What is Dandruff?
Dandruff is actually a mild form of seborrheic dermatitis which is a non-contagious skin complaint linked to the sebaceous glands. This condition results in dead skin cells flaking away from the scalp causing the unsightly collar dust we all dread. This increases their susceptibility to developing dandruff, including the dreaded beard dandruff, which is also just skin cells getting caught in your beard. Even though it isn’t a serious ailment, it can cost you more than your fair share of embarrassing moments. Fortunately, if you know the best anti dandruff shampoos for men, you can take action to help remedy the situation by promoting better scalp health. We searched the market for top-rated dandruff treatment shampoos and handpicked the best ten products that work. Some are medicated shampoos others are suitable for daily use, but all of them are gentle enough to cure your dandruff and nourish your hair and scalp at the same time.
10 Best Anti Dandruff Shampoos
A scaly, crusty, and scratchy scalp can do more than just cause you significant discomfort. It can also rob you of self-confidence, more so when you cannot help but relieve the itch. Here are the top 10 dandruff treatment shampoos that could save you from those awkward moments.
1. Head and Shoulders Anti Dandruff
Even a mild case of dandruff can cause inglorious and embarrassing moments. However, if your scalp is a little itchy or flaky, you can trust Head and Shoulders Anti Dandruff. This shampoo does an outstanding job of eliminating dandruff-causing fungus. Many consider Head and Shoulders to be the best shampoo for a dry scalp. This is all thanks to powerful ingredients such as zinc pyrithione, tea tree oil and almond oil that soothe the scalp and eliminate flakes. The product also contains peppermint for that nice tingly feeling most people crave. Better still, it contains a hair conditioning agent and lemon extract for that pleasant, clean after-shower scent.
2. Selsun Blue Moisturizing with Aloe Dandruff Shampoo
Selenium sulfide is a powerful compound that aids in treating an itchy or flaky scalp. The Selsun Blue Moisturizing Dandruff Shampoo contains 1% of this ingredient for fast and effective dandruff treatment. The product also contains Aloe vera, which nourishes and moisturizes the hair to give it a healthy and lustrous look, and 1% zinc pyrithione. Another perk worth mentioning is that this men’s medicated shampoo lathers well for a sparkly clean feel. The only aspect that may end in your wish list is that it doesn’t contain a conditioning agent.
3. Nizoral Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
Next on the list is a clinically proven dandruff shampoo. The Nizoral Anti-Dandruff Shampoo ranks high on our list because it contains ketoconazole. This synthetic chemical compound prevents yeast build-up, ensuring you enjoy a fast and reliable means of getting rid of dandruff. The best part is that ketoconazole also helps in hair loss prevention. Unlike products such as Head and Shoulders Anti Dandruff which are ideal for daily use, you should only wash your head with this formula once or twice a week. Despite being a gentle product, overuse could strip your hair of much-needed natural oils.
4. Neutrogena T/Gel Therapeutic Shampoo
An itchy scalp can rob you of peace of mind. Therefore, we highly recommend investing in the Neutrogena T/Gel Therapeutic Shampoo if you are looking for the best scalp soothing shampoo. It contains coal tar extract, which has potent antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, and salicylic acid. However, like the Nizoral Anti-Dandruff Shampoo, this product is not for daily use. This anti dandruff shampoo does a perfect job of removing excessive oil and yeast build-up which means it is good for those with oily hair. The only downside to this top-tier shampoo is its chemical-like smell which some people find unpleasant. However, many may consider this an acceptable price to pay for a happy, healthy scalp.
5. K + S Salon Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
The K + S Salon Anti-Dandruff Shampoo is considered by many to be the best shampoo for a dry scalp. It boasts a tea tree oil base, ensuring that you benefit from a reliable antifungal treatment. In addition, tea tree oil also brings secondary benefits, moisturizing the skin, and helping to relieve that itchy scalp while conditioning your hair. It pays to know that this is not a medicated shampoo. This means it is not only mild, gentle, but ideal for everyday use. The best part is that it has a refreshing scent that will leave you with a pep in your step after a shower.
