Dandruff is an itchy condition of the scalp. It results in scales and discomfort. Clumps of skin accumulate and create flakes. These dead cells are large enough to be visible. People who suffer from such conditions tend to lose confidence in themselves.
This is why we have discovered medicated shampoos for you. But when you buy such a shampoo, you must keep the following points in minds:
- Ingredients: medicated shampoos have strong chemicals. These chemicals can give you relief from your condition, but it should be used in moderation. There are special ingredients that must be avoided for certain hair types.
- Frizz and flyaway: medicated shampoos generally contain concentrated chemicals. These chemicals can make your scalp dry. Try to find products that provide your scalp moisture while treating your condition.
- Chemical treatments: chemical treatments tend to weaken your hair. Along with that if you apply medicated shampoos, it may get more damaged. This is why you should choose your shampoo wisely.
To help you out more, we have compiled a “Buying Guide“. This buying guide contains several other factors to be considered in detail. It is present at the end of the article.
Best Medicated Shampoo 2023
| Name of the Product | Fragrance | Volume | Buy Now |
| Nizoral Anti-Dandruff Shampoo | Fresh | 7 Fluid ounces | CHECK ON AMAZON |
| Neutrogena T/Gel Therapeutic Shampoo | Floral | 16 Fluid ounces | CHECK ON AMAZON |
| Selsun Blue Medicated Dandruff Shampoo | Fresh | 11 Fluid ounces | CHECK ON AMAZON |
| Vanicream Medicated AntiDandruff Shampoo | Unscented | 8 ml | CHECK ON AMAZON |
| Dermarest Psoriasis Medicated Shampoo | Unscented | 8 fluid ounces | CHECK ON AMAZON |
| Medicasp Coal Tar Gel Shampoo | Not Disclosed | 177 ml | CHECK ON AMAZON |
| Solimo Therapeutic Dandruff Shampoo | Coal Tar | 6 fluid ounces | CHECK ON AMAZON |
| CLn Shampoo for Scalp | Unscented | 8 fluid ounces | CHECK ON AMAZON |
| Cleansing Shampoo for Dry Scalp Care | Cedarwood | 8 ounces | CHECK ON AMAZON |
| Sulfur8 Anti-Dandruff Hair & Scalp Care Shampoo | Sulfate | 7.5 ounce | CHECK ON AMAZON |
| Zincon Medicated Dandruff Shampoo | Mild | 8 fluid ounces | CHECK ON AMAZON |
Top 11 Best Medicated Shampoo Reviews
1. Nizoral Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
If you want to get rid of dandruff, look for an anti-dandruff shampoo. And if you want a shampoo that is effective against even the stubbornest dandruff, switch to Nizoral. It prevents itching, flaking, and scaling, and unlike other products, it is clinically proven to do so. Nizoral’s power is beyond other products because it can control the most severe type of dandruff.
The best part about the product is that you see visible results from the first day of use. It doesn’t just recognize the symptoms of dandruff, it eradicates the problem from its root. It kills the fungus (Malassezia) that causes dandruff.
Dandruff can lead to up to 3 times more hair fall. Nizoral controls dandruff and prevents further hairfall. It contains 1% ketoconazole, which is clinically proven to fight dandruff, controlling scaling, itching, and flaking. It is the only product of its kind that is available over the counter.
Ketoconazole is known to be tenfold more effective than other active ingredients present in other leading shampoo brands, based on clinical tests. To get the best results, use Nizoral twice every week.
You can use this on color-treated, gray, or chemically processed hair without the fear of damaging it. The product has a clean and fresh smell, which needs to be used twice a week. On other days, use any other shampoo you like.
Product specifications:
- Scent: fresh
- Volume: 7 fluid ounces
Pros:
- Ketoconazole controls itching, flaking, and scaling.
- Gentle on chemically treated hair.
- Prevents hair fall from dandruff.
Cons:
- Regular use can make your hair dry and dull
2. Neutrogena T/Gel Therapeutic Shampoo
To get relief from flaking and itching, that lasts long, you should give Neutrogena T/Gel a try. This shampoo has an original therapeutic formula. It helps in controlling itching in the scalp and chronic flaking. It also gives relief from psoriasis, seborrheic dermatitis, and regular dandruff as well. Neutrogena T/Gel shampoo contains coal tar extract.
This extract is known to keep working for hours, even after the actual shampoo is rinsed off. The product helps in maintaining a healthy scalp. It leaves the hair manageable and clean. You can trust this brand because Neutrogena is the #1 dermatologically-recommended brand.
