11 Best Sulfate-Free Dandruff Shampoos for Flake-Free Hair

Written by Alvira Dsouza, Hair Expert
Updated on Feb 16, 2024
Best Sulfate-free Dandruff Shampoos to Say Goodbye to Flakes
Best Sulfate-free Dandruff Shampoos to Say Goodbye to Flakes
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Many of you might find yourselves constantly battling with dandruff every time the season changes. It’s time to make a switch to your hair care routine and opt for best sulfate-free dandruff shampoo that will not allow flakes to live rent-free on your scalp. It also won’t strip your scalp of natural oils, thus preventing the growth of flakes. A dry and oily scalp might be the reason for dandruff. Due to dandruff, you might experience itching, bumps and random redness in your hair.

One of our contributors Dr. Anna Chacon, a board certified dermatologist, shares, “Regularly using sulfate-free shampoos can benefit your hair by causing less irritation to the scalp, retaining the hair's natural oils, and reducing frizz.” Discussing about the time taken to treat dandruff, our contributor Dr. Anna Chacon adds, “The time it takes for dandruff to disappear after using sulfate-free shampoos can vary and depends on the severity of the dandruff. It could take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months.”

Dr. Daniel Sugai, a Board Certified Dermatologist, says, “Nizoral shampoo is great, it’s Ketoconazole so it actually goes after that yeast”.

With the right shampoo, you can say goodbye to flakes and enjoy a dandruff-free life. The right shampoo can help you with those persistent itches and residues on your shoulders. We understand the frustration and embarrassment that comes with dandruff. You might be tired of using shampoos that claim to be anti-dandruff but don’t have an effect on your mane. Based on our research, our list of the sulfate-free dandruff shampoo won’t turn out to be a disappointment! Here are the best shampoos for getting rid of dandruff once and for all. 

11 Best Sulfate-free Dandruff Shampoos

You might be celebrating the departure of dandruff from your hair. However, it reappears after a few days, and the same story starts again. It happens because your shampoo fails to get rid of the fungus that causes dandruff. Luckily, this sulfate-free dandruff shampoo by Nizoral gets to the root of the scalp and destroys the dandruff-causing fungus. It contains 1% ketoconazole, a powerful anti-fungal ingredient used for scalp treatment. In addition, this shampoo is gentle on the hair, thus preventing it from damage. You don’t need to treat your hair wildly because it has become prone to flakes. Say yes to this clinically-proven dandruff shampoo! 

Specification:

Ketoconazole 

Acrylic Acid Polymer

Cocamide MEA 

Tetrasodium EDTA 

Pros
  • Fresh scent
  • Fit for all hair types
  • Clinically-proven
  • 10 times more effective
Cons
  • Contains a few synthetic ingredients
  • Best Anti-inflammatory Dandruff Shampoo

    Vanicream Medicated Dandruff Shampoo

    Vanicream Medicated Dandruff Shampoo
  • In the journey to remove dandruff from your scalp, you cannot welcome side effects. Luckily, this product from Vanicream has no parabens or dyes for any side effects. Also, it consists of 2% Zinc Pyrithione (ZPT), an active ingredient that fights dandruff. Some studies have proven that ZPT deposits active agents on your scalp (1), thus preventing it from fungus. Besides helping you get rid of dandruff, this product also fights seborrheic dermatitis, an inflammatory scalp condition. It is the best sulfate-free dandruff shampoo to achieve maximum results in quick succession. All ingredients used in this shampoo are approved by dermatologists for maximum impact. Gain your lost confidence back by removing dandruff once and for all! 

