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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.
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
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 | Price | Key features | Details | ||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Active Ingredients | Hydrating Ingredients | Best for | Volume | ||||||
1 | Selsun Blue Pro-X Extra Strength Shampoo | ₱365 High Mid | Prevents Dandruff From Coming Back With Selenium Sulfide | Selenium Sulfide | French Honey, Glycerin | Itchy Scalp | 120ml | ||
2 | Nizoral Ketoconazole Dandruff Shampoo Maximum Treatment | ₱74.5 Low | Flakes Solution That Gets Right to the Cause of Dandruff | Ketoconazole | None Specified | Targeting the Root Cause of Dandruff | 6ml | ||
3 | Head & Shoulders Anti-Dandruff Shampoo | ₱280 Mid | Deeply Cleans Your Scalp and Leaves It Feeling Fresh | Pyrithione Zinc | Not Specified | Itchy Scalp | 330ml | ||
4 | Dove Dermacare Anti-Dandruff Scalp Soothing Moisture Shampoo | ₱203 Mid | Combats Dandruff Without Sacrificing Hair's Condition | Pyrithione Zinc | Not Specified | Dry, Itchy Scalp | 170ml | ||
5 | OUAI Anti-Dandruff Shampoo | ₱2,300 High | Salicylic-Infused Shampoo That Combats Dandruff and Is Gentle To The Scalp | Salicylic Acid, Propanediol Caprylate | Glycerin | Dry, Oily Scalp | 300 ml | ||
6 | Moringa-O2 Herbal Anti-Dandruff Shampoo & Conditioner with Argan Oil | ₱240 Mid | Get Flake-Free Scalp And Hair With The Goodness Of Natural Ingredients | Malunggay , Olive, and Rosebay Extracts | Not Specified | Oily Scalp | 200ml | ||
7 | Yves Rocher Anti Dandruff Shampoo | ₱499 High Mid | Get Healthy, Dandruff-free Scalp With This Natural Shampoo | Salicylic Acid | Not Specified | Not Specified | 300ml | ||
8 | Human Nature 100% Natural Anti-Dandruff Shampoo For Men | ₱199.75 Mid | Men's Solution for Healthy and Fresh Scalp | Bamboo Charcoal | Glycerin, Coconut Oil | Dry, Itchy Scalp | 180ml | ||
9 | Clear Women Anti-Dandruff Shampoo Complete Soft Care | ₱155 Low Mid | Anti-Dandruff Shampoo That Nourishes The Scalp and Leaves You Hair With a Fresh Scent | Piroctone Olamine | Not Specified | Oily Scalp | 170ml | ||
10 | Luxe Organix Dandruff Control Silky Smooth Shampoo | ₱180 Mid | Lessens Flakes Without Stripping Natural Oils | Pyrithione Zinc | Glycerin | Oily Scalp | 240ml |
Active Ingredients | Selenium Sulfide |
---|---|
Hydrating Ingredients | French Honey, Glycerin |
Best for | Itchy Scalp |
Volume | 120ml |
This over-the-counter dandruff treatment is trusted by many for its ketoconazole active ingredient that doesn't merely address symptoms but targets the root cause of dandruff. Apart from curbing flaking, itching, and scaling caused by dandruff, it controls the fungus that causes it. Although it is a specialized dandruff shampoo, it washes and lathers well like a regular one.
However, note that it is not for daily use, and it is advisable to use it only once or twice a week. Moreover, this shampoo may require a compatible conditioner to ensure a smooth and silky hair feel. This Nizoral shampoo received high ratings because of its effectiveness in removing dandruff and its affordable price since it can be bought in small packs.
Active Ingredients | Ketoconazole |
---|---|
Hydrating Ingredients | None Specified |
Best for | Targeting the Root Cause of Dandruff |
Volume | 6ml |
It’s no surprise that Head & Shoulders has been one of the leading dandruff shampoos in the country. It’s affordable, effective, and available in different variants for both men and women. It also has shampoos with more intense formulas for severe dandruff or seborrheic dermatitis.
This particular variant has menthol that makes your scalp feel breezy after a wash, heightening your dandruff-free head. It also moisturizes the hair in addition to cleaning it. Many users repurchase this because of its tried-and-tested formula that has been effective through the years.
Active Ingredients | Pyrithione Zinc |
---|---|
Hydrating Ingredients | Not Specified |
Best for | Itchy Scalp |
Volume | 330ml |
Active Ingredients | Pyrithione Zinc |
---|---|
Hydrating Ingredients | Not Specified |
Best for | Dry, Itchy Scalp |
Volume | 170ml |
Active Ingredients | Salicylic Acid, Propanediol Caprylate |
---|---|
Hydrating Ingredients | Glycerin |
Best for | Dry, Oily Scalp |
Volume | 300 ml |
This 2-in-1 shampoo and conditioner formula from Moringa-O2 is another excellent pick if you're looking for a natural way to remove dandruff. It is formulated using natural ingredients, including malunggay, olive, and Argan oils, that provide thorough cleansing sans irritation.
This herbal shampoo & conditioner works by soothing scalp irritation, normalizing sebum production on your scalp, and reducing itch and flakes. It also provides a light and cooling sensation after wash, so you feel clean and fresh. Several reviewers attest that this is indeed the one if you want something a little more gentle to add to your shower routine!
Active Ingredients | Malunggay , Olive, and Rosebay Extracts |
---|---|
Hydrating Ingredients | Not Specified |
Best for | Oily Scalp |
Volume | 200ml |
Yves Rocher's Anti Dandruff Shampoo is another ideal pick for people who want to address their dandruff naturally. It eliminates dandruff and promotes a healthy scalp using 96% natural ingredients, including agave grown in organic farming. It also contains salicylic acid, specifically targeting the microorganisms responsible for dandruff formation.
Furthermore, this shampoo prides itself on having a silicone-free formula that is easily biodegradable. Besides being effective in lessening dandruff flakes, several reviewers love that it has a fruity fragrance that is not too powerful, setting it apart from usual dandruff shampoos with a chemical-like scent.
Active Ingredients | Salicylic Acid |
---|---|
Hydrating Ingredients | Not Specified |
Best for | Not Specified |
Volume | 300ml |
This shampoo is a great natural solution for fighting dandruff while keeping the scalp healthy. Powered by the synergistic blend of PureProtect Active and bamboo charcoal, it effectively fights dandruff and flakes while providing moisture to your hair and protecting your scalp. It also contains sugar cane, beet, and coconut oil, which gently lather and remove flake buildup.
According to market studies, this product has received numerous positive reviews, with 9 out of 10 men seeing a reduction in dandruff. Several users also like that it has a cooling sensation due to its menthol content, which keeps them feeling fresh throughout the day.
Active Ingredients | Bamboo Charcoal |
---|---|
Hydrating Ingredients | Glycerin, Coconut Oil |
Best for | Dry, Itchy Scalp |
Volume | 180ml |
Active Ingredients | Piroctone Olamine |
---|---|
Hydrating Ingredients | Not Specified |
Best for | Oily Scalp |
Volume | 170ml |
Active Ingredients | Pyrithione Zinc |
---|---|
Hydrating Ingredients | Glycerin |
Best for | Oily Scalp |
Volume | 240ml |
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
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|Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
No. 4: Dove |Dermacare Anti-Dandruff Scalp Soothing Moisture Shampoo
No. 5: OUAI|Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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