6. Every Man Jack Antidandruff Shampoo and Conditioner
Every Man Jack is your go-to brand when looking for men’s skin, body, hair, beard, or shaving products. The Every Man Jack Antidandruff Shampoo + Conditioner scores high for its ability to relieve scalp dryness, irritation, and itchiness. This moisturizing shampoo soothes your scalp with eucalyptus and strips your hair of excess oil and yeast. The plant-based ingredients in the Every Man Jack will leave your hair smelling fresh and looking healthier and fuller. However, this is medicated shampoo, meaning you should not use it more than the recommended two times a week. You can use a milder anti dandruff shampoo in between to keep your hair clean. Every Man Jack shampoo and conditioner is a great choice for those with color treated hair.
7. Redken Scalp Relief Dandruff Control Shampoo
Another medicated shampoo approved by dermatologists is the Redken Scalp Relief Dandruff Control Shampoo. This shampoo contains ingredients such as Pyrithione zinc that attack dandruff at its source. By combating yeast and fungus, you can look forward to having a less flaky, itchy, or irritated scalp. Moreover, this is the option for color-treated hair. Apply the dandruff treatment shampoo on your dry hair and massage it into the scalp for the best results. Let it rest for about 10 minutes before washing and rinsing your hair as usual. Make sure you use a top-quality conditioner to add moisture to your tresses before you go about your daily errands.
8. Denorex Extra Strength Dandruff Shampoo and Conditioner
Another top-rated flake-fighter worthy of a slot on our manly shampoo list is the Denorex Extra Strength Dandruff Shampoo and Conditioner. This one contains Salicylic acid, an effective ingredient in removing scaling and heavy flakes. The medicated shampoo soothes the scalp for much-needed relief from irritation and is packed with provitamin B5 to keep your locks healthy and shiny. Moreover, Denorex Extra offers outstanding results by normalizing the scalps process of generating dead cells. By slowing down this process, you will notice a significant reduction in your dandruff levels. This product is tough enough to fight extreme dandruff and is best when used a maximum of two times each week.
9. JASON Dandruff Relief
Both sulfur and salicylic acid are champions in fighting yeast and fungus that cause dandruff. The JASON Dandruff Relief 2-in-1 Treatment contains both ingredients plus Pyrithione zinc to ensure excellent results with each wash. The best part is that this anti dandruff shampoo and conditioner combo treats and conditions the scalp leaving you feeling clean and refreshed after each wash. According to users, using the product just once can afford you a couple of itch-free days. In addition, it offers reliable scalp treatment for dandruff and can effectively address mild cases of seborrheic dermatitis in a few weeks.
10. Suave Men 2 in 1 AntiDandruff Shampoo and Conditioner
Rounding off our list of the best dandruff shampoos for men, we have Suave Men 2 in 1 AntiDandruff Shampoo and Conditioner. First, Suave Men is one of the best shampoo brands and has been around for over 75 years. Second, most of its products are top-rated, and this anti-dandruff shampoo is not an exception. This formula contains Pyrithione zinc, which helps control flaking and itching. Moreover, it soothes the scalp and is gentle enough to work perfectly on all skin types. Moreover, this product doubles as a shampoo and dandruff conditioner. It contains nutrients and vitamins that lock in moisture and boost healthy hair growth.
Battling Dry Scalp and Dandruff All Year Round
Dandruff is not a seasonal condition. It’s important to look after and protect your hair in the summer and winter seasons. However, it could be worse during the colder, winter months. Why is this? When the air is cold and dry, it reduces the moisture on your scalp. You might think that you can avoid this by staying indoors. However, even if you remain inside, you will probably use central heating, which will still dry your hair. If you want to be dandruff-free all winter long, then you need to make sure you’re using the best shampoo for dry scalp during the cold winter months may help to ease the concern.
What Causes Dandruff?
