10 Best Anti Dandruff Shampoos for African American Hair

Written by Kayla Davis

Updated on May 24, 2023

Research has found that African Americans may have a greater likelihood of experiencing certain scalp conditions, including Seborrheic Dermatitis, which can lead to dandruff. ^[1]

It’s worth noting, however, that there is no evidence to suggest that black people are genetically predisposed to dandruff. Instead, certain haircare practices that are common among this group, such as braiding, extensions, co-washing, and certain styling techniques, can contribute to the development of dandruff.

While there are numerous shampoos available that claim to treat and prevent dandruff, finding the right one for black hair can be a challenge due to its tendency to be drier than other hair types. Medicated dandruff shampoos often contain ingredients that can exacerbate dryness.

That’s why it’s crucial to find a formula that can effectively eliminate dandruff while also moisturizing the hair.

In an effort to assist you, we have evaluated a range of dandruff shampoos and identified the best options for those with Afro-textured hair.

Check out the list below.

1. Nizoral AD Anti Dandruff Shampoo

The Nizoral AD Anti-Dandruff shampoo is an effective treatment for dandruff thanks to its active ingredient, Ketoconazole.

Ketoconazole is an antifungal agent that can treat dandruff caused by an overgrowth of yeast-like fungus (Malassezia) on the scalp.

Nizoral AD Anti Dandruff Shampoo

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Ketoconazole eradicates Malassezia fungus, reducing the amount of yeast on the scalp, which helps reduce inflammation, irritation, and further skin cell production. The antifungal properties of Ketoconazole are complemented by its anti-inflammatory and anti-androgenic effects, which reduce scalp irritation, inflammation, and the excess production of oil on the scalp. ^[2]

The Nizoral AD anti-dandruff shampoo contains only 1% Ketoconazole, which is clinically proven to fight cases of severe dandruff.

The reason we recommend Nizoral AD for people with afro hair is because of its salon-tested gentleness and sulfate-free formula. It doesn’t strip natural oils and it can be used on relaxed and over-processed hair too.

2. Shea Moisture Anti Dandruff Shampoo

SheaMoisture’s apple cider vinegar anti-dandruff shampoo is a unique blend of natural ingredients designed to care for the scalp’s microbiome and strengthen the hair. Formulated with apple cider vinegar, salicylic acid, and vitamin B3, this shampoo gently cleanses the scalp to eliminate dandruff from its source. It also contains fair trade shea butter, which helps boost moisture and adds a rich and creamy lather to the shampoo.

Shea Moisture Anti Dandruff Shampoo

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Here’s how the SheaMoisture anti-dandruff shampoo works:

Salicylic acid is a safe ingredient in many anti-dandruff shampoos and hair care products, but it’s recommended to patch test a small area of the scalp before use in case of allergies or skin conditions.

Overall, the Shea Moisture shampoo has the right mix of anti-dandruff and moisture-boosting ingredients, making it an excellent choice for afro hair textures.

Also, check out Shea Moisture’s African Black Soap shampoo, which can be used as a weekly clarifier to keep the scalp clean and healthy from product buildup and environmental pollutants.

3. Head and Shoulders Royal Oils Moisture Boost Shampoo

Head and Shoulders is the haircare market’s leading brand for dandruff relief shampoos. They have many variants to choose from, but the Royal Oils Moisture Boost is their best anti-dandruff shampoo for African hair textures.

Crafted by a team of black scientists with the unique needs of black hair in mind, this lineup delivers expertly designed scalp relief and luxuriously moisturized hair for all-natural, relaxed, kinky, and coily crowns.

Head and Shoulders Royal Oils Moisture Boost Shampoo

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The Royal Oils Moisture Boost shampoo caters to the specific needs of black and ethnic hair. It boasts a rich, creamy lather that effectively removes buildup while providing lightweight, long-lasting hydration to both the scalp and hair. With a delicately balanced formula, it relieves itching and helps the hair and scalp retain moisture for longer.