    Specification:

    Pyrithione Zinc

    Panthenol 

    Glycerin 

    Sodium Chloride 

    Pros
    • Suits all hair types
    • Dermatologist-tested
    • No parabens
    • No dyes
    Cons
    • Unscented
  • Elite All-natural Shampoo

    MAJESTIC PURE Apple Cider Vinegar Shampoo

    MAJESTIC PURE Apple Cider Vinegar Shampoo
  • You cannot convert your hair into a chemical testing lab to get rid of dandruff. You might get rid of dandruff by using synthetic ingredients, but you would lose hair strength. This product is 100% natural and free from synthetics and additives. You can say goodbye to scalp build-ups and get that natural shine back. In addition, this shampoo has moisturizing ingredients to keep your scalp hydrated at all times. Some of you might be worried about spillage while using an anti-dandruff shampoo. This product comes with a pump bottle releasing the exact amount of shampoo you need. In short, it is the best choice for people looking for dry scalp shampoo sulfate-free

    Specification

    Pyrus Malus Fruit Extract 

    Decyl Glucoside 

    Shea Butter 

    Vinegar 

    Pros
    • Coconut scent
    • 100% natural
    • Pump out bottle
    • Affordable
    Cons
    • Not suitable for children
  • Best in fragrance

    Aveeno Apple Cider Vinegar Sulfate-Free Shampoo

    Aveeno Apple Cider Vinegar Sulfate-Free Shampoo
  • You might feel like pouring acid on your scalp after using a few shampoos. Luckily, this shampoo by Aveeno offers a soothing sensation to your scalp. Besides cleaning the scalp, it also helps restore the natural shine from the root to the tip. By using this product, you will get to know the power of oats. Besides offering a soothing sensation, oats also have cleansing, moisturizing, and conditioning properties. At an affordable price, you will bring home a one-stop solution for your scalp. Not to forget, the blended fragrance of vinegar and apple cider will make your day. Say yes to the best sulfate- free dandruff shampoo right away! 

    Specification

    Apple Cider 

    Vinegar 

    Oats 

    Pros
    • No parabens
    • No phthalates
    • Blended scent
    • Affordable
    Cons
    • Not suitable for children
  • Best pH-balancing Shampoo

    Puriya Tea Tree Shampoo

    Puriya Tea Tree Shampoo
  • An itchy and dry scalp is not something to be proud of. However, you can’t be blamed entirely, as those never-ending flakes cause itchiness. Luckily, Puriya offers the best anti-dandruff sulfate-free shampoo for dry and itchy scalp. Besides helping you with flakes, it also hydrates your dry scalp. Instead of causing discomfort, it gently removes scalp build-ups. You will get that shine back in a few days after using this product. Not to forget, your inner confidence will also be back along with the shine. Customers also prefer this product due to its pH-balancing properties. Since this product has a few plant-based ingredients, you will offer a natural treatment to your scalp. 

    Specification

    Decyl Polyglucoside 

    Tea Tree Leaf Oil

    Aloe Vera 

    Arnica Flower Extract 

    Pros
    • Plant-based ingredients
    • Suits all hair types
    • Can be used for pets
    • Hydrating properties
    Cons
    • A little expensive
  • Elite Deep Cleansing Shampoo

    Tea Tree Shampoo Sulfate Free

    Tea Tree Shampoo Sulfate Free
  • There is no compulsion that an anti-dandruff shampoo will only help you remove those white flakes. This all-in-one shampoo consists of rosemary for numerous benefits. Rosemary can boost hair growth, scalp health, and hair strength. Rosemary is also used in shampoos for its cleansing and aromatherapy properties. This product also consists of tea tree oil for an improved scalp treatment. Most of you might not be able to afford a salon treatment every time to remove dandruff. However, you can bring salon by purchasing theis sulfate-free dandruff shampoo offered by Maple Holistics. This product works equally well on men and women struggling to fight dandruff. 

    Specification

    Cocamidopropyl Betaine 

    Lauryl Glucoside 

    Glycerin 

    Jojoba Seed Oil 

    Pros
    • Deep cleansing properties
    • Suitable for all hair types
    • No sulfates
    • Climate pledge friendly
    Cons
    • Might not suit children
  • Best for Colored Hair

    Eclat Dandruff Shampoo

    Eclat Dandruff Shampoo
  • You might have treated your hair with chemicals or colors in the past. Unfortunately, time travel does not exist to change what you have done. However, you can use this shampoo designed especially for chemical-treated hair. The best part about this shampoo is that it offers immediate results. Around 79% of customers have experienced positive results only after one use. Natural ingredients like zinc pyrithione, jojoba, and castor oil offer the perfect scalp treatment. It is also the best sulfate-free shampoo for dandruff, recommended by dermatologists. You don’t have to think twice about using this shampoo daily. Even after multiple uses, it will be gentle on the scalp. Regain your shiny and dandruff-free hair with this natural shampoo! 

