Top 10 Best Anti Dandruff Shampoo for Men in India

Anti Dandruff Shampoo: Hi guys, Are you suffering from dandruff? I can understand that men gets irritating and conscious when they have dandruff problem. This is because when we wear black T shirts, shirts etc then the dandruff flakes look embarrassing. Not only that the itching etc can be annoying while we are busy doing work in office or while taking a lecture in college, So, does that happened with you too? Yes, when we have dandruff, things like that happens. So what is the solution. You can either try anti dandruff shampoos and anti dandruff hair oils. In this post guys, I will be sharing the best anti dandruff shampoos that men can try to get rid of the dandruff problem. Let see these anti dandruff shampoo.

In A Hurry? Our Top Picks:

SaleBestseller No. 1
Bare Anatomy Anti Dandruff Shampoo | Reduces Up to 100% Dandruff and Strengthens Hair | Derma Approved Shampoo with Salicylic Acid & Biotin | Shampoo For All Hair types | For Women And Men | 250ml
  • GIVES OIL AND FRIZZ FREE HAIR: With conditioning properties to promote blood circulation and moisturise the scalp to ensure grease free and frizz free hair.
  • SALICYLIC ACID 0.2%w/w: Salicylic Acid targets the dandruff-causing fungus. It also acts as a gentle exfoliant, which helps in the shedding of dead skin cells.
  • BIOTIN: An essential nutrient, Biotin promotes healthy hair. It strengthens and thickens the strands while preventing hair loss.
  • CLEAN & SUSTAINABLE BEAUTY: Paraben, Pththalates & Sulphate free vegan ingredients with EU standards of safety and made cruelty free
SaleBestseller No. 2
Pilgrim Australian Tea Tree Non-Drying Anti-Dandruff Shampoo 200 ml | Removes Dandruff from Source | Helps with Itching, Irritation | Strong & Smooth Hair | For Men & Women |
  • ✅Clinically Tested: Up To 100% Dandruff Reduction*:Effectiveness confirmed: this shampoo gently cleanses the scalp, removing excess sebum and dandruff-causing bacteria.
  • ✅Reduces Visible Flakes From 1st Wash*:Expertly crafted, gently exfoliates while Piroctone Olamine soothes. Say goodbye to dandruff flakes from Day 1!
  • ✅Non-drying & Conditioning Formula:This shampoo stands out with its non-drying formula with moisturizing ingredients as compared to other anti-dandruff shampoos.
  • ✅Prevents Dandruff Recurrence:Worried it will come back? Cutibiome CLR and Zinc Pyrithione (ZPT) balance the scalp's natural flora, reducing flare-ups.
  • Salicylic Acid - It has 0.01% of Salicylic Acid in the product. It helps in exfoliating flakes, Unclogs hair follicles, promotes scalp health.
SaleBestseller No. 5
Selsun Daily Anti Dandruff Shampoo, Clears away dandruff flakes, Relieves from dandruff related itching, Conditions hair (120ml)
  • Selsun Daily by Abbott is a regular anti-dandruff shampoo with an added conditioner
  • Selsun Daily targets the fungi causing dandruff and relieves from dandruff related itching and flaking. Furthermore, it controls excessive oiliness and production of new flakes
  • Its pH balanced, sulphate free and paraben free formula is gentle on scalp
  • Selsun Daily anti-dandruff shampoo can be used by both men and women
  • Usage: Massage Selsun Daily onto the wet scalp to form lather and keep for 3-4 minutes. Rinse the scalp thoroughly Quantity: 120ml
SaleBestseller No. 6
Mamaearth Lemon Anti-Dandruff Shampoo with Lemon & Ginger for Itchy & Flaky Scalp – 250 ml
  • REDUCES DANDRUFF: Enriched with the goodness of Lemon & Zinc Pyrithione, the shampoo reduces dandruff and gets rid of of flakes, leaving your scalp clean.
  • GENTLY CLEANSES: Made with nourishing ingredients, the Shampoo gently cleanses the scalp and hair without drying your tresses.
  • SOOTHES ITCHY SCALP: Excessive dandruff can cause itchiness and discomfort. Infused with Ginger, the shampoo soothes itchiness & relieves irritation.
  • MADE SAFE CERTIFIED: Safe for all hair types, the Lemon Anti-Dandruff Shampoo is crafted with natural ingredients and is Made Safe certified.

Which is best shampoo for dandruff for men?

Top 10 Best Anti Dandruff Shampoos for Men in India

Here is the list of the top best shampoos suitable to control dandruff in men. These can be tried everyday by men who like to keep the hair shinier and free of dandruff.

1. Head & Shoulders Cool Menthol Shampoo 

Head & Shoulders Cool Menthol Shampoo

Head & Shoulders is the leader in dandruff controlling shampoos.The shampoo is also rich in the menthol that gives cooling sensation after you have washed the hair. It shows the results right from the first wash itself. Head & Shoulders Cool Menthol Shampoo is one of the freshest and liveliest shampoos from the H&S portfolio. It is intensely refreshing, with a shot of tingly menthol for revitalizing freshness, leaving hair up to 100% dandruff free!

