The right dandruff shampoo can keep dandruff off your scalp and leave your head healthy! Dandruff affects a lot of people. It's annoyingーgiving you an itchy scalp and leaving white flakes on your shoulders. However, it isn't anything to be ashamed of as it can easily be treated with proper scalp and hair care.
Quick List - Top Dandruff Shampoos
Selsun Blue
Medicinal Selenium Sulfide Shampoo with Menthol & French Honey for Itchy, Oily Scalp
Nizoral
Medicated Ketoconazole Shampoo for Persistent Dandruff & Itchy Scalp
Head & Shoulders
Soothing Menthol Shampoo with Pyrithione Zinc for Itchy, Flaky Scalp
Dove
Hydrating Pyrithione Zinc Shampoo for Flake‑Free, Soft Hair
Dr. Katrina Habaluyas Luz is the face behind Ask Your Derma. She is a board-certified dermatologist in Metro Manila. She is also an educator and digital creator on all things skin, hair, and nails. She is a Diplomate of the Philippine Dermatological Society and offers online video consultations. You can also catch her on her Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube channel.
Our recommendation articles are carefully researched and crafted by the mybest Philippines team of writers and editors. To stay true to our company’s mission and vision to help users’ selection process easier, we also collaborate with experts from various fields to ensure that our content stays factual and useful.
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.
Table of Contents
Every mybest article is crafted with hours of in-depth research and interviews with experts. Each month, we are continually expanding our database of products based on our research. By emphasizing user insight and reliable information, we deliver trustworthy content to readers.
Medicinal Selenium Sulfide Shampoo with Menthol & French Honey for Itchy, Oily Scalp
Medicated Ketoconazole Shampoo for Persistent Dandruff & Itchy Scalp
Soothing Menthol Shampoo with Pyrithione Zinc for Itchy, Flaky Scalp
Hydrating Pyrithione Zinc Shampoo for Flake‑Free, Soft Hair
Herbal Menthol 2‑in‑1 for Flake‑Free, Refreshed Scalp
Natural Anti-Dandruff Shampoo with Mint & Charcoal for Scalp Refreshment
Experience Soft, Manageable Hair With Sakura-Infused Care
Product buildup in itself doesn't typically cause dandruff. It's more of if a person is unable to wash product off regularly, then irritation can potentially develop. And one of the signs of an irritated scalp can include flaking.
When dealing with the pesky issue of dandruff, choosing the right shampoo can make all the difference. In this buying guide, we will explore the essential factors to keep in mind when selecting an anti-dandruff shampoo.
To ensure efficacy, look for active ingredients such as zinc pyrithione, selenium sulfide, ketoconazole, piroctone olamine, and octopirox. These target the root causes of dandruff, often related to the overgrowth of Malassezia and fungal or yeast infections on the scalp. By inhibiting the growth of these microorganisms, they alleviate dandruff symptoms like flaking, itching, and redness.
Over-the-counter medicated shampoos commonly include zinc pyrithione, which aids in scalp healing by regulating epithelial keratinization and sebum production. Meanwhile, in clinical settings, their preferred choice is typically a ketoconazole shampoo, known for its antifungal properties.
When choosing a dandruff shampoo, the most important is the active ingredient and its established effectiveness for targeting the causes of dandruff. Dandruff is typically caused by a yeast called Malassezia, so it's important that the ingredient incorporated into the shampoo is effective at targeting this.
To counter dandruff shampoo's potentially drying active ingredients, look for hydrating ingredients such as glycerin and coconut oil. Glycerin helps keep the hair moisturized, preventing dryness and dehydration. It can also help control frizz and improve manageability by maintaining the hair's moisture balance.
Coconut oil, on the other hand, is rich in fatty acids, which penetrate the hair shaft to provide deep hydration, preventing dryness. It can also condition the hair to make it softer, more manageable, shinier, and healthier.
Moisturizing ingredients are helpful to balance out the dryness of the scalp baseline as well as the compounding effects dandruff shampoos can have. Ingredients such as glycerin are cheap yet effective.
Studies have also shown that hair oils can penetrate the hair and reduce the amount of water absorbed in the hair, leading to less swelling. They can also fill the gap between the cuticle cells and prevent the penetration of aggressive substances, such as surfactants, into the follicle.
