Are you looking for the best non-toxic & natural shampoos for dandruff? You’ve come to the right place! We’ve scouted out 11 of the most effective and gentle shampoos designed specifically to target the underlying causes of dandruff –naturally.
These shampoos are made from the best natural and organic ingredients that are free from harmful chemicals. They deeply cleanse and exfoliate your scalp while gently nourishing your hair from root to tip.
Whether you have mild flaking or more severe dandruff, our list has something for everyone. Read on to discover the top non-toxic and natural shampoos for dandruff that will help you achieve a flake-free, healthy, and happy scalp.
SKL top picks, in a nutshell…
- Best Natural Dandruff Shampoo: Bubble & Bee Peppermint & Tea Tree Shampoo
- Best For Dry/Damaged Hair: Marius Fabre’s Certified Organic Cade Oil Dandruff Shampoo
- Best For Oily Hair: Rahua Scalp Exfoliating Shampoo
- Best For Color Treated Hair: 100% Pure Burdock and Neem Healthy Scalp Shampoo
- Budget-Friendly Dandruff Shampoo: Rose’s Natural African Black Soap Dandruff Shampoo
Dandruff is irritating, frustrating, and sometimes downright embarrassing! It can be tempting to reach for the strongest, most potent chemical treatments available in the hopes of a quick fix.
But hold on – those harsh synthetic ingredients could actually be worsening the problem, not solving it. To effectively combat dandruff, a holistic approach is best.
One that addresses the root causes while nurturing your scalp back to health with gentle, natural ingredients. By understanding the factors contributing to your dandruff and selecting the right non-toxic and natural shampoos, you can break free from the cycle of itching, flaking, and irritation.
As much as we hate to admit it, we suffer from the dreaded wintertime dandruff too. So we set out on a mission to find the best natural solutions we could find!
We’ve hand-selected each of these natural, non-toxic shampoos that effectively target oiliness, buildup, and other underlying causes of dandruff so that your hair can thrive. Whether you’re dealing with mild flaking or more severe dandruff, our guide has something for everyone.
So let’s get into it to discover the root causes of dandruff, why conventional shampoos can worsen it, and the natural ingredients that can help so you can transform your hair care routine and get back to your flake-free self!
What’s so great about non-toxic dandruff shampoo?
Non-toxic and natural dandruff shampoos offer a gentler, more sustainable alternative to conventional anti-dandruff products.
Most conventional dandruff shampoos rely on synthetic antifungal agents and toxic chemicals. These ingredients include parabens, phthalates, and artificial fragrances, which can irritate your scalp. Additionally, long-term exposure to these chemicals has been linked to some pretty serious health concerns.
In contrast, non-toxic formulations aim to minimize exposure to these harmful substances. By doing so, they provide a safer alternative for anyone looking to reduce their chemical load.
Natural dandruff shampoos are often more environmentally friendly too. They typically use biodegradable ingredients and may come in plastic-free packaging, to reduce their environmental footprint.
What causes dandruff?
Dandruff can be triggered by several factors, but the most common causes are:
Seborrheic Dermatitis: This condition leads to an irritated, oily scalp that becomes red, greasy, and covered with flaky white or yellow scales. It’s one of the primary drivers of dandruff.
Malassezia Fungus Overgrowth: This yeast-like fungus naturally lives on most adults’ scalps. However, when it grows out of control, it can feed on the oils on your scalp, leaving behind oleic acid. Many people are sensitive to this byproduct, causing the body to increase skin cell turnover and resulting in those pesky flakes.
Dry Skin: Especially common in colder months, dry skin can lead to flaking and itching of the scalp. If you have dry skin on other parts of your body, this might be the cause of your dandruff.
Other Contributing Factors
- Oily skin
- Infrequent shampooing – not washing your hair frequently enough can lead to a buildup of oils and dead skin cells, making dandruff more noticeable.
- Certain skin conditions like psoriasis and eczema
- Age and hormones (dandruff is more common between puberty and middle age)
- Stress
- Diet (particularly deficiencies in zinc and B vitamins)
- Cold, dry weather
What harsh chemicals are found in conventional shampoos for dandruff?
- Selenium Sulfide: This ingredient is classified as a probable human carcinogen by the EPA. While it’s effective at treating dandruff, oral exposure to high concentrations can cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, while chronic oral exposure can lead to selenosis, causing hair loss, nail brittleness, and neurological abnormalities.
