Dandruff is such a tormenting hair problem, next to hair fall. At least 90% of us would have encountered dandruff in our life. Dandruff as such doesn’t pose a serious issue but when it’s associated with irritations & itchiness along with induced hair fall, it becomes necessary to treat your dandruff-filled scalp. It can occur on any hair and scalp type, be it dry or oily. Dandruff is a fungal infection of the scalp, usually identified as the white oily flakes that are present on your scalp. Usually, it can be treated with shampoos if it is mild to moderate. This post will feature the Best Medicated Anti Dandruff Shampoos Recommended By Dermatologists in India. We also curated the list of best shampoos for hair fall that’s recommended by dermatologists recently.
Editor’s Top Picks:
1. Scalpe Plus Expert Anti Dandruff ShampooMost loved. 2% Ketoconazole & 1% Zinc Pyrithone helps with both dandruff and hair fall.2. Selsun Selenium Sulfide Suspension2.5% Selenium Sulfide eradicates stubborn dandruff. Dermatologists Recommended.3. Keraglo AD Ketoconazole ShampooMy personal favorite. Works excellently to remove dandruff without drying out the scalp. |
What causes Dandruff?
Oily scalp: The excessive oils and dead skin cells on the scalp combine to form oily white flakes. This happens when you don’t shampoo your scalp properly or enough and leave your scalp oily for more period of time.
Dry scalp: This is exactly the opposite of the above. In this case, the white flakes occur due to a dry scalp when the scalp is not balanced. Dry air and weather conditions is a common factors for this type of flake.
Product Build-Up: The usage of hair products like hair serums, and hair styling products can lead to product build-up and cause dandruff.
Other Skin conditions: Dandruff can be associated with skin conditions like Eczema, Dermatitis and lead to more fungal growth than it is normally.
Powerful Ingredients To Tackle Dandruff:
For mild to moderate dandruff, using a good Medicated Anti Dandruff Shampoo will do the needful. Dermatologists Prescribed Dandruff Shampoos usually have the following ingredients to tackle dandruff.
1. Ketoconazole
Hands down, this is the best ingredient to fight off dandruff. Ketoconazole is an anti-fungal medication that kills fungus. It is also known to reduce dandruff-associated conditions such as itching, scaling, flaking, and dry skin. Ketoconazole has the ability to not only eradicate the root cause of dandruff, it also helps with hair fall problems as well.
2. Selenium Sulfide
Selenium Sulfide is yet another anti-fungal and anti-infective ingredient that is as effective as Ketoconazole in eradicating dandruff. It is a sulfur-derived compound and that is why some Selenium Sulfide Shampoos don’t smell good. They can emit a raw pungent smell. Nevertheless, it is a highly effective ingredient to treat dandruff, tinea versicolor, and seborrhea dermatitis.
3. Pyrithione Zinc
Pyrithione zinc is an anti-fungal, anti-bacterial, and anti-microbial ingredient that helps to relieve dandruff. This is more gentle than Ketoconazole and Selenium Sulfide. This is an ingredient that is often found in conventional Anti Dandruff Shampoos such as Head & Shoulders. Pyrithione Zinc helps with mild to moderate dandruff issues and is excellent for treating Malassezia Fungus.
4. Salicylic Acid
Salicylic Acid is a chemical exfoliator that removes dead skin cells from the top layer of the skin. It is not only an excellent ingredient for acne, its kerotoplastic nature helps to remove dandruff flakes on the scaly scalps. This is highly effective for those with scalp acne, bumps, and oily scalp to remove build-up. While there may not be many Salicylic Acid Anti Dandruff Shampoo in India, there are tons of Salicylic Acid Face Washes in India, that you can use for your scalp safely.
5. Coal Tar
Medicated Anti Dandruff Shampoos with Coal Tar should be used only at dermatologists’ recommendations following precautions. Coal Tar has anti-inflammatory properties and is used in the treatment of itchy dandruff, psoriasis, and seborrheic dermatitis. But it can make your scalp photosensitive and can make your scalp burn upon contact with sunlight after usage. So strictly use it after consulting your doctor.
These are some of the ingredients that you need to look for in any medicated shampoo for dandruff. The following is the list of Best Medicated Anti Dandruff Shampoos Recommended by Dermatologists. They are mostly available without a prescription but we always recommend getting consulted with a dermatologist before getting a Medicated product.
How to use Medicated Anti Dandruff Shampoos?
- Medicated Anti Dandruff Shampoos are to be used sparingly.
- Twice a week for severe dandruff & once a week for mild to moderate dandruff.
- You can alternate with your regular shampoo.
- You should stop using them when your dandruff condition improves and shouldn’t commit to using them lifelong, obviously because they are sort of treatment products.
