Picture this - you’re in a meeting or sitting in a cafe with your friends and notice your jacket covered with a layer of white dandruff. There’s no reason to put yourself through such embarrassing situations anymore! Instead of scratching your scalp all day long, gift yourself the best dandruff shampoo for men. All you need is an anti-dandruff shampoo that guarantees a clean, itch-free scalp sans any flakes. An anti-dandruff shampoo with the right ingredients can help you treat scalp dryness and also reduce other concerns like hairfall and brittleness.
According to some studies (1), men are more susceptible to dandruff than women. It's a common condition affecting nearly 50% of the global population. Hence, many of us might have experienced this at least once in our lifetimes. Dandruff is prominent during teens; however, it may last long beyond the twenties or even fifties.
As per the experts, dandruff is a scalp disorder that leads to skin flakiness and itchiness (2). It's caused by an overgrowth of microbes, especially by the fungus Malassezia yeast (3). The yeast feeds on sebum (your scalp's natural oil) and converts it into oleic acid that generates immunogenic responses. As a result, your scalp's skin becomes dry, which causes dandruff. Hence, you might require the best anti-dandruff shampoo for scalp diseases.
We've mentioned our top recommendations below to let you buy the best anti-dandruff shampoo for men.
Our top picks
12 Best Dandruff Shampoo for Men
An itchy and dry scalp is one of the most irritating symptoms of dandruff. Hence, this shampoo by Nizoral helps you get rid of scaling, flaking, and itching due to dandruff. The formula is clinically proven and works effectively by controlling the fungus causing it. The active component is Ketoconazole which has anti-fungal properties that can efficiently kill scalp fungus (4). Interestingly, it has been associated with controlling testosterone levels in the body which when converted to dihydrotestosterone (DHT) may cause hair loss (5).
Pros
- Controls dandruff
- Gentle on hair
- Suitable for all skin types
- Offers customized shampoo brush
Cons
- Not suitable for those with allergies
2
Best for Multipurpose Formula
WOW Skin Science Apple Cider Vinegar Shampoo
WOW, a personal care brand offers unique products suitable for both men and women and this product is no exception. Made with natural extracts, this shampoo not only controls dandruff, but strengthens the hair. It has plant-based ingredients such as nettle leaves, Himalayan apples, and Saw palmetto (palm tree extracts) that prevent hair loss by reducing DHT levels (6). While argan oil, Vitamin E, and avocado nourish the scalp and give a thicker and more lustrous look to your hair.
Pros
- Balances scalp's pH levels
- Fight flakes
- Repair damaged hair
- Silicone, sulfate, and paraben free
- Reduces frizz
- Multipurpose formula (shampoo + conditioner)
Cons
- Excess usage may cause dryness
- A bit expensive
3
Best for Hair Invigoration
Tea Tree Special Shampoo
Tea Tree has launched a special product line in the haircare market with this extraordinary shampoo. It's a blend of peppermint, lavender, and tea tree that soothes your scalp and invigorates your hair. What makes it unique is its multi-purpose properties that can be used as a haircare formula as well as a body lotion. The product contains panthenol, soy protein, and shea that repair and recondition your hair (7), (8), (9). Drawing from our experience, we feel this shampoo reduces dandruff as it has tea tree oil as a bioactive component (10).
Pros
- Promotes hair growth
- Dual-purpose formula (hair and body care)
- Provides flake-free hair
- Moisturize hair
Cons
- Pungent smell
- Inappropriate packaging
4
Best for Chemically Treated Hair
L'Oreal Paris EverPure Brass Tоning Purрle Sulfate Frеe Shаmpoo
Specially crafted for damaged and color-treated hair, this product acts both as a shampoo and conditioner. This little set is suitable for both men and women with blonde hair. You can use this formula to neutralize orange and yellow tones in blonde, bleached, and silver hair and get a perfect blonde. Infused with hibiscus and purple dye, it locks moisture and tones brassy hair. Bring your salon at home with this shampoo by L'Oreal Paris.
