extract, and piroctone olamine that has proven efficacy to tackle dandruff and provide long-lasting relief skin irritants. Leaving your hair cleaner and healthier for you to flaunt those gorgeous locks, this shampoo is an irresistible choice!
Pros
- Eliminates dandruff
- Powered by high-quality natural ingredients
- Free from silicones and parabens
- Free from animal testing
Cons
- Expensive
10. Best Moisturizing Formula:MIZANI Scalp Care Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
Don’t give up on your love for hairstyling; get rid of dandruff instead! Let your hair enjoy the benefits of Pyrithione Zinc, which is chemically-tested to control dandruff and reduces potential dandruff-related problems. It gently removes all the excess bacteria that causes itchiness, this cleanser is formulated to nourish and improve the health of your hair with peppermint oil and cucumber extract. With all that discomfort gone, you can style your hair the way you want it!
Pros
- Pyrithione Zinc formula to tackle dandruff problem
- Peppermint oil and cucumber extract moisturizes the hair
- Long-lasting relief from all discomfort
Cons
- Heavy on the wallet
11. Best Lathering Formula:Leonor Greyl Paris Bain Traitant a La Propolis Gentle Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
If you are not a fan of too much lather, this gentle hair cleanser is the one for you! Made from all-natural ingredients, this shampoo is hailed as the Holy Grail owing to its super satisfying results. Alleviating scalp irritation and preventing dandruff, the cleanser also contains antiseptic properties that protect hair from potential scalp irritants.
Pros
- A gentle cleanser to get rid of scalp problems
- Hair strengthening formula
- Heals and soothes the scalp
- No more flakiness and redness
- Lathers well
- Not tested on animals
Cons
- Expensive
12. Best Organic Formula:Whamisa Organic Seeds Shampoo For Dry Scalp
Weak, dry, and lifeless hair needs extra care, extra moisture, and nourishment. And to prevent dandruff from making things worse for your hair, switch to this blessing from nature! Labeled as nirvana for dry scalp, its nourishing benefits are so effective that you’ll notice the difference within a few washes, leaving the scalp feeling nourished. Made from organic ingredients, this brand promises an all-natural remedy to eliminate dandruff as well as leave your hair hydrated, smooth, and shiny all day. Free from all harsh chemicals like paraben, silicon, etc., it is also fragrance-free and maintains a pH balance between 4.2 to 4.7. It not only cleanses dandruff flakes but also reduces the chances of recurrence of dandruff.
Pros
- Improves overall health of the hair
- Hydrates and moisturizes
- Eradicates dandruff
- An all-organic formula
- Free from harsh chemicals
- Dermatologically-tested
- Not tested on animals
Cons
- Expensive
13. Best Dye-free:Kamedis Dandruff Therapy Shampoo
Treat your itchy scalp with the Kamedis Dandruff Therapy Shampoo. It is infused with 1% pyrithione zinc and is clinically-proven to treat dandruff and scalp psoriasis. The rich foamy shampoo cleanses your scalp, providing quick relief from recurring flakes. The dermatologist-recommended shampoo also has botanical soapberry that eliminates flaking, itching, scaling, redness, and irritation. Moreover, the shampoo balances and nourishes the scalp, and keeps it hydrated.
Pros
- Dermatologist-tested
- Refreshing formula
- Paraben-free
- Sulfate-free
- Dye-free
- Steroid-free
- Tar-free
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- Sensitive scalp may experience irritation
Infographic: Key Ingredients In Drugstore Dandruff Shampoos
If you are experiencing an Itchy scalp, along with a dry and flaky texture and redness, it may indicate severe dandruff. Fortunately, there are multiple drugstore brands that offer anti-dandruff shampoos and hair care products to address these symptoms. These shampoos help treat flakes, soothe inflammation, and manage dandruff. Check out the infographic below for a list of key ingredients commonly found in drugstore dandruff shampoos.
Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
The Bottom Line
Keeping your hair and scalp clean is important and nothing can do the job better than shampoos. But unfortunately, all shampoos do not have potent formulas that can help reduce scalp redness and eliminate dandruff, flakes, and itchiness. So your scalp needs specially crafted shampoos to cleanse the residue and dandruff and keep the scalp clean. Some such products include the Maple Holistics Sage Special Formula Shampoo that repairs split ends, the Dove DermaCare Scalp Anti Dandruff Shampoo Dryness and Itch Relief that balances the scalp’s pH level, and the Neutrogena T/Gel Therapeutic Shampoo that reduces scalp inflammation. Alicia Igess Jones, an accomplished and award-winning stylist says, “Allow the shampoo to sit on your scalp for 5 minutes before rinsing. This helps soften anything that’s on your scalp and makes it easier to clean off.” It would be of great help to invest in shampoos that address the dandruff problem, revitalize the hair, and improve the hair texture. These dandruff shampoos control the flakes and itchiness and promote healthy scalp. In addition, some shampoos listed in the article can also hydrate the hair. However, invest in shampoos that are gentle on your scalp.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I shampoo if I have dandruff?
This depends on how oily or how dandruff-prone your scalp is. Depending on these factors you can shampoo twice a week or daily.
Can you use anti-dandruff shampoo and a regular conditioner together?
Yes, you can use anti-dandruff shampoo and a regular conditioner together. However, ensure that the conditioner is hydrating as most anti-dandruff shampoos tend to be a bit drying.
Can I use anti-dandruff shampoo daily?
Yes. You can use an anti-dandruff shampoo daily only if the formula is mild enough, but most shampoos should not be used more than thrice weekly.
How long does it take for dandruff shampoo to work?
A dandruff shampoo takes at least four months to work and show results.
How can I permanently get rid of dandruff?
You cannot permanently eliminate dandruff, but you can keep it under control with the right hair care routine.
What’s the difference between flakes and dandruff?
Flakes occur due to dry scalp, but dandruff is caused by fungal infections. While the flakes tend to be smaller and whiter, dandruff is larger and may be yellow-tinged or oily.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
Krati Darak, the author of this article, has a keen interest in hair care. Her in-depth research and continuous look-through on the emerging products bring out the best for readers. After reading many online consumer reviews and extensive exploration, she curated this list of drugstore dandruff shampoos. These shampoos effectively control dandruff, scalp itchiness, and leave hair smooth and lustrous. These shampoos are perfect for daily use too.
Read full bio of Alicia Igess
Read full bio of Krati Darak
Read full bio of Medha Deb
Read full bio of Shiboli Chakraborti
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