This product has been recognized by the National Psoriasis Foundation as instrumental in relieving symptoms. The symptoms include inflammation along with a thick-crusted plaque formation on the surface of the skin.
It also helps in controlling common inflammatory conditions of the scalp, like red or irritated skin or large flakes. It is made with Neuter. This ingredient normalizes the scalp and slows the overproduction of cells on the scalp. It also reduces potential inflammation.
Neutrogena T/Gel is used for daily use. To get the best results, use the product two times a week or as recommended by your physician. Massage the product on your scalp, let it sit for a few minutes. Then rinse the shampoo.
Product specifications:
- Scent: floral
- Volume: 16 fluid ounces
Pros:
- Visibly reduces dandruff.
- Works on psoriasis and seborrheic dermatitis.
Cons:
- May irritate sensitive skin
3. Selsun Blue Medicated Maximum Strength Dandruff Shampoo
To be tough on your dandruff, choose the Selsun Blue Maximum Strength shampoo. It helps in preventing and eliminating the itchy sensation in the scalp. It reduces visible flakes that are generally associated with dandruff. The product is gentle enough to be used daily. It is formed with 8 intensive moisturizers. It has botanicals along with vitamin E and B5.
These elements help to promote hair that looks incredibly healthy. Ingredients like pyrithione zinc, selenium sulfide, and salicylic acid are clinically proven to be very effective for dandruff. Since the product is specifically formulated to stop itching and flaking of the scalp, it reduces serious cases of dandruff. It also helps in lowering the symptoms of seborrheic dermatitis.
Use this product two times each week. Shake the bottle well and then shampoo. Keep it on for about 5 to 10 minutes. Rinse thoroughly for best results.
This product has prescription-grade products in non-prescription strength. It has a cooling effect that reduces the discomfort from itching. It also reduces the symptoms of Tinea Versicolor.
Product specifications:
- Scent: fresh
- Volume: 11 fluid ounces
Pros:
- Keeps hair clean and healthy
- Formulated especially keeping flaking and itching caused by serious dandruff
- Prevents symptoms of seborrheic dermatitis in the scalp
Cons:
- Contains a lot of harsh chemicals.
- Not recommended for damaged hair
4. Vanicream Free & Clear Medicated AntiDandruff Shampoo
Vanicream Free & Clear is a medicated anti-dandruff shampoo. It has no dyes or fragrances. It is devoid of masking fragrances, protein, lanolin, formaldehyde, or any other type of formaldehyde releasers. Zinc pyrithione 2 % has properties to prevent fungus growth. It reduces any symptom of seborrheic dermatitis and also prevents the return of dandruff.
It has no cocamidopropyl betaine. The product contains no phosphate or sulfate. It is devoid of gluten. To ensure the best health for your hair, the shampoo is pH balanced. It is also free of parabens. The product is dermatologically tested and gives wonderful results against dandruff.
Use the product two times each week. Apply shampoo on wet hair and massage gently. Leave the lather for a few minutes. Rinse and repeat as needed. The hair does not feel dry after application. It remains manageable with no hair loss.
Product specifications:
- Scent: unscented
- Volume: 8 ml
Pros:
- Mild medicated shampoo
- No dyes or fragrance
- Reduces symptoms of scalp related diseases
Cons:
- Might not be ideal for sensitive skin
5. Dermarest Psoriasis Medicated Shampoo and Conditioner
Dermarest is very effective when it comes to itching of the scalp and irritation. It relieves flaking and redness. It prevents the symptoms of psoriasis. It is specially made with 3% salicylic acid. It also consists of a zinc complex that is unique to the product. These ingredients combine to treat psoriasis and give you relief from the symptoms.
Dermarest has no fragrance and also contains conditioning properties. It removes and controls any build-up on the scalp. It soothes irritation and restores moisture in the scalp. The shampoo and conditioner combination eliminates itching as well. If you have dry and damaged hair, you should opt for a mild shampoo like Dermarest.
The product is tested dermatologically and also recognized by the National Psoriasis Foundation. Use two times every week to get optimum results. Wet your hair properly and massage a good amount of the shampoo on the scalp. Leave this lather on the scalp for a few minutes. Rinse and repeat as needed.
Product specifications:
- Scent: unscented
- Volume: 16 fluid ounces
Pros:
- Unscented
- Treats your psoriasis
- Soothes dry and irritated scalp
- Not harsh
Cons:
- May cause adverse effects if you are allergic to any of the ingredients, especially salicylic acid.