If you are dealing with an oily scalp, additional ingredients such as niacinamide can be helpful. It helps balance oil production and reduce excess sebum on the scalp to alleviate the grease and shine associated with an oily scalp. Moreover, it also supports the skin's natural barrier function, which can improve the overall health of the scalp and reduce proneness to dandruff.
However, be aware that menthol is not an ingredient that can be used by everyone. Menthol can be a bit irritating, especially to people with sensitive skin types. Hence, it's best to patch-test first and make sure you don't develop an adverse reaction.
If you have mild to moderate dandruff, possibly a dandruff shampoo can help. However, for severe cases of flaking, if there are signs of redness, itching, or dandruff that don't seem to improve, then consulting with a board-certified dermatologist is due for proper assessment and advice.
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | Details | ||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Active Ingredients | Hydrating Ingredients | Best for | Net Weight | |||||
1 | Selsun Blue Pro‑X Extra Strength Shampoo | ![]() | Medicinal Selenium Sulfide Shampoo with Menthol & French Honey for Itchy, Oily Scalp | Selenium Sulfide 1% | French honey extract, Dimethiconol | Itchy Scalp、Oily Scalp | 120 mL | |
2 | Nizoral Ketoconazole Dandruff Shampoo Maximum Treatment | ![]() | Medicated Ketoconazole Shampoo for Persistent Dandruff & Itchy Scalp | Ketoconazole 2% | Itchy Scalp | 6 mL | ||
3 | Head & Shoulders Cool Menthol Anti‑Dandruff Shampoo | ![]() | Soothing Menthol Shampoo with Pyrithione Zinc for Itchy, Flaky Scalp | Pyrithione Zinc 1% | Dimethicone, Zinc Carbonate | Itchy Scalp | 1200 mL | |
4 | Dove Dermacare Scalp Soothing Moisture Anti-Dandruff Shampoo | ![]() | Hydrating Pyrithione Zinc Shampoo for Flake‑Free, Soft Hair | Pyrithione Zinc 1% | Almond Oil, Panthenol, Sunflower Seed Oil | Dry Scalp、Itchy Scalp | 320 mL | |
5 | Moringa-O2 2-in-1 Herbal Anti-Dandruff Shampoo and Conditioner with Argan Oil | Herbal Menthol 2‑in‑1 for Flake‑Free, Refreshed Scalp | Rosebay extract, Menthol | Moringa, Olive, Sunflower, Argan oils; Aloe & ceramides | Itchy Scalp、Oily Scalp | 350 mL | ||
6 | Yves Rocher Anti Dandruff Shampoo | ![]() | Eco-Friendly, Gentle Dandruff Treatment With Plant-Based Formula | Organic White Nettle, Peppermint Oil, Piroctone Olamine | Butylene Glycol, Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride, Fructooligosaccharides, Inulin, Glyceryl Oleate, Caprylyl Glycol, Hydrogenated Vegetable Glycerides Citrate, Vitamin E | Oily Scalp | 300mL | |
7 | Human Nature Anti-Dandruff Shampoo for Men | ![]() | Natural Anti-Dandruff Shampoo with Mint & Charcoal for Scalp Refreshment | PureProtect Actives (sugarcane, beet, coconut oil), Bamboo Charcoal | Aloe vera, Glycerin, Betain | Oily Scalp、Itchy Scalp | 180 mL | |
8 | Clear Women Anti-Dandruff Shampoo Complete Soft Care | ![]() | Experience Soft, Manageable Hair With Sakura-Infused Care | Piroctone Olamine, Sodium Salicylate | Glycerin, Sunflower Seed Oil, Dimethicone, Dimethiconol, Cocamidopropyl Betaine | Dry Scalp | 880mL | |
9 | Luxe Organix Dandruff Control Silky Smooth Shampoo | ![]() | Lessens Flakes Without Stripping Natural Oils | Zinc Pyrithione, Magnesium Chloride, Magnesium Nitrate, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Bisabolol, Green Tea Leaf Extract, Chrysanthellum Indicum Extract, Panax Ginseng Extract | Cocoamidopropyl Betaine, Cocamide MEA, Polyquaternium-10, Glycerin, Dimethicone, Acrylates Copolymer, Sodium Chloride | Dry Scalp | 240mL | |
10 | GARD Anti-Dandruff Refreshing Menthol Shampoo | ![]() | Cooling Menthol Shampoo with ZO‑Plus Formula for Flake-Free, Refreshed Scalp | Climbazole, Menthol | Dimethicone, Peppermint & Eucalyptus Extracts | Itchy Scalp、Oily Scalp | 600 mL |
Users report immediate itch relief and a super clean, cool feel after use. Many share that it cleared persistent flakes — even with severe dandruff, and maintained scalp health with once or twice-weekly use. Some caution it can dry out hair, so they suggest pairing it with conditioner.
