Unless they’re wrapped in yellow packaging and taste like chocolate, we’ve got no time for flakes. And of all the varieties that they come in (from unreliable friends to a dry complexion), the most persistent and annoying kind is the type that lives on our scalp. Otherwise known as: dandruff.
Whether you’re a seasonal flaker, with flare-ups kicking off around winter, or it’s a year-round occasion, getting rid of dandruff can often lead you to believe that all haircare is irritating and therefore entirely off-limits. But nobody should have to decide between having clean hair or a happy scalp.
Fortunately, there are a few very clever formulas that allow you to refresh and renew dirty hair without causing itchiness, dryness or in more severe cases, dermatitis. And don’t worry, they aren’t daggy, medicinal-looking bottles that will sit on your shower shelf screaming “SHE HAS DANDRUFF,” promise.
The best anti-dandruff shampoos
Klorane Anti-Dandruff Rebalancing Shampoo with Galangal
Let’s face it, there’s nothin’ chic about dandruff. A shampoo that’s made in France however? Now that’s got us excited. Enriched with galangal and lactic acid, this dry scalp-fighter works to remove up to 100 per cent of visible dandruff in just one wash. Voila! A healthy scalp!
$14.99 at Chemist Warehouse
Redken Dandruff Control Shampoo
For the elimination of existing dandruff while also working to prevent future buildup, Redken’s shampoo has been formulated with pyrithione zinc, a key ingredient in scalp clarification and cleansing. Simply lather it up, wait five minutes and voilà, a flake-free paradise.
$33 at Adore Beauty
Read more Redken Dandruff Control Shampoo reviews here….
Dove Dermacare Scalp Anti-dandruff Shampoo Dry Scalp Relief
Dove’s dandruff-targeting shampoo helps to combat the anxieties that come with having a visibly dry scalp by healing dry skin and fighting dandruff. Almond oil and vitamin E are utilised to nourish damaged strands in the process, for a scalp-to-ends self-esteem boost.
$11, currently $5.50, at Woolworths
JUSTICE Professional Scalp Treatment Shampoo
This shampoo effectively controls the production of dandruff using proven anti-fungal ingredients, while the addition of vitamin B5 conditions breakage and enhances elasticity and shine.
“All the gunk and flaky yuck is gone after one use. It has a minty smell that reminds me of tea tree oil and it leaves your hair moisturized, shiny and soft without it being too oily.” – Bettina44
$17.95 at JUSTICE Professional
Read more JUSTICE Professional Scalp Treatment Shampoo reviews here…
KMS HEADREMEDY Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
You might be surprised to discover that the ingredients in this KMS shampoo closely resemble those in your facial exfoliator. Similar to what we seek out when we want to unclog pores or slough away dead skin cells, AHAs like lactic acid have been included to eliminate dandruff and balance out uneven hair surfaces.
$32.95 at Adore Beauty
Have you tried the KMS Head Remedy Anti-Dandruff Shampoo? Write a review and let us know what you thought…
Wella SP Clear Scalp Shampeeling
More of an intensive treatment than a shampoo, this formula is designed to target the more severe and stubborn cases of dandruff. With consistent use over four weeks, the hair is left soft and healthy, and scalp clarity is maintained for up to two months.
$28.50 at Adore Beauty
Have you tried the Wella SP Clear Scalp Shampeeling? Write a review and let us know what you thought…
System Professional Purify Shampoo
Suitable for oily scalps, this gentle shampoo cuts through grease and uses a unique Dermapure Complex to remove the microorganisms responsible for dandruff production. Yes please.
$42 at Oz Hair And Beauty
Have you tried the System Professional Purify Shampoo? Write a review and let us know what you thought…
Head & Shoulders Cool Menthol Anti Dandruff Shampoo
Head & Shoulders is the OG when it comes to eliminating dandruff, with the tried-and-true brand known for revitalising the scalp and eliminating flakes. The Menthol Anti Dandruff Shampoo in particular leaves behind long-lasting protection and contains a carefully balanced combination of antioxidants that effectively nourish and repair both the scalp and hair. Love to see it.
“I was surprised at how quickly the dandruff is gone. I’ve got curly dry frizzy hair and the shampoo doesn’t really dry it out or make it more frizzy which is so great. I used it with a head and shoulders conditioner and as the pair, my hair is soft and dandruff free” – Becca9979
$17, currently $8.50 at Woolworths
Neutrogena T/Gel Daily Control 2-on-1 Dandruff Shampoo
Though it mightn’t be the chicest looking bottle on your vanity, it’s one that is going to deliver results. The pyrithione zinc and vitamin E-rich formula works to relieve the scalp from flaking while keeping the hair nourished and moisturised. Score.
“oh my god it felt amazing to have that instant relief from my head without having to scratch and no more flakiness! If you are experiencing the problems I had I highly recommend this product for you to try! Take control!!!” – Amelia95
Read more Neutrogena T/Gel Daily Control 2-on-1 Dandruff Shampoo reviews here…
$6.50 at Woolworths
Main image credit: @gentlehairdos
Do you struggle with dandruff? Which shampoo has been your favourite so far?
I must say that Pulmolive. Looks the best out of them all.