- It is best to use it under the guidance of a dermatologist.
10 Best Medicated Anti Dandruff Shampoos in India
1. Scalpe Plus Expert Anti Dandruff Shampoo
This is one of the Best Medicated Anti Dandruff Shampoos that’s been recommended by dermatologists for more than two-decade. Scalpe Plus Expert is from the well-known Pharma Brand, Glenmark Pharmaceuticals, so you don’t have to worry about its quality. This shampoo clears out dandruff in just two washes and treats yeast & fungal infections on the scalp. Not only that, but this shampoo also helps in reducing hair loss.
| PROS | CONS |
| 1. Contains both Ketoconazole (2%) and Zinc Pyrithione (1%). | 1. Does not foam much, so some might not like it. But that is why this isn’t drying. |
| 2. Pleasant Fragrance. | |
| 3. Gives a conditioning effect leaving hair soft & shiny. | |
| 4. Not only reduces dandruff but also prevents hair fall. | |
| 5. Recommended by many Dermatologists. | |
| 6. Suitable for color-treated hair. |
Where to buy it? Amazon.in
2. Selsun Suspension Anti Dandruff Shampoo
Selsun Suspension Anti Dandruff Shampoo comes from the house of Abbott which is one of the most trusted pharmaceutical companies. It is a medicated anti-dandruff shampoo that contains a strong formulation with 2.5% Selenium Sulfide, hence best used upon consultation. It is used in the treatment of Tinea Versicolor, Recurrent Dandruff, and Seborrhea. This works super quickly in a couple of washes, hence loved by many.
| PROS | CONS |
| 1. Has a dual-action formula that targets fungi causing dandruff. | 1. Not for sensitive scalp. |
| 2. Effectively treats and controls dandruff from coming back. | |
| 3. Clears away build-up dead skin cells. | |
| 4. Has an improved fragrance. | |
| 5. Best to be used twice weekly for two weeks and then only when necessary. | |
| 6. Provides relief from itching and flaking caused by dandruff. |
Where to buy it? Amazon.in
3. Keraglo AD Ketoconazole Shampoo
Keraglo AD from IPCA is one of the Best Ketoconazole Shampoo in India. It is enriched with amazing dandruff-fighting ingredients to treat dandruff and Seborrheic Dermatitis. What makes it different from other dandruff shampoos is that it is not at all drying and you are not left with straw-like dry hair. That’s because Keraglo is enriched with added conditioners that leave your hair soft and manageable while removing dandruff superbly.
| PROS | CONS |
| 1. Contains 2% Ketoconazole, which controls fungal growth. | 1. None as such. |
| 2. Has Ichthyol Pale which is an anti-inflammatory, anti-itching, anti-seborrheic, and anti-microbial agent. | |
| 3. Along with D-Panthenol and Aloe Vera which leaves the hair moisturized and nourished. | |
| 4. Relieves from Dandruff and Itchiness. | |
| 5. One of the Best Ketoconazole Shampoo in India. |
Where to buy it? Amazon.in
4. Cipla 8x Shampoo
I have had a good experience with most Cipla products. Cipla is a trusted pharmaceutical brand that has some nice skincare and haircare products too. This Anti Dandruff shampoo is specifically formulated for itchy and scaly dandruff. It treats fungal and yeast infections of the scalp. It calms inflammations and is great for those with scalp pimples.
| PROS | CONS |
| 1. Contains Ciclopirox (1%) and Zinc Pyrithione (1%) both of which are anti-fungal, along with aloe vera to condition. | 1. It can be a bit drying, but a good conditioner can take care of it. |
| 2. Best suited for those with a very oily scalp. | |
| 3. Efficiently clears dandruff in a few uses. | |
| 4. Effective for seborrheic dermatitis. | |
| 5. pH-balanced formula. |
Where to buy it? Amazon.in
5. Salisia KT Anti Dandruff Shampoo
Salisia KT is a Salicylic Acid and Ketoconozole Medicated Shampoo in India. Manufactured by Ajanta Pharma Ltd, this anti-dandruff shampoo is recommended by dermatologists for severe recurrent dandruff. The shampoo is used in the treatment of scaly skin, flaking, and itching caused by fungal infections.
| PROS | CONS |
| 1. Contains Ketoconazole 2%, an antifungal that stops the growth of dandruff-causing fungi. | 1. Can be drying. |
| 2. Contains Salicylic Acid 2%, a keratolytic medicine that breaks down skin clumps on the scalp. | |
| 3. Further enriched with D-Panthenol, Aloe Vera, and Ichthyol Pale. | |
| 4. Treats Dandruff and Seborrheic dermatitis of the scalp. | |
| 5. Relieves itching and flaking associated with dandruff. | |
| 6. Best used 2-3 times a week. |
Where to buy? Amazon.in
6. Nizoral Anti Dandruff Shampoo
This is one of the internationally popular dandruff shampoos. People love this shampoo because it shows results from the first day of use. It removes even the most stubborn dandruff. If the conventional Anti Dandruff Shampoos have failed you, this will save you. Works for even severe dandruff. This is one of the Best Ketoconazole Shampoo For Dandruff and Itchy Scalp.
