13 Best Anti-dandruff Conditioners for Healthy Scalp And Tresses

Written by Alvira Dsouza, Hair Expert
Updated on Apr 08, 2024
Anti-dandruff Conditioners for Healthy Scalp And Tresses
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When it comes to picking an anti-dandruff shampoo, it is super easy to pick one, but what about an anti-dandruff conditioner? Well, it's quite a paradox, isn't it? But fret not, we have something for you! These best anti-dandruff conditioners come with revolutionary formulas that promise a flake-free clean scalp along with smooth and shiny strands that you will fall in love with! They are also an excellent option to boost moisture in your dry hair roots which is the primary cause of a disturbed scalp. Furthermore, they gently exfoliate the flaky skin without drying out or weighing down the strands, which results in shiny and bouncy hair.

Our contributor Gwenda Harmon, an experienced hairdresser & curly hair specialist, says, “Anti-dandruff conditioners can help hydrate the hair while protecting the scalp from bacteria buildup. You can use these if you have a dry scalp but these may not be ideal for oily scalp as they can promote bacteria buildup. Since their primary purpose is to prevent dandruff, using them can be beneficial in maintaining hair health, which can promote hair growth.”

So, getting two-in-one results for your hair is not that difficult, especially when we are helping you out with some recommendations based on our observations. These conditioners are indeed game-changers when you want an effective result without incorporating too many products into your hair care routine. So, without further ado, scroll down below to check out our top picks!

13 Best Anti-dandruff Conditioners

It is no brainer how tea tree oil works as a therapeutic ingredient on problematic areas on your scalp that have fungal infection, dandruff, flaky skin, and itchy skin, etc. This conditioner, also packed with argan oil, and peppermint oil, works like a blessing for your dandruff-prone hair. It takes the upper hand at making the hair strands nourished and hydrated while soothing the dry and irritated scalp to encourage newer hair growth. Furthermore, it also clears up residue and buildup and ensures the thorough care that your hair needs.

Pros
  • Nourishes hair
  • Hydrates hair
  • Soothes itchy scalp
  • Prevents hair thinning
  • Paraben-free
  • Removes residue
Cons
  • Bad smell
  • Best to Gently Exfoliate Scalp

    DERMA-E Scalp Relief Conditioner

    DERMA-E Scalp Relief Conditioner
  • It is an all-natural scalp and hair treatment that is enriched with therapeutic psorzema and an herbal blend to ensure calming down the irritated skin to refresh your hair from root to tip. Addedly, the conditioner also contains salicylic acid, tea tree oil, and menthol that thoroughly exfoliates the flaky scalp while leaving a cooling sensation as you apply it to your hair. By promoting maximum hair health, the product also promises great manageability and shine as it de-flakes your scalp.

    Pros
    • Keeps the scalp nourished
    • Leaves a cooling sensation
    • Vegan-friendly
    • Cruelty-free
    • Replenishes hair
    • Gently exfoliates the scalp
    Cons
    • Bad packaging
  • Best to Balance pH

    Dove DERMACARE Scalp Anti-dandruff Conditioner

    Dove DERMACARE Scalp Anti-dandruff Conditioner
  • Live flake-free with this anti-dandruff conditioner from Dove! It not only conditions your frizzy hair but also gently cares for the oily scalp while balancing the pH at the same time. Addedly, it makes the process way easier for you as you manage your hair, and the credit goes to its hydrating formula that leaves the hair shaft moisturized. The best part? It comes with a tantalizing scent that will elevate your experience even more when you use the product!

    Pros
    • Balances pH
    • Gentle formula
    • Ensures no irritation
    • Makes hair manageable
    • Moisturizes hair
    • Affordable
    Cons
    • Not for someone sensitive to smell
  • Best to Protect Hair Color

    Kick Active Conditioner

    Kick Active Conditioner
  • This is one good conditioner for dandruff specially curated for men to ease flaky scalp embarrassment! Packed with tea tree oil, aloe vera, eucalyptus oil, lemongrass, witch hazel, rosemary oil, lavender oil, peppermint oil, sage leaf, and eucalyptus, the high-performance conditioner restores optimum hair health and ensures scalp vitality that you have always wanted! It also comes with a natural color-safe complex that promises to slow down hair graying. How cool is that!