- Zinc Pyrithione (ZPT): ZPT is a primary anti-dandruff agent found in many drugstore shampoos. Although it has antifungal properties that help prevent the growth of dandruff-causing microbes, studies have raised concerns about its potential for cytotoxicity, neurotoxicity, and reproductive toxicity, even at low concentrations.
- Ketoconazole: This antifungal ingredient is effective in combating the fungal causes of dandruff but can cause skin irritation, oiliness or dryness of the hair and scalp, and in rare cases, hair loss or allergic reactions.
- Salicylic Acid: While this ingredient helps remove excess skin cells from the scalp, excessive use over large areas could potentially lead to salicylism, especially in children or those with kidney or liver impairment. Its safety during pregnancy and breastfeeding has not been definitively established.
- Coal Tar: A natural antifungal agent, coal tar can reduce excess skin cell production but may cause skin irritation, photosensitivity, and unpleasant odor. Occupational exposure to industrial coal tar has been linked to an increased risk of certain cancers.
- Sulfur: Often combined with other ingredients like salicylic acid, sulfur has antifungal properties that help combat dandruff. However, it can cause skin irritation, dryness, and an unpleasant odor.
What natural ingredients should I look for when shopping for a non-toxic shampoo for dandruff?
- Tea Tree Oil: This essential oil is a powerhouse when it comes to fighting dandruff. Its natural antifungal properties help combat the overgrowth of Malassezia, the yeast-like fungus that often contributes to dandruff. Tea tree oil also has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects, which can soothe an irritated scalp and promote healing.
- Neem: Derived from the neem tree, this ingredient has been used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine. Neem’s antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties make it an excellent choice for treating dandruff. It can help reduce the itching and flaking associated with an irritated scalp while also promoting a healthy scalp environment.
- Apple Cider Vinegar: This natural remedy has gained popularity in recent years for its ability to balance the scalp’s pH, which can help prevent the growth of dandruff-causing fungi. Apple cider vinegar also has mild exfoliating properties that can help remove dead skin cells and product buildup, keeping your scalp clean and healthy.
- Aloe Vera: Known for its soothing and healing properties, aloe vera is a must-have ingredient in any non-toxic dandruff shampoo. It contains enzymes and antioxidants that can calm an inflamed scalp, reduce redness, and promote the healing of any damage caused by excessive scratching. Aloe vera also helps hydrate the scalp, preventing dryness that can lead to flaking.
- Coconut Oil: Rich in fatty acids and antioxidants, coconut oil can nourish and moisturize the scalp, reducing dryness and flaking. Its antimicrobial properties also help combat the bacteria and fungi that can contribute to dandruff. Coconut oil can be especially beneficial for those with dry, itchy scalps.
Top 11 Non-Toxic & Natural Shampoos for Dandruff
1. Bubble & Bee
Bubble & Bee harnesses the wisdom of their great-grandmothers, who relied on simple, natural ingredients for beautiful hair without the need for harsh synthetic chemicals.
The unique soap-based formula for their Peppermint & Tea Tree Shampoo provides a gentle clean for a healthy scalp.
Bubble & Bee’s commitment to sustainability shines through in their carefully crafted shampoo.
Free from SLS, quats, and synthetic detergents, this vegan and cruelty-free formula is also gluten-free, GMO-free, and palm-free.
If it doesn’t work out as a shampoo after the detox period, it can be easily repurposed as a body or hand soap, reducing waste and maximizing value.
price
$14.99
Sustainability
Natural, organic ingredients, absence of synthetic chemicals, vegan and cruelty-free formulation, minimal packaging, small-batch production, and multipurpose use.
location/shipping
Made in the USA, ships to the US and select international countries.
2. Carina Organics
Say goodbye to an itchy, flaky scalp and hello to healthier, more moisturized hair with Carina Organics Unscented Dandruff Flake Removal Shampoo.
This labor of love is crafted with hand-selected organic ingredients from the Pacific Northwest, such as alfalfa, chamomile, echinacea, nettle, and red clover, ensuring the highest quality and sustainability.
The gentle yet effective formula lifts and removes flaky dandruff scales while nourishing your scalp with essential moisturizing nutrients.
With its natural, biodegradable, and cruelty-free formulation, this shampoo is a testament to Carina Organics’ dedication to ethical sourcing practices and responsible palm oil use.
price
$28.49
Sustainability
Hand-selected organic ingredients, biodegradable formulation, cruelty-free and vegan credentials, ethical sourcing practices, responsible palm oil use, and multifunctional design.
location/shipping
Manufactured by hand on the North Shore of Vancouver, British Columbia, ships to the US and Canada.
