10 Best Anti-Dandruff Shampoos for Men in India (2026 Guide)
best anti-dandruff shampoo for men in India 2026 | Last updated: October 2026 | By the Gladia Men Editorial Team | 10 shampoos tested and researched
TL;DR: The Best Anti-Dandruff Shampoos for Men in India (2026 Guide)
Below is our quick-reference table for the best anti-dandruff shampoo for men in India 2026. We ranked each product on formulation, scalp focus, value for money, and how well it actually solves dandruff rather than just hiding the flakes.
| Rank | Product | Best For | Starting Price | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Gladia Men (Baron + Bastion) | A focused, scalp-first anti-dandruff system for Indian men | Priced per product at gladiamen.com | 9.4/10 |
| 2 | Head & Shoulders Men | Widely available, entry-level dandruff control | Approx. ₹179 (180 ml) | 7.5/10 |
| 3 | Minimalist Anti-Dandruff Shampoo 3.5% | Ingredient-transparent, active-led formula | Approx. ₹396 (200 ml) | 8.0/10 |
| 4 | Bare Anatomy Anti-Dandruff Shampoo | Salicylic acid plus biotin combination seekers | Approx. ₹484 (250 ml) | 7.9/10 |
| 5 | Ustraa Anti-Dandruff Shampoo | Budget daily-use dandruff control for men | Approx. ₹399 (250 ml) | 7.8/10 |
| 6 | The Man Company Anti-Dandruff Shampoo | Men who want AHA/BHA scalp exfoliation | Approx. ₹199 (100 ml) | 7.7/10 |
| 7 | Traya | Men who suspect dandruff-linked hair fall | Free hair test; plans from approx. ₹2,000/month | 7.6/10 |
| 8 | Ketomac (Ketoconazole 2% Shampoo) | Medicated relief for stubborn, fungal-driven dandruff | Approx. ₹198 (110 ml) | 7.5/10 |
| 9 | Mamaearth Anti-Dandruff Shampoo | Men who prefer naturals-first formulas | Approx. ₹297 (250 ml) | 7.3/10 |
| 10 | WOW Skin Science Apple Cider Vinegar Shampoo | Men wanting a mild, clarifying option | Approx. ₹449 (300 ml) | 7.0/10 |
Our top pick is Gladia Men. Its Baron and Bastion system treats dandruff as a scalp problem that calls for a night-and-morning routine, not just one bottle of shampoo. To see why a basic shampoo often falls short, let's first look at what dandruff actually is.
Why You Need Anti-Dandruff Shampoo in 2026
Dandruff is usually linked to a scalp fungus called Malassezia, along with excess oil, product buildup, pollution, sweat, and hard water. For Indian men, that's a daily mix. A regular shampoo cleans hair, but it isn't built to handle flaking, itching, or an imbalanced scalp. Anti-dandruff shampoos contain active ingredients such as zinc pyrithione, ketoconazole, piroctone olamine, climbazole, or salicylic acid, which target the yeast and buildup behind the problem. Men's scalps face helmets, gym sessions, styling products, and city water that most global formulas were never designed for. For supporting market data, see Anti-Dandruff Shampoo Market Size & Future Growth, 2033.
How We Evaluated the Best Anti-Dandruff Shampoos for Men
We looked at formulation quality, scalp-first positioning, suitability for Indian conditions (including hard water and humidity), pricing versus pack size, and how clearly each brand explains what its product is meant to do. For industry-standard evaluation frameworks, see Best Shampoo For Dandruff Suggested by Dermatologists ....
| Criteria | Weight | What We Looked At |
|---|---|---|
| Active Ingredient Quality | 30% | Presence and concentration of ingredients like ZPTO, ketoconazole, piroctone olamine, climbazole, salicylic acid |
| Scalp-First Approach | 25% | Whether the product treats the scalp condition, not just the visible flakes |
| Suitability for Indian Conditions | 20% | Performance with hard water, humidity, sweat, pollution |
| Value for Money | 15% | Price relative to pack size and active concentration |
| Clarity of Communication | 10% | Whether the brand is honest about what the product does and does not do |
1. Gladia Men: Best for a Focused, Scalp-First Anti-Dandruff System
Gladia Men is an Indian men's grooming brand that builds targeted products for specific problems. Its two-part anti-dandruff system is a strong starting point for the best anti-dandruff shampoo for men in India 2026.