    Pros
    • Color-safe complex
    • Makes hair stronger
    • Ensures optimum results
    • Packed with botanical extract
    • Energizing scent
    • Rejuvenates hair
    Cons
    • Quite thick formula
  • Best Lightweight Formula

    sulfur8 Medicated Anti-dandruff Hair & Scalp Conditioner

    sulfur8 Medicated Anti-dandruff Hair & Scalp Conditioner
  • The medicated anti-dandruff conditioner comes with a pleasant fragrance to elevate your experience without being too overpowering. With active ingredients like 2% sulfur, the product claims to control all the itchy and flaky scalp problems without making the hair strands dry. Addedly, the cruelty-free product moisturizes and softens the strands for a smooth and shiny appearance. Last but not least, the lightweight formula promises to not weigh down the hair in the name of hydrating it.

    Pros
    • Easy-to-use packaging
    • Cruelty-free
    • Soothing fragrance
    • Lightweight formula
    • Best for dry hair types
    • Doesn't weigh down hair
    Cons
    • Not for sensitive scalp
  • Best Dermatologically-tested Formula

    head & shoulders Deep Moisture Dandruff Conditioner

    head & shoulders Deep Moisture Dandruff Conditioner
  • With a proven formula, the dandruff conditioner protects your scalp from unwanted flakes, dryness, and itchiness. It is also safe to use for color-treated hair to add an extra dose of hydration for a shiny and smooth mane. With a refreshing fruity with floral scent, the product further ensures you have a great time as you use it during the shower. To note more, the dermatologically recommended brand works like magic for thicker hair to get the desired results. So, what are you waiting for? Grab it right now!

    Pros
    • Makes hair smooth
    • Provides extra moisture
    • Dermatologically-recommended
    • Vibrant scent
    • Removes visible flakes
    • Minimizes dryness
    Cons
    • Nor for people with sensitivity to smell
  • Best to Add Bounce

    l'ange SLICKÉ Blowout Conditioner

    l'ange SLICKÉ Blowout Conditioner
  • The Blowout conditioner stands true to its name and the weightless formula of the product indeed boosts the volume and shine of your hair. Enriched with antioxidants, vitamins, and fatty acids, the sulfate and paraben-free formula also promises silky smooth locks while thoroughly exfoliating the flakiness of the scalp at the same time. It further helps to strengthen the hair strands and the credit goes to its botanically enriched ingredients like lemongrass, grapefruit extracts, and avocado oil.

    Pros
    • Helps to get the perfect bounce
    • Doesn't weigh down hair
    • Moisturizes thoroughly
    • Fresh smelling scent
    • Strengthens hair
    • Promotes healthy hair
    Cons
    • Packaging could be better
  • Best to Minimize Hair Breakage

    AVLON KERACARE Anti-dandruff Moisturizing Conditioner

    AVLON KERACARE Anti-dandruff Moisturizing Conditioner
  • This is one of the best dandruff conditioners available in the market that combats an itchy scalp while smoothing out the strands for a lust-worthy appearance. Apart from rehydrating the shafts, it rebuilds the outer structure of the hair fiber to minimize breakage. The gentle formula further works wonders on chemical or color-treated hair and lends thorough protection after the wash. So, why wait? Get ready to witness a healthy flake-free scalp and an even healthier hair shaft with this product in your kit!

    Pros
    • Rehydrates hair fiber
    • Minimizes hair breakage
    • Best for chemically-treated hair
    • Gentle formula
    • Minimizes hair breakage
    • Relieve itching
    Cons
    • Bad smell
  • Best Paraben-free Formula

    ALEVAI STEM CELL Anti-Dandruff Conditioner

    ALEVAI STEM CELL Anti-Dandruff Conditioner
  • Formulated with 2% pyrithione zinc, the anti-dandruff conditioner takes the upper hand at providing you with the best hair care solution without harmful ingredients like sulfate, gluten, paraben, phthalates, and sodium lauryl. The dermatologically-tested formula features revolutionary stem-cell technology that detangles the hair by restoring moisture. Furthermore, the brand boasts of providing you with noticeable results within just 24 hours! What’s more? It has a vegan-friendly formula that promises to banish the flaky scalp once and for all!