6. Medicasp Coal Tar Gel Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
Medicasp Coal Tar Gel helps in controlling and fighting the symptoms of seborrheic dermatitis, dandruff, and psoriasis. It starts showing results from the very first day and thus you start feeling much better even after the first wash. This product is made with a medicated formula.
Seborrheic dermatitis has symptoms like irritation of skin, redness, and flaking. Medicasp reduces these symptoms with its advanced formula. This helps you become confident in your skin. The product consists of 0.5 % coal tar.
This reduces itching and treats the symptoms that are associated with psoriasis, dandruff, and seborrheic dermatitis.
The ingredients help in reducing and preventing the recurrence of itching in the scalp and irritation of the skin. Make sure to discontinue after a few weeks. Not recommended to use for a prolonged duration.
Wet your hair thoroughly and apply the shampoo. Massage it into your scalp and leave the lather for several minutes. Rinse the shampoo and repeat if necessary. To get the best out of the product, use it twice every week or as recommended by your physician.
Product specifications:
- Scent: not disclosed
- Volume: 177 ml
Pros:
- Gives fast relief
- Stops the irritating sensation
- Reduces redness of the scalp
Cons:
- Smell might be unpleasant
7. Amazon Brand – Solimo Therapeutic Dandruff Shampoo
Fight against dandruff with the help of Solimo Dandruff Shampoo. This product from Solimo is designed to help in controlling symptoms of seborrheic dermatitis, psoriasis, and dandruff.
You can get manageable, shiny hair that you have been wanting. This Solimo Therapeutic Dandruff Shampoo comes in a 6 fluid ounce bottle made with extra strength dandruff shampoo.
This product is similar to Neutrogena T-Gel shampoo. If you liked the T-Gel, you will definitely like this product as well but at a much cheaper price. The active ingredient in the product is 5% coal tar. It has no parabens and is not tested on animals. The product is manufactured in the USA.
Use the product two times per week. Wet your hair thoroughly and then massage the shampoo into the scalp. Leave the product on your hair and then rinse. You can repeat if needed.
Product specifications:
- Scent: coal tar
- Volume: 6 fluid ounces
Pros:
- Treats chronic dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis
- Keeps hair shiny and manageable
- Has no parabens
- Affordable
Cons:
- The composition is very concentrated.
- Use in less amount.
8. CLn Shampoo for Scalp
CLn shampoo was formulated by physicians to effectively cleanse normal or oily hair It also relieves you from conditions like eczema, folliculitis, atopic dermatitis, and many other skin conditions. The product is formulated with sodium hypochlorite and salicylic acid.
It removes any unwanted oils, residues that lead to dull hair, dead cells, and debris originating from pores. Sodium hypochlorite is a great disinfectant. It cleans and soothes your scalp. It unclogs the pores but does not disrupt the oil balance produced in the skin.
Salicylic acid exfoliates and cleans the sensitive areas on your skin. It also contains glycerine which is a remarkable conditioner. It helps in retaining moisture because it is a humectant.
It has no fragrance and contains no parabens, antibiotics, or triclosan. This product is hypoallergenic. You should use it 1-3 times each week for beards or scalps that need special care. You can also use it to treat dandruff in the beard as well.
Unlike others, it doesn’t strip your scalp off natural oils. Apply this product by lathering it in your hands first. Put the lather on the hair and scalp and then massage it with your fingertips for a minute or two. Rinse the shampoo thoroughly and then apply conditioner. After washing, this product leaves no scent.
Product specifications:
- Scent: coal tar
- Volume: 6 fluid ounces
Pros:
- Cleanses normal to dry hair
- Keeps flakes away
- It has no fragrance
Cons:
- Expensive
- Sensitive skin people might have an allergic reaction.
9. Cleansing Shampoo for Dry Scalp Care
Cleansing Shampoo for Dry Scalp care is ideal for removing build-up. It contains tea tree oil for your scalp. Tea tree oil deeply hydrates and cleanses your scalp and washes away any impurity.
It gives you healthier-looking hair. The natural purifying shampoo also has cedarwood oil along with tea tree oil. These components naturally nourish your hair while giving relief from dandruff, itchy scalp, and redness, etc.
Give your hair the boost it requires with the help of this scalp treatment that has no sulfate. Adults often suffer from hair loss and flakes from dandruff. The company believes in natural hair care products for addressing hair concerns. It has no unnecessary additives and is of premium quality.
Product specifications:
- Scent: cedarwood
- Volume: 8 fluid ounces
Pros:
- Great for oily scalp and hair
- Natural shampoo. Free of sulfate
- Doesn’t dry out the scalp
Cons:
- Might not be strong enough for seborrheic dermatitis or scalp psoriasis.