As science attests, being male is reason enough to be vulnerable to dandruff. However, other factors may aggravate the problem or make it hard to treat. They include the following:
Fungal (Over)Growth
Certain fungi can increase your likelihood of having dandruff. These include Pityrosporum orbiuclare and Malassezia globosa. These microbes feed on skin oil, and while they typically don’t cause any harm, they could lead to dandruff if they build up excessively. If you have a naturally oily scalp, you may be more vulnerable to fungus-causing dandruff. The microbes will feast on your scalp and, like Legion, they are many, causing irritation, dryness, and flaking.
Dry or Oily Scalp
As already mentioned, an oily scalp provides the perfect environment for dandruff-causing fungi to thrive. Unfortunately, you may still not be immune to the problem if you have a dry or sensitive scalp. In this case, the low moisture levels can cause imbalances in your scalp’s microbiome which leads to flaking. If you have color treated hair, then you could be more at risk of developing dandruff.
Poor Hair Care Routines
Different scalp and hair types may require special care to remain healthy and lustrous. Failing to shampoo your hair enough times each week can allow the overgrowth of fungi. On the other hand, shampooing your hair often causes dehydration because soap strips off the natural oils. Ideally, you should skip a day or two in between your shampooing routines. Most importantly, make sure you use a gentle product. The idea is to remove dirt, grime, and excessive oil without leaving your hair or scalp excessively dry.
Famous Five – The Key to a Good Shampoo for Dandruff?
There are a plethora of anti-dandruff shampoos out there. While many of these dandruff shampoo brands fail to live up to expectations, others deliver impressive results. Here are five powerful ingredients you can find in the best dandruff shampoos.
1. Pyrithione Zinc
If you are searching for a medicated shampoo designed to treat dandruff, any product worth your while will probably contain Pyrithione zinc. This is an inexpensive and widely available ingredient that helps to treat the root cause of dandruff. It combats yeast and fungus that feast on the scalp’s natural oils, causing dandruff.
2. Coal Tar
If you have an inflamed or scratchy scalp, you may want to consider products containing coal tar. This is an ingredient that people have used for centuries to treat dandruff. Coal tar has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that work well to reduce flaking. Unfortunately, the ingredient may also make your scalp more sensitive to sunlight and cause mild discoloration of your hair. All the same, the outcome achieved in combating dandruff is worth it.
3. Ketoconazole
Any fungal shampoo worth your investment should contain ketoconazole. This is a powerful antifungal treatment that treats dandruff by eliminating excessive yeast. You are also likely to notice a steady increase in your hair volume because ketoconazole is known to accelerate hair regrowth.
4. Selenium Sulfide
Another ingredient to look for is selenium sulfide. It is derived from sulfur and helps to ease flaking and itching of the scalp. On the downside, this ingredient can cause dryness or a burning sensation on your scalp.
5. Salicylic Acid
Any time you have a yeast build-up on your scalp, you may begin noticing a dandruff issue that’s blown out of proportion. Dandruff shampoos that contains Pyrithione zinc is also likely to have Salicylic acid. While the former removes the yeast, the latter clears the build-up to leave your scalp clean and itch-free.
The Best of the Rest
Some of the other ingredients you will see in your dandruff shampoo to help maintain a healthy scalp includes:
JojobaAloe veraTea treeEucalyptusSpearmint oilsAlmond oilPeppermint
These ingredients create a powerful dandruff-busting formula that will leave your hair healthy and flake-free all year round when used in combination.
Final Thoughts on the Best Dandruff Shampoos for Men
Maintaining top-notch hygiene practices doesn’t guarantee immunity from dandruff. However, if your scalp feels itchy or flaky, you may want to switch up your routines by using a different dandruff shampoos from time to time. We have listed ten tried and tested treatments that contain powerful dandruff combating ingredients. There are different causes of dandruff, many of which we cannot combat, such as hair types. However, with a little experimentation, you will be able to find the right shampoo for your needs. Have you used any of the dandruff shampoos we have reviewed? What was your experience? Let us know in the comments section below.
