The 10 best dandruff shampoos of 2023, according to experts

This award-winning shampoo by Nizoral — clinically proven to obliterate dandruff and itchiness — has been a favorite among experts and shoppers for years. 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 a week to get relief; no wonder it’s also an Amazon bestseller with over 65,000 five-star ratings.

Pros: Tackles dandruff, itch and flakes quickly and efficiently; smells nice

Cons: Some shoppers said it stripped color off dyed hair

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.

Pros: Removes flakes, helps itchiness, smells great, affordable

Cons: Can weigh hair down

Both Dr. Nazarian and Dr. Graff recommend this formula. “This shampoo incorporates coal tar to slow down the turnover of skin cells and reduce flaking,” said Dr. Graff. 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. While the shampoo says it’s fragrance-free, some shoppers felt that it had a medicinal smell to it.

Pros: Removes buildup, affordable, helps itch and flakes

Cons: Some shoppers don’t like the scent

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 reduces scalp irritation and leaves hair silky smooth.

Pros: Nourishing, hydrating, reduces scalp irritation

Cons: On the pricey side

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. According to the brand, 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 “life saver.” Take it from this customer: “This is the only shampoo that helps with my itchy flaky scalp."

Pros: Reduces itch and flakes, helps calm irritated scalps

Cons: Expensive

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 wasn't so expensive.” The shampoo’s main ingredient is pyrithione zinc, which according to dermatologist Jeannette Graf, MD, assistant clinical professor of dermatology at Mount Sinai School of Medicine, “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.

Pros: Hydrating, effective, doesn’t weigh hair down

Cons: Not the most affordable option

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 gets 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.

Pros: Reduces flakes, hydrates, exfoliates

Cons: Expensive, not for everyday use

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.

Pros: Combats flakes, affordable, works quickly

Cons: Intense scent

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 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 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.

Pros: Great scent, doesn’t weigh hair down, reduces flakes

Cons: On the pricier side

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 users 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 what Some shoppers warn the scent can be too intense.

Pros: Affordable, soothes scalp, fights itch and flakes

Cons: Strong smell