Dandruff is a common scalp condition that affects people of all ages. It is characterized by flaky, white patches on the scalp that can also cause itching. Dandruff tends to be more prevalent in people with oily scalps.
An oily scalp provides the perfect environment for the growth of fungus, called Malassezia, which is one of the causes of dandruff. The overproduction of sebum or oil on the scalp traps dead skin cells, leading them to clump together into those white flakes we call dandruff.
Using an anti dandruff shampoo formulated specifically for oily scalps can help control dandruff. These shampoos contain ingredients like zinc pyrithione, salicylic acid, ketoconazole, selenium sulfide and piroctone olamine that reduce fungal growth, exfoliate the scalp, and minimize oil production.
In this guide, we have curated a list of the 10 best anti dandruff shampoos in India for oily scalps based on ingredients, effectiveness, ratings and reviews. We have also included a comparison table, and sections on how to choose the right anti dandruff shampoo, different types of anti dandruff shampoos, usage and maintenance tips.
Here are a few things to keep in mind when choosing an anti dandruff shampoo for oily scalps:
This energizing anti-dandruff shampoo from L’Oreal Professionnel contains piroctone olamine that helps eliminate dandruff and itchiness. Its active energy complex deeply cleanses the oily scalp and hair follicles.
It also contains guarana extract that energizes the scalp and leaves it feeling fresh. The aqua-ionine complex in this paraben-free shampoo offers 48-hour hydration. This dermatologically-tested shampoo is suitable for frequent use.
With a pH 5.5, Sebamed Anti Dandruff Shampoo gently cleanses oily, sensitive scalps prone to dandruff. It contains piroctone olamine that reduces dandruff formation andophyte that provides long-lasting protection from dandruff recurrence.
Hops extracts soothe scalp irritation and prevent inflammation. This soap-free shampoo also contains panthenol and allantoin to moisturize the scalp. It is free of parabens, silicones and artificial colors.
Arata’s anti-dandruff shampoo is powered by piroctone olamine that eliminates fungal infections causing dandruff. Its lightweight formula also contains tea tree oil, neem and curd water to control excess oil, reduce irritation and treat dandruff.
With continued use, this shampoo reduces flakes and leaves you with a healthy, smooth scalp. It is free of sulfates, parabens, silicones and artificial fragrances which makes it safe for color-treated hair too.
Khadi’s herbal anti-dandruff shampoo contains neem, shikakai, reetha and fenugreek which work together to reduce dandruff and scalp itching. Neem tackles fungal infections, shikakai cleanses the scalp deeply, reetha moisturizes, and fenugreek strengthens the hair follicles.
This ayurvedic preparation also contains henna that conditions the hair and makes it more manageable. It is free of parabens, mineral oils, silicones, sulfates and other harsh chemicals. Regular use helps minimize dandruff and prevents its recurrence.
Containing octopirox and meadowsweet extracts, Biolage Scalpsync Anti-Dandruff Shampoo reduces visible flakes within a week of use. It also helps prevent the recurrence of dandruff.
The meadowsweet extract in this shampoo regulates sebum production, making it ideal for oily scalps. It leaves the hair and scalp feeling clean and fresh. This paraben-free shampoo is safe for color-treated hair as well.
This 2-in-1 shampoo from Tresemme fights dandruff and hair fall simultaneously. It contains zinc pyrithione that eliminates dandruff-causing fungus. The shampoo is infused with keratin protein that makes hair stronger and prevents breakage.
It deeply cleanses the scalp, removing oil, dirt and dandruff. With regular use, this shampoo reduces hair fall by 98% and keeps the scalp dandruff-free. It works well for both women and men.
Head & Shoulders Cool Menthol Anti Dandruff shampoo provides 100% protection from dandruff for 24 hours. It contains zinc pyrithione that clears dandruff caused by fungus.
The menthol cools and refreshes oily scalps, offering a stimulating sensation. This shampoo moisturizes dry hair while removing excess oil from the roots. Its masculine sporty fragrance makes it popular among men.
Dove’s Hair Fall Rescue shampoo moisturizes dry hair and fights dandruff at the same time. It contains zinc pyrithione that prevents dandruff and nutrilock actives that make hair up to 6 times stronger to reduce hair fall.