The Head and Shoulders Royal Oils Shampoo has a delightful fresh coconut scent and long-lasting odor protection. It’s also good value for money, delivering high-quality results at an affordable price point.

It’s proven effective for people with high porosity natural hair who struggle with dryness and itching. Many users report that this product cleanses and hydrates their scalp, unlike other shampoos that can strip hair and leave it coarse and dry.

If you’re searching for a shampoo that can get rid of dandruff without damaging your curl texture and breaking the bank, try the Head and Shoulders Royal Oils Moisture Boost Shampoo.

4. JASON Anti Dandruff Scalp Care Shampoo

The Jason Dandruff relief treatment shampoo is a lab-tested, gentle cleanser that can control scalp dermatitis and mild psoriasis to stop dandruff.

The unique formula contains FDA-compliant dandruff control ingredients and nourishing essential oils of rosemary, olive, and jojoba, to soothe, heal and moisturize the hair and scalp, leaving you with a flake-free and healthy head of hair.

JASON Anti Dandruff Scalp Care Shampoo

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With the added benefits of salicylic acid, this dandruff treatment shampoo also helps rebalance dry scalp conditions, preventing future occurrences of dandruff. Best of all, the shampoo is free of harmful chemicals like parabens, SLS, and phthalates, making it an excellent choice for those with chemically-processed brittle hair or sensitive scalps.

The shampoo boasts a refreshing wintergreen / peppermit scent and a cooling feeling that invigorates the scalp. Some people claim it can be strong and lingers for hours, but we found it reasonable and not overpowering.

It has a thick, rich consistency that makes it easy to massage into the hair and scalp. It’s a good choice for anyone with dermatitis or eczema, as it is gentle, conditioning, and won’t exacerbate any existing conditions when used correctly.

The star ingredients in this shampoo are sulfur and salicylic acid, which work together to combat scalp dermatitis, mild psoriasis, and dandruff, while nourishing essential oils of olive and jojoba soften and hydrate your hair. Rosemary oil provides a fresh, herbaceous scent, while also conditioning an irritated scalp to prevent future occurrences of dandruff.

JASON is a PETA-certified cruelty-free brand. You can feel good about using their products knowing that no animals were harmed in the testing process.

Use JASON dandruff relief treatment shampoo at least three times a week for best results. Simply wet your hair, lather, massage onto your scalp, and rinse.

Avoid saturating your hair with it. Keep it close to the scalp only.

5. Dove Dermacare Scalp Anti-Dandruff Shampoo

The Dove Dermacare anti-dandruff shampoo is formulated with active pyrithione zinc and Dove’s unique Nutrium Care to deliver an anti-dandruff system designed to help nourish dry scalps and relieve itching.

The shampoo is also pH balanced. It cleanses without disrupting the natural microbiome of the scalp and leaves the hair feeling soft and hydrated despite its strong anti-dandruff active agents.

Dove Dermacare Scalp Anti-Dandruff Shampoo

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The Dove dandruff treatment shampoo effectively tackles dandruff without stripping the hair of its essential nutrients. It also helps to smooth strands, taming frizz for a sleek and shiny finish. Safe for color-treated hair, this shampoo is gentle enough to use twice a week.

If you are sensitive to strong minty and medicated smells of dandruff shampoos, you’ll be pleased to know that the Dove shampoo has a hypoallergenic fragrance that is light and easy on the senses. But you must still patch-test it before if you suffer from smell allergies.

To use it, simply apply the shampoo to damp hair, gently massage your scalp, and rinse thoroughly. For the best results, follow up with Dove Dermacare scalp anti-dandruff conditioner, which helps nourish the scalp and relieve itchiness and irritation.

6. Avlon Keracare Dry and Itchy Scalp Moisturizing Shampoo

The Avlon KeraCare anti-dandruff moisturizing shampoo is another good shampoo for people who struggle with dry, itchy scalp conditions and dandruff. It is also beneficial for a normal scalp during periods when it is dry, such as during winter.