3. Marius Fabre
Bring the essence of the French countryside home with Marius Fabre’s Certified Organic Cade Oil Dandruff Shampoo. This gentle shampoo cleans deep for a healthy, revitalized scalp.
Marius Fabre harnesses the power of olives ripened under the bright Provençal sun, deep in the valley of Les Baux-de-Provence, to create this nourishing and soothing formula.
This shampoo is part of their Olivia line, which is approved by Ecocert, guaranteeing the use of at least 10% organic ingredients and 95% natural ingredients.
Their Cade Oil shampoo is made with a minimum of 30% soap, derived from olive oil and coconut oil. It is free from artificial colors, fragrances, preservatives, and chemical additives.
The natural glycerin present in the soap is a result of the traditional Marseille soap-making process, which involves 10 days of cooking and multiple rinses.
price
$28.00
Sustainability
Ecocert certification, recyclable packaging, local production in Provence, minimal processing of glycerin.es, responsible palm oil use, and multifunctional design.
location/shipping
Made in Marseille, Available on Amazon USA.
4. 100% Pure
Discover the purifying power of 100% Pure’s Burdock and Neem Healthy Scalp Shampoo, a balancing formula designed to unclog pores, stimulate circulation, and alleviate dryness, itching, and flaking.
This sulfate-free natural dandruff shampoo is gentle enough for color-treated hair while providing deep hydration for a healthier scalp and hair.
The key ingredients, burdock and neem, work together to combat scalp conditions like dandruff, psoriasis, and seborrheic dermatitis, thanks to their antifungal, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties.
Burdock root promotes hair growth by improving blood circulation and strengthening the roots, while neem helps to soothe and moisturize the scalp.
price
$30.00
Sustainability
Natural, plant-based ingredients, sulfate-free formulation, multifunctional benefits for scalp and hair health, and effectiveness in treating dandruff without harsh chemicals.
location/shipping
United States, ships to the US, Canada, United Kingdom, France, and Italy.
5. The Natural Beauty
My Natural Beauty’s All Natural Dandruff Shampoo is a gentle, herbaceous blend that harnesses the power of healing herbs to provide relief from itchiness, flakes, and irritation associated with dandruff, without stripping your hair of essential moisture.
Crafted with love and care by a family-owned business, this shampoo is free from harsh chemicals, preservatives, and synthetic ingredients.
The synergistic blend of all-natural ingredients revitalizes the scalp, promotes circulation, and provides essential nutrients for healthy hair growth and nourishment.
My Natural Beauty uses only 100% natural and organic ingredients in all of their products.
price
$18.00
Sustainability
Handmade production, support for a family-owned business, and multifunctional benefits for scalp and hair health.
location/shipping
United States, ships to the US, Norway, and Mexico.
Benefits of Choosing Non-Toxic & Natural Shampoo For Dandruff
Reduced Irritation & Balanced Scalp pH: Natural dandruff shampoos are formulated with gentle, plant-based ingredients that are less likely to irritate the scalp or disrupt its natural pH balance. By maintaining a healthy scalp environment, these shampoos can help reduce the occurrence of dandruff and soothe existing symptoms.
Preservation of Natural Oils & Improved Hair Texture: Unlike harsh sulfates found in traditional dandruff shampoos, the mild cleansing agents in non-toxic formulas don’t strip away the beneficial natural oils that keep your hair and scalp healthy. As a result, your hair may become softer, more manageable, and less prone to breakage over time.
Decreased Risk of Allergic Reactions: Many people with sensitive skin or allergies find that natural dandruff shampoos are less likely to cause adverse reactions. By avoiding synthetic fragrances, dyes, and other common allergens, these formulas are often better tolerated by those with delicate scalps.
Reduced Exposure to Harmful Chemicals: Non-toxic dandruff shampoos are free from potentially dangerous chemicals like parabens, phthalates, and formaldehyde-releasing preservatives. By minimizing your exposure to these substances, you can reduce your body’s overall toxic burden and lower your risk of long-term health issues.
Improved Scalp & Hair Health: Natural ingredients like tea tree oil, neem extract, and aloe vera not only help combat dandruff but also promote a healthier scalp environment. These botanicals can nourish hair follicles, reduce inflammation, and encourage stronger, more resilient hair growth.
Environmental Benefits: Many natural formulas use biodegradable ingredients and eco-friendly packaging, reducing their environmental impact.