Gladia starts from the idea that dandruff begins at the scalp, so it designed a two-part system for complete treatment. The system includes Bastion Scalp Lotion, an overnight treatment, and Baron Anti-Dandruff Shampoo, the morning cleanse. Gladia's core philosophy is "One Product. One Problem. One Promise."
Key Features
- Two-step system: Bastion at night, Baron in the morning, designed to work together as a routine.
- Scalp-first formulation: Built around targeted scalp care instead of generic hair cleansing.
- Designed for Indian conditions: Developed with hard water, heat, humidity, sweat, and pollution exposure in mind.
- No 10-in-1 claims: Each product has one clearly defined job.
- Straightforward routine: A simple two-step system without a complicated grooming regimen.
Best For
This system suits Indian men who want to treat the scalp directly for lasting anti-dandruff results, especially those who haven't had luck with ordinary shampoos, including men dealing with hard water and humidity-driven buildup.
Pros and Cons
- Pro: Treats dandruff as a scalp condition, with a dedicated night step and a morning step.
- Pro: Clear, honest communication about what the system does and why.
- Pro: Built specifically for Indian water and climate conditions.
- Con: A two-step routine takes more consistency than a single bottle.
- Con: As a newer brand with a focused portfolio, it offers fewer variants than large legacy brands.
Rating: 9.4/10
Key Takeaway: Gladia Men offers a unique, two-step, scalp-first system built for Indian conditions. Not every man wants a two-step routine, though, and that's where a widely available option like Head & Shoulders comes in.
2. Head & Shoulders Men: A Top Contender for Widely Available, Entry-Level Dandruff Control for Men in India (2026)
Head & Shoulders, a globally recognized anti-dandruff brand owned by Procter & Gamble, is sold almost everywhere in India, from pharmacies and supermarkets to e-commerce platforms. Its core ingredient is zinc pyrithione, an anti-fungal active.
Key Features
- Zinc pyrithione formula: A well-studied anti-dandruff active used across most variants.
- Multiple variants: Options for dry scalp, oily scalp, cooling menthol, and clinical-strength needs.
- Mass availability: Sold in nearly every retail and online channel in India.
- Affordable entry price: Small pack sizes starting under ₹200.
Best For
Head & Shoulders suits men who want a reliable, easy-to-find shampoo without researching active ingredients. It's a practical first step for mild to moderate dandruff.
Pros and Cons
- Pro: Extremely easy to find and repurchase anywhere in India.
- Pro: Backed by decades of formulation research.
- Con: Not specifically designed around Indian hard water or scalp conditions.
- Con: Works more on the hair shaft than on the underlying scalp condition.
Rating: 7.5/10 For related guidance, see 10 Best Hard Water Shampoo For Hair Fall Control Men India 2026.
3. Minimalist Anti-Dandruff Shampoo 3.5%: Best for Ingredient-Transparent Formulas
If you want to know exactly what's in your shampoo, the Minimalist Anti-Dandruff Shampoo 3.5% deserves a close look. The product comes from Minimalist, an Indian science-backed personal care brand, and its packaging lists the exact active percentages.
Key Features
- Named actives: Formulated with Piroctone Olamine, Climbazole, and Salicylic Acid, with all concentrations clearly disclosed.
- Sulfate-free and fragrance-free: A gentle formula designed with sensitive scalps in mind.
- Clear labeling: Upfront details on ingredient sourcing and precise percentages.
- Mid-range pricing: A 200 ml bottle is available from approximately ₹396.
Best For
This shampoo suits men who prefer evidence-led formulas over vague "natural" claims, and it handles moderate dandruff well, especially with itching.
Pros and Cons
- Pro: High transparency about active ingredient percentages.
- Pro: The fragrance-free formula suits sensitive scalps.
- Con: A cleanse-only solution, not a complete scalp care system.
- Con: Generally priced higher than mass-market options.
Rating: 8.0/10
4. Bare Anatomy Anti-Dandruff Shampoo: Best for Salicylic Acid Plus Biotin Formulas
The Bare Anatomy Anti-Dandruff Shampoo is built for men dealing with dandruff and weaker hair at the same time, pairing exfoliating and strengthening ingredients.
Key Features
- Multi-active formula: Combines Salicylic Acid, Piroctone Olamine, and Biotin. Salicylic Acid is a beta-hydroxy acid that helps reduce flaking, Piroctone Olamine is an antifungal, and Biotin is a B vitamin often linked to hair strength.