    Specification

    Jojoba Oil 

    Moroccan Argan Oil 

    Castor Oil 

    Caffeine 

    Pros
    • Instant itch relief
    • No burning
    • Fit for colored hair
    • Affordable
    Cons
    • Might not suit children
  • Best Vegan Shampoo

    L’Oreal Paris EverPure Scalp Care

    L’Oreal Paris EverPure Scalp Care
  • Nature has answers to all our questions, only when we look deeper. However, you don’t have to venture into jungles to find the answer because L’Oreal Paris has done the job for you. Its anti-dandruff shampoo consists of neem leaf extract, a proven ingredient to fight those white flakes. Studies have proved the antifungal properties of neem leaf in fighting dandruff (2) . This shampoo also consists of other natural ingredients to say goodbye to dandruff. In addition to effective scalp treatment, this shampoo will offer a fresh scent to make your day. Not to forget, L’Oreal Paris is a globally-known brand with many satisfied customers. Use the best sulfate-free dandruff shampoo to prevent dandruff from building a permanent residence on your scalp! 

    Specification

    Sodium Lauryl

    Menthol 

    Neem Leaf Extract 

    Citric Acid 

    Pros
    • Trusted brand
    • Sulfate-free
    • Paraben-free
    • Vegan
    Cons
    • Might not suit children
  • Best Doctor-prepared Formula

    DERMA-E Scalp Relief Shampoo with Psorzema Herbal Blend

    DERMA-E Scalp Relief Shampoo with Psorzema Herbal Blend
  • You don’t have to fix doctor appointments to remove dandruff, as DERMA-E is bringing the solution to your doorstep. DERMA-E offers doctor-prepared shampoo for individuals struggling with dandruff. Besides cleansing your scalp, it will also repair the damage caused due to dandruff. The all-natural formula consisting of menthol and tea tree prevents any side effects on your hair. Ingredients like aloe vera will reduce irritation and itchiness caused by those white flakes. It is the perfect dandruff shampoo without sulfates, parabens, gluten, and lanolin. It also comes with a lavender smell to leave a mesmerizing fragrance wherever you go! It is the best sulfate free dandruff shampoo for daily use. 

    Specification

    Menthol 

    Tea Tree 

    Salicylic Acid 

    Panthenol 

    Pros
    • Natural ingredients
    • 100% vegan
    • Doctor-prepared shampoo
    • No parabens
    Cons
    • Preferred more for dry hair
  • Best for Thick Hair

    Tea Tree Shampoo for Dry Scalp

     Tea Tree Shampoo for Dry Scalp
  • You never pay half the money to purchase an anti-dandruff shampoo. For the same rationale, you should never settle for an anti-dandruff shampoo that does half the job. An ideal shampoo will help you remove dandruff and restore the natural scalp simultaneously. With the help of tea tree extract, this shampoo prevents the thinning and shedding of hair. You can admire your thick manes for as long as you like with this anti-dandruff shampoo. It is the best dandruff shampoo without sulfates that promotes hair growth. Ingredients like apple stem cells and manuka honey will make your hair stronger. Forget the myth that only salon treatment can remove dandruff and boost hair growth. Bring the salon to your home by purchasing this anti-dandruff shampoo!  

