Derms Say There Are Two Types Of Dandruff And Different Shampoos For Each (2025)

After considering several dandruff shampoos for women and chatting with testers with years of experience treating white flakes, we found that Neutrogena's T/Sal Therapeutic Shampoo came out on top because it's effective, but gentle on the scalp.

This derm-favorite is powered by salicylic acid, which is an ingredient most associated with treating acne that can also clarify the scalp. "By eliminating excess oil on the scalp and acting as a gentle exfoliant, this shampoo helps address symptoms of dandruff while also being free of added color, preservatives, and fragrance," says Brendan Camp, MD, a double board-certified dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology in NYC.

We can attest to this shampoo's efficacy. One WH contributor has been using it to treat a dry scalp for many years. "I love that it's clear, doesn't sting your scalp the way some other products I've tried do, and is relatively gentle on my color-treated hair," she says. More importantly, she notices a significant reduction in white flakes both in her hair and on her shoulders when she uses this shampoo consistently. We also like that it's fragrance-free for more sensitive skin types.

Read more: Best Shampoos For Oily Hair

This classic from Head & Shoulders is formulated with the brand's scalp shield technology that provides you with 72-hour dandruff protection. It's powered by pyrithione zinc, an ingredient Kobets say works very well to soothe a dry scalp and provide itch relief.

We like its milky formula, which more closely resembles your average shampoo. It also has a fresh and clean scent that is much more pleasing than your average dandruff shampoo, including that of our top overall pick. "I've used this product to calm my itchy scalp on and off for years," says WH contributor Brigitt Earley. "I'm always surprised by how lightweight and soft my wavy hair feels after using it."

If you're looking for a treatment that's pretty close to prescription strength, this is the option for you. Nizoral's shampoo contains a special ingredient called ketoconazole. "It's an antifungal ingredient that helps address excess yeast on the scalp that contributes to symptoms of dandruff, namely redness, itching, and flaking," says Camp. He recommends using it twice a week for best results.

Compared to other shampoos, the seven-ounce bottle is on the smaller side, but we find a little bit seems to go a long way. It lathers well, doesn't have an overwhelming scent, and users say it almost entirely relieved itchiness and flakes within a month or two. But don't be surprised: The product has a deep blue hue. It won't make your hair blue, but those with colored hair should proceed with caution since there are anecdotes online about people experiencing hair discoloration after continued use of it.

Those with an oily scalp will likely appreciate this option from CLn. "Shampoos like this that contain salicylic acid help address dandruff by clearing the scalp of excess oil and dead skin cells, which helps lessen symptoms like itching and flaking," says Dr. Camp. We love that it's hypoallergenic and fragrance-free, too—especially important for those with sensitive, easily-irritated skin.

It does have quite a strong medicinal scent, but it's a small sacrifice to make for the results we've seen. Users say the product is highly effective at quelling itchiness, plus reducing the amount of flakes they spot. Some say it's so effective that it works in just a few shampoo washes.

Medicated with menthol, this anti-dandruff shampoo is made with a max-strength selenium sulfide formula that'll soothe the scalp while giving the skin a cooling and soothing sensation. That feeling offers immediate relief from intense itching and discomfort.

One thing we love about it is how well it lathers on the scalp, so a little bit goes a long way, adding to its overall value. "The menthol makes your scalp tingle—but in a good way," one user says. "I develop significantly less scabs on my scalp as a result of scratching when I use this product regularly," she says. It reduces flaking, too, so you're less tempted to go in and scratch.

A shampoo made with active acids, this shampoo aims to reduce product buildup and extra oil, while still hydrating the scalp. "The inclusion of both alpha and beta-hydroxy acids in this dandruff-relieving shampoo helps to eliminate and prevent scalp itching, irritation, and redness," Dr. Camp says. It's also powerful enough to detoxify and cleanse, thanks to salicylic, lactic acids, and binchotan charcoal.

While experts say you only need to use the shampoo twice per week to reap results, the brand says it's gentle enough for daily use and won't strip the hair of important vitamins and nutrients. Users say they saw noticeable results in just a few washes, but warn that there is an adjustment period in which the scalp may shed even more as the actives work their magic. Give it a few weeks before you decide to move on.

If your dandruff presents itself in the form of flakes due to dryness, this shampoo is a great go-to. "Containing both zinc omadine and coal tar, this high-end shampoo also employs a combination of botanicals to relieve symptoms associated with dandruff and scalp psoriasis," Dr. Camp says.

Users say it's "truly a miracle-worker," particularly for oily, dry, and easily-irritated scalps. Yes, it's on the more expensive side, but it's a worthy splurge since it really works and functions more like conventional haircare products. It's gentle enough for daily use and includes nourishing ingredients, like aloe vera to calm the scalp and condition hair, and castol oil for even more hydration. The subtle apple scent is a nice bonus, too.

This shampoo doesn't contain the same active ingredients (salicylic acid, zinc pyrithione, etc.) that other dedicated dandruff shampoos do, but it's great for those with a mild case who prefer to use luxe haircare. The apple cider vinegar in the formula works to get rid of product buildup, dirt, and oil to give strands a nice refresh. It also contains keratin to help strengthen the hair to prevent breakage over time.

"I used this shampoo before we got a water softener," one user says. "It did an excellent job keeping my scalp and hair smoother, plus it has the yummiest rose scent," she tells WH. The clarifying ingredients will prevent product buildup that can lead to excess flaking and itchiness.

Meet the Experts

• Kseniya Kobets, MD, MHS, FAAD is a board-certified dermatologist in New York City.
• Brendan Camp, MD, is a double board-certified dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology in New York City.
• Dr. Heather Woolery-Lloyd, MD, FAAD, is a board-certified dermatologist in Miami.

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