Avlon Keracare Dry and Itchy Scalp Moisturizing Shampoo

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The product contains soothing moisturizers like aloe vera and a blend of other natural ingredients like green tea, apple, and lemon peel extracts. It is formulated to control dandruff and prevent hair from drying during the treatment.

The Avlon Keracare dandruff shampoo contains 1% pyrithione zinc, an ingredient that is clinically proven to fight dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis.

The only negatives are that this shampoo contains some mild sulfates and it is unscented.

7. Maple Holistics Tea Tree Oil Anti-Dandruff Shampoo

The Maple Holistics tea tree oil shampoo is a clarifying hair cleanser that uses tea tree oil as its main ingredient to control dandruff, eliminate flakes, and reduce itching of the scalp. This shampoo is also free of sulfates and parabens. The only negative is that it has a strong scent that may not be desirable for everyone.

But having said that, if you’re desperately trying to cure dandruff problems, you may be willing to sacrifice the scent for a product that works. The shampoo has a thick viscosity and lathers well, seeping deep into the scalp pores to draw out impurities and slough away flaky buildup that exacerbates dandruff conditions.

Unlike traditional dandruff shampoos that contain harsh sulfates, this hydrating shampoo is packed with nourishing natural oils that can help moisturize thick and coarse hair types. Even if you have dry, oily, or color-treated hair, this paraben and sulfate-free shampoo is gentle enough for daily use, helping to remove buildup, wash away impurities, and care for your follicles with its nutrient-rich formula.

To get the most out of this dandruff shampoo, allow 2-3 minutes for absorption and rinse thoroughly.

Maple Holistics Tea Tree Oil Anti-Dandruff Shampoo

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8. Neutrogena T/Gel Therapeutic Shampoo

The Neutrogena T/Gel therapeutic anti-dandruff shampoo provides lasting relief from itching and flaking. It cures dandruff, itchy scalps, and scaling that comes with dandruff.

Neutrogena T/Gel Therapeutic Shampoo

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The active ingredient is coal tar extract. Scientific tests have shown it to continue working for hours after the shampoo is rinsed off. The treatment starts working after just one use and with just one use a week, it can stop dandruff for the entire week. Neutrogena T/Gel therapeutic dandruff shampoo is recognized by the National Psoriasis Foundation to relieve dandruff symptoms, including inflammation with thick crusted plaque buildup on the skin’s surface.

The product is also dermatologist-recommended and has been been trusted for over 10 years to help control common inflammatory scalp conditions, including red, irritated skin or increased large-sized flakes. It helps slow the overproduction of skin cells on the scalp and reduces potential inflammation.

For best results, use this Neutrogena shampoo at least twice a week or as directed by a doctor. It can also be used daily, but proceed with caution and assess the condition of your scalp if you do so. Massage it into your scalp, lather, leave it on your hair and scalp for several minutes, and then rinse.

9. Selsun Blue Moisturizing Anti Dandruff Shampoo

Selsun Blue is a maximum-strength shampoo ideal for those looking to get tough on dandruff.

There are many variations of this shampoo. We picked the Moisturizing shampoo for black hair because it worked better. And we highly recommend you look for this particular product if you want to try Selsun.

Selsun Blue Moisturizing Anti Dandruff Shampoo

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From Selsun Blue Medicated to Selsun Blue Moisturizing and Selsun Blue 2-in-1 Maximum Strength, each of these specialized products helps prevent and eliminate scalp dander, crustiness, and whiteheads.

It’s formulated with 8 intensive moisturizing botanicals and vitamins to promote healthy-looking hair with targeted dandruff control. These options are gentle enough for daily use, making it easy to prevent and eliminate itchy scalp and visible flakes associated with dandruff.

Selsun Blue shampoos contain carefully selected ingredients, including selenium sulfide, pyrithione zinc, and salicylic acid, each with unique dandruff control properties. The Selsun Blue moisturizing anti-dandruff shampoo with aloe vera is an ideal choice for itchy, dry scalp, and hair that need moisture and relief. Its formula contains 1% selenium sulfide as the active ingredient and aloe vera to moisturize dry hair.