2. Satthwa Anti-Dandruff Shampoo with Tea Tree & Lemon Oil

Satthwa Anti-Dandruff Shampoo with Tea Tree & Lemon Oil

An anti-dandruff shampoo with active ingredients like argan oil, almond oil, jojoba oil, tea tree oil & lemon oil help fight the toughest dandruff. The shampoo is SLS & Paraben Free which also ensures that your hair stays smoother.

3. Ustraa Anti Dandruff Shampoo

Ustraa Anti Dandruff Shampoo

Ustraa anti dandruff shampoo is packed with ginger and tea tree extracts. It reduces the dryness while getting rid of the dandruff flakes. Additionally, this shampoo is sulphate and paraben free. It’s the best men’s dandruff care product in India. It’s non-drying formula ensures smoothness of the hair cuticle. Tea tree helps fights dandruff effectively.

SaleBestseller No. 1
Ustraa Anti-Dandruff Shampoo 250ml - With Climbazole, Ginger & Tea Tree Oil, Controls Dandruff, No Sulphates, No Parabens, No Silicone, No Mineral Oil
  • Your Defense Against Hair Fall: this shampoo helps fight hair loss and strengthen weakening hair.
  • Fights Dandruff with Tea Tree Oil & Other Speciality Actives.
  • Anti Inflammatory properties with Ginger. Non Drying properties that keeps hair moisturized.
  • For Every Bro : this shampoo is good for all hair & scalp types. Give your hair a proper wash twice a week and you'll yourself see the difference.
  • No Harmful Chemicals : This Ustraa Shampoo is Sulphates and Paraben free
SaleBestseller No. 2
Ustraa Anti Dandruff Shampoo - 250 ml x 2 | Controls Dandruff & Prevents Flakes | Dryness & Itch-relief | With Ginger & Tea Tree Oil | No SLS, Paraben-free.
  • Your Defense Against Hair Fall: this shampoo helps fight hair loss and strengthen weakening hair.
  • Power of Apple Cider Vinegar : being acidic in nature, is known to make hair lustrous and gives shine to dry and dull hair.
  • Power of Ginseng: an ancient Chinese ingredient that is known to prevent hair loss and helps strengthen weak and falling hair.
  • For Every Bro : this shampoo is good for all hair & scalp types. Give your hair a proper wash twice a week and you'll yourself see the difference.
  • No Harmful Chemicals : This Ustraa Shampoo is Sulphates and Paraben free.

4. VLCC Dandruff Control Shampoo 

VLCC Dandruff Control Shampoo

This is rich in the dandruff controlling ingredients that will not dry the scalp or hair but will cleanse the dandruff easily. Furthermore, this will also prevent the dandruff infection as dandruff is caused by a fungal infection. You can get this dandruff control shampoo for pocket friendly prices. Also check out the dry hair shampoos for men if your hair is dry and dull. Please note that packaging has changed.

SaleBestseller No. 1
VLCC Dandruff Care & Control Shampoo - B1G1 - 350ml X 2 (700ml) | Anti-Dandruff Shampoo | Scalp Health, Deep Scalp Cleaning | With Orange & Lemon Oil.
  • VLCC Dandruff Care & Control Shampoo helps effectively eliminate dandruff and give you lustrous, shiny hair.
  • It's a unique combination of Rosemary and Mint reduces dandruff effectively without removing hair moisture.
  • The anti-bacterial property of Rosemary Oil protects against scalp infection and removes dandruff.
  • Mint Leaf Extract soothes, conditions, and revitalizes the scalp and Gives a cooling effect
  • VLCC Dandruff Care & Control Shampoo contains some Key Ingredients: Orange and Lemon
SaleBestseller No. 2
VLCC Dandruff Care & Control Shampoo - B1G1-350ml X 2 (700ml) | Anti-Dandruff Shampoo | Scalp Health, Deep Scalp Cleaning | With Orange & Lemon Oil.
  • VLCC Dandruff Care & Control Shampoo helps effectively eliminate dandruff and give you lustrous, shiny hair.
  • It's a unique combination of Rosemary and Mint reduces dandruff effectively without removing hair moisture.
  • The anti-bacterial property of Rosemary Oil protects against scalp infection and removes dandruff.
  • Mint Leaf Extract soothes, conditions, and revitalizes the scalp and Gives a cooling effect
  • VLCC Dandruff Care & Control Shampoo contains some Key Ingredients: Orange and Lemon

5. Oriflame Nature Secrets Shampoo Anti-Dandruff 

Oriflame Nature Secrets Shampoo Anti-Dandruff

This Oriflame anti dandruff shampoo is quite effective and eliminates the dandruff with the organic formula.  It is filled with the burdock and grapefruit extracts which helps to cure the dandruff and gives shine to the hair. Regular use of this shampoo product aids in maintaining lustrous and smooth dandruff free hair.