10. Sulfur8 Anti-Dandruff Hair & Scalp Care Shampoo
This shampoo forms a rich lather that you apply on your scalp to help get rid of scalp irritation, redness, and dryness. It cleans your hair thoroughly and leaves your hair manageable and soft. The product is gentle enough to be used by all family members.
The formula of the shampoo is original. You will get relief from dandruff and irritation if you use the shampoo one to three times each day. It contains actual sulfur which makes it a medicated shampoo. It also prevents hair breakage. It restores the pH balance of your hair and makes it much more healthy.
The product comes in a jar that can be used very easily. Apply the shampoo on the scalp and apply the conditioner to the hair length. For best results use it twice a week. It’s not an everyday shampoo.
Product descriptions:
- Scent: sulfate
- Volume: 7.5 fluid ounces
Pros:
- Can reduce symptoms of scalp ailments like psoriasis
- Adds moisture to the scalp
- Affordable
Cons:
- Smells like a strong chemical
11. Zincon Medicated Dandruff Shampoo
Zincon medicated shampoo controls dandruff and stops it from returning. It leaves you clean and shiny. Your hair becomes much more manageable than it was. The product reduces itching of the scalp and eliminates flakes and scales.
These symptoms are associated with seborrheic dermatitis and dandruff.
This shampoo is very effective against dandruff. But it also acts gently on your hair. It is so gentle that it can replace your regular shampoo.
It has a mild smell. Use the product two times a week. Apply the shampoo on your scalp and let it sit for 2 minutes. Then rinse and repeat if necessary.
Product description:
- Scent: mild
- Volume: 8 fluid ounces
Pros:
- Has mild smell
- Effective against dandruff
Cons:
- None discovered
Buying Guide For Best Medicated Shampoo
When you start looking for a dandruff shampoo, you should sleep in mind factors that make the product stand out. It should contain specific ingredients that are beneficial for your hair. It should aim at resolving more than one issue while keeping your hair healthy and shiny. Keep the following points in mind while buying the medicated shampoo of your choice.
Ingredients:
Medicated shampoos contain a lot of ingredients.
Coal Tar:
It might have coal tar, salicylic acid, or steroids. Coal tar is very effective against psoriasis. It helps with hardening, thickening, and scaling of the scalp. It slows down cell growth. It eases itching and gives relief to your scalp. Coal tar does not smell pleasant. This is why a few people may avoid this product.
Salicylic Acid:
Salicylic acid sheds dead skin. It is very helpful when you have seborrheic dermatitis. It lifts the flakes and gets rid of the scales on your scalp. Salicylic acid dries out your hair. It might lead to a dry scalp. Use only if your scalp tends to be on the drier side. Some of these salicylic acid shampoos have sulfur. This can stop the growth of fungus.
Zinc Pyrithione:
Zinc pyrithione has antimicrobial, antifungal, and antibacterial properties. It helps in treating dermatitis, psoriasis of the scalp, and acne. It also inhibits the growth of yeast.
Other than the active ingredients, you need to consider a few other factors.
Flyaways and Frizz:
If your hair is prone to frizz, try using a product containing ZPT. It reduces frizz and flyaway.
Coloured or Chemically Treated Hair:
If you have a lighter colour on your hair, coal tar will stain it. This is why it is recommended to avoid coal tar-containing shampoos.
Oily Hair and Scalp:
Try to find products that reduce the oil in your hair. Go for salicylic acid shampoos. Do not try using selenium sulfide products. They tend to make the hair more oily.
FAQs
Ans: Medicated shampoos are generally used to give you relief from scaling or itching. But they are also used to treat bacterial infections or fungus.
Ans: Medicated shampoos slow down slow death. They relieve inflammation in the scalp and calm down the itching.
Ans: Use a tiny amount. Lather it in your hand. Massage it on your scalp. Keep it on for up to 10 minutes. Rinse and repeat if needed.
Ans: Use it two times a week. Do not use it for a prolonged period unless advised by your doctor.
Conclusion
For a good amount of consumers, OTC medicated shampoos work just fine. They are easily available and do not need a prescription and are generally very cheap. This is why we scoured through the internet and found the best one for you. The list above is long, but Nizoral Anti-Dandruff Shampoo is the best of the lot. It has ketoconazole 1%.
This relieves your scalp from dandruff outbreaks. This is one of the most recommended products by doctors. It is safe and gentle to use on colour treated or chemically-treated hair as well. Give the product a chance. You will not be disappointed.