Selsun Blue is committed to scalp health and offers high-quality, effective solutions that are tough on dandruff while being gentle on hair. It also restores scalp health when used consistently.

10. Virgin Hair Fertilizer Shampoo

The Virgin Hair Fertilizer shampoo is ideal for all black hair textures and dreadlocks.

It’s made with pure natural ingredients and zero synthetic additives.

It delivers an effective formula that can reduce dandruff and restore moisture in black afro hair by harnessing the antibacterial properties of tea tree oil, honey extract, and jojoba oil.

Virgin Hair Fertilizer Shampoo

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You can also use the Virgin hair fertilizer dandruff cream on the scalp, which contains peppermint oil and lanolin to stimulate blood flow and promote a healthy scalp.

What to Look for in a Dandruff Shampoo for Black Hair?

Here is a list of ingredients to look for:

Salicylic Acid

Salicylic acid is an active ingredient commonly found in dandruff shampoos. It works by exfoliating the scalp and removing excess flakes caused by dandruff. Salicylic acid is a type of beta-hydroxy acid that is oil-soluble and can penetrate the skin’s pores. It can break down and remove the dead skin cells that contribute to dandruff.

In addition to its exfoliating properties, salicylic acid has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce scalp irritation and redness. When used as directed, salicylic acid can be an effective treatment for mild to moderate dandruff, helping to alleviate itching and flaking.

However, it’s important to note that excessive use of salicylic acid can drain the scalp’s natural oils, so it’s best to follow the instructions on the product label and use it only as directed.

Zinc Pyrithione

Zinc pyrithione is an FDA-Approved active ingredient found in dandruff shampoos. It targets the yeast that contributes to dandruff, thereby reducing the occurrence of flakes and the associated symptoms of itching and irritation.

Zinc pyrithione is an antimicrobial agent with both antibacterial and antifungal properties, making it effective against various microorganisms that can affect the scalp. By slowing down yeast growth and reducing inflammation, pyrithione zinc neutralizes the root causes of dandruff.

Ketoconazole

Ketoconazole is a synthetic antifungal medication used in shampoos to treat and prevent the occurrence of dandruff. This active ingredient targets the fungi that can cause dandruff and skin inflammation. It is highly effective in treating seborrheic dermatitis, a skin condition that can lead to dandruff, oily scalp, and other skin irritations. Ketoconazole is also used to treat other fungal skin infections, such as ringworm and athlete’s foot.

Ketoconazole shampoos are available over-the-counter or prescription, and they come in various strengths. In general, the higher the strength, the more potent the medication, and the more likely it is to cause side effects. It is important to use ketoconazole shampoos as directed by a healthcare provider and not to overuse the product or leave it on the scalp longer than recommended. Overuse of this medication may lead to scalp irritation.

Before using Ketoconazole shampoo, consider any medications you are currently taking and check with your doctor to see if there can be any potential interaction or side effects.

Ketoconazole can interact with certain medications, including some types of antifungal drugs, antibiotics, and blood thinners, among others. In addition, ketoconazole can cause side effects such as scalp irritation, dryness, or itching. It may not be appropriate for individuals with certain medical conditions or allergies. Your doctor can help you determine if ketoconazole shampoo is a safe and effective option for your specific needs and can provide guidance on how to use it properly and avoid potential side effects or interactions.

But having said that, ketoconazole is generally well-tolerated and safe for most people to use.

Coal Tar

Coal tar is a topical medication used to treat dandruff and other scalp conditions. It is made from coal and has antibacterial and antifungal properties, which make it effective in treating dandruff. Coal tar shampoos and other topical preparations can help relieve dandruff symptoms, including itching, flaking, peeling, and scaling.

Coal tar works by slowing down the production of skin cells on the scalp. It reduces the buildup of dead skin cells that can lead to dandruff. It also has anti-inflammatory properties. Coal tar is a time-tested ingredient that has been used for the treatment of dandruff, and it is still considered to be an effective treatment option today.