I haven't found any products that work for my dry scalp, i will be trying a healing shampoo and conditioner from pure peony soon
My problem is an itchy scalp, not dandruff and I haven't found any product yet that can relieve it
I’ve heard great things about the Bondi Boost range.
Have no scalp issues. Had in past twice, once from shampoo and cond that messed up my scalp badly, second time from eating something that I later found out was “fortified” with vitamins B (yeast flakes). Hair was falling out in excess, so affected my scalp it seems as well.
I don’t get dandruff but I remember when I was a little girl my dad complaining to my mum that he had white fallout flakes from his hair onto his broad shoulders of his suit jacket! Ahh the things I remember!
So nice to remember things about ones parents. I often think about them and when I was a little girl.
Dandruff isn’t an issue for me. Can you still buy those shampoos which reduce product build up. Neutrogena used to make a good one years ago but I don’t think they make it anymore.
I don’t suffer from dandruff.
I’ve only tried the Head and Shoulders shampoo
I have dandruff on and off over the years but have been dandruff free for several years now thanks to Nizoral Anti-Dandruff Shampoo. This is the ONLY thing that works and keeps it away for good.
Agree. Nizoral does work.
I’m currently using wells sp products atm
The KMS HEADREMEDY Anti-Dandruff Shampoo looks good because it contains lactic acid.
Not a problem here. Apparently the diet has something to do with it too.
The diet? Thats interesting. I better google it.
I don’t get dandruff. Occasionally I do get an itchy scalp though. My father-in-law always has dandruff on his shirts everywhere. Uses the wrong shampoo and both him and my mother-in-law don’t use conditioner. They say it makes their heads itchy 🙄 I have to bite my tongue so hard with these 2 because they don’t and won’t allow help or listen to advice.
A rarely suffer from dandruff.
I didn’t realise there were so many products. I’ve only ever heard of Head & Shoulders.
I have an itchy scalp but don’t have dandruff
I struggle with scalp irritation and many shampoos irritate my scalp which does lead me to believe that (most) haircare is irritating (for me) and therefore entirely off-limits.
Finally I found a shampoo that I can use that doesn’t irritate my scalp. My derm said my scalp issues are due to dermatitis not dandruff.
You could try rinsing ( leave in ) with rosemary water and massage into your scalp -Just boil up some rosemary stems and let cool -This has been amazing for my hair and scalp
It is good and smells lovely. My scalp has really settled down now I’m finally using a compatible shampoo
Myself personally I don’t get dandruff my husband has some Scalp Problems but it isn’t just dandruff.
Some great Shampoos for Dandruff.
these options look great
I have used head and shoulders just because it is easily assessable, a decent price and does the job. I’ve not used the other brands mentioned before but it’s good to know.
Thanks for the info
Lush’s anti dandruff shampoo bar has worked great for me.
I’m glad I don’t get dandruff. I thought I had it once, but it was just the cheap mousse I was using at the time – it turned to a white powder when I brushed it. I’d been wondering how it could come & go like that, haha!
I find that with dry shampoos and so now I no longer use them
lots to choose from. Would love to try the head and shoulders one
I use Head and Shoulders time to time.
Good to know…
Bondi Boost make a wonderful shampoo and conditioner duo for flakey scalps! The scent is delightfully minty, too!
I have tried Head & Shoulders but only because I received a free sample. I did like it as a shampoo but usually use John Frieda and think I will stick to JF
I no longer use dandruff shampoos but manage scalp health with Redken Clean Maniac or Acidic Bonding ranges. I also love Christophe Robin if I can get it on sale.
Not an issue here.
Head and shoulders always works for me.
Something to add to my wish list
I need one of these. normally my go to is head and shoulders so nice to have suggestions for some other brands.
Yes I find head and shoulders really ggod but nice to try others
I don’t struggle with dandruff however if I use a colour too often I do get a dry scalp and head and shoulders is really great
I currently use Head and Shoulders for dry scalp, not itchy scalp.
I have very oily scalp, almost as oily as my skin was till end 30s. Shampeeling hahah…need
Head and Shoulders is pretty good!
The first sentence made me laugh 😆
Some nice sounding products – none of which I need.
Some very good quality products here
Never suffered from dandruff but helpful information nonetheless
I use Head & Shoulders on my 14 yo son who has dandruff and it really works well
Not dandruff, but I suffer with scalp dermatitis/psoriasis (which I’ve been diagnosed with). It’s currently driving me nuts! Always worse during winter, I swear. Only problem is I’ve got greys & I dye them & I need to keep my colour protected, so my scalp suffers for my vanity.
I’m currently on the hunt for a different shampoo + looking at making a DIY hair oil treatment to replace the one I’ve been using (which I think is irritating me due to the peppermint oil in it). Crossing my fingers to find something that works.
Thankfully not a problem I have, but if I did, I’d buy the System one for sure, just for the awesome looking packaging.
I need to try these for my son’s hair.Nothing works for him so far.
Lush has a very effective shampoo bar for dandruff control.
It’s good to see so many options
I found tea tree and rosemary essential oil in my shampoo helped a lot.
I have “oily” scalp and dandruff and love the Philip Kingsley itchy/flaky shampoo. Curious about the Redken one as I love their products.