Solve scalp problems! The complete guide to choosing the right shampoo for dandruff and itchiness

Dandruff, dryness, itching, and flaking are common scalp concerns experienced by many people. Over-the-counter shampoos come in a wide variety, including options for men and women, as well as for dry or oily scalp types. Many users wonder, “Which dandruff shampoo is truly effective?” and “Can I use any medicated shampoo?”

In this article, we thoroughly review and compare 10 top-selling dandruff shampoos selected from popular brands and bestsellers on Amazon, Rakuten Ichiba, and Yahoo! Shopping. We evaluate based on seven points: cleansing power, scalp care ingredients, antibacterial and antifungal agents, scalp gentleness, foamability, ease of detangling, and fragrance. Along with actual user experience, we also explain how to choose the right shampoo for dandruff and itching, so you can make an informed purchase.

Understanding the Root Causes of Scalp Problems

The causes of dandruff and itching are mainly divided into two categories: “dryness” and “excess sebum secretion.” Dry dandruff results from insufficient scalp moisture, while oily dandruff is caused by overproduction of sebum, which promotes the growth of resident fungi like Malassezia.

An effective dandruff shampoo should “target the causative bacteria of dandruff and itching while providing a pleasant user experience.” It’s essential not only to have strong cleansing power but also to balance active ingredients and scalp friendliness.

7 Evaluation Criteria for Choosing Dandruff Shampoos

When selecting an effective dandruff shampoo, consider these seven points:

① Cleansing Power – Ability to properly remove excess sebum and dirt. Especially important for oily dandruff.

② Scalp Care Ingredients – Presence of ingredients like dipotassium glycyrrhizinate that improve scalp health.

③ Antibacterial and Antifungal Agents – Ingredients such as ciclopirox olamine or isopropyl methylphenol to combat causative fungi.

④ Scalp Friendliness – Whether the formulation is suitable for sensitive or dry skin.

⑤ Foamability – Adequate foam is crucial for effective cleansing.

⑥ Ease of Detangling – Indicator of how the hair feels after washing and the impact on hair health.

⑦ Fragrance – Psychological satisfaction from a pleasant scent, important for daily use.

Since quasi-drugs do not require full ingredient listing, this guide analyzes only the ingredients listed on the label.

Top 10 Recommended Dandruff Shampoos

【Overall Rank 1】Medique H Scalp Medical Shampoo Moisturizing Type (Rohto Pharmaceutical)

Score: 4.58 / Cheapest Price: 1,461 yen

A quasi-drug formulated specifically for scalp dryness issues. Contains two active ingredients: antifungal ciclopirox olamine and skin irritation prevention dipotassium glycyrrhizinate, effectively preventing dandruff and itching.

Formulated with minimal irritants suitable for sensitive skin, making it easy to use even during sensitive periods. It scores highly in foamability, detangling, and fragrance, making it suitable for a wide audience. Its strong cleansing power also makes it effective against oily dandruff, but users with dry scalp should consider using a moisturizer afterward.

Pros: Excellent balance of active ingredients and user experience | Sensitive skin friendly | Suitable for both oily and dry scalp Cons: No notable drawbacks

【Overall Rank 2】Cocodeoard Rinse-in Shampoo (Shirogane Pharmaceutical)

Score: 4.57 / Cheapest Price: 1,490 yen

A fragrance-free, menthol-free dandruff shampoo targeting odor control. Contains antifungal and skin irritation prevention ingredients in good balance, promising dandruff and itch relief.

Rated highly for foamability and gentle detangling, providing a rich wash and moist finish. Its high cleansing power makes it suitable for oily dandruff. The rinse-in design shortens washing time, ideal for busy users.

Pros: High cleansing power | Sensitive skin compatible | Rinse-in design for quick use Cons: Not suitable for those seeking a scented shampoo

【Overall Rank 3】Medicated Scalp Care & Moisture Shampoo (Matsukiyo Cocokara & Company)

Score: 4.57 / Cheapest Price:

Addresses multiple scalp issues such as itching, oiliness, dandruff, and odor. Contains antifungal ciclopirox olamine and skin irritation prevention dipotassium glycyrrhizinate. Highly rated for scalp gentleness, suitable for delicate scalp conditions.

Foamability is mixed, but the finish is smooth and the floral-herbal scent is well-received. Cleansing power is high, making it suitable for oily dandruff.

Pros: Highly rated for scalp gentleness | Smooth finish | Refreshing scent Cons: Foamability ratings vary

【Overall Rank 4】Medicated Shampoo (Dariya)

Score: 4.53 / Cheapest Price: 709 yen

Designed for teenage scalp care, addressing increased sebum secretion during adolescence. Contains dipotassium glycyrrhizinate and ciclopirox olamine to target dandruff, itching, and odor.