SaleBestseller No. 1
Earthy Secrets Anti Dandruff Shampoo with Tea tree oil
  • Earthy Secrets Anti Dandruff Shampoo with Tea tree oil
SaleBestseller No. 2
NATURE LEAGUE–Rosemary Anti-Dandruff & Anti-Hair Fall Shampoo, With Rosemary Extract, Pyrithione Zinc, Tea Tree Oil, Aloevera & Vitamin-E, Sulphate & Paraben Free, 1000ml
  • Stronger hair with hair fall under total control, enriched with Rosemary extract, a powerful nutrient, the Rosemary Anti-Dandruff & Anti-Hair fall shampoo strengthens the hair follicles and hair strands....
  • Infused with Pyrithione Zinc 1%, this Rosemary Anti-Dandruff and Ant-Hair Fall Shampoo clear dead skin cells and treat several conditions that prevent hair growth, such as clogged hair follicles and dead...
  • Crafted with Tea Tree Oil – diluted tea tree oil down the shaft of the hair will help prevent build-up of chemicals and dead skin cells. This keeps the hair healthy and moisturized, which can help it...
  • The combination of Wonder ingredients for hair - Aloevera and Vitamin-E , which provides magical remedies to the hair by stimulating hair growth , preventing dandruff , promoting scalp health, reducing...
  • This shampoo is free from Sulphate, Parabens & Silicone & it strengthens , restores shine of the hair & nourishes hair , stimulates hair growth and reduces dandruff and hair fall.

6. Trichup Anti Dandruff Shampoo 

Trichup Anti Dandruff Shampoo

Trichup Anti Dandruff Shampoo is for the dandruff control shampoo with powerful herbs. This dandruff treating Shampoo is made of powerful herbs, rosemary and Tea tree oil which give a natural scent and purity to this shampoo. You can get this online and is able to control the dandruff from the first few usages only.

Bestseller No. 1
Trichup Anti- Dandruff Herbal Shampoo - Enriched with Neem, Rosemary & Tea Tree Oil - Protect Scalp Skin from Causes of Dandruff (200ml)
  • It is further enriched with extract of herbs which together help in control and prevention of dandruff.
  • Trichup Anti Dandruff Shampoo contains natural goodness of exotic essential oils like oils like Tea tree oil and Rosemary oil.
  • Stops itching & skin exfoliation and provides dandruff-free hair
  • For effective dandruff treatment, it has been a preferred choice millions.
  • Restore normal health of scalp
SaleBestseller No. 2
Trichup Anti-Dandruff Kit (Anti-Dandruff Oil (100ml), Anti-Dandruff Shampoo (200ml) (PACK OF 2)
  • Removes & protects from dandruff
  • It removes excess oil from the scalp & keeps the skin clean.
  • Keeps your hair clean, lustrous and free from flakes and itching.
  • It has anti-bacterial and anti-fungal agent
  • Dandruff. Just the word is enough to provoke embarrassment in those who struggle with it.

7. Joy Hair Fruits Conditioning Shampoo Dandruff Control

Joy Hair Fruits Conditioning Shampoo Dandruff Control

Joy Hair Fruits Dandruff Control Fortifying Shampoo is rich in the Lemon and Olive. Olive is beneficial in giving moisture to the hair and also for the hair strength. While lemon is good for eliminating the dandruff flakes. You know friends, lemon juice is acidic hence it will cure the dandruff and gives a fresh feel to the scalp. Moreover, the oil build up that we have on the scalp will also be cleared off with this shampoo, hence this is also a great shampoo or oily limp hair. 

8. Khadi Natural Herbal Neem Sat Shampoo

Khadi Natural Herbal Neem Sat Shampoo

Khadi shampoo is rich in neem extracts. Neem sat shampoo is ideal for people with extreme dandruff as neem is anti fungal in nature. Dandruff is caused by fungi hence the natural ingredients that helps to eradicate the fungus will be helpful in curing the dandruff from the face. This is priced very budget range, hence, even if you wash the hair everyday it will last for 7-8 weeks. It also contains Tulsi extracts which is also a great anti bacterial and anti fungal product hence you get maximum benefits.

SaleBestseller No. 1
Khadi Natural Neem Sat Hair Shampoo for Thick & Strong Hair | Natural Hair Cleanser for Healthy Hair |Paraben & Sulphate-Free |Suitable for All Hair Types, 210ml
  • CNeem Sat is a mild hair cleanser that gently removes dirt and grime from hair without stripping away the natural oils. It has excellent antibacterial properties that fight dandruff and calm scalp itching.
  • Nourishes Hair: With the goodness of neem and sat, this hair shampoo nourishes each hair strand while making them healthy, soft, and shiny.; MakeThis hair shampoo with neem & sat helps control hair fall...
  • Natural Made: The shampoo is made from natural ingredients and is devoid of synthetic preservatives, artificial colours, & sulphates, parabens, and SLS. This bottle contains pure bliss from love and care.
  • We LOVEThe shampoo is dermatologically tested and can be used on all skin types. We love animals and are against animal cruelty. All our products are ISO, WHO, GMP Certified.
  • Ingredients: Neem Satreetha HennUnisex
SaleBestseller No. 2
Khadi Natural Neem Sat Hair Conditioner | Anti-Hair Fall Conditioner | Herbal Hair Conditioner for Controlling Dandruff | Suitable for All Hair Types
  • Formulated with neem, this conditioner effectively targets dandruff while minimizing hair fall for healthier hair.
  • Helps restore and maintain the natural pH of the scalp, promoting a healthy environment for hair growth.
  • Deeply cleanses the scalp and hair roots, removing impurities and buildup for refreshed and rejuvenated hair.
  • The powerful antiseptic qualities of neem protect against scalp infections, keeping your scalp healthy and irritation-free.
  • Gentle yet effective, this herbal conditioner is perfect for all hair types, providing nourishing care for everyone.

