9 Best Anti-Dandruff Shampoo for Men in India (2026)

9 Best Anti-Dandruff Shampoo for Men in India (2026)

Dandruff isn’t just a cosmetic issue. For many men, it brings itching, scalp irritation, hair fall concerns, and constant embarrassment.

But here’s what most people don’t realize: dandruff is often linked to fungal overgrowth (Malassezia), excess oil production, or a compromised scalp barrier. Using the right anti-dandruff shampoo makes all the difference.

To help you choose wisely, we’ve curated a dermatologist-informed list of the best anti-dandruff shampoos for men in India in 2026 - including both medicated and daily-use options.

What to Look for in an Anti-Dandruff Shampoo

Before jumping into the list, here are the key ingredients dermatologists recommend:

  • Ketoconazole – Targets fungal dandruff
  • Zinc Pyrithione – Reduces flaking and itchiness
  • Selenium Sulfide – Controls scalp oil and fungus
  • Salicylic Acid – Exfoliates dead skin buildup
  • Piroctone Olamine – Fights dandruff gently

If your scalp feels dry and tight, choose a hydrating formula. If it’s oily and itchy, opt for a stronger antifungal shampoo.

1. CITTA Anti-Dandruff Shampoo

Price: ₹578 | 200ml

If you’re looking for a balanced solution that treats dandruff without stripping your scalp, CITTA’s Anti-Dandruff Shampoo is a strong contender.

What makes it stand out:

✔ Dermatologically tested
✔ Transparent ingredient disclosure (even at 0.01%)
✔ Gentle yet effective formula
✔ Inspired by traditional dadi nani ke nuskhe, refined with modern science

It focuses not just on flake removal but on restoring scalp balance, which is crucial for long-term dandruff control.

Ideal for: Men with recurring mild-to-moderate dandruff who want a non-harsh daily-use option.

Key Ingredients: Aqua, Water (and) Cocamidopropyl Betaine (and) Glycerin (and) Caprylyl/Capryl Glucoside (and) Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate, Coco Amido Propyl Betaine, Polyquaternium - 7, Glycerine, Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride, Ethylene Glycol Di Stearate, Zinc Pyrithione, Piroctone Olamine, Phenoxyethanol, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Oil, Cetrimonium Chloride.

2. Himalaya Anti‑Dandruff Tea Tree Shampoo

Price: ₹204 |100 ML

Herbal choice with tea tree extract, known for calming itchiness and supporting scalp cleansing - suitable for daily use.

Key Ingredients: Tea Tree Oil, Aloe Vera, the natural proteins of Soy and Wheat

3. Sebamed Anti-Dandruff Shampoo

Price: ₹574 | 200ml

Highly rated for sensitive scalps; contains piroctone olamine that helps reduce fungus-causing flakes and soothe irritation.

Key Ingredients: piroctone olamine

4. Selsun Suspension Shampoo

Price: ₹378 | 120ml

Contains selenium sulfide, which reduces scalp fungus and oil production.

Best for: Oily scalp with heavy flakes
Usage: Usually twice weekly under guidance.

5. Scalpe+ Expert Anti-Dandruff Shampoo

Price: ₹295 | 75ml

A combination formula often recommended by dermatologists in India.

Best for: Moderate to severe dandruff with itching.

Key Ingredients: Ketoconazole I.P. 2% w/w, Zinc Pyrithione or ZPTO 1% w/w

6. Man Matters Anti-Dandruff Shampoo

Price: ₹499 | 200ml

Specifically marketed for men, often combining anti-dandruff agents with hair fall control ingredients.

Best for: Men dealing with both dandruff and early hair thinning.

Key Ingredients: ZPTO, Salicylic Acid, Piroctone Olamine

7. Beardo Anti-Dandruff Shampoo

Price: ₹299 | 200ml

Designed for men with styling product buildup and oily scalp.

Best for: Urban lifestyle, frequent product users.

8. Minimalist Anti-Dandruff Shampoo

Price: ₹396 | 200ml

Often includes exfoliating acids to remove dead skin buildup gently.

Best for: Dry flakes and mild scalp scaling.

Key Ingredients: Piroctone Olamine, Climbazole, and Salicylic Acid

9. Mamaearth Anti-Dandruff Shampoo

Price: ₹533 | 400ml

Uses tea tree oil and natural extracts for mild dandruff cases.

Best for: Those preferring botanical-based formulas.

Key Ingredients: Lemon, Aloe Vera, Zinc Pyrithione, Climbazole

Also Read: Can You Use Anti-Dandruff Shampoo Daily? Most People Are Doing It Wrong

How to Use Anti-Dandruff Shampoo Correctly (Most Men Get This Wrong)

  1. Wet scalp thoroughly
  2. Apply shampoo directly to scalp (not just hair)
  3. Massage gently for 2–3 minutes
  4. Leave on for at least 3–5 minutes (especially medicated shampoos)
  5. Rinse completely

Consistency is key. Most anti-dandruff shampoos need 2–4 weeks to show visible improvement.

Common Mistakes That Worsen Dandruff

  • Switching shampoos too quickly
  • Not leaving medicated shampoo long enough
  • Using very hot water
  • Over-oiling scalp
  • Scratching aggressively

Healthy scalp care is about balance, not harshness.

Also Read: From Thin to Thick: How to Increase Hair Density & Improve Hair Volume Naturally

Why Ingredient Transparency Matters

At CITTA, transparency isn’t a marketing line - it’s a commitment. Every ingredient is disclosed, even at 0.01%.

Founded by Akanksha Sharma along with Tanay and Monisha Sharma, CITTA blends traditional wisdom with dermatological validation - ensuring solutions are thoughtful, effective, and gentle.

Because when it comes to scalp health, informed choices lead to confident results.

Final Verdict: Which Shampoo Should You Choose?

  • Severe fungal dandruff → Ketoconazole-based
  • Oily scalp flakes → Selenium sulfide
  • Mild daily flakes → Gentle balanced formula like CITTA
  • Sensitive scalp → Mild antifungal + hydrating formula

The best anti-dandruff shampoo for men in India isn’t about popularity; it’s about matching the formula to your scalp type.

FAQs

1. What is the best anti-dandruff shampoo for men in India?

It depends on severity. Ketoconazole shampoos work well for severe dandruff, while balanced daily-use formulas like CITTA are suitable for mild to moderate flakes.

2. How often should men use anti-dandruff shampoo?

Usually 2–3 times a week. Daily use depends on the formulation and scalp sensitivity.

3. Does dandruff cause hair fall?

Dandruff itself doesn’t directly cause hair fall, but inflammation and excessive scratching can weaken hair roots.

4. How long does it take to see results?

Most men see improvement within 2–4 weeks of consistent use.

5. Can I use anti-dandruff shampoo daily?

Some gentle formulas are safe for daily use. Strong medicated shampoos should be used as directed by a dermatologist.

Also Read: How to Use Anti-Dandruff Shampoo the Right Way (Most People Get This Wrong)

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