Active Ingredients | Selenium Sulfide 1% |
---|---|
Hydrating Ingredients | French honey extract, Dimethiconol |
Best for | Itchy Scalp、Oily Scalp |
Net Weight | 120 mL |
Features and benefits:
Users commonly report immediate relief from itching and flaking. Many cite smoother, dandruff-free scalp after just two washes. Some note it’s stronger than OTC versions, and recommend spacing washes to avoid dryness.
Active Ingredients | Ketoconazole 2% |
---|---|
Hydrating Ingredients | |
Best for | Itchy Scalp |
Net Weight | 6 mL |
Features and benefits:
Customers often mention that it instantly cools and refreshes the scalp while effectively reducing flakes and itchiness. Many appreciate how it lathers well yet rinses clean and prevents dandruff when used regularly. A few users note it may dry the hair if overused, especially without a hydrating conditioner.
Active Ingredients | Pyrithione Zinc 1% |
---|---|
Hydrating Ingredients | Dimethicone, Zinc Carbonate |
Best for | Itchy Scalp |
Net Weight | 1200 mL |
Features and benefits:
Many users say this shampoo effectively reduces flakes while keeping the hair soft and manageable. Others highlight that it soothes itching without causing dryness. The creamy formula and fresh scent are also commonly appreciated, especially for daily use on dry, sensitive scalps.
Active Ingredients | Pyrithione Zinc 1% |
---|---|
Hydrating Ingredients | Almond Oil, Panthenol, Sunflower Seed Oil |
Best for | Dry Scalp、Itchy Scalp |
Net Weight | 320 mL |
Features and benefits:
Many users say this product instantly soothes itchiness and reduces flakes without drying the hair. They praise the cooling feel and natural ingredient blend. One reviewer noted it’s effective in rebalancing oily scalp but recommended deeper conditioning for extra moisture.
Active Ingredients | Rosebay extract, Menthol |
---|---|
Hydrating Ingredients | Moringa, Olive, Sunflower, Argan oils; Aloe & ceramides |
Best for | Itchy Scalp、Oily Scalp |
Net Weight | 350 mL |
Struggling with dandruff and looking for a natural solution? Yves Rocher Anti Dandruff Shampoo might be just what you need. Packed with 96% natural ingredients like organic agave and white nettle, it effectively reduces dandruff and supports a healthier scalp. Additionally, salicylic acid works to target the microorganisms responsible for dandruff, while the botanical cleansing base gently cleanses without stripping essential oils.
Reviewers appreciate the shampoo’s light, fruity fragrance, which is a refreshing change from the chemical-heavy scents of most dandruff shampoos. What's more, this shampoo is free from silicones, parabens, and colorants, making it a gentle yet powerful choice for those prone to dandruff. Plus, its biodegradable formula and recyclable bottle reflect Yves Rocher's commitment to eco-friendly practices.
Active Ingredients | Organic White Nettle, Peppermint Oil, Piroctone Olamine |
---|---|
Hydrating Ingredients | Butylene Glycol, Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride, Fructooligosaccharides, Inulin, Glyceryl Oleate, Caprylyl Glycol, Hydrogenated Vegetable Glycerides Citrate, Vitamin E |
Best for | Oily Scalp |
Net Weight | 300mL |
Features and benefits:
Many report instantly cool and clean scalp after use, with dandruff reduced after a few weeks. Users praise its refreshing minty scent and sanitizing feel. Others said it , although it can feel drying if used daily.