Pros
- Vegan
- Sulfate and paraben free
- Defy frizz
- Adds volume
- Prevents scalp dryness
Cons
- Strong smell
5
Best for Cooling Scalp
Selsun Blue Medicated Anti-dandruff Shampoo with Menthol
Suitable for all hair types, this formula by Selsun Blue is what you need to reduce visible flakes and combat an itchy scalp. With 1% selenium sulfide, this most popular anti-dandruff shampootreats yellow and white flakes on your scalp (11). Further, it has menthol that refreshes and cools your scalp. This small bottle contains all the necessary components like Vitamin E and B5 to naturally control your dandruff and promote healthy-looking hair by strengthening the hair follicles.
Pros
- Gentle on scalp
- Lather quickly
- Cleans and hydrates scalp
Cons
- Rotten egg-like smell
6
Best for Hair Elasticity
OGX Sulfate free moisturizing shampoo
Other than minimizing dandruff, this shampoo is a complete formula you need to add to your hair care regime. Incorporated with coconut oil, coconut milk, and egg white protein, this bottle by OGX softens, hydrates, and strengthens your hair strands (12) (13). This creamy nourishing shampoo is suitable for all skin textures and types and leaves a glossy hair appearance with every wash. Our findings show that this blend balances the natural pH of your scalp and maintains your hair elasticity.
Pros
- Irresistible good fragrance
- Suitable for all hair types
- Adds shine to hair
- Hydrate scalp
Cons
- Excessive usage may leave your scalp dry
7
Best for Hair Nourishment
OGX Renewing + Argan Oil of Morocco Hydrating Hair Shampoo
This product is slightly different from its OGX counterparts as it's made with cold-pressed argan oil. In cold-pressed oils, the chemical structure of bioactive components remain intact which protects their higher efficacy. The cold-pressed argan oil moisturizes your hair and prevents it from damage due to free radicals and styling (14). This is among the best dandruff shampoo for menand women that works well with all hair types. This precious blend promotes hair growth and prevents dry and brittle hair look.
Pros
- Paraben and sulfate-free
- Improve hair elasticity
- Provides strength
- Gives a glossy hair appearance
Cons
- Less durable
- Strong smell
8
Best for Scalp Dryness
Head & Shoulders Supreme Sulfate Free Shampoo and Conditioner
This product by Head & Shoulders is one of the best men's shampoos for dry scalp and dandruff. This stylish blue and white bottle is your one-stop solution to deal with dandruff. While the conditioner comes with the anti-dandruff shampoo together, this single set is all you need to combat white flakey dandruff, frizzy mane and dehydrated scalp. Moreover, this shampoo also balances your scalp's pH level and immediately reduces your chance of getting a new bout of dandruff. Further, it's a highly recommended product by dermatologists, so you don't have to worry about any side-effects.
Pros
- Dye-free
- Vibrant smell
- Balances pH
- Suitable for everyday use
Cons
- Average durability
- Slightly expensive
9
Best for Psoriasis and Seborrheic Dermatitis
Neutrogena T/Sal Therapeutic Shampoo for Scalp Build-Up Control
Sometimes dandruff can be due to major scalp problems such as psoriasis and seborrheic dermatitis. Here's when you need more than your regular anti-dandruff shampoo. Thankfully, Neutrogena has come up with an effective solution in the form of a shampoo!! This product works as a medication for mild to severe scalp diseases. It provides maximum relief for flaky, itchy, and dry scalps. Containing 3% salicylic acid, this product effectively treats symptoms caused by scalp diseases. Also, it's free of added preservatives, color, and fragrance.
Pros
- Build-up control
- No strong smell
- Clinically tested
Cons
- Leaking on packages
10
Best for Softening Hair
Head & Shoulders Anti-Dandruff Shampoo and Conditioner Set with Manuka Honey
Infused with manuka honey, this shampoo provides multi-purpose relief. It conditions, cleanses, refreshes, nourishes, and soothes the scalp. Bioactive components such as 1% Selenium Sulfide and 2% Ketoconazole act as your ally to fight dandruff. While manuka honey seals moisture and provides more softness, volume, and shine to hair. Overall, this cute little blue bottle is your rescuer against dryness. The product is clinically proven and is safe to use.
