Hey bestie, let’s talk about something no one really wants to deal with but so many of us do dandruff. Yep, those little flakes that show up uninvited and make you want to hide your curls under a headwrap. Trust me, I’ve been there. And if you’re anything like me, finding a dandruff shampoo that works without drying out your curls or completely stripping your scalp can feel like mission impossible.

Here’s the good news: you don’t have to choose between a flake-free scalp and healthy curls. There are dandruff shampoos out there that are gentle enough for curly hair but still strong enough to get rid of the itch, irritation, and those stubborn flakes. I’ve tried more than I care to admit, and I’m going to share the ones that have actually worked for me and what you should look for when picking one.

First Things First: What Causes Dandruff on Curly Hair?

Before we get to the good stuff, it’s helpful to understand what’s behind the flakes. Dandruff can be caused by a few different things: dry scalp, product buildup, irritation from hair products, or a yeast-like fungus called Malassezia that lives on the scalp. It’s pretty common, but it hits curly-haired girls a little differently because we’re already working with dry-prone hair and scalps.

Since curls naturally keep oil from traveling down the hair shaft, your scalp can become dry and flaky, especially if you’re not washing your hair regularly or using heavy products that build up. Add that to how sensitive our scalps can be, and boom—dandruff.

What to Look for in a Dandruff Shampoo (For Curly Hair)

Not all dandruff shampoos are created equal, especially when it comes to curly hair. Some are packed with harsh sulfates and alcohols that leave our curls brittle and sad. Here’s what to look for instead:

• Sulfate-free formulas
• Hydrating ingredients like aloe vera, glycerin, and tea tree oil
• Active ingredients like zinc pyrithione, salicylic acid, ketoconazole, or coal tar (these are the big guns that fight dandruff-causing fungus and buildup)
• Scalp-soothing botanicals like peppermint or rosemary

Now let’s get into the shampoos that actually do the job while still treating your curls right.

1. Head & Shoulders Classic Clean Dandruff Shampoo

Okay, I know Head & Shoulders might seem basic, but their Royal Oils line is actually designed with curly and coily hair in mind. This one is sulfate-free, super moisturizing, and helps balance scalp oils without stripping. It’s got pyrithione zinc to fight flakes and coconut oil to keep your curls hydrated.

The first time I used this, I was skeptical—but my scalp felt clean, soothed, and my curls were still soft and bouncy after. I like to follow up with the Royal Oils Deep Moisture Conditioner for the full effect.

2. Nizoral Anti-Dandruff Shampoo (Ketoconazole 1%)

If your dandruff is more on the stubborn side, this one is a game-changer. It contains ketoconazole, which is one of the most effective ingredients for fighting dandruff caused by fungus. It’s strong, so I only use it once a week when my scalp is acting up and follow up with a super hydrating conditioner or deep treatment.

It’s not sulfate-free, but since you’re only using it on your scalp, it won’t mess with your curls too much—just be sure to keep it focused at the roots and rinse thoroughly. Then go in with your fave curl-friendly conditioner.

3. SheaMoisture African Black Soap Deep Cleansing Shampoo

This shampoo is for my natural girls who love clean ingredients and still want to fight flakes. It’s made with African black soap, tea tree oil, and willow bark extract—all amazing for clarifying the scalp without being too harsh. It’s sulfate-free and gentle on curls while giving your scalp that fresh, tingly feeling.

I love this one when my scalp feels gunky or irritated. It’s a perfect reset button without leaving your hair feeling stripped. I follow up with a rich moisturizing conditioner to make sure my curls stay juicy.

4. Briogeo Scalp Revival Charcoal + Coconut Oil Micro-Exfoliating Shampoo

Okay, this one is more of a splurge, but if you’re into clean beauty and have sensitive scalp issues, it’s totally worth it. This shampoo uses charcoal to draw out impurities and coconut oil to keep things moisturized. Plus, it has a little bit of micro-exfoliation to help lift away buildup and flakes.

I use it when I want a spa day for my scalp. The peppermint and tea tree oils feel so good, and my hair always feels soft and clean after. You don’t need to use it often—maybe every other wash day or when your scalp feels extra flaky.

5. As I Am Dry & Itchy Scalp Care Shampoo with Olive & Tea Tree Oil

This shampoo is a go-to for many curlies dealing with itchiness and dandruff. It’s sulfate-free, helps soothe the scalp with tea tree and olive oil, and it’s designed specifically for textured hair. It also helps with detangling while cleansing total win.

6. Selsun Blue Naturals Itchy Dry Scalp Shampoo with Aloe

This one flies under the radar but works wonders. It contains 1% selenium sulfide, which is effective for more stubborn scalp issues, but it’s paired with aloe vera for added moisture and gentleness. Just make sure to deep condition afterward.

7. Jason Dandruff Relief Treatment Shampoo

Formulated with sulfur and salicylic acid, this shampoo helps reduce flaking and itching without sulfates or parabens. It also has rosemary, olive, and jojoba oils to nourish the scalp and curls.

8. Tea Tree Special Shampoo by Paul Mitchell

This isn’t curly-specific, but it works well for all hair types and is loved by many naturals. It’s made with tea tree oil, peppermint, and lavender—perfect for a refreshing deep clean that calms irritation and removes buildup.

9. Jupiter, Physician-Formulated Anti-Dandruff Shampoo

A newer player in the anti-dandruff space, Jupiter is sulfate-free, color-safe, and curly-girl approved. It has zinc pyrithione and is loaded with soothing botanicals like coconut oil and squalane for moisture.

How I Use Dandruff Shampoo in My Wash Day Routine

So here’s how I like to do it, especially when I’m dealing with flakes:

1. Start by sectioning my hair and rinsing with warm water.
2. Apply the dandruff shampoo directly to my scalp, section by section, and massage gently.
3. Let it sit for 2-3 minutes (especially if it’s medicated like Nizoral).
4. Rinse thoroughly and follow up with a super moisturizing conditioner or deep treatment.
5. Apply a lightweight leave-in conditioner and seal with oil to keep the moisture in.

Final Thoughts

Dandruff doesn’t mean you’re doing anything wrong with your hair—it just means your scalp needs a little extra love. And the great thing is, there are shampoos out there that can help without sacrificing your curls.

Once you find the right shampoo and pair it with a solid moisturizing routine, you’ll start to notice a big difference in both your scalp and your curls. Just remember to be consistent, don’t over-wash, and always follow up with moisture.

I hope this post helps you finally say goodbye to flakes and hello to healthy, happy curls. Let me know which shampoo you try first, or if you’ve found a holy grail I need to add to my stash.

You got this, girl. Your curls and your scalp deserve all the love.