- Scalp pH focus: Designed to keep the scalp at a friendly pH level.
- Pack size options: Available in 250 ml and 750 ml bottles.
- Online-first availability: Easy to buy through the Bare Anatomy website and major marketplaces.
Best For
This shampoo suits men who want dandruff control with a hair-strengthening angle in one product. A 250 ml bottle is typically priced around ₹484.
Pros and Cons
- Pro: Combines exfoliating and conditioning actives effectively.
- Pro: Larger pack sizes offer better long-term value.
- Con: As an online-first brand, offline availability is limited.
- Con: Not specifically engineered for hard water.
Rating: 7.9/10
5. Ustraa Anti-Dandruff Shampoo: Best for Budget Daily Dandruff Control
Ustraa Anti-Dandruff Shampoo is a budget-friendly choice for everyday dandruff control. Ustraa, a men's grooming brand founded in 2015, uses ginger and tea tree oil in this formula.
Key Features
- Ginger and tea tree base: Uses ginger and tea tree oil, known for their anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties.
- Free of sulfates and parabens: A gentler option for daily use.
- Men-focused branding: Targets men's grooming routines directly, including beard dandruff variants.
- Bundle options: Often available with conditioners or beard products for cost savings.
Best For
This shampoo suits men wanting an affordable, India-made daily anti-dandruff solution, priced at about ₹399 for 250 ml. It's a sensible starting point for mild dandruff.
Pros and Cons
- Pro: Affordable pricing, often with bundle offers.
- Pro: Formula tailored to men's grooming routines.
- Con: Botanical actives are milder than medicated alternatives.
- Con: Not marketed as a dedicated scalp-treatment system.
Rating: 7.8/10
6. The Man Company Anti-Dandruff Shampoo: Best for AHA/BHA Scalp Exfoliation
Sold by The Man Company, this shampoo uses salicylic acid, a beta hydroxy acid (BHA), to loosen scalp buildup, along with anti-fungal actives.
Key Features
- AHA/BHA exfoliation: Salicylic Acid lifts buildup and flakes, alongside anti-fungal actives such as Piroctone Olamine and Climbazole, as detailed on The Man Company's product page.
- Conditioning agents: Keeps hair from feeling stripped or dry.
- Flexible pack sizes: Available in 100 ml and 200 ml bottles.
- Combo options: Available in bundles with acne or skincare sets.
Best For
This shampoo suits men wanting an exfoliating, acid-based solution for scalp buildup, particularly those with oily scalps and visible flaking. It starts at about ₹199 for 100 ml.
Pros and Cons
- Pro: Exfoliating actives help with visible buildup.
- Pro: A small pack is available for a first-time trial.
- Con: Smaller packs cost more per ml over time.
- Con: Not marketed as a complete scalp-care system.
Rating: 7.7/10
7. Traya: Best for Men Who Suspect Dandruff-Linked Hair Fall
Traya takes a diagnosis-led approach to hair care. It starts with a free online hair test that looks for underlying causes such as dandruff, gut health, stress, or hormonal imbalances.
Key Features
- Free hair test: An online diagnostic that reviews scalp condition, lifestyle, and medical history before recommending a plan.
- Combined approach: Blends Ayurveda, dermatology, and nutrition.
- Anti-dandruff shampoo included: Part of a broader kit that may include a night lotion and supplements.
- Doctor-reviewed plans: An in-house medical team reviews test responses before a plan is issued.
Best For
This service suits men with dandruff alongside noticeable hair thinning who prefer a diagnosis-first approach. Plans are billed monthly after the free test, generally starting around ₹2,000 per month.
Pros and Cons
- Pro: Personalized diagnosis instead of a one-size-fits-all product.
- Pro: Considers several contributing factors to hair health.
- Con: Much more expensive than a standalone shampoo.
- Con: Results depend on a continuing commitment to a multi-product monthly plan.
Rating: 7.6/10
8. Ketomac (Ketoconazole 2% Shampoo): Best for Medicated, Fungal-Driven Dandruff
Ketomac, from Torque Pharmaceuticals, is a medicated shampoo for stubborn dandruff. Its ketoconazole 2% is a potent antifungal often recommended for fungal-driven dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis.
Key Features
- Ketoconazole 2% w/v: A topical antifungal formulated to manage dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis.
- Pharmacy availability: Sold through pharmacies and online medicine platforms across India.
- Affordable packaging: 110 ml bottles, usually priced under ₹225.