Pros
- Proven protection against dryness
- For all hair types
- Nourishes scalp
Cons
- Slightly costly
- Burning rubber/rotten egg-like smell
11
Avalon Organics Therapy Medicated Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
The product by Avalon Organics is made with nature's pure extracts to minimize side effects. It has all organic ingredients, such as lemon, rosemary oil, aloe vera, calendula, and quinoa protein that deeply nourishes hair from root to tip. Enriched with 2% salicylic acid, chamomile, tree tea, and essential oils, this fusion is great for controlling scaling, dandruff, itching, and flaking. Besides, it's vegan and cruelty-free. It has a fruity smell that you may like.
Pros
- Manages pH
- Decent fragrance
- Exfoliates scalp
- Suitable for sensitive scalps too
- No GMO
- No synthetic colors
- No sodium lauryl/laureth sulfate
Cons
- Leaks out easily
12
Vanicream Medicated Dandruff Shampoo
Maintaining a sensitive scalp is tricky as it's more prone to reactions. Here's when Vanicream's shampoo comes into play. This product is specifically created for folks with sensitive scalps to elevate their haircare routine. It's a mild formula with a maximum over-the-counter strength to control seborrheic dermatitis and dandruff. It has 2% zinc pyrithione that exhibits anti-bacterial, anti-microbial, and anti-fungal properties and boosts hair growth (15). Free from chemical irritants, this medication is clinically tested and is recommended by professionals. You can use it twice a week or as per your doctor's prescription to see effective results.
Pros
- Complete medication for scalp issues
- Doesn't cause irritation
- Gluten-free
- Highly effective on hair
- Pocket friendly
Cons
- Low durability
- Moderate packaging
We’re sure now you've got a pretty good idea about which products will align with your hair care needs. The products mentioned above are some of the best dandruff shampoo for men that offer an itchy and flake-free scalp.
How to Choose the Best Dandruff Shampoo for Men?
You definitely don't want yourself scratching your scalp in the middle of an important event. For those with excessively dry scalp, you might be suffering from dandruff and related symptoms like flakes. Hence, you need to add an anti-dandruff shampoo to your regular hair care routine to limit these conditions. However, the problem is to know which product suits you well. Since the market is flooded with different kinds of anti-dandruff shampoos, it's confusing to find a suitable pick for yourself. You may face questions like which is the world's best dandruff shampoo or how to find the perfect shampoo? Therefore, we've listed some factors that you should keep in mind while purchasing the best anti-dandruff shampoo.
- See the ingredients
When you start your search quest for an anti-dandruff shampoo, it's crucial to know how dandruff occurs. Generally, it happens due to three following factors:
- Overproduction of sebum by sebaceous or oil glands.
- Scalp having Malassezia yeasts.
- Body's auto-immune response to yeast.
Therefore, most anti-dandruff shampoos have bioactive components such as zinc pyro thione that have anti-fungal properties. These substances are effective at killing and reducing the growth of Malassezia fungus. Keratolytic agents like salicylic acid specifically work on addressing the symptoms of scalp diseases by breaking down dry skin clumps. Whereas, anti-fungal agents directly affect the root cause of the problem. Both these components are often used in combination while making shampoo. Make sure that you check for these details before adding the bottle to your shopping cart.
- Select a shampoo that cleanses your scalp thoroughly
One of the specific characteristics of anti-dandruff shampoo is its ability to cleanse the scalp thoroughly. Choose a shampoo that lathers well and removes dirt and unwanted substances from your scalp. Also, it shouldn't be sticky and rinses well while washing your hair.
- Consider your hair type
Before making the purchase, make sure you know your hair type. There are a wide variety of shampoos available for all hair types. For instance, if your hair type is oily, choose the shampoo that's best for oily hair. Similarly, if you've dry hair, go for the anti-dandruff shampoos that suit well for dry hair. Always look for mild to moderately concentrated shampoo that could be used on a regular basis and does not absorb your scalp's natural oil.