6. John Masters Organics
Ingredients To Look Out For: Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride
John Masters Organics’ Scalp Conditioning Shampoo with Zinc & Sage provides a powerful defense against dry, irritated scalps and sebum build-up.
This shampoo combines protective zinc and purifying sage to soothe and balance the scalp while strengthening wheat amino acids leaving your hair shiny, manageable, and soft.
The coconut-derived surfactants in this shampoo deeply cleanse the scalp and strands without stripping away essential moisture.
Organic essential oils penetrate the scalp, alleviating irritations and promoting a healthy, balanced environment for hair growth.
price
$26.00
Sustainability
Cruelty-free practices, biodegradable components, multifunctional benefits, and a concentrated formula that reduces the need for multiple products.
location/shipping
United States, ships to the US and Canada.
7. Noun Naturals
Ingredients To Look Out For: Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Benzoate
Noun Naturals’ Turmeric + Organic Black Seed Shampoo offers a nourishing shampoo specifically formulated to promote healthier hair and scalp.
No harsh chemicals like SLS, sulfates, and parabens that can strip your hair of natural oils and cause irritation in this shampoo.
This shampoo harnesses the potency of black seed oil, peppermint oil, turmeric oil, and eucalyptus to stimulate hair follicles, potentially prevent hair loss, and reduce flakes.
The infusion of these powerful ingredients works to boost blood circulation, enhance hair growth, and improve overall hair health.
This deep cleansing shampoo keeps your hair soft, healthy, and radiant with regular use.
price
$18.00
Sustainability
Natural, plant-based ingredients, absence of harmful additives like SLS and parabens, multifunctional benefits for hair and scalp health, and focus on promoting overall hair vitality without synthetic chemicals.
location/shipping
United States, ships to the US, United Kingdom, Canada, Germany, and Australia.
8. Rahua
Ingredients To Look Out For: Potassium Sorbate, Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride
Addressing your dandruff doesn’t have to be purely medicinal. With Rahua keeping the flakes at bay can be an indulgent experience too!
Rahua’s Scalp Exfoliating Shampoo is an innovative 1-step shampoo scrub that combines the gentle exfoliating power of aromatic crushed star anise with the superfruit enzymes of organic mango and passion fruit to remove dead skin cells and build-up, promoting a healthy scalp microbiome.
Rahua blends rare sacha inchi and morete oils to improve scalp circulation and nourish hair health, making this shampoo particularly beneficial for those with oily or dry scalps.
Rahua’s uses natural, organic ingredients in all of their haircare products.
They also partner with Indigenous communities in Peru for sourcing ingredients, supporting rainforest preservation and local economies.
price
$40.00
Sustainability
Partnership with indigenous communities in Peru for sourcing ingredients supports rainforest preservation and local economies.
location/shipping
United States, ships to the US and Canada.
9. Rose’s Natural
Ingredients To Look Out For: Sodium Benzoate
Rose’s Natural combines African black soap and tea tree oil to create a dandruff-fighting super-duo for their African Black Soap Dandruff Shampoo.
The addition of peppermint essential oil provides a cooling, calming effect, reducing irritation and the urge to scratch.
With every wash, this powerful trio of ingredients gently removes excess oil, flakes, and product buildup, leaving your scalp feeling clean, refreshed, and nourished.
The stimulating effect of peppermint may also improve blood circulation, promoting a healthier scalp environment and potentially encouraging hair growth.
This shampoo targets dandruff at its source to prevent it from coming back.
price
$15.00
Sustainability
Natural, plant-based ingredients free from harsh chemicals, handcrafted to reduce energy consumption.
location/shipping
United States, ships with US.
10. Maple Holistics
Ingredients To Look Out For: Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine
Maple Holistics’ Sage Shampoo washes away flakes and dirt while infusing your hair with essential moisture.
This shampoo is the perfect solution for fine, thin, or dry hair in need of volume and clarity.
The synergistic blend of essential oils, including sage, spikenard, and rosemary, effectively clarifies your hair from root to tip, while hydrating oils like jojoba and peach kernel provide much-needed moisture.
The result is healthier-looking hair and a squeaky clean scalp.
The shampoo’s ability to strip away excess oils and buildup while providing proper hydration makes it an ideal choice for daily use, especially when paired with their sage conditioner.
price
$12.95
Sustainability
Natural, plant-based ingredients, multifunctional/concentrated formula reducing the need for additional products.
location/shipping
United States, ships to the United States, Canada, Switzerland, Mexico, and Uganda.
