Top 10 Medicated Shampoos for Dandruff & Itchy Scalp in India

Dandruff and an itchy scalp can be more than just cosmetic — they’re often linked to yeast (Malassezia), seborrheic dermatitis, dryness, or irritation. Medicated shampoos with anti-fungal and anti-itch ingredients can help control flakiness and discomfort.

Here’s a list of the top 10 medicated shampoos available in India, with key benefits and who they’re best suited for.

How medicated shampoos work

The best medicated shampoos target the root causes by using ingredients like:

• Zinc pyrithione (ZPTO): anti-fungal and antibacterial

• Ketoconazole: stronger anti-fungal action

• Coal tar: slows skin cell turnover (for severe scaling)

• Salicylic acid: helps exfoliate flakes

• Selenium sulfide: reduces scalp oil & yeast growth

Many products combine soothing actives (e.g., aloe vera, tea tree) with medicated actives for comfort.

Comparison table: Top 10 Medicated Shampoos

1) Nizoral Anti-Dandruff Shampoo

Best for: stubborn or persistent dandruff
Key active: Ketoconazole 2% — powerful anti-fungal action for moderate to severe flaking.
Why it’s a top pick: Ketoconazole is often recommended by dermatologists when zinc pyrithione alone isn’t enough.

Usage tip: Use once or twice a week — too frequent use can dry the scalp.

2) Selsun Blue Medicated Shampoo

Best for: severe scalp itch and heavy scale
Key active: Selenium sulfide — reduces yeast and scalp oil buildup.
Why it works: Good if flaking comes with heavy itching or uneven patches.

User note: A small amount can help go a long way.

3) Head & Shoulders Anti-Dandruff Shampoo

Best for: everyday dandruff control
Key active: Zinc pyrithione — widely used and effective antifungal.
Extras: Often has conditioning blends, making hair softer as it treats.
Use frequency: Daily to alternate days depending on dryness/greasiness.

4) Dove Dandruff Care Shampoo

Best for: itchy scalp with dryness
Key actives: Pyrithione zinc + nourishing essence
Why it’s gentle: Combines medicated benefit with Dove’s signature mildness — useful if your scalp is dry and itchy.

5) Clinic Plus Anti-Dandruff Shampoo

Best for: budget-friendly routine management
Key active: Zinc pyrithione
Why we like it: Simple formulation and easy on the pocket, while giving day-to-day flake control.

Best for: mild dandruff and regular upkeep.

6) Scalpe Pro Anti-Dandruff Shampoo

Best for: itchy scalp with soothing needs
Key actives: Zinc pyrithione + Tea tree oil
Why it’s worth it: Tea tree lends a calming feel while zinc tackles fungi. Good if itching is your main complaint.

7) Itch Guru Antidandruff Shampoo

Best for: flaky scaling + scalp buildup
Key actives: Climbazole + Salicylic acid
Why it’s effective: Climbazole targets fungi while salicylic acid loosens flakes — helpful for thick buildup.

Use frequency: 1–2×/week.

8) Sebamed Anti-Dandruff Shampoo

Best for: sensitive scalp
Key active: Piroctone olamine — gentler anti-fungal with less irritation tendency.
Why it’s gentle: Sebamed’s pH balancing helps sensitive scalps stay calm while treating flakes.

9) Nivea Anti-Dandruff Shampoo

Best for: dry or itchy scalp plus conditioning
Key actives: Zinc pyrithione + hydrating agents
Why it’s nice: Balances treatment with moisture — good if your hair gets dry with medicated shampoos.

10) The Body Shop Ginger Scalp Shampoo

Best for: soothing + mild flake control
Key botanical: Ginger extract + zinc
Why it’s unique: Herbal soothing + anti-dandruff action makes it better for itch + irritation.

How to use medicated dandruff shampoo properly

1. Wet hair thoroughly

2. Apply scalp-focused lather, let sit 2–3 minutes

3. Rinse well

4. Follow with conditioner on lengths (avoid scalp if very oily)

Frequency guideline

• Daily to alternate days: mild dandruff (Head & Shoulders / Nivea)

• Weekly to 2×/week: strong medicated formulas (Nizoral, Itch Guru)

• Sensitive scalps: choose gentler medicated options, don’t over-wash

Tips & warnings

Avoid over-washing

Too much medicated shampoo can dry the scalp and worsen itching.

Patch test if sensitive

If you have a sensitive scalp, test behind your ear before full use.

Pair with scalp oils cautiously

Light scalp oils can help with dryness, but avoid heavy oils on antifungal days.

Advanced note: If itching persists for 3+ weeks with medicated products, consider seeing a dermatologist — persistent seborrheic dermatitis or psoriasis may need prescription care.

Deal hacks (Couponlap style)

1. Compare final payable on Amazon + Flipkart + brand site

2. Stack: sale price → Couponlap coupon → bank/UPI offer → cashback

3. Bulk packs (2–3 bottles) are usually better value for regular use

CTA: If your scalp is itchy and constantly flaky, start with a weekly medicated shampoo (like ketoconazole or climbazole) before adding daily routine options.

FAQs

1) How soon do medicated shampoos work for dandruff?
Many show noticeable flake reduction in 1–2 weeks with consistent use.

2) Can I use medicated shampoo daily?
For mild formulas, yes. Strong medicated ones are often used weekly or alternate days.

3) Will medicated shampoo make hair dry?
Some formulas can. Pair with a conditioner on lengths (avoid applying on the scalp if too oily).

4) Are herbal shampoos effective for dandruff?
Herbal options help comfort and mild itch, but severe dandruff often needs medicated actives like zinc pyrithione or ketoconazole.

5) When should I see a dermatologist?
If flakes/itch persist despite medicated shampoo for 3+ weeks, or if you have redness/scaling beyond typical dandruff.