- Get expert advice
There's no harm in consulting a professional before using an anti-dandruff shampoo. Your doctor will help determine your scalp type if you don't know. Also, he/she will look for any scalp diseases you're suffering from and provide you with the most suitable product. You should use that shampoo as per your doctor's recommendations.
Important Other Factors to Check Before Choosing a Dandruff Shampoo
In addition to the above-mentioned factors, you may also consider the following factors:
Flyaway and frizzy hair
If you've frizzy hair, you may want to use products containing zinc pyrothione. Based on our observation, we can conclude that people prefer shampoos with 1% zinc pyrothione which not only controls frizz but also reduces dandruff.
Oily hair
Selenium sulfide-based anti-dandruff shampoos can make your hair more oilier if you've already got an oily scalp (16). You may notice this if you frequently use the product. In this case, you must try shampoos with other ingredients and check out the best shampoo for men's oily scalps.
Hair Color
The color of your hair plays key role in determining which shampoo you must use. If you’ve dyed your hair, then the ingredients to combat dandruff is different. You need to use products and ingredients that decrease scalp scaling and excess production of scalp cells causing dandruff. However, it may stain or darken your hair appearance.
Men vs women response
Men are more likely to suffer from dandruff as their skin barrier is different compared to women. A survey (17) found that dandruff in men significantly reduced when they used 1% zinc pyrothione shampoo compared to women who applied the same formula. The study discovered that women's dandruff decreased in response to non-dandruff shampoos more than men's dandruff.
After knowing what factors to check while selecting an anti-dandruff shampoo, it's time to see how to use it.
How to Use the Best Dandruff Shampoo for Men?
It is essential to know how to use a dandruff shampoo that varies compared to your regular shampoo. All you need to do is apply it in the best possible way to reap maximum benefits. Read on to learn the steps for applying a dandruff shampoo.
- Before taking a shower, comb your hair as this will remove tangles and any build-up.
- Damp your hair slightly before applying shampoo. You may use lukewarm water. Apply shampoo on your scalp and hair strands and massage gently.
- Wash your hair with cold water in a downward motion.
- After a wash, dry your hair gently with a cotton towel by rubbing it slowly. Then, let it dry naturally.
- Avoid using a blow dryer as the heat may damage hair follicles.
Follow these simple steps to avoid any confusion on how to apply a dandruff shampoo.
Common Mistakes While Using a Shampoo
You must avoid the following mistakes while applying shampoo to get the most out of it.
- Don't apply shampoo before damping your hair
It's better not to use shampoo on dry hair. First, wet your hair slightly and then apply. Shampoos can be viscous, so they might stick to your strands if you don't apply water.
- Don't use shampoo on your hair directly
You may not find a shampoo as effective while directly applying it to your hair. First, take some quantity on your hands and build lather before using it on your hair. This will improve its efficiency.
- Don't use hot water
You may enjoy hot water during your daily shower, but it's better not to use it on your scalp. Hot water can damage your hair follicles and can lead to enlarged pores causing hair loss. Hence, you need to dodge it.
- Don't rinse your scalp using nails
Many people use their nails to remove shampoo from their heads. However, you shouldn't use your sharp nails as this can negatively affect your scalp.
- Rinse shampoo properly from your head
After applying shampoo to your hair, the next step is to wash it thoroughly. Be sure that you are gentle on your scalp while rinsing it. Don't scratch or rub your hair too forcefully.
Quantity of Dandruff Shampoo To Use
The amount of shampoo you use can highly affect your scalp and hair health. We often ignore the right proportions of shampoo to be applied in a single wash that results in our damaged mane. We can set the right quantities after knowing the factors determining proportions. This typically includes the following pointers:
- Hair type
- Types of scalp issues you're having
- Your hair length and texture
- The frequency of usage
Dandruff may not always be associated to a serious medical condition, but it can be embarrassing. However, the general mechanism is fungal growth on the scalp that causes inflammation of scalp cells and results in flaking and itching. It often flares up due to changes in season and lifestyle.