9. Lotus Kera-Veda Shikakai-Amla Herbal Shampoo

Lotus Kera-Veda Shikakai-Amla Herbal Shampoo

Lotus herbals amlapura herbal shampoo is blended with amla, shikakai, reetha. These three herbs are powerful to control the dandruff and also hair fall. So, if you are facing hair fall due to dandruff then do try this lotus herbals kera-veda shikakai – amla herbal shampoo. This anti dandruff shampoo is efficient when used thrice in a week.

Bestseller No. 1
Lotus Herbals Amlapura Shikakai Amla Herbal Shampoo, 200ml
  • Quantity: foam
  • Lotus herbals; Hair care, strong hair
  • Usage: apply liberally to wet hair and work lather through strands, from scalp to ends. Rinse well with water
  • Target audience: men and women
  • Target Gender: Unisex

10. Biotique Bio Margosa Anti Dandruff Shampoo

Biotique Bio Margosa Anti Dandruff Shampoo

This Biotique shampoo for dandruff is the best solution to get smooth and clear scalp. This is a refreshing formula which is a blend of the margosa which is neem and euphorbia along with the bhringraj herb to control dandruff. It is also ideal for relieving the dryness, scalp itchiness and maintain the pH balance of the scalp.

SaleBestseller No. 1
BIOTIQUE BIO NEEM Margosa Anti-Dandruff Shampoo & Conditioner (680 ml)
  • Anti-dandruff Shampoo
  • Ideal For: Men & Women
  • Suitable For: All Hair Types

Before You Buy: Things To Consider When Purchasing Dandruff Shampoo

Dandruff shampoo is different from regular shampoo in that it addresses a specific problem. And if you’re a man who suffers from dandruff, you’d love to see the problem vanish as quickly as possible.

Choosing the right dandruff shampoo for you depends on a variety of factors – each of which should determine your buying decision. It also means looking at each shampoo’s list of ingredients.

The importance of selecting the right shampoo for your hair cannot be overemphasized. This is mainly due to the fact that the wrong shampoo could wreak a lot of havoc on your hair and even make your dandruff condition worse.

Therefore in discussing how to get rid of dandruff, we have to also take a look at the various factors that would influence your choice of purchase.

1. Cause

Knowing exactly what is causing your dandruff is essential to determining the exact shampoo to buy, this is mainly because various shampoos are manufactured to tackle dandruff based on the cause. For instance:

  • If you have dead skin buildup as the cause of your dandruff problem, you would need to make use of shampoo(s) containing coal tar and salicylic acid. However, daily usage of theses shampoos could lead to scalp irritation therefore, you would have to check out the exact usage recommendations.
  • If your dandruff stems from the fungal condition Seborrheic Dermatitis, then you have to ensure that the shampoo you want to purchase has the following: Peppermint oil, Ketoconazole, Tea tree oil and Selenium Sulfide

2. Frequency of Use

Not all shampoos are meant to be used everyday. Before purchasing dandruff, you have to determine the frequency of usage which could either be daily or weekly. Making use of dandruff you are meant to use weekly every day, could have some intense side effects on the hair and scalp.

3. Ingredients

The ingredients or key ingredients in a shampoo refers to the components that are the functioning portion of the shampoo. These ingredients are highly essential and also determine whether or not you would buy a shampoo especially in the event that you are sensitive. These key ingredients include the following:

  • Coal tar

Coal tar sounds like a pretty strong component to include in shampoos but it is very effective. It serves to reduce the appearance of dandruff by reducing the growth rate of skin cells growing on the scalp. Unlike other key components, it is not an anti fungal and it is particularly advisable for people with oily skin.

  • Tea tree oil

Tea Tree oil is very suitable for use by people with sensitive skin. It is a natural component that has some antifungal properties and also serves as an antiseptic. It is very gentle on the skin and works effectively too.

  • Selenium Sulfide

Selenium sulfide is one ingredient that is commonly found in shampoos. This stems from the fact that it is highly effective in the fight against fungi. However, it is not required in large quantities with the maximum allowed in over-the-counter shampoos being 1%.

  • Zinc Pyrithione

Zinc Pyrithione is similar in action to Selenium sulfide. It breaks down bacteria and fungus that can be linked to causing dandruff. However, it is not as strong as Selenium sulfide and could be added to shampoos in larger quantities.

  • Ketoconazole

This compound can be found in many products and possesses healing properties for a lot of ailments. Asides bring used to get rid of dandruff, it is also found in products that treat jock itch and athlete’s foot.

Before You Buy A New Anti-Dandruff Shampoo, A Few Considerations 

When reviewing all the leading anti-dandruff shampoos available, we found that there were five key factors that you should consider when choosing the best one for you.

Here we wanted to expand a bit on each of them to help make the selection process easier:

1. Hair Type

Whether you have thick, thin, dry, oily, or simply normal hair most dandruff shampoos will work for you as they aren’t used on a daily basis (more on this in a minute).

However, if you don’t like rotating shampoos every other day, then we would recommend checking out large online marketplaces such as Amazon, Walmart, etc.

