You’re going out with friends and you’ve made sure your look is on point.
Your skin is glowing. Your makeup is subtle, yet striking. Your hair is shiny and soft. Your black dress is flattering and eye-catching. You glance in the mirror one last time and smile. Your teeth are white and your earrings sparkle. You notice something white and flaky on your shoulders.
Looking closer, is it makeup? Lint?
Brushing it off, you realize it’s dandruff.
While embarrassing and uncomfortable, dandruff is thankfully treatable.
The first step in treating dandruff is identifying the cause. From mild to severe, dandruff can be caused by an underlying condition, such as seborrhoeic dermatitis, a yeast overgrowth on the scalp. Eczema, contact dermatitis (a topical allergy to hair spray, shampoo, or other products used on hair), and fungal infections are also culprits.
Stress, lack of sleep, and cold weather also contribute to dandruff. It is not caused by poor hygiene or scratching.
Dandruff is common, but that doesn’t mean you have to accept it
According to the American Academy of Dermatology, specialized anti-dandruff shampoos are the best treatment for dry scalp and dandruff. After choosing a shampoo, board-certified dermatologist Dr. Adam J. Friedman, MD, suggests:
- following the specific instructions on the bottle. Some formulations require leaving the shampoo on your hair for a few minutes before rinsing, while others are not meant to be left on the scalp.
- alternating between a dandruff shampoo and regular shampoo. Some dandruff shampoos contain harsh ingredients and should not be used more than twice a week.
- avoiding shampoos that contain tar. Tar can discolor hair and makes the scalp sensitive to sunlight.
With a variety of options for all hair types, getting rid of embarrassing flakes on your shoulders and uncomfortable itching is a matter of picking the right shampoo.
From classic and powerful ingredients like pyrithione zinc and salicylic acid to natural ingredients like apple cider vinegar, here are 7 effective shampoos for fighting dry scalp and dandruff.
Once you’ve achieved beautiful results with one of these shampoos, shop online for fashion, jewelry, and accessories to perfect the rest of your look.
The Crowd Pleaser
Sachajuan Scalp Shampoo
Five-star customer reviews of Sachajuan Scalp Shampoo highlight fast results, while “soothing,” “refreshing,” and “moisturizing” describe this popular Swedish brand. Salicylic acid heals dry scalp while bonus ingredients like wheat protein, rosemary, menthol, and ginger extract soothe and nourish hair. Leaving hair shiny and silky, it also has a fresh and light smell.
Directions: Massage into wet hair and leave on for 1-2 minutes. Rinse thoroughly and condition. Can be used daily.
Doctor-Approved
This dermatology-grade dandruff shampoo contains 1% Ketoconazole, a clinically proven treatment for dandruff caused by seborrhoeic dermatitis and fungal infections. Effective and fast, Nizoral A-D Anti-Dandruff Shampoo gets the job done when dandruff is chronic or severe. It’s also the top choice on Reddit among dandruff sufferers.
Directions: Massage into wet hair, rinse thoroughly, and condition. Use twice a week for best results.
The Natural Choice
WOW Apple Cider Vinegar Shampoo
This powerhouse not only heals the dry scalp and eliminates dandruff, but also prevents hair loss, hydrates, and repairs dry hair. The stand-out ingredient, apple cider vinegar, has been touted for decades as a DIY detox for hair. Combined with nourishing and repairing argan oil, WOW Apple Cider Vinegar Shampoo is a true all-in-one solution for a variety of hair issues because it restores the natural vitality and shine.
Directions: Massage into wet hair and leave on for 5 minutes. Rinse thoroughly and condition. Use twice a week for best results.
Inspired by the Spa
Oribe Serene Scalp Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
Beautifully scented and luxuriously foamy, Oribe Serene Scalp Anti-Dandruff Shampoo is a dandruff shampoo that feels indulgent. Combining salicylic acid with sudsy, scented bubbles and a fancy bottle, it works wonders on flakes and dry scalp. It also looks pretty on your bathroom shelf.
Directions: Massage into wet hair, rinse thoroughly, and condition. Use at least twice a week for best results.
All Around Ace
Redken Scalp Relief Dandruff Control Shampoo
Color-safe, moisturizing, and containing pyrithione zinc, Redken Scalp Relief Dandruff Control Shampoo checks a lot of boxes. Reviews highlight dramatic results after one use, and a pleasant, light scent. Soothing and clarifying, it also has a rich lather and pleasant smell.
Directions: Massage into wet hair and leave on for 5 minutes. Rinse thoroughly and condition. Can be used daily.
The Drugstore Dynamo
Head & Shoulders Smooth & Silky Hair Shampoo
The #1 selling dandruff shampoo, Head & Shoulders Smooth & Silky Hair Shampoo earned its title by providing consistent, reliable results at a fraction of the cost of salon-formulated shampoos. The active ingredient, pyrithione zinc, is clinically proven to treat dry scalp and dandruff. A light floral scent and additional moisturizers create smooth and soft hair.
Directions: Massage into wet hair, rinse thoroughly. and condition. Use at least twice a week for best results.
Color Conscious
Christophe Robin Purifying Shampoo With Jujube Bark Extract
A top choice for color-treated hair, Christophe Robin Purifying Shampoo is free of parabens and phthalates, providing results without stripping hair of color or causing irritation. The Jujube Bark extract reduces excess sebum and permanently eliminates dandruff, giving hair light and soft feel. Good for all hair types (from coiled to straight), it soothes the scalp and reduces dandruff in 80% of people after two weeks of use.
Directions: Massage into wet hair, rinse thoroughly, and condition. Can be used daily.
Don’t Be a Flake, Learn More Beauty Tips at Style Vanity
Keep your look polished and perfect by treating dandruff with an effective and appropriate shampoo. From natural to clinical or basic to luxurious, there is a shampoo to fit your needs. Visit Style Vanity regularly for honest and comprehensive reviews and guides to the latest hair, makeup, and skincare products and services.