It is important to note that coal tar can have some side effects and may not be suitable for everyone. Some people may be sensitive to coal tar, which can cause skin irritation, dryness, and other side effects. It is important to use coal tar shampoos and other preparations as directed by a healthcare provider and to avoid overuse or prolonged exposure to the medication.

Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil is a natural essential oil with antibacterial and antifungal properties. It is also known for its soothing and healing effects on the skin.

Used as an effective ingredient in many dandruff shampoos and other topical preparations, tea tree essential oil is often combined with other natural ingredients, such as aloe vera, argan oil, and coconut oil, for their additional benefits in providing a well-formulated treatment for dandruff.

It is important to note that tea tree oil can irritate some people, especially those with sensitive skin. It is important to use tea tree oil products as directed and to avoid overuse or prolonged exposure to the oil.

Shea Butter

Shea butter is a popular ingredient in shampoos designed for African American hair due to its nourishing and moisturizing properties. African American hair is often naturally dry and prone to breakage, requiring extra moisture to keep it healthy and strong. Shea butter is a rich source of vitamins and fatty acids that help to restore the hair’s natural oils and prevent dryness and breakage. It also helps to soothe the scalp, reduce inflammation, and promote hair growth. In addition to its benefits for the hair and scalp, shea butter is a natural emollient that leaves the hair feeling soft, smooth, and silky.

Jojoba Oil

Jojoba oil is a natural emollient quickly absorbed by the hair and scalp, making it an ideal ingredient for shampoos. It helps to hydrate the hair, soothe the scalp, and prevent dryness and itching. Jojoba oil is also rich in vitamins and minerals that promote hair growth, strengthen hair strands, and prevent breakage. In addition to its benefits for the hair and scalp, jojoba oil is also a natural antioxidant.

Aloe Vera Extract

For African American hair, which is often prone to dryness, aloe vera can be beneficial for its moisturizing and soothing properties. Aloe vera is also acidic, with a pH of 4.5 – 5.5. It promotes an acidic environment on the scalp which helps to ward off fungi bacteria and prevent dandruff.

How Often to Wash Black Hair with Dandruff Shampoo?

The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) suggests that to combat dandruff; you should wash your hair daily and use the anti-dandruff shampoo twice a week. However, if you have natural hair (afro-textured hair), use the anti-dandruff shampoo once a week.

You can also use a dandruff comb in between wash days to gently scrape out flakes from your scalp.

Final Thoughts

Yes, we know dandruff can be embarrassing, but there are enough treatments out there that can fix the problem if you consistently follow up with them.

Using a good medicated shampoo is the first step.

When choosing a dandruff shampoo for African American hair, look for gentle, moisturizing products and contain active ingredients that target the underlying causes of dandruff.

Apply the shampoo only to the scalp and avoid saturating the hair. A dandruff shampoo is not meant to be lathered into the hair.

Stay dandruff-free and keep your hair and scalp hydrated.

1. Abuabara K, You Y, Margolis DJ, Hoffmann TJ, Risch N, Jorgenson E. Genetic ancestry does not explain increased atopic dermatitis susceptibility or worse disease control among African American subjects in 2 large US cohorts. J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2020 Jan;145(1):192-198.e11. doi: 10.1016/j.jaci.2019.06.044. Epub 2019 Jul 29. PMID: 31369801; PMCID: PMC6949407.
   Retrieved on February 18, 2023.
   https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31369801/
2. Sickafoose, L et al. “A noninferiority clinical trial comparing fluconazole and ketoconazole in combination with cephalexin for the treatment of dogs with Malassezia dermatitis.” Veterinary therapeutics : research in applied veterinary medicine vol. 11,2 (2010): E1-13.
   Retrieved on February 18, 2023.
   https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20957617/

About the Author

Kayla Davis

Kayla Davis is a self-proclaimed skincare and haircare junkie who loves testing out new products and writing about her experiences. Her bathroom shelves are always overflowing with beauty products. You name it - it's there.