When it comes to washing your hair, there have never been so many choices to make, particularly in relation to your chosen shampoo. With ample brands offering all sorts of different things for hair, and making numerous claims, it can be hard to know where to start.
For this reason, why not keep it simple and opt for the bestselling shampoo in the UK: Head Shoulders Classic Clean (£5).
Surprised? I don't blame you. With so many incredible trending hair brands (Oribe, Ouai, and Sam McKnight, I'm looking at you), it seems unlikely that the country's bestselling shampoo overall is one that caters traditionally to those with dandruff, and feels so, well, basic.
But try not to pass judgement, because Head Shoulders' classic is not only purse-friendly and tackles scalp issues, it also boosts shine, effectively cleanses, and smoothes locks.
If you do suffer from dandruff, however, this is of course a brilliant option. But if you feel you need more information about dandruff, or want to shop around for some more options, keep reading for a comprehensive yet snappy guide.
What is dandruff?
Dandruff is an incredibly common condition, but it is often misunderstood. So what exactly is it? "Dandruff is caused by an overgrowth of a yeast naturally found on the scalp, called Malassezia furfur,” explains Anabel Kingsley, Trichologist at Philip Kingsley. "When levels rise (which is commonly due to stress and hormones), skin cells on the scalp divide too rapidly. Cells are replaced much faster than they can be shed, leading to a buildup of telltale flakes and itching.”
What causes dandruff?
"It happens when the skin cells are not turning over properly, and dead skin gets stuck on the scalp,” says Philip Berkovitz, hair stylist and founder of haircare brand Philip B. Dandruff itself can be caused by things like psoriasis, eczema, contact dermatitis, and often, seborrhoeic dermatitis, which is a common skin condition where there’s an overproduction of yeast.
Related: These Are the 16 Hair Products I Use Every Single Week
What are the best ways to treat dandruff?
The good news is that dandruff is not serious, and although it can be highly annoying and sometimes embarrassing, there are accessible courses of treatment. You do need to be persistent, however, especially if you’re suffering from stubborn dandruff.
"You need to treat dandruff consistently for best results,” explains Kingsley. She recommends using a daily shampoo containing anti-microbial actives such as Piroctone Olamine. "This ingredient specifically targets the yeast responsible for dandruff, and rebalances your scalp’s microflora.”
Related: The 4 Easiest Hairstyles for When You Work a Zillion Hours a Week
The best way to target dandruff is to focus on scalp health, and to use soothing, calming formulations that specifically target the problem.
Keep scrolling to shop the (other) best anti-dandruff shampoos.
A luxurious dandruff-banishing duo that treats and calms your scalp and prevents hair loss.
A dermatologically-tested option that gets to the roof of the problem fast. Be warned though: it has a strong, medicinal smell.
When you need an extra helping hand, try this extra-strength formula from the UK's best-selling brand Head Shoulders.
A personal favourite, this shampoo is seriously soothing. Even if you don't have dandruff, it leaves your scalp calm and refreshed.
Brimming with aloe vera gel and sea algae extract, this hydrating formula plumps up the individual hair strands to offer protection from damage.
Related: I'm Sceptical of Expensive Hair Dryers, But Dyson's Might Actually Be Worth It
Could this be the chicest anti-dandruff shampoo on the market? Almost definitely.
Not only does this provide immediate relief for irritated scalps but it smells incredible.
This feels cooling when applied to your scalp for instant relief from irritation and long-lasting relief from unwanted flakiness.
This takes a two-pronged approach to combatting dandruff: sloughing away dead skin cells and purifying the scalp with detoxifying charcoal.
A dream team of rosemary oil, salicylic acid and menthol calm and nourish sensitive scalp.s
Now read all about this shampoo curly-haired girls are loving.
-
If Fashionable Clothing Is Your Thing (Okay, Obviously)—These 29 NewReplica Store Items Will Interest YouTrend-forward sweaters, cool jeans, beautiful coats, and more.
-
I'm Helping My Best Friend Navigate the Black Friday Sales (Early!)—I Suggested These Chic Finds FromReplica Store, Revolve, and ShopbopAdd to cart.
-
This Has Been OPI's Best-Selling Fall Nail Color for Decades—TikTok Says It's Especially Relevant in 2025Search volume has grown 83% month over month.
-
Heads Up: Every Stylish New Yorker Is Already Wearing This Rich-Looking Manicure TrendNot burgundy, not black.
-
It's Official: Dua Lipa's Red Halo Nails Are the Coolest Way to Wear a Fall-to-Winter ManicureIt's simple and chic.
-
My Milky-Pink Nail Polish Is So Perfect, People Assume It's a Custom Combo—Here's the RevealHint: It was seen at Sandy Liang and the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show.
-
8 French Tip Nail Designs That Are Autumn-Coded, Expensive-Looking, and So Easy to CopyPlus, how to create them.
-
Hailey Bieber's Velvet Snowflake Manicure Is the Trend I'm Taking Straight to the Salon in NovemberSuddenly, I'm excited for winter.
-
NGL, I Rolled My Eyes at the Idea of Scalp Scrubs Until *This* One Completely Transformed My HairI can't go without it now.
-
It’s Time for a New Mani—“Chiffon” Nails Is Officially the Chicest Take on Classic NeutralsPrepare to see it everywhere.