    Pros
    • Cruelty-free
    • Vegan-friendly
    • Sulfate-free
    • Gluten-free
    • Paraben-free
    • Color-safe formula
    Cons
    • Bad packaging
  • Best for Dry And Damaged Hair

    LUSETA Tea Tree & Argan Oil Conditioner

    LUSETA Tea Tree & Argan Oil Conditioner
  • All thanks to the antiseptic formula, the conditioner works like magic on dry and flaky scalp. The sulfate-free product ensures that the current hair-related condition doesn't aggravate in the name of haircare. Packed with soothing ingredients like tea tree oil, peppermint oil, and argan oil, it thoroughly cleanses the scalp while promoting blood circulation and repairing all the damaged and split ends. Last but not least, the hydrating texture works wonders on the dry and brittle ends and leaves you with a shiny mane.

    Pros
    • Repairs the hair
    • Moisturizes dry ends
    • Contains antiseptic properties
    • Chemical-free
    • Sulfate-free
    • Cruelty-free
    Cons
    • Expensive
  • NIOXIN Scalp Recovery Moisturizing Conditioner

    NIOXIN Scalp Recovery Moisturizing Conditioner
  • The scalp recovery conditioner contains an effective formulation featuring green tea extracts, and zinc pyrithione to treat your itchy scalp and exfoliate dead skin cells. Apart from combating dandruff, the conditioner thoroughly moisturizes your hair for a lustrous appearance. Furthermore, the brand claims the product to suit all hair types and levels of thinning, which is another boon undoubtedly! So, why wait? Incorporate this all-in-one product into your hair care routine which is supported by the Institute of Trichologists, who believe that your scalp needs special attention as much as your facial skin.

    Pros
    • Reduces dandruff
    • Smoothens hair
    • Leaves hair nourished
    • Suits all hair types
    • Effective from first use
    • Promotes thicker hair
    Cons
    • Quite a thick formula
  • AVALON ORGANICS Anti-dandruff Conditioner

    AVALON ORGANICS Anti-dandruff Conditioner
  • The vegan-friendly conditioner comes without any parabens, phthalates, or synthetic color to deliver you the best result out of the botanical formulation. It claims to deeply nourish the scalp while combating scalp dryness to give you flake-free results. Adding to that, packed with essential oils, exfoliating components, and plant-based ingredients like chamomile oil, tea tree oil, aloe vera, and 2% salicylic acid, the conditioner leaves your hair soft and scalp healthy. The best part? The cruelty-free formula is backed by the Leaping Bunny program.

    Pros
    • Nourishes the scalp
    • Ensures flake-free scalp
    • Plant-based formula
    • No harsh preservatives
    • Cruelty-free
    • Zero fragrance
    Cons
    • Quite tingling effect
  • DS LABORATORIES DANDRENE Anti-dandruff Conditioner

    DS LABORATORIES DANDRENE Anti-dandruff Conditioner
  • The anti-dandruff conditioner is a blessing in disguise for people with severe scalp conditions like psoriasis, tinea capitis, seborrheic dermatitis, scalp redness, and flaky scalp. It has a gentle yet powerful formulation that exfoliates the scalp and moisturizes the shaft thoroughly while controlling excessive sebum and itching. Furthermore, the dermatologically-recommended formula is one good scalp conditioner for dandruff to combat pesky scalp issues that regular conditioners fail to address. Lastly, all we can say is that it features a great blend of powerful ingredients with nanosome technology that continues to provide higher efficacy!

    Pros
    • Controls itchy and flaky scalp
    • Combats dry skin issues
    • Gently exfoliates the scalp
    • Controls excess oil
    • Cruelty-free
    • Paraben-free
    Cons
    • Pricey

    Now that you've checked the products, take a look at how you can pick the best anti-dandruff conditioner for yourself -

    How to Choose the Best Anti-dandruff Conditioners?

    Here's how you can pick the best anti-dandruff conditioner for yourself - 

    a) Hair Type- Before you pick your holy grail, make sure you are aware of your hair type. If you have oily hair, a product that specifically addresses oily hair problems and controls excessive sebum would be great! Ingredients like salicylic acid work as a mild exfoliator to control excess sebum. Similarly, if you have dry hair, moisturizing components like shea butter, essential oils, and vitamins would work wonders for your hair type. For people with sensitive scalps, it is best to go with a clinically tested dermatologically recommended formula to ensure the best protection.

    b) Ingredients- When you are looking for a product for your flaky scalp, it is best to look out for soothing ingredients like aloe vera, peppermint oil, citrus extract, menthol, milk protein, and neem, and active ingredients like salicylic acid and zinc pyrithione that target scalp fungus, which causes dandruff in the first place. 

    c) Texture- Always look for a product that provides enough moisture to your hair without weighing it down. A lightweight product that provides enough moisturization is what you need to treat your existing problem. It will also prevent buildup in the scalp that further wards off the accumulation of dandruff.