Active Ingredients | PureProtect Actives (sugarcane, beet, coconut oil), Bamboo Charcoal |
---|---|
Hydrating Ingredients | Aloe vera, Glycerin, Betain |
Best for | Oily Scalp、Itchy Scalp |
Net Weight | 180 mL |
Active Ingredients | Piroctone Olamine, Sodium Salicylate |
---|---|
Hydrating Ingredients | Glycerin, Sunflower Seed Oil, Dimethicone, Dimethiconol, Cocamidopropyl Betaine |
Best for | Dry Scalp |
Net Weight | 880mL |
Active Ingredients | Zinc Pyrithione, Magnesium Chloride, Magnesium Nitrate, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Bisabolol, Green Tea Leaf Extract, Chrysanthellum Indicum Extract, Panax Ginseng Extract |
---|---|
Hydrating Ingredients | Cocoamidopropyl Betaine, Cocamide MEA, Polyquaternium-10, Glycerin, Dimethicone, Acrylates Copolymer, Sodium Chloride |
Best for | Dry Scalp |
Net Weight | 240mL |
Many users report noticeable reduction in dandruff and a cool, refreshed scalp sensation after just a few washes, even in hot, humid weather. The shampoo’s minty scent and gentle conditioning effects are frequently praised, with several mentioning they avoid dryness by pairing it with a conditioner.
Active Ingredients | Climbazole, Menthol |
---|---|
Hydrating Ingredients | Dimethicone, Peppermint & Eucalyptus Extracts |
Best for | Itchy Scalp、Oily Scalp |
Net Weight | 600 mL |
It's difficult to differentiate these as it would depend on the clinical eye of the doctor as well as other information in the patient's history, such as if it is recurring or has accompanying symptoms such as itching and redness, amongst others.
Dandruff is generally loose flakes and may have a yellowish hue or greasy appearance. Meanwhile, the flakes typically are dry, smaller, and white with a dry scalp.
Some practical tips for controlling dandruff:
Itchy scalp keeping you up all night? Let's put those worries aside as Dr. Katrina Luz answers some of the most asked questions online in the section below. Continue reading to find out more!
The frequency and duration of use depend on several factors, including the dandruff's severity and the active ingredients incorporated in it.
It depends. For someone who has had recurrent dandruff, this is a possible option. However, since these shampoos can also be drying once dandruff has resolved, they can be slowly weaned off from daily to once-a-week use until discontinued.
Using conditioners is a good hair care practice that can make the ease of brushing better but also provide a pleasant scent to one's hair as well.
A dandruff shampoo should be stopped depending on the active ingredient. Usually, for shampoos with antifungal components, at least four weeks of usage is needed as part of the treatment. Consulting with a board-certified dermatologist is key.
Haircare doesn't stop at shampoo. There are lots of products and tools that can keep your locks healthy and well-maintained. A proper conditioner takes extra care of your hair during the washing process. Hairbrushes need to be gentle and help your hair detangle properly. Hair dryers are perfect for styling your hair to achieve that perfect look. Here are our top 10 conditioners, hairbrushes, and hair dryers.
Re-editor: Valerie Lagura, Danielle Trinidad
Our buying guide was carefully researched and crafted by the mybest team of writers and editors, in collaboration with the expert featured in this article. We used the buying guide as a basis for choosing and ranking the product recommendations, and we looked at reviews and ratings from different E-commerce sites like Lazada, Shopee, and more.
No. 1: Selsun Blue |Pro‑X Extra Strength Shampoo
No. 2: Nizoral |Ketoconazole Dandruff Shampoo Maximum Treatment
No. 3: Head & Shoulders|Cool Menthol Anti‑Dandruff Shampoo
No. 4: Dove |Dermacare Scalp Soothing Moisture Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
No. 5: Moringa-O2|2-in-1 Herbal Anti-Dandruff Shampoo and Conditioner with Argan Oil
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
Beauty
Health
Household goods
PCs and laptops
Home appliances and electronics
Cameras
Food and drinks
Kitchen supplies
Clothing
Shoes
Accessories
Mom and baby
Interior and furniture
Hobbies
Outdoor
DIY and tools
Sports and fitness
Pets
Books, CDs, and DVDs
Games
Cars and motorcycles
Gifts
Home improvement and tools
Smartphones and tablets
Banking and finance
Insurance
Audio
Smartphone applications
Others