Features a fruity green scent with a refreshing finish. Affordable price point. Slightly coarse feel when rinsing, so pairing with the medicated conditioner is recommended.

Pros: Good value | Fresh scent | High cleansing power Cons: Slightly rough feel when rinsing

【Overall Rank 5】Medicated MIZERON (Eichi Medical)

Score: 4.52 / Cheapest Price: 3,480 yen

Free from parabens, ethanol, and silicones, developed for seborrheic scalp. Contains antibacterial and skin irritation prevention ingredients, with fewer irritants for sensitive skin.

Targets causative fungi while maintaining a delicate scalp environment. Foamability and fragrance are generally well-received, but foam may be less dense, and it’s less foamy than some others. Ideal for sensitive scalp with dandruff and itching.

Pros: Paraben- and silicone-free for sensitive skin | Gentle finish Cons: Slightly less foam

【Overall Rank 6】Medicated Scalp Shampoo (Wise Pharmaceutical)

Score: 4.49 / Cheapest Price: 3,142 yen

Supervised by pharmacists, designed for seborrheic scalp dandruff and itching. Contains salicylic acid and dipotassium glycyrrhizinate. Suitable for sensitive skin with low irritants.

Main cleansing agent is amino acid-based, effective for dry dandruff. Fragrance is minimal, not suitable for those seeking scented shampoos. Despite being for seborrheic scalp, ingredients suggest it can also help with dry dandruff.

Pros: Amino acid-based, suitable for dry skin | Pharmacist supervised trust Cons: Unscented, not for fragrance lovers

【Overall Rank 7】Medique H Scalp Medical Shampoo Refreshing Type (Rohto Pharmaceutical)

Score: 4.41 / Cheapest Price: 1,408 yen

Formulated for greasy scalp, similar to the moisturizing type, with ciclopirox olamine and dipotassium glycyrrhizinate. High ratings in foamability, detangling, and fragrance, offering user-friendly experience.

Contains menthol for a cooling, refreshing finish. Not suitable for sensitive or very dry scalp, so caution is advised. Recommended for those seeking a fresh, clean feeling and dealing with dandruff and itching.

Pros: High ratings across all user experience points | Refreshing finish Cons: Not suitable for sensitive or very dry scalp

【Overall Rank 8】Scalp Master Shampoo (Vancleef)

Score: 4.38 / Cheapest Price: 3,600 yen

Claims to thoroughly remove excess sebum, dirt, and prevent dandruff, itching, and odor. Available at a discounted price via subscription. Green tea scent is popular among users, with a mild, unobtrusive feel.

Rich in scalp care ingredients, including skin barrier support and antimicrobial agents, targeting causative bacteria while maintaining scalp health. However, scalp gentleness is rated lower, making it less suitable for sensitive skin. Foamability and detangling ratings vary, so it may not suit everyone.

Pros: Rich in scalp care ingredients | Discounted subscription price Cons: Not ideal for sensitive skin | Mixed user experience ratings

【Overall Rank 9】Medicated Hair Shampoo (Daiichi Sankyo Healthcare)

Score: 4.33 / Cheapest Price: 1,252 yen

Developed for sensitive and dry scalp, widely available at drugstores. No antibacterial or antifungal agents, but contains skin irritation prevention ingredients.

Main cleansing component is amino acid-based, gentle on sensitive skin, suitable for dry dandruff with low barrier function. High ratings in foamability, fragrance, and detangling. Ideal for those prioritizing comfort and gentle care for dry scalp.

Pros: Optimal for dry dandruff | Excellent user experience | Affordable Cons: No antibacterial/antifungal agents

【Overall Rank 10】Kao Shampoo

Score: 4.31 / Cheapest Price: 695 yen

A liquid shampoo from the “Curel” series for sensitive, dry skin. Contains skin irritation prevention ingredient dipotassium glycyrrhizinate, designed to improve scalp condition and prevent dandruff and itching.

High cleansing power helps remove excess sebum effectively. Overall user experience is good, with no major drawbacks. Lacks antibacterial and antifungal agents, so it does not directly target causative fungi. Easily available at drugstores, suitable for those seeking a gentle, sensitive-skin-friendly dandruff shampoo.

Pros: Gentle, sensitive-skin friendly | Easy to purchase | High cleansing power Cons: No antibacterial or antifungal ingredients

Summary of Choosing a Dandruff Shampoo

An effective dandruff and itching remedy is not just about “medicated” labels but about balancing active ingredients suited to your scalp type and providing a pleasant user experience. For oily dandruff, prioritize cleansing power and antibacterial agents; for dry dandruff, focus on sensitive skin compatibility and moisture balance. Select from the above 10 products based on your scalp condition and budget to find the best dandruff shampoo for you.