We came across smaller brands listed there (Kick Men’s Shampoo, Sage, dermachange, etc.) that make more specialized shampoos for certain hair types.

2. Cause of Dandruff 

When examining what causes dandruff, it primarily lands into five primary buckets as outlined by Mayo Clinic:

How do Anti Dandruff Shampoos Work?

This question is one that is asked a lot of times by buyers of these shampoos. The fact remains that anti dandruff shampoos work just like every other normal shampoo by washing away dirt, excess oil, and other foreign substances on the hair and scalp.

However, anti dandruff shampoos have some key ingredients that enable them to restore the pH balance of the scalp and eliminate the source of the scalp irritation. These ingredients include Selenium sulfide, Zinc pyrithione and ketoconazole among others.

Furthermore, they contain more vitamins and minerals than basic shampoos while some others have moisturizing capabilities. Also, some are simply designed to keep the scalp moist and prevent it from drying up.

Irritated & Oily Skin

The most popular case of dandruff will appear from irritated or just simply overly oily skin.

The primary signs of irritated or oily skin will be a scalp that is red and itchy.  This type of dandruff will be very much akin to psoriasis, eczema, or just a rash – while sharing these similar properties, seborrheic dermatitis is its own unique skin problem.

When it comes to seborrheic dermatitis, unfortunately the medical community hasn’t fully identified the reason for its prevalence.  However, they do feel that it may be a wide mixture of external environmental factors such as stress, genes, weather, medicines to just name a few.

The most important takeaway for this type of dandruff is that it isn’t due to an allergy nor is it due to hygiene.  Therefore, additional showers, soaking in the water for longer, scrubbing deeper, won’t cure this type of dandruff.

You will need a specially formulated dandruff shampoo to take care of the problem.

Lack of Hygiene

Contrary to the above cause, not running shampoo through your hair on a frequent basis will cause extreme buildup of both oils and skin cells.

This build up will eventually begin to flake and ultimately give the appearance of dandruff.

Now if this is your scenario, then you don’t need to invest in the dandruff shampoos that are outlined below, instead you just want to pick up a regular over the counter shampoo and just make sure you wash thoroughly every couple of days at the very least.

If you are washing regularly already, be sure to examine the type of soap that you are using.

With the recent uptick in men exploring all-natural options to wash and condition their hair by following DIY recipes across the web, there may not be an adequate number of surfactants and cleansing agents to get your hair completely clean.

Therefore, if you are using a shampoo that isn’t sold in stores, or one that might be trendy, be sure to step back for a minute to read the label and see if it has any cleansing agents within.

Malassezia (Fungus) Growing on Your Scalp

Another common cause of dandruff may be malassezia.

This form of dandruff is unique in that it doesn’t necessarily have to do with hygiene or just simply skin irritation, instead this is a live fungus that festers on your scalp causing the rapid increase in skin cell production.

In order to fight malassezia, you will want use two different dandruff shampoos.

Continuously using one type of dandruff shampoo may lead the fungus to build up a resistance to the solution, eventually overcoming its effectiveness and subsequently causing dandruff to appear again.

Be sure to pick up a shampoo containing Zinc Pyrithione as it contains antifungal properties.

Dry Skin

More prevalent when the air is extremely dry, a simple case of dry skin may cause flakes to appear.

This will be applicable to you if your dandruff only appears seasonally.

One of the best ways to cure this type of dandruff is to double up on a quality shampoo (not a dandruff specific shampoo) along with a conditioner that will help to naturally hydrate and nourish both your skin and hair follicles.

Contact Dermatitis

If you recently changed out your shampoo, conditioner, coloring, or hair product and suddenly notice an uptick in dandruff, it may just be a simple case of contact dermatitis.

In this scenario, look back on when your dandruff started and replace the product with an alternative to see if the dandruff persists – you shouldn’t need to get a dandruff shampoo designed specifically for men in this scenario.

If you are still unsure what type of dandruff you have, be sure to contact your physician or dermatologist to get a qualified opinion. 

In some scenarios, they may prescribe a shampoo specifically designed to combat your dandruff.

3. Ingredients

When it comes to comparing the best dandruff shampoos for men, its paramount that you know what the primary ingredient will be responsible for fighting off the dandruff of your scalp.

Equipping yourself with this knowledge will allow you to find the best solutions that will deliver much better results and ultimate comfort in the long run.

Therefore, when looking on the side of any bottle of dandruff shampoo you will see one of the key active ingredients:

Zinc Pyrithione (or Pyrithione Zinc)

This compound works to break up the fungus and bacteria that are commonly found on scalps with dandruff.  Therefore, if you are suffering from seborrheic dermatitis or even malassezia, a shampoo with this key ingredient may work well for you.

Per the Environmental Working Group (EWG) Zinc Pyrithione is generally considered to be less hazardous as it received a score of 3 out of 10.

Selenium Sulfide

Similar in application to Zinc Pyrithione, Selenium Sulfide is a topical solution found in many anti-dandruff shampoos that works as an antifungal agent.

The maximum concentration that you can purchase over the counter of a shampoo with Selenium Sulfide is 1%.  Greater concentrations are available with a prescription.