11. Goldies
Ingredients To Look Out For: Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Phenoxyethanol, Caprylyl Glycol
Goldies’ Clary Sage Shampoo soothes your scalp with aloe while promoting shine and strength with calendula and chamomile extracts.
This sulfate-free and paraben-free shampoo is crafted using folkloric plant medicine and aromatherapy to benefit your everyday hair care routine.
The uplifting scent of clary sage and clementine essential oils invigorates the senses, while kelp and comfrey extracts work to protect and strengthen your hair, preventing dryness and leaving your locks light, bright, and lustrous.
price
$30.00
Sustainability
Cruelty-free practices, support for woman-owned businesses, multifunctional benefits, and focus on traditional plant medicine.
location/shipping
United States, ships within the US.
What are some DIY home remedies for dandruff?
Natural Oils
- Coconut Oil: Apply coconut oil to your scalp before showering and leave it in for 30 minutes. It can help moisturize the scalp and reduce inflammation.
- Tea Tree Oil: Dilute tea tree oil with a carrier oil (like coconut or olive oil) and apply it to your scalp. Tea tree oil has antifungal properties that can help combat dandruff.
Natural Acids
- Apple Cider Vinegar: Mix apple cider vinegar with water and rinse your hair with it after shampooing. The acidity can help balance the scalp’s pH.
- Lemon Juice: Dilute lemon juice with water and apply it to your scalp. Leave it in for a few minutes before rinsing. Lemon juice can help exfoliate the scalp and reduce dandruff.
Other DIY Remedies
- Baking Soda: Mix baking soda with water to form a paste and apply it to your scalp. Leave it in for a few minutes before rinsing. Baking soda can help exfoliate the scalp and reduce dandruff.
- Aloe Vera: Apply aloe vera gel directly to your scalp and leave it in for 30 minutes before rinsing. Aloe vera can help soothe the scalp and reduce inflammation.
Do a patch test before using any DIY remedy and adjust the acid-to-water ratio based on your scalp’s pH and skin sensitivity to avoid irritation.
If these home remedies don’t improve your dandruff, or if your symptoms are severe, consult a dermatologist for professional advice.
What changes can I make to my diet to help address dandruff?
While dandruff is often caused by factors like scalp dryness, fungal overgrowth, or irritation, certain dietary changes can help support scalp health and potentially reduce dandruff symptoms.
Here are some suggestions:
- Increase Omega-3 Fatty Acids: These fatty acids can help reduce inflammation and improve scalp health. Foods rich in omega-3s include salmon, mackerel, flaxseeds, chia seeds, and walnuts.
- Limit Processed Foods & Sugars: These can contribute to inflammation and imbalances in the body, potentially affecting scalp health.
- Stay Hydrated: Adequate hydration is essential for overall health, including scalp health. Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
- Consider Zinc: Some studies suggest that zinc deficiency may be linked to dandruff. Incorporate zinc-rich foods like oysters, beef, and pumpkin seeds into your diet.
How long does it take to see results with a natural dandruff shampoo?
Generally, you might notice improvements within a few weeks of consistent use. However, it’s important to give the product time to work, as results can be gradual.
The time it takes to see results with a natural dandruff shampoo can vary depending on several factors:
- The Severity of Dandruff: Mild dandruff may respond more quickly than severe cases.
- Individual Response: Everyone’s scalp reacts differently to products.
- Consistency of Use: Regular use is essential for sustained improvement.
- Underlying Causes: If dandruff is caused by an underlying health condition, addressing those issues may also be necessary.
If you don’t see significant improvement after a few weeks of using a natural dandruff shampoo, consider trying a different natural shampoo or a combination of products.
You may also want to work with a dermatologist or doctor to assess your specific case and recommend appropriate treatments.
This has been your complete guide to the best non-toxic & natural shampoos for dandruff.
Your scalp is a delicate ecosystem that deserves love and care and in your search for a healthy, flake-free scalp, choosing the right non-toxic & natural dandruff shampoo can make all the difference.
By opting for gentle, nurturing ingredients and steering clear of harsh chemicals, you’re not only addressing the root causes of dandruff but also cultivating a healthier environment for your hair to grow long and strong.
We hope this has encouraged you to take the leap and embrace the power of nature in your hair care routine. Your scalp will thank you, and your confidence will soar as you bid farewell to dandruff and hello to the luscious, flake-free locks you deserve.
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