When it comes to fighting dandruff, the most suitable solution is to use an over-the-counter best anti-dandruff shampoo for men. Most of them have active ingredients, such as zinc pyrithione, selenium sulfate, etc., that can help minimize fungal growth and reduce dandruff and related symptoms. Also, many shampoos have natural botanicals too that intact the scalp's moisture and enhance new hair cell formation. All you need to do is use the most appropriate option to flaunt a glossy, healthy mane once again.
FAQ's
How often should men wash their hair with dandruff?
Some people don't prefer washing their hair daily as it leaves their scalp dry. It's nice to use a shampoo twice or thrice a week to see effective results. The focus is to control oil and dirt build-up to prevent hair problems. However, if you're shampooing daily and noticing scalp dryness, it's time to reduce the application frequency.
Does dandruff mean high testosterone?
Dandruff generally occurs due to excessive sebum accumulation in the scalp which is caused by higher quantities of dihydro-testosterone. The condition is most commonly seen in males having high levels of testosterone. However, a differential diagnosis may be needed to find the root cause.
Why Trust Pinkvilla
One hair condition that Alvira, our haircare expert, dreads is dandruff. She started looking for the best anti-dandruff shampoos when one of her friends faced the problem and found it quite hard to deal with. Being a haircare specialist, Alvira knows that dandruff is quite stubborn and doesn’t go easily — one needs a special formula to eliminate those pesky white flakes off their scalp. So, after a detailed analysis of various products, she has created this list of the best dandruff shampoos for men that eliminate white flakes, get rid of itchiness, and soothe dryness. When her friends tested the products, they found Head & Shoulders Anti-Dandruff Shampoo and Conditioner Set with Manuka Honey to be one of the best products to get dandruff-free, soft hair. Manuka honey helps add shine and luster to the hair and protects the tresses from dryness.
Our product experts study the specifications of every product we suggest and try them out to bring what’s proven to be worthy of your money, time, and energy. We also have subject matter experts from various fields like Fashion, Skincare, Haircare, Home Decor, and Health & Fitness onboard to make sure our suggestions are credible and trustworthy. You can trust Select to be your faithful shopping guide for all the right reasons!
Article Sources +
1. A New Postulate on Two Stages of Dandruff: A Clinical Perspective
2. DANDRUFF: THE MOST COMMERCIALLY EXPLOITED SKIN DISEASE
3. Association of Malassezia species with dandruff
4. Ketoconazole
5. Ketoconazole shampoo: effect of long-term use in androgenic alopecia
6. Natural Hair Supplement: Friend or Foe? Saw Palmetto, a Systematic Review in Alopecia
7. Dexpanthenol Promotes Cell Growth by Preventing Cell Senescence and Apoptosis in Cultured Human Hair Follicle Cells
8. Hair Growth Promotion with Black Soybean Extracts: case series
9. Shea Butter As Skin, Scalp and Hair Moisturiser in Nigerians
10. Treatment of dandruff with 5% tea tree oil shampoo
11. DANDRUFF: THE MOST COMMERCIALLY EXPLOITED SKIN DISEASE
12. Longitudinal study of the scalp microbiome suggests coconut oil to enrich healthy scalp commensals
13. Naturally Occurring Hair Growth Peptide: Water-Soluble Chicken Egg Yolk Peptides Stimulate Hair Growth Through Induction of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Production
14. Hair Protective Effect of Argan Oil ( Argania spinosa Kernel Oil) and Cupuassu Butter ( Theobroma grandiflorum Seed Butter) Post Treatment with Hair Dye
15. Targeted Delivery of Zinc Pyrithione to Skin Epithelia
16. Selenium Sulphide
17. Sex-related differences in response to zinc pyrithione shampoo vs. non-anti-dandruff shampoo
Author BIO
With a keen eye for detail and a passion for hairstyling, Alvira is a certified Hair Expert who brings the latest tre More