Per the Environmental Working Group (EWG) Selenium Sulfide is generally considered to be more hazardous as it received a score of 8 out of 10.

Ketoconazole

A primary antifungal compound found in a variety of products including those to treat jock itch, athletes’ foot, and ringworms, Ketoconazole is rare, but sometimes used as an agent in anti-dandruff shampoos.

Much like the two other compounds listed above, Ketoconazole will work to reduce seborrheic dermatitis and break up malassezia.

Per the Environmental Working Group (EWG) Ketoconazole is generally considered to be less hazardous as it received a score of 3 out of 10.

Coal Tar

Unlike the antifungal properties of the compounds listed above, Coal Tar primarily acts to slow down the growth of skin cells on your head.

This slowdown of growth will help to drastically reduce the appearance of dandruff.

Therefore, if you generally have an overly oily skin and not a fungal infection, products containing Coal Tar may be more effective for your scenario.

Per the Environmental Working Group (EWG) Coal Tar is generally considered to be more hazardous as it received a score of 10 out of 10.

It is to note that the FDA does consider products containing between .5% to 5% of coal tar concentration safe.

Tea Tree Oil

Found in nearly all natural and organic shampoos used to treat dandruff, tea tree oil has seen wide prevalence among those looking for natural remedies.

This essential oil has natural antiseptic and antifungal properties.  However, the effectiveness of tea tree oil can wildly vary, but does generally tend to work well.

Per the Environmental Working Group (EWG) Tea Tree Oil is generally considered to be less hazardous as it received a score of 1 out of 10.

4. Price

Based on the research of all the highly rated dandruff shampoos, you should expect to pay anywhere between $10 and $30.

A shampoo that costs less than $10 typically delivered less than acceptable results as it often contained very little amounts of an active ingredient, and instead relied heavily on filler ingredients.

Opposite of this, dandruff shampoos that cost greater than $30 didn’t appear to perform any better as the concentration of active ingredients was the same as their lower priced counterparts.

Therefore, if you want to get the best dandruff shampoo for your money, set aside around $20 to $25 per bottle.

5. Daily Use vs. Semi Weekly

As you will find out buying a new dandruff shampoo, many of them cannot be used on a daily basis.  Instead, companies often recommend that you use their shampoo about 2 to 3 times per week.

The reason for this largely has to do with reducing the possibility of irritation.

Therefore, you will want to make sure that you use a mild shampoo suited for your hair type in tandem with your new dandruff shampoo.

Take Control of Your Dandruff: How to Apply Your Shampoo

Let’s start by saying that the technique for applying an anti-dandruff shampoo is much the same as it is for applying regular shampoo. That is, you wet your hair under warm – not hot – water, squeeze out a small amount of shampoo in the palm of your hand, and then apply it with your fingers into your hair and scalp.

The key difference in applying an anti-dandruff shampoo is that you leave it in your hair for several minutes once you’ve thoroughly rubbed it into your scalp. In that regard, dandruff shampoo is like conditioner – you need to give it a chance to work its magic on your scalp and hair follicles before rinsing it off.

Don’t forget to rinse your dandruff shampoo out of hair thoroughly, either. Leftover shampoo can irritate the skin, which is one thing you’re trying to avoid in the first place.

How Often Should You Use Dandruff Shampoo?

This is a very valid question because dandruff shampoos are often loaded with strong ingredients that could dry out your hair – or even damage it – if used on a daily basis. The answer is: it varies depending on the product.

In our best dandruff shampoo reviews above, we list products that are used once a week, twice a week, or in the case of all-natural shampoo, even every day. Read the label. Most brands are honest regarding how often you should use their product.

But Use it Regularly

No matter how often you use your dandruff shampoo on a weekly basis, use it consistently. Don’t apply it one week and, after noticing that it’s relieved your dandruff symptoms, and then not again for a couple of weeks. Your dandruff will return and you may wrongly believe that your shampoo didn’t do its job.

Experts also suggest that you might want to switch brands every several months – or when you start to notice that your shampoo has lost its effectiveness.

Add Conditioner To Your Routine

A good conditioner is your friend when using an anti-dandruff shampoo. Dandruff shampoos may dry out your hair and a conditioner is a perfect complement because it adds moisture. An anti-dandruff conditioner would be ideal.

Shampoo, Dandruff Shampoo: What’s The Difference?

Shampoo is shampoo, right? You spread it throughout your hair and scalp, working up a nice lather in the process, and then rinse it off.

Even if they all aim for the common goal of making your as clean as possible. And, true, that’s not all they aim to do; they moisturize, they make your hair softer and fuller, they even make it smell good.

But not all shampoos are specifically designed to fight dandruff (although many regular shampoos at least claim to relieve dandruff symptoms).

Regular shampoos contain detergents that you’ll find in laundry detergent, dishwashing detergent, and so on. The detergents act as surfactants to wash away excess oil in your hair (we all have natural oils called sebum).

Many shampoos also contain conditioning agents that protect your hair if the detergents strip away too much sebum and leave your hair susceptible to damage.

Regular shampoos contain protectants, such as sunscreen, that protect your hair from the sun’s harmful UV rays, as well from heat damage from hair drying and aids. They also may contain fragrances that give a shampoo its specific scent.

