The 10 best dandruff shampoos of 2024, according to experts

Size: 7 ounces

Hair types: All

Key ingredient: Ketoconazole

This award-winning shampoo by Nizoral has been a cult favorite among experts and shoppers for years, likely because it is clinically proven to control flaking, scaling and itching from dandruff, according to the brand. Three dermatologists we spoke with recommended it, including New York–based Rachel Nazarian, MD: “The ketoconazole in this product decreases the yeast associated with seborrheic dermatitis," said the doc, adding that it can be "used long-term to prevent a return of flaking and scaling.” Michelle Henry, MD, clinical instructor of dermatology at Weill Cornell Medical College, added, “The active ingredient also serves as a potent antifungal agent, particularly effective against Malassezia [a fungus that causes dandruff]." You only need to use it twice weekly to get relief; no wonder it’s also an Amazon bestseller with over 68,000 five-star ratings.

Size: 12 ounces

Hair types: All 

Key ingredient: Pyrithione zinc

This popular Dove option proves you don’t need to spend a ton of money to get results. New York dermatologist Debra Jaliman, MD, recommends it. “It helps control dandruff because it contains pyrithione zinc, which adds anti-microbial properties to the shampoo," she said. "It also contains shea butter and coconut oil to keep your scalp hydrated and healthy.” Along with being gentle and calming enough to use daily, the shampoo has a delicious smell that shoppers adore. Some note that it can weigh your hair down if you don’t rinse thoroughly.

Size: 4.5 ounces

Hair types: All

Key ingredient: Salicylic acid

Both Dr. Nazarian and Jeannette Graf, MD, assistant clinical professor of dermatology at Mount Sinai School of Medicine, recommend this formula. “This shampoo incorporates coal tar to slow down the turnover of skin cells and reduce flaking,” said Dr. Graf. It contains 3% salicylic acid, which treats symptoms caused by scalp psoriasis, seborrheic dermatitis and dandruff by removing scalp buildup while relieving itching and flaking. The shampoo says it’s fragrance-free, but some shoppers felt it had a medicinal smell to it.

Size: 3.6 ounces

Hair types: All

Key ingredient: Ectoin

This ultra-hydrating option is celebrity hairstylist Harry David’s top pick. “It’s important to really target the scalp because that’s where the excess oil and yeast overgrowth starts," he said. "This shampoo moisturizes, stimulates and rebalances to strengthen the natural protective layer for a refreshed and energized scalp." Aside from nourishing, soothing and rebalancing oily, flaky or dry scalp, it also helps reduce scalp irritation and leaves hair silky smooth.

Size: 33.8 ounces

Hair types: All

Key ingredient: Pyrithione zinc

Dr. Graf is a fan of this cleansing shampoo because it contains pyrithione zinc, “which helps balance and hydrate the skin and soothe irritation,” she said. The brand claims the shampoo can help reduce itching and flaking with just one use, but you should use it at least three times a week for best results. Multiple Amazon shoppers have called it a “lifesaver.” Take it from this customer: “This is the only shampoo that helps with my itchy, flaky scalp."

Size: 8.5 ounces

Hair types: All

Key ingredient: Pyrithione zinc

Our deputy editor Izabella Zaydenberg has been using this Kérastase shampoo for three months: “It made my dandruff go away by about 90% after one use," she said. "I see far fewer flakes, my scalp is way less itchy and irritated, and it doesn't weigh my hair down. I'd buy it all the time if it weren't so expensive.” The shampoo’s main ingredient is pyrithione zinc, which, according to Dr. Graf, “helps regulate the sebum production on the scalp." (Note: A buildup of sebum, a natural waxy substance produced by hair follicles, can lead to dandruff.) Besides eliminating dandruff, the shampoo also works to hydrate your scalp and hair to leave it soft and moisturized.

Size: 8 ounce

Hair types: All

Key ingredient: Charcoal

This exfoliating Briogeo shampoo is Zaydenberg's other top pick, but she uses it more for periodic maintenance. “It's not an everyday shampoo — it's a little heavy — but it really leaves my scalp feeling clean and flake-free. I have a friend who uses it for eczema on her scalp and she loves it, too,” she said. The scrub shampoo is formulated to get rid of impurities and buildup while balancing and soothing an itchy, irritated scalp. It can be used on oily or dry scalps and all hair types.

Size: 13.5 ounce

Hair types: All

Key ingredient: Selenium sulfide

Head & Shoulders has been synonymous with tackling dandruff for decades — and this clinical strength formula might be its most effective product yet. Dr. Graf loves it because “it is infused with manuka honey, which has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties to break down the yeast and soothe and hydrate the scalp.” With regular use, the brand says you will see 100% protection against visible flakes. Thousands of Amazon shoppers are fans, with many reporting immediate results. Some didn't love the strong smell, though.

Size: 10 ounces

Hair types: All

Key ingredient: Salicylic acid

I noticed my hair getting flakier last winter, so I gave this anti-dandruff shampoo from Ouai a try when it launched last December, and I loved it. Thanks to the 2% salicylic acid formula, not only did I see a reduction in flakes after consistently using it for a few weeks, but I also loved how soft and clean my hair felt. It was much gentler than other dandruff shampoos I'd tried in the past — but since my case is mild, it worked great for my needs. I really fell for the ginger, basil and spearmint smell, too.

Size: 11 ounces

Hair type: Dry

Key ingredient: Selenium sulfide

If you suffer from a super itchy scalp, Dr. Henry suggests trying this Selsun Blue option. “Selenium sulfide is the key component here, effectively targeting dandruff and alleviating itching,” she said. The shampoo is infused with menthol for a cooling and soothing sensation on the scalp that people love. “Something was making my head really itchy, so I got this. Wow, this explodes into an amazing thick blue lather, and the menthol was just what the doctor ordered,” raved one. The smell, however, might not be for you. Some shoppers warn the scent can be too intense.