This gentle shampoo cleanses away excess oil from the scalp without stripping it completely. It nourishes each hair strand from root to tip for healthy, dandruff-free hair. This shampoo is suitable for daily use.
Clinic Plus Health shampoo combines the benefits of 13 natural herbs to combat dandruff, strengthen hair, and promote growth. It contains zinc pyrithione which reduces dandruff-causing fungus.
This shampoo also controls excess sebum secretion, cleanses follicle deposits, and adds a healthy shine to hair. It is free of parabens, silicones and artificial color. This budget-friendly shampoo improves overall scalp health.
Himalaya’s herbal anti-dandruff shampoo contains tea tree oil that has antimicrobial action against dandruff-causing fungus. It also contains green walnut and Persian lilac which act as natural astringents to get rid of excess oil.
This soap-free ayurvedic formula helps relieve itching and reduces inflammation. The shampoo also contains the goodness of lentils, lemon, fenugreek and chickpea which leave the hair clean, dandruff-free and nourished.
Product | Key Ingredients | Features |
---|---|---|
[L’Oréal Paris Laboratoires Dercos Energising Shampoo with Piroctone Olamine] | Piroctone Olamine | Deep cleanses oily scalp, eliminates dandruff and itchiness, energizes scalp, paraben-free |
[Sebamed Anti-Dandruff Shampoo] | Piroctone Olamine, Hop Extracts | pH 5.5 balanced, eliminates dandruff, soothes itchy scalp, prevents inflammation |
[Arata Anti-Dandruff Shampoo] | Piroctone Olamine, Tea Tree Oil, Neem, Curd | Reduces dandruff, controls oil and itchiness, lightweight formula |
[Khadi Mauri Herbal Anti Dandruff Shampoo] | Neem, Shikakai, Reetha, Fenugreek | Ayurvedic formulation, reduces dandruff and itching, no parabens or SLS |
[Biolage Scalpsync Anti-Dandruff Shampoo] | Octopirox, Meadowsweet Extracts | Eliminates visible flakes in 7 days, prevents recurrence, paraben-free |
[Tresemme Hair Fall Defence Anti Dandruff Shampoo] | Zinc Pyrithione | Fights dandruff and hair fall together, makes hair stronger, infused with keratin protein |
[Head & Shoulders Anti Dandruff Shampoo Cool Menthol] | Zinc Pyrithione, Menthol | Provides 100% dandruff protection, cool menthol soothes oily scalp, effective for men |
[Dove Hair Fall Rescue Anti Dandruff Shampoo] | Zinc Pyrithione, Nutrilock Actives | Fights dandruff, reduces hair fall, makes hair stronger and healthier |
[Clinic Plus Strong & Long Health Shampoo] | Zinc Pyrithione | Reduces dandruff, cleanses excess oil, makes hair smooth and strong, budget-friendly |
[Himalaya Anti-Dandruff Shampoo] | Tea Tree Oil, Green Walnut | Herbal formulation, prevents dandruff and itching, retains moisture, paraben-free |
Medicated Anti Dandruff Shampoos: Contain antifungal ingredients like zinc pyrithione, ketoconazole, selenium sulfide, etc. to treat fungal infections causing dandruff.
Tar-based Shampoos: Use coal or wood tar to slow down rapid cell turnover and reduce scaling and itching. They have a strong medicinal smell.
Salicylic Acid Shampoos: Salicylic acid acts as a gentle exfoliant to remove flakes and improve scalp health. These are ideal for mild to moderate dandruff.
Tea Tree Shampoos: Tea tree oil has antimicrobial properties that help control fungus and reduce irritation and inflammation. They also help regulate excess oil.
Aloe Vera Shampoos: Aloe vera soothes the scalp, reduces itching and removes dandruff flakes gently. It also moisturizes the scalp.
Charcoal Shampoos: Activated charcoal draws out dirt, pollutants and excess oil from the scalp, preventing dandruff.