    Specification

    Apple Stem Cells 

    Organic Tea Tree

    Manuka Honey 

    Aloe Vera 

    Pros
    • Scented
    • Fit for all hair types
    • Hydrating properties
    • Soothing properties
    Cons
    • A little expensive
  • Head & Shoulders Royal Oils Sulfate-Free Scalp Care Anti-Dandruff Shampoo

     Head & Shoulders Royal Oils Sulfate-Free Scalp Care Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
  • Everyone has their problems, and so is the case with individuals having curly hair. Other anti-dandruff shampoos might not suit individuals with curly hair. You need an anti-dandruff shampoo with deep cleansing properties for curly hair. This product from Head and Shoulders helps remove dandruff from curly hair and restore the original strength of the scalp. Since this product is free from sulfates, parabens, and dyes, there aren’t any side effects. In addition, the blended scent of coconut oil and apple cider will offer a refreshing experience. The brand guarantees that you will have a healthier and dandruff-free scalp in three weeks. Start using this sulfate-free dandruff shampoo for immediate results! 

    Specification

    Pyrithione Zinc 

    Apple Cider Vinegar 

    Coconut Oil

    Citric Acid 

    Pros
    • No parabens
    • No sulfates
    • No dyes
    • Affordable
    Cons
    • Not preferred for children

    Now that we have explored the best sulfate-free dandruff shampoos, let’s find out how to choose the best one from these. 

    What to Look for When Buying the Best Sulfate-free Dandruff Shampoo

    There are a plethora of shampoo options in the market. However, you must choose the right shampoo to fight dandruff. Here are things to look for choosing the best sulfate-free dandruff shampoo

    •  Ingredients: A racing car without a powerful engine might not be of any use. Similarly, an anti-dandruff shampoo with no or fewer active ingredients will not be of any use. Look for ingredients like salicylic acid, zinc pyrithione, and ketoconazole to fight dandruff. 

    •  Moisturizing Properties: Besides deep cleansing, an anti-dandruff shampoo must also offer a moisturizing effect. You should have a soothing and itch-free experience after using the shampoo. 

    •  pH-balancing Properties: Shampoos with chemical agents might disturb the natural pH of your scalp. Choose anti-dandruff shampoos with pH-balancing properties for maximum impact. 

    •  Hair Type: Not every anti-dandruff shampoo will be suitable for all hair types. Consider your hair type and choose an anti-dandruff shampoo accordingly. 

    •  Customer Reviews: Read what other customers have to say about a particular anti-dandruff shampoo. It will help you find other individuals with similar dandruff issues. 

    Conclusion 

    No one’s rewarding you for offering a house to white flakes in your hair. When left untreated, dandruff can damage your scalp and cause itching. There might be times when you are left embarrassed due to dandruff on your shoulders. Luckily, there are anti-dandruff shampoos available to bid farewell to those white flakes once and for all! You don’t have to spend a fortune on salon treatments, as the best sulfate free dandruff shampoo will help you with scalp treatment. 

    It is essential to choose the best sulfate free dandruff shampoo for maximum impact. The aforementioned list consists of some of the best anti-dandruff shampoos with natural ingredients. You can choose any one of them to restore the natural strength of your scalp. As you say goodbye to dandruff, you will also regain the lost confidence. You don’t have to hide when people call out your name due to dandruff. Bring home the best anti-dandruff shampoo and bid farewell to hair problems now! 

    Contributor: Dr. Anna Chacon, Dermatologist - MyPsoriasisTeam

    FAQ's

    What is the best sulfate free shampoo for dandruff?
    You need an anti-dandruff shampoo with soothing, hydrating, and deep cleansing properties. A sulfate-free dandruff shampoo will also prevent side effects on your hair.
    Is there a sulfate free dandruff shampoo?
    There are numerous sulfate-free dandruff shampoos to get the natural hair back. You can choose one from the aforementioned list of the best anti-dandruff shampoos.

    Why Trust Pinkvilla

    Say goodbye to dry, damaged hair with the best sulfate-free dandruff shampoos. These shampoos were recommended by haircare expert Alvira who has tried these top picks that haven’t just cured her dandruff but healed her damaged scalp and hair quality. The author strongly recommends these sulfate-free dandruff shampoos to hydrate, nourish, and repair your hair to enjoy long, lustrous tresses. 

    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 & Fitness onboard 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