Anti-dandruff shampoo is similar to regular shampoo, but different.

For one, anti-dandruff shampoos contain certain ingredients that temporarily re-calibrates your scalp’s pH balance. The list of ingredients includes selenium sulfide, zinc pyrithione, ketoconazole – all big words and also a big help in dealing with dandruff’s many symptoms.

Dandruff shampoos also contain salicylic acid, which acts as a scrubbing agent. Salicylic acid helps eliminate dandruff flakes, but it may cause dryness of the scalp. That said, it’s never a bad idea to choose an anti-dandruff shampoo that uses a moisturizing conditioner in conjunction with salicylic acid.

Because anti-dandruff shampoos contain chemicals that are considered harsh compared to those found in regular shampoos, you may not want to use them every day. True, some are labeled “gentle enough for daily use,” but others are so potent that you only need to use them a few times a week – or, in the case of Neutrogena’s T-Gel shampoo, just once a week.

Some dandruff shampoos are also labeled “medicated.” If you think you need a medicated shampoo, it’s not a bad idea to consult with your doctor or dermatologist before using it. Medicated shampoos typically have a higher concentration of chemicals than typical over-the-counter dandruff shampoos.

Like regular shampoo, there are anti-dandruff shampoos for specific hair types. It’s important to choose wisely rather than risking damage to your hair.

And, like regular shampoo, there are anti-dandruff shampoos that contain organic ingredients such as jojoba oil, tea tree oil, olive oil, peppermint oil, and more.

When it comes to the difference between anti-dandruff shampoo and regular shampoo, it’s all in the ingredients. A dandruff shampoo is loaded with compounds that eliminate dandruff, are anti-fungal and anti-bacterial, and act as a scrubbing agent.

So, Why Me? Why Do I Get Dandruff?

Dandruff is no laughing matter. But it is a pain in your backside, especially if you’ve struggled with keeping it under control. And it’s easy to get stressed out about it.

Don’t.

That is, don’t get stressed out because dandruff may become worse, or seemingly spring out of nowhere if you have a lot of anxiety – whether it’s anxiety about those pesky white flakes on your clothes or other daily stressors.

But stress isn’t the only cause and certainly not the most common. There are several causes, as well as risk factors, that may lead to dandruff.

1. Irritated and Oily Skin

Also known as seborrheic dermatitis, this condition is among the most common causes of dandruff. You’ll know you have it if your scalp has red and greasy skin and covered with white or yellow flakes that look like scales. As if that wasn’t bad enough, seborrheic dermatitis may affect your eyebrows, the backs of your ears, the sides of your nose – even your groin area.

In other words, no fun at all.

2. Dry Skin

It only makes sense that dry skin may lead to dandruff. The good news – well, sort of good news – is that dandruff caused by dry skin has smaller flakes, and that you probably won’t get the redness and inflammation as you do with seborrheic dermatitis. But, like the dreaded SD, dry skin can affect other parts of your body.

3. Not Shampooing Enough

Another reason to keep your hair clean, fellas: if you don’t regularly wash it, oils and skin cells build up on your scalp and cause dandruff. The important point here is that excessive hair washing doesn’t lead to dandruff.

4. Malassezia

Malassezia is a yeast-like fungus found on the scalp of most adults. For some, however, it causes scalp irritation, which causes more skin cells to grow, which then die off and produce dandruff.

5. Sensitivity To Hair Products

Some men are sensitive to certain ingredients found in hair products (or hair dyes) and it may lead to an itchy and irritated scalp.

6. Risk Factors

Being a male is awesome but it can put us at a greater risk for dandruff. Researchers aren’t completely sure why that is but think it has something to do with male hormones. Dandruff typically begins in young adulthood and continues through middle age (and is a lifelong problem for some).

Certain illnesses – such as neurological diseases – may also lead to dandruff. Other diseases that cause compromised immune systems – such as HIV – also increase the likelihood of dandruff.

It’s also worth mentioning that diet may play a role regarding dandruff. Specifically, a dry scalp is sometimes the result of lacking certain dietary nutrients, such as zinc, B vitamins, and healthy fatty acids. Also, it’s important to drink enough water each day, because dry skin and flakiness are common signs of dehydration.

Our Method Of Choosing The Best Dandruff Shampoos For Men

Finding a dandruff shampoo that works for you is tricky.  Your hair type, how much oil your sebaceous glands produce, your age, how often you use shampoo all come into play as you seek the best product. And, hopefully, our reviews above will steer you in the right direction.

We considered many things in choosing what we think are the best dandruff shampoos for men, not the least of which is overall performance. If the product doesn’t deliver on its promise of relieving dandruff, then it doesn’t belong in a “best of” review.

Some of the major things we considered in this review were:

  • How many positive reviews a product received. Products with a ton of reviews and an overall high rating on a site such as Amazon always get our attention.
  • The cost of the shampoo (our main goal is to review products that fit all kind of budgets).
  • The ingredients. Like with other product reviews, we prefer natural ingredients but understand that not every one of our selections will consist of only organic ingredients.
  • The type of hair and scalp for which the dandruff shampoo works best.

We also encourage you to do your own research before venturing out to buy your shampoo. It will save you time at your local store and give you the knowledge to weed out non-contenders. We like our list, however, and think you will, too.

