10 Best Anti-Dandruff Shampoos 2023 | UK Dermatologist Reviewed

Nizoral is often cited as one of the most effective anti-dandruff shampoos on the market, and we couldn't agree more. The dermatologically-tested formula is unscented, and contains 2% of the powerful anti-fungal ingredient ketoconazole, to treat mild to severe cases of dandruff.

Once you decide to give Nizoral a go, you won't regret it! But do make sure to follow the treatment protocol – it's recommended to wash hair using the shampoo every 3-4 days over a 4 week period, after which you'll see an incredible improvement in the reduction of itchiness and flakes. 

Alpecin is probably most famous for their hair loss preventing caffeine shampoo, but what many may not be aware of is the link between dandruff and hair shedding. While dandruff does not cause hair loss, persistent head scratching can damage hair follicles resulting in thinning over time.

So, if you suffer from dandruff and find yourself thinning on top, ridding your scalp of the flakes isn’t a bad place to start. Luckily Alpecin are here to help! The formulation contains a total of 4 active ingredients, salicylic and fumaric acid to exfoliate the scalp and zinc pyrithione and piroctone olamine to eliminate fungus, yeast and harmful bacteria.

Alphosyl 2-in-1 is a hugely popular coal tar medicated shampoo treatment for dandruff, and it's easy to see why. Highly recommended for those with chronic dandruff or scalp psoriasis, this shampoo contains 5% coal tar to help disperse scales and soothe itching.

The 2-in-1 cleansing and conditioning formula prevents hair from becoming dry, though you may want to follow up with a separate conditioning treatment or mask. For the best results, keep up regular application even after the scalp has cleared. 

If you’ve been searching online for an anti-dandruff shampoo, you’ve likely come across Neutrogena’s T/Gel already. A favourite among many chronic dandruff and psoriasis sufferers, this medicated preparation uses coal tar as its active ingredient.

It's popular for a reason, and a good option if you tend to get a lot of large or persistent flakes. Coal works in the opposite way to salicylic acid, by reducing cell turnover to slow down dead skin cell production and build up.

For those with mild cases of dandruff who would prefer a gentler shampoo, this shampoo prioritises natural remedies to keep dandruff at bay. It's also vegan, cruelty-free, and handmade in Cheshire, UK, so a great eco-conscious choice. 

Its formulation is free from harsher active ingredients, suiting those with sensitive scalps prone to irritation. Instead, this shampoo uses a trio of nature's best – apple cider vinegar to help eliminate fungus, aloe vera to soothe irritation and coconut oil to lock in moisture. 

Don’t let the rich and creamy consistency of Dead Sea Spa’s Magik Mineral shampoo fool you! The formulation includes two highly effective dandruff-fighting active ingredients to keep flakes under control. It's praised for its lovely smell, too, especially by those after a more floral or 'feminine' scent. 

Zinc pyrithione helps clear away excess yeast on the scalp, while salicylic acid encourages cell turnover to prevent it from coming back. Although suitable for all hair types, this shampoo can be a little drying when used regularly. Make sure to follow up with a good conditioner to keep hair happy and hydrated!

As a recognisable name in the world of men’s hair care and grooming (and with so many men battling dandruff on a daily basis), it’s unsurprising that American Crew have decided to throw their hat into the ring. This shampoo stimulates hair growth, without weighing it down and it's also formulated for all hair types.

It uses gentle anti-fungal ingredients to work with both dry and oily skin. Although technically not a 2-in-1 product, if you’re in a hurry, this product does contain a couple of bonus moisturising ingredients, such as glycerin and the humectant propylene glycol, to lightly condition. Though, the moisturisation may not be sufficient for some.

If you don’t require a very intense anti-fungal, or are looking for something to keep dandruff at bay between treatments, give Moksha Beauty’s Tea Tree Oil Shampoo a go! Manufactured in the UK, this shampoo is enriched with 100% pure tea tree oil to help rid the scalp of excess sebum.

Tea tree oil has long been used to treat skin inflammation and it provides an immediate cooling sensation that can feel relieving on an itchy scalp. It does, however, have quite a strong smell that may not be to everyone’s taste.

If the root of your dandruff woes are caused by a dry scalp, you may want to consider Kiehls’ Amino Acid shampoo. Take a look at some of the key ingredients and you’ll notice that hydration is a top priority – the formulation contains both pure coconut oil and amino acids to help enhance the skin's water retention.

But that’s not all! This shampoo is also a good choice for coloured hair, and includes salicylic acid to help slough away dead skin cells to uncover the soft, new skin beneath. It's also available in a larger size, although both a fairly high price point compared to most of our other products in the ranking.

If your hair is dry and you also suffer from dandruff, this shampoo from Neutrogena contains added conditioners. Instead of drying out the hair, using it leaves the hair clean and conditioned while relieving any irritation or flaking.

Salicylic acid and piroctone olamine are the dandruff-fighting actives used in the formulation, which helps to clarify the hair. It has a pleasantly gentle melon and jasmine fragrance. However, the added fragrance and SLS may not be suitable for sensitive scalps.