    How to Use the Best Anti-dandruff Conditioners?

    Here's how you can effectively use an anti-dandruff conditioner - 

    a) First thing first, take your anti-dandruff shampoo and apply it thoroughly on your hair, especially on the roots.

    b) Massage the scalp well with your fingertips or a massager to physically exfoliate the scalp and get rid of any flakiness.

    c) Now wash your hair thoroughly with cold water and squeeze the excess amount of water from your hair.

    d) Take a generous amount of conditioner, and apply it from root to tip on your wet hair. In this step, you can also comb your hair using a wide toothbrush to ensure that the product spreads well into the hair shaft.

    e) Keep the product for about 2-3 minutes before rinsing it off with cold water again.

    Contributor: Gwenda Harmon, Hair Dresser & Curly Hair Specialist - Click for blog

    Conclusion

    So, the bottom line is that only an anti-dandruff shampoo isn't enough to combat a dry and itchy scalp! You need another powerful product to beat the hair-related condition. Now, flaunting flake-free hair isn't that difficult with these best anti-dandruff conditioners that we have curated through our practical knowledge. If you have dry and damaged hair, Luseta Tea Tree & Argan Oil Conditioner is what you should grab. On the other hand, if you have color-treated hair, Kick Active Conditioner is what you should look for! And if you want to add some bounce to your limp hair, l'ange Slické Blowout Conditioner is the one to meet your demands! C'mon now, grab one to know what we are talking about!

    FAQ's

    Is anti-dandruff conditioner good for hair?
    Yes, anti-dandruff conditioners work as an extra protection that your average shampoos fail to give. Apart from giving your hair a dose of moisturization, conditioners also ensure that your scalp remains free of flakes and irritation.
    Is dandruff a fungus?
    Yes, dandruff is nothing but an accumulated fungus that results in a flaky scalp.
    Does hot water cause dandruff?
    Yes, hot water tends to cause a dry scalp that often results in flaky hair roots.
    Can too much conditioner cause dandruff?
    Yes, too much buildup of conditioner can cause dandruff.
    How often should I use an anti-dandruff conditioner?
    Right after you wash your hair with a shampoo, take a generous amount of anti-dandruff conditioner and apply it from the root to tip to get the best results. Adding to that, since the product is loaded with conditioning agents, you can apply it every day.
    Can I use anti-dandruff conditioner on colored or chemically treated hair?
    Yes, of course. But, in that case, check if your conditioner provides color protection technology.
    Are there any potential side effects or precautions I should know when using anti-dandruff conditioners?
    Make sure you thoroughly wash your hair after using the conditioner to remove all the buildup that can further cause a flaky scalp in the long run.
    How long does it typically take to see results when using an anti-dandruff conditioner?
    It will take 1-2 weeks to witness the results when using an anti-dandruff conditioner.
    What are the differences between various active ingredients in anti-dandruff conditioners?
    Pyrithione zinc is the best ingredient that targets fungus that mainly causes dandruff. On the other hand, selenium sulfide slows down the growth of the cells on the disturbed scalp.
    Can I rotate different anti-dandruff conditioners for better results, or should I stick to one product?
    You can rotate your anti-dandruff conditioners for best results and to ensure that your hair and scalp don't develop resistance to one particular product.

    Why Trust Pinkvilla

    Our in-house hair care expert, Alvira, has devoted her time and energy to do thorough research and round off these best anti-dandruff conditioners that come with revolutionary formulas to beat the flaky scalp and help you get healthy lustrous hair that everyone desires. She has taken into consideration online reviews, formulas, features, and ingredients to come up with the best products in the segment that is currently dominating the market. We hope her recommendations turn out excellent for you!

    Our product experts study the specifications of every product we suggest and try them out to bring what’s proven to be worthy of your money, time, and energy. We also have subject matter experts from various fields like Fashion, Skincare, Haircare, Home Decor, and Health and fitness on board to make sure our suggestions are credible and trustworthy. You can trust Select to be your faithful shopping guide for all the right reasons!

    Author BIO
    reviewer
    Alvira Dsouza
    Hair Expert

    With a keen eye for detail and a passion for hairstyling, Alvira is a certified Hair Expert who brings the latest tre More