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The first indication of dandruff usually occurs when you run your hands through your hair and catch sight of white flakes on your top, like an unwanted dusting of snow. However, before they can fall, the skin on your scalp manifests as "flaky red and pink patches" on the scalp [and some] people also have itching," explains London-based consultant dermatologist Dr. Anastasia Therianou. "We can also find these [patches] on the face and the body. This is called seborrheic dermatitis, but when it's localized on the scalp, we call it dandruff."
Although it can't be cured, "we can keep it under control," Dr. Therianou shares. The easiest approach involves using the best shampoo, as these are formulated to help calm dandruff and give irritated skin some TLC. However, not all dandruff shampoos are made the same, and when it comes to your scalp health, you'll want to pick the best dandruff shampoo of them all.
If you're confused by all the options, keep reading for our expert-backed advice and highly-researched selects. But if you want to know which is the best of the best, look toward the Neutrogena T/Gel Therapeutic Shampoo. All hair types can benefit from a monthly (or weekly) cleansing session with this dermatologist-approved best-selling formulation that leaves the scalp clean, healthy, and free of buildup. Note that some products on this list may be unavailable outside the US, as the ingredient zinc pyrithione is banned for use in cosmetics products in the EU.
Our top picks for the best dandruff shampoos
This pH-friendly dandruff shampoo from Neutrogena acts fast to soothe your dry, flaky scalp.
For those with ultra-sensitive scalps, this drugstore dandruff shampoo gently cleanses the hair leaving it soft and smooth.
This ultra-affordable shampoo features not one but two active ingredients to fight dandruff. Many anti-dandruff shampoos are super drying, but fortunately, this formula includes moisturizing glycerin and vitamin E.
This dandruff shampoo is designed for coily and curly crowns and retains moisture while maintaining scalp health between protective styles.
Korean brand Ryo offers this deep cleaning and cooling shampoo designed for scalps dealing with product buildup, dandruff, and smelly strands.