Dandruff is a common problem that can quickly cause frustration at your hair and scalp. Nothing ruins a great hairstyle quite like those pesky flakes resting on your hair, scalp, and even clothes. This is even more frustrating on Black hair types where thick hair and curls make those flakes particularly noticeable.
The good news is that there are options for dandruff shampoos that are suitable for Black hair. Whether your hair is natural, chemically-treated, dyed, or heat-treated – we have the list of the 5 best shampoo options to keep your hair and scalp healthy and dandruff-free.
5 Best Shampoos for Dandruff on Black Hair
If you are struggling with dandruff, check out these products that will quickly relieve your pain and frustration without damaging your hair.
1. Nizoral A-D Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
Nizoral A-D is one of the best shampoos to quickly tackle dandruff. The primary ingredient, ketoconazole (1%), binds to the proteins in your hair to get rid of dandruff fast. This shampoo is great for relieving itching and moisturizing the hair and scalp. It is safe for color-treated or chemically-treated hair, and does not contain a harsh fragrance.
2. Head & Shoulders Royal Oils Moisture
Head & Shoulders is one of the best-known dandruff shampoos on the market. Their newer variety, Royal Oils Moisture Boost Shampoo, is specifically designed for curly, coily, or kinky hair. It has a rich lather that clings to your hair and removes buildup of dandruff. The shampoo contains coconut oil, and is free from dyes or parabens. It is safe enough to use regularly as needed, and will keep your hair and scalp hydrated and flake free.
3. Maple Holistics Dry Scalp Shampoo and Conditioner
Maple Holistics is one of the few brands that offers a shampoo and conditioner set that is designed to prevent dandruff at the root cause – dry scalp. This shampoo and conditioner is safe for regular use with ingredients like tea tree oil, rosemary, and sage. These natural ingredients are beneficial to your hair and scalp and are natural antifungals. The goal of Maple Holistics is to prevent the most common causes of dandruff and help relieve symptoms when dandruff occurs. Their products do not contain harsh chemicals like sulfates or parabens, which means you are only exposing your hair and scalp to beneficial ingredients.
4. Dove Dermacare Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
Dove is a leading brand in skincare products, including scalp care. For Black hair, one of the most beloved products for dandruff and itchy scalp is Dove’s Dermacare Scalp shampoo. With regular use, this shampoo relieves dandruff and removes flakes and dryness. The moisturizing formula helps reduce the chance of dandruff recurring, as well. Dermacare is gentle enough to use regularly, and lathers well so you don’t have to worry about extensive scrubbing for it to be effective.
5. Matrix Biolage Scalp Sync Antidandruff Shampoo
Matrix Biolage is a well-known salon brand of hair care products. For Black hair types, their Scalp Sync Antidandruff Shampoo is a great option for moisturizing your hair and scalp while getting rid of pesky flakes from dandruff. This shampoo contains pyrithione zinc, one of the most effective ingredients for treating dandruff. The vegan and cruelty-free formula does not leave a residue or harsh fragrance.
Choosing the Right Dandruff Shampoo for Black Hair
Black hair has a lot of texture, which means it is important to find the right shampoo that will lather well, moisturize, and keep your scalp and hair healthy. Our list above provides options for all Black hair types and textures if you are fighting dandruff or a dry scalp.