| PROS | CONS |
| 1. Contains 1% Ketoconazole. | 1. You need to always use a conditioner with this shampoo as it might leave your hair dry. |
| 2. Thick rich lather cleans the scalp well. | 2. Not easily available. |
| 3. Smells nice with no medicinal scent. | |
| 4. Reduces flaking, scaling, and itching. | |
| 5. Fight off dandruff outbreaks. |
Where to buy it? Chemists or Medical shops
7. Scalpe Pro Anti Dandruff Shampoo
Don’t get confused with the other Scalpe Shampoo. This Scalpe Pro is very different from the popular Scalpe Plus Shampoo. The formulation of Scalpe Pro contains Piroctone Olamine, ZPTO, and Climbazole while Scalpe Plus is a Ketoconazole Based Shampoo. Either way, both are effective for dandruff. Scalpe Pro is mild and less efficient so it works great for mild dandruff and as a dandruff maintenance shampoo. Scalpe Pro has conditioning agents that do not dry out the scalp and hair.
| PROS | CONS |
| 1. Contains Climbazole, which biologically eliminates dandruff at the source. | 1. Takes a couple of washes to show results. |
| 2. Has ZPTO to prevent dandruff-causing microbes at the root. | |
| 3. Contains Piroctone Olamine which is known to improve hair shaft thickness | |
| 4. Has a nourishing base that ensures no dryness making it the ideal choice for daily dandruff care. |
Where to buy it? Amazon.in
8. Selsun Daily Anti Dandruff Shampoo for Dry Scalp
This is a milder form of the Selsun Suspension. Selsun Daily Shampoo is formulated with 1% of Selenium Sulphide which is good for mild to moderate dandruff. It relieves itching and dandruff flakes significantly in the first use itself. The shampoo is free of sulfates and parabens and hence does not lather much. But that doesn’t hinder its performance. People suffering from mild dandruff shampoo problems should benefit from this scalp. We recommend this for oily scalp people.
| PROS | CONS |
| 1. Sulphate and Paraben Free Shampoo. | 1. May not suit sensitive scalp. |
| 2. Fresh Fragrance. | |
| 3. pH Balanced Formula. | |
| 4. Daily use shampoo that has anti-dandruff benefits. | |
| 5. Has added conditioner hence not drying and best for dry scalp. | |
| 6. Reduces itching and flaking. |
Where to buy it? Amazon.in
9. Neutrogena T/Gel Daily Control 2 in 1 Anti Dandruff Shampoo Plus Conditioner
Neutrogena is a popular drugstore brand that I love. Their products are great and so is this shampoo. The Neutrogena T/Gel Therapeutic Shampoos are available in different variants: Original Version with Coal Tar Extract( For Long Lasting Relief), Extra Strength (Redness and Intense Itching and Flaking), Stubborn Itch (Soothes stubborn itch with cooling menthol) and Scalp Build-Up Control (clears & prevents scalp Build up)
Among these, the Neutrogena T/Gel Daily Control Shampoo is more suitable for everyday use. It is a gentle shampoo & conditioner combo that cleanses the scalp, relieves dandruff, and leaves your hair soft and manageable in a single step.
| PROS | CONS |
| 1. Contains 1% Pyrithione Zinc to help relieve itching and flaking of the scalp. | 1. Not very affordable. |
| 2. Enriched with Vitamin E to moisturize your hair and scalp. | 2. Not easily available. |
| 3. Has Wheat proteins to help nourish and protect against damage. | |
| 4. Fast Acting Relief for Scalp Itching and Flaking. | |
| 5. Safe For Color-Treated Hair. |
10. Head and Shoulders Anti Dandruff Shampoo
Lastly, we have our classic cult favorite Head and Shoulders Anti Dandruff Shampoo. It is one of the best and most affordable Anti-Dandruff Shampoos in India. It’s easily available in stores and we also have a lot of variants to choose from. The Classic Clean version has 1% Zinc Pyrithione to fight off dandruff.
| PROS | CONS |
| 1. Removes dandruff from the first usage. | 1. None. |
| 2. Does not dry out hair, rather makes it soft and smooth. | |
| 3. Budget-friendly. | |
| 4. Easily Available |
These are the most recommended Best Medicated Anti Dandruff Shampoos in India. Do let us know your favorites in the comments section below.