9 Dandruff Shampoos to Alleviate Flakes, Itchiness, and Dryness

Nizoral A-D Anti-Dandruff Shampoo ($16)

If you suffer from a dry and itchy scalp, the Nizoral A-D Anti-Dandruff Shampoo is one of the best dandruff shampoos on the market that works within the first use. Plus, it's recommended by multiple dermatologists.

Dermatologist Quote:"[It] helps decrease yeast growth on the scalp, which commonly leads to dandruff conditions. Use daily for those with severe dandruff, or once to twice a week as maintenance." — Dr. Song

Head & Shoulders Bare Dandruff Shampoo ($10)

This sulfate-free dandruff shampoo is affordable and can easily be found at your local drugstore, which makes it one of our top picks. Plus, it doesn't have too many ingredients — just what you need to help you get rid of your pesky dandruff.

Dermatologist Quote: "Contains minimal ingredients and has zinc pyrithione with antibacterial and anti-yeast properties. It's gentle on the scalp and decreases scalp inflammation." — Dr. Song

Selsun Blue Dandruff Shampoo ($8)

If you're looking for a dandruff shampoo while on a budget, Selsun Blue is the way to go. It's $8, and will help curb your itchy scalp after just one use.

Dermatologist Quote: "[It] contains selenium sulfide, an anti-inflammatory and anti-yeast ingredient that effectively treats dandruff." — Dr. Song

Kérastase Bain Crème Antipelliculaire Antidandruff Shampoo ($42)

The Kérastase Bain Crème Antipelliculaire Antidandruff Shampoo is the dandruff shampoo for anyone who doesn't want to feel like they're using a dandruff shampoo. Yes, it's pricey, but it's safe for all hair types and textures, and will help you nip dandruff right in the bud.

Dermatologist Quote: "Symbiose is a great option to help reduce dandruff symptoms as it helps to reduce flaking, itching, and irritation associated with dandruff. The moisturizing formula hydrates hair and scalp to provide instant relief of symptoms and discomfort caused by dandruff." — Dr. Day

Vichy Dercos Anti-Dandruff Shampoo ($29)

If you're looking for a product that will help treat the underlying cause of dandruff as well as exfoliate scalp buildup, the Vichy Dercos Anti-Dandruff Shampoo is the perfect pick. It's color safe, and it's suitable for all hair types.

Dermatologist Quote: "This is newly available in the US and I was able to test it out since launch. It is a game-changer for dandruff treatment. It combines micronized selenium sulfide and salicylic acid to treat the underlying cause of dandruff and it also helps exfoliate scalp buildup. The addition of niacinamide helps soothe irritation, and it is perfect for sensitive scalps." — Dr. Malik

Dermatologist Quote: "For individuals who suffer from moderate to severe dandruff, the Vichy Dercos range, which just launched in the United States, is an incredibly effective choice. The formula features Micronized Selenium Sulfide, which helps the product deeply penetrate the scalp, fighting dandruff right at the source. Paired with niacinamide and glycerin to hydrate and soothe strands, the formula is also proven to create shinier strands while also reducing hair breakage." — Dr. Day

CeraVe Scalp Relief 2-in-1 Anti-Dandruff Shampoo ($10)

Okay, we know, 2-in-1 products get a bad rap. But we promise this one is actually worth it. Plus, it means one less product you have to purchase, right? It's safe for sensitive scalps, and suitable for all hair types.

Dermatologist Quote: "CeraVe Scalp Relief 2-in-1 Anti-Dandruff Shampoo and Conditioner is an excellent option that combines 2% zinc pyrithione with ceramides. I have been able to test this one since launch and find that this shampoo/conditioner not only fights dandruff but also helps restore the scalp's moisture barrier, which is crucial for long-term management of scalp conditions." — Dr. Malik

Jupiter Balancing Shampoo ($25)

The Jupiter Balancing Shampoo is formulated with zinc and coconut oil to simultaneously fight flakes while moisturizing the scalp. It's great for those dealing with mild to moderate dandruff, dry scalp, flakes and itchiness. It helps control excess oil production as well, so it's ideal for those with oilier scalps. It has a delish fragrance of mint, vanilla, sage and lavender.

Editor Quote: "I've been dealing with dandruff off and on for the last few years, but the Jupiter Balancing Shampoo has been a total game-changer. I have color-treated hair, and it doesn't dry my ends out, but instead leaves my hair looking silky and shiny. It doesn't feel like a dandruff shampoo, and it looks as sleek as all of my other shampoo bottles, which is another plus. " — Renee Rodriguez, staff writer and social producer

Briogeo Scalp Revival Dandruff Relief Charcoal Shampoo ($42)

The Briogeo Scalp Revival Dandruff Relief Charcoal Shampoo uses three percent salicylic acid and lactic acid to gently exfoliate the scalp relieving irritation due to dandruff like itchiness and redness. It cleanses the scalp without making it feel stripped or dry. It's great for all hair types as well, and best used at least twice a week.

Editor Quote: "After massaging it onto my scalp and bringing the excess down through my lengths, I could not only feel my whole body relax in the presence of the tea-tree oil scent, but I could also tell that the blend of natural and active ingredients was working. What I loved most, though, was the cooling sensation that kicked in after about 30 seconds. It made my scalp feel rejuvenated without any irritation or burning. Once I rinsed the shampoo out of my hair, my scalp felt clean but not stripped of its natural oils." — Caitlyn Martyn, PS contributor

Read the in-depth review of the Briogeo Scalp Revival Dandruff Relief Charcoal Shampoo.

Ouai Detox Shampoo ($32)

The Ouai Detox Shampoo is an editor-backed clarifying shampoo that helps eliminate build up, flakiness, and excess oil. It's a great shampoo for dandruff. It has chelating agents and apple cider vinegar to exfoliate the scalp. It is nonstripping and color-safe due to hydrolyzed keratin, which helps soften and smooth the hair. Plus, you only need to use it once a week.

Editor Quote: "The shampoo effectively cleanses any excess oil and dry-shampoo buildup. Yet it does not compromise on being gentle on my scalp and hair. Whenever I feel like my scalp needs a deep cleanse, whether it's from using too much product and hairspray or as a pick-me-up exfoliation treatment, it's the only product I turn to for a quick refresh and revamp." — Anvita Reddy, assistant editor, Shopping

Read the in-depth review of the Ouai Detox Shampoo.

Sarah Siegel is a former assistant editor for PS Beauty. She loves everything cute and has more lipstick than you could ever imagine.

Renee Rodriguez (she/her) is a staff writer and social producer for PS. She writes across all verticals, but her main areas of expertise focus on fashion and beauty content with an emphasis on reviews and editor experiments. She also produces social content for the PS TikTok and Instagram accounts.