Read More >> Top 10 Best Kitchen Chimney in India 2019 Review & Compare

How To Use Your Dandruff Shampoo For Best Results 

While using a shampoo is a fairly straightforward process, we wanted to go over a few key pointers to help you get rid of dandruff quickly:

1. Follow Directions Closely (each brand may differ slightly) 

First and foremost, you should read the directions.

Dandruff shampoo isn’t like your typical shampoo.  It’s a medicated solution and should be treated as such.  In addition to being a different type of product, each dandruff shampoo contains unique ingredients that can only be applied a few times a week.

Overusing a dandruff shampoo can lead to a dry scalp and irritation.

2. Rinse hair thoroughly 

Before using your dandruff shampoo, make sure that you rinse your hair thoroughly with warm (not hot) water.

A fully rinsed hair and scalp will allow the shampoo to penetrate deeper.

3. Pour about a quarter sized amount to palm of hand 

Too much or too little shampoo can cause poor results when it comes to treating dandruff.  For starters we recommend going with about a quarter to half-dollar sized amount in the palm of your hand and adjust accordingly.

The goal here is to generate a moderate lather.

4. Work into scalp with finger tips (not nails) 

While scratching your scalp with your nails my feel good for the moment, this vigorous action can lead to further irritation.

Restrain yourself and massage the shampoo with your fingertips only.

5. Let sit for recommended time (often around 5 minutes) 

As we went over with reading directions, each dandruff shampoo has different setting times.  Read the label and see what is recommended.

If the company didn’t give you a suggested amount of time, default to 2 minutes.

6. Rinse thoroughly to scalp 

After washing with the dandruff shampoo, make sure you get all the product out by rinising thoroughly.

7. Let scalp hair dry 

Before applying any styling product to your hair, let your hair air dry until it is only slightly damp.

8. Resist heavy or oily hair products when styling 

While pomades are popular right now, try to go with lighter and natural hair styling product instead.

Styling products like hair clay and waxes are terrific all natural and non-flaking alternative that should make your hair look great.

9. Use only a few times a week at most 

Given that dandruff shampoos are medicated solutions, they should never be used more than a few times a week.

Some brands do offer daily anti-dandruff shampoos – make sure to read the label for usage instructions.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I make use of anti dandruff shampoos?

The frequency of use depends on the shampoo and it is usually specified on the label. However, it differs from product to product.

What is the difference between the normal shampoo and dandruff shampoo?

Shampoos have the same basic function of cleaning the hair and keeping it healthy, however, there are some that are specifically manufactured to combat dandruff. Anti dandruff shampoos contain certain ingredients that are considered harsh and they serve to calibrate the scalp’s pH in order to get rid of dandruff.

How do anti dandruff shampoos work?

Anti dandruff shampoos contain certain special ingredients such as zinc pyrithione or selenium sulfide which help to get rid of dandruff.

What if anti-dandruff shampoo does not get rid of my dandruff?

In a case such as this, after making use of the shampoo for some weeks without any notable difference, then you might not have dandruff. It could be a different condition therefore, visit your dermatologist or doctor.

How do I pick the right shampoo for myself?

Typically, upon determining the cause of your dandruff, then you can easily know the type of shampoo to purchase with certainty.

What can I use for severe dandruff?

In cases of severe dandruff, it is advisable that you use a dandruff shampoo that has ingredients like ketoconazole or salicylic acid.

Can I use a shampoo with oil for my oily scalp?

There are other shampoos without oil that have the same great effect out there. It is more advisable to go for those.

Conclusion

Getting rid of dandruff could prove to be a very difficult process but it has been made a lot easier thanks to sulfate free anti dandruff shampoos. However, you need to keep in mind that different shampoos work for different people.

Therefore, you would need to determine the cause and intensity of your dandruff to know the kind of anti dandruff shampoo to purchase. This goes a long way in ensuring that your dandruff gets better and not worse.

Furthermore, if you have a very sensitive skin, then you would need to be extra careful in selecting a shampoo. This is mainly due to the chemicals in the shampoo which may react with your skin or scalp.

It is for this reason that we included shampoos that can be used in treating dandruff for every hair type which would also fit comfortably into any budget.

With this guide, we are certain that you would never again have issues selecting the best anti dandruff shampoo for men again.

Best Dandruff Shampoo For Men: Selection Process

Finding the best dandruff shampoo for men of 2019 was tough.  With so many options available today, we simply couldn’t get to them all.

However, after carefully studying, researching, and reviewing all the most popular and highly rated dandruff shampoos, we are confident that we put together one of the comprehensive and complete guides that should help you get your dandruff under control.

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Aman Kumar

A blogger, personal finance enthusiast with slight "addiction" of planning and organising whether it's budget, business or just life in general. When you run into an article around the web you can clearly tell it’s Aman's work, as it can never be mixed with anyone else's , because of his very unique own voice. Finances, real estate, budgeting, new technological solutions are not the only talking points, that he has his heart set on. Passionate about life he studies and writes about environmental changes, human rights and quality of life. Being a true humanist he draws inspiration from the simple thing as an everyday life and the matters one come across on daily bases doing his best and above to help everyone around.

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