A. Yes, anti dandruff shampoos formulated specifically for oily scalps can help control dandruff and excess oil production. These shampoos contain ingredients like zinc pyrithione, salicylic acid, ketoconazole, selenium sulfide and piroctone olamine that tackle fungal infections causing dandruff. They also help regulate sebum secretion by the sebaceous glands to reduce oiliness. Using an anti dandruff shampoo 2-3 times a week helps keep dandruff, itching and greasiness under control.
A. Some of the best anti dandruff shampoos for oily scalps are:
Look for shampoos that contain zinc pyrithione, ketoconazole or salicylic acid to reduce dandruff while controlling excess sebum production on oily scalps.
A. Yes, it is very common to have an oily scalp and dandruff at the same time. The excess oil on the scalp traps dead skin cells and debris, preventing them from shedding normally. This leads to a buildup that presents as white, flaky dandruff. The oily environment also promotes fungal growth, another cause of dandruff. Using an anti-dandruff shampoo tailored for oily scalps helps treat both issues together.
A. If you have an oily scalp prone to dandruff, you should wash your hair 2-3 times a week with an anti-dandruff shampoo meant for oily hair. Washing any more frequently can stimulate the sebaceous glands to produce even more oil. Anti-dandruff shampoos need regular use for best results. Leaving 3-4 days between washes allows the shampoo to work effectively.
A. Here are some tips to reduce excess oiliness on the scalp:
A. There are a few reasons for hair getting greasy after just 1 day:
Washing hair daily can worsen greasiness. Using a gentle shampoo and conditioner suited for oily scalp while avoiding heavy products can help.
A. Some anti dandruff shampoos can strip the hair and scalp of natural oils, causing the sebaceous glands to overcompensate by producing more oil. This leads to greasy hair after shampooing. Using a shampoo not suited for your hair type or overusing a harsh, drying shampoo can disturb the moisture balance and promote oiliness.
A. Here are the types of shampoos to avoid if you have an oily scalp:
Instead go for gentle, low-lather shampoos tailored for oily scalp and hair.
A. To treat oily scalp and dandruff, follow these tips:
A. Some reasons for rapid oiling of the scalp include:
A. If you have an oily scalp, you should shampoo your hair every 2-3 days. Shampooing daily can strip your scalp of natural oils and trigger even more oil production. Leaving 2-3 days between washes allows time for the scalp to reach the right oil balance. You can still shower daily and just rinse your hair with water.
A. Androgens or male hormones like testosterone are mainly responsible for greasy hair. During puberty, androgens increase the size and activity of the sebaceous glands, causing them to produce more oil. This leads to greasy hair. Women also produce small amounts of androgens, causing greasy hair during events like pregnancy, menstruation and menopause.
A. Dandruff occurring due to excess oil on the scalp is called seborrheic dermatitis. The excess oil causes increased skin cell turnover. The skin cells shed in clumps before reaching the surface, forming greasy, yellowish dandruff. Seborrheic dermatitis causes red, itchy patches along with dandruff.
A. Anti-dandruff shampoos meant for oily scalps can be used 2-3 times a week. Some medicated shampoos need to be used only once or twice weekly. Follow the usage instructions given for the specific shampoo.
A. Anti-dandruff shampoos contain ingredients that treat fungal infections, reduce oil and exfoliate the scalp. When used as directed, they do not cause hair fall. However, leaving the shampoo on the scalp for too long or using very frequently can dry out the scalp and may lead to some hair fall.
A. Anti-dandruff shampoos start showing results within a few washes, but it takes 4-6 weeks of regular use (twice or thrice a week) to see significant improvement in dandruff reduction. For chronic dandruff, a longer duration of shampooing is required.
A. Anti-dandruff shampoos meant for daily use are formulated with milder ingredients and can be used daily. However, medicated shampoos with stronger formulas are meant only for occasional use and using them daily may irritate the scalp.
A. Shampoos that contain oils or creamy formulas can worsen oily scalps. Silicone-based shampoos can also weigh hair down. Sulfate-free shampoos may not cleanse oil effectively. Avoid 2-in-1 shampoo+conditioners as the conditioner residue can exacerbate oiliness.
This concludes our round-up of the top 10 Best Shampoo for Oily Scalp and Dandruff. With regular use of a Best Anti Dandruff Shampoo for Oily Scalp, you can put an end to those pesky white flakes and itchy scalp once
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