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The 5 Best Shampoos for Dandruff, According to Dermatologists

From stubborn flakes to persistent itchiness, these expert-backed shampoos help get dandruff under control.

Casey ClarkContributor

PublishedAug 7, 2026, 4:30 PM EDT

UpdatedAug 7, 2026, 4:30 PM EDT

Updated Aug 7, 2026, 4:30 PM EDTPublished Aug 7, 2026, 4:30 PM EDT

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If you’ve ever noticed white flakes on your shoulders or found yourself constantly scratching your scalp, you’re far from alone. Dandruff is one of the most common scalp concerns, affecting an estimated 50 percent of North Americans, according to the Canadian Dermatology Association. Yet despite how common it is, the condition is often misunderstood. Unfortunately, treating it incorrectly can actually make symptoms worse.

“Dandruff, or seborrheic dermatitis, is one of the most common scalp conditions I see—and also one of the most misunderstood,” says Dr. Marisa Ponzo, a double board-certified dermatologist at North York Dermatology Clinic. “Many people assume it is caused by a ‘dry scalp’ and respond by washing less, but this often makes it worse.”

The good news is that using the right shampoo can dramatically help control flakes, calm itchiness, and support a healthier scalp. Of course, if your dandruff is severe, persistent, or accompanied by pain or significant inflammation, it’s best to consult a dermatologist to rule out an underlying condition before treating it at home.

Ahead, dermatologists explain what causes dandruff, how to tell it apart from a dry scalp, and the best shampoos to help keep symptoms under control.

What causes dandruff?

Dandruff is usually an inflammatory reaction to a naturally occurring yeast called Malassezia, which lives on everyone’s scalp. “This yeast feeds on scalp oils and triggers inflammation, which speeds up skin cell turnover,” says Dr. Ponzo. “Instead of shedding invisible cells, the scalp produces visible flakes.”

Stress, cold weather, hormonal changes, and infrequent washing can also worsen dandruff, but it is not caused by poor hygiene, which is a common misconception.

How to treat dandruff

The first line of treatment for dandruff is typically an over-the-counter dandruff shampoo. “There isn’t one shampoo that is best for everyone—the right choice depends on whether the main problem is yeast, oiliness, sensitivity or heavy scale,” says Dr. William Posten, a board-certified dermatologist and chief dermatologist at Sensus Healthcare.

Dr. Aderonke Obayomi, a board-certified dermatologist and assistant professor at Mount Sinai, says you should notice a difference with an over-the-counter dandruff shampoo in roughly four weeks with consistent use. If you don’t notice any significant change in the flakes or itchiness, then you’ll want to consult with a physician to discuss other treatment options.

When to see a doctor

If you haven’t noticed any significant changes in four weeks of consistent use, then that warrants a trip to the dermatologist.

“You’ll want to come in sooner if the scalp is red, swollen, oozing or crusting, if the itch is severe, if you are losing hair, or if the flaking spreads beyond the scalp to your face, ears, eyebrows or chest,” says Dr. Obayomi.

These findings may indicate something other than routine dandruff, such as psoriasis, eczema, allergic contact dermatitis, a fungal infection of the scalp, or a secondary bacterial infection, according to Dr. Posten. “A dermatologist can confirm the diagnosis and prescribe stronger antifungal or anti-inflammatory treatment when needed,” he explains.

The best over-the-counter dandruff shampoos

Amazon

$8

Neutrogena T-Sal Shampoo

Dr. Alicia Zalka, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Surface Deep, recommends the Neutrogena T-Sal shampoo as a first-line treatment for dandruff. “The salicylic acid ingredient helps control flakes and excess scalp oil, which are the main issues in dandruff (aka seborrheic dermatitis)," she says. “This also [works well] as a clarifying shampoo as well to offset buildup of other hair products that have layered on the scalp over time.”

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Amazon

$17

Nizoral Anti-Dandruff Shampoo

This shampoo contains ketoconazole, an active ingredient that combats dandruff-causing Malassezia. “It is the strongest single active you can get without a prescription, and it is gentle enough for color-treated or chemically processed hair,” says Dr. Obayomi.

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$9

Selsun Blue Medicated Anti Dandruff Shampoo

Dr. Obayomi recommends this Selsun Blue anti-dandruff shampoo because it contains selenium sulfide, a potent flake-defying active ingredient. “Selenium sulfide 1% is an antifungal that slows how fast scalp cells turn over so fewer flakes form,” she explains. “It is a good step up when a flare-up is stubborn; however, it can leave a slight tint on lighter, gray, or color-treated hair, so you’ll want to rinse thoroughly.”

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Amazon

$12

Head & Shoulders Classic Clean Dandruff Shampoo

You’ve probably heard of Head & Shoulders—it's one of the most popular over-the-counter dandruff shampoos—and for good reason. Head & Shoulders contains zinc pyrithione, which helps to reduce yeast and minimize itching and scaling. “It is a widely available option with antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties and is ideal for mild to moderate dandruff and maintenance once symptoms improve," says Dr. Ponzo.

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$20

Vichy Dercos Anti-Dandruff Shampoo

Dr. Ponzo says this shampoo is a highly effective over-the-counter option that reduces Malassezia and slows excessive skin turnover. “It also contains salicylic acid, which helps lift scale and reduce buildup, making it useful for persistent dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis,” she says.

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