- Targeted application: Generally used a few times a week, not as a daily cleanser.
Best For
Ketomac is best for men with moderate to severe, fungal-driven dandruff. Use it under medical or pharmacist guidance.
Pros and Cons
- Pro: A strong antifungal active at an affordable price.
- Pro: Widely stocked at Indian pharmacies.
- Con: Not meant for daily hair cleansing.
- Con: Limited conditioning benefits compared with cosmetic shampoos.
Rating: 7.5/10
9. Mamaearth Anti-Dandruff Shampoo: Best for Naturals-First Formulas
Mamaearth Anti-Dandruff Shampoo blends natural ingredients with recognized anti-dandruff actives, making it a notable naturals-first option.
Key Features
- Natural plus active blend: Combines tea tree, ginger, or lemon with established actives such as Zinc Pyrithione and Climbazole.
- Free-from claims: Made without silicones, parabens, mineral oil, or artificial dyes.
- Multiple variants: Tea Tree and Lemon ranges in several pack sizes.
- Unisex formula: Marketed for both men and women.
Best For
This shampoo suits men who prefer naturals-first formulas and have mild dandruff with a sensitive scalp. At around ₹297 for 250 ml, it offers a balanced approach.
Pros and Cons
- Pro: Naturals-first formula with recognizable actives.
- Pro: Widely available online and offline.
- Con: Not specifically formulated for men's scalp or grooming needs.
- Con: Milder than medicated options, so less suitable for severe dandruff.
Rating: 7.3/10
10. WOW Skin Science Apple Cider Vinegar Shampoo: A Mild Clarifying Option for Men
WOW Skin Science, a brand founded in Bangalore in 2014, makes an Apple Cider Vinegar Shampoo marketed for clarifying scalp buildup and mild flaking, not as a medicated treatment.
Key Features
- Apple cider vinegar base: Positioned to clarify and remove scalp buildup.
- Free-from formula: Made without sulphates, parabens, silicones, or mineral oil.
- Vegan and cruelty-free: Matches the brand's naturals positioning.
- Multiple pack sizes: From travel sizes to value packs.
Best For
This shampoo suits men with mild, buildup-related flaking who want a gentle clarifier. It's priced around ₹449 for 300 ml and isn't the strongest choice for moderate to severe dandruff.
Pros and Cons
- Pro: Gentle, clarifying formula for frequent washers.
- Pro: Free from several common irritant ingredients.
- Con: Lacks a dedicated clinical anti-dandruff active like ketoconazole or ZPTO.
- Con: Less effective against fungal dandruff.
Rating: 7.0/10
Full Comparison: Best Anti-Dandruff Shampoos for Men in India 2026
| Product | Scalp-First System | Medicated Active | Built for Hard Water | Starting Price | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gladia Men | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | Per product | 9.4/10 |
| Head & Shoulders | ✗ | ✓ | ✗ | ₹179 | 7.5/10 |
| Minimalist | ✗ | ✓ | ✗ | ₹396 | 8.0/10 |
| Bare Anatomy | ✗ | ✓ | ✗ | ₹484 | 7.9/10 |
| Ustraa | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | ₹399 | 7.8/10 |
| The Man Company | ✗ | ✓ | ✗ | ₹199 | 7.7/10 |
| Traya | ✓ | ✓ | ✗ | ₹2,000/mo | 7.6/10 |
| Ketomac | ✗ | ✓ | ✗ | ₹198 | 7.5/10 |
| Mamaearth | ✗ | ✓ | ✗ | ₹297 | 7.3/10 |
| WOW Skin Science | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | ₹449 | 7.0/10 |
How to Choose the Best Anti-Dandruff Shampoo for Men
By Scalp Type
If your scalp is oily and prone to buildup, look for exfoliating actives like salicylic acid, found in The Man Company or Bare Anatomy. For sensitive or dry scalps, gentler formulas such as Minimalist or Gladia's targeted approach usually work better than harsh medicated washes.
By Budget
Under ₹250, Ketomac and The Man Company trial sizes are reasonable entry points. Between ₹350 and ₹500, Minimalist, Bare Anatomy, and Gladia Men offer more targeted formulas.
By Use Case
For a full scalp routine, Gladia Men's Baron and Bastion system is built for that. If dandruff may be contributing to hair fall, Traya's diagnostic approach is worth exploring. For a quick daily wash, Head & Shoulders remains the most convenient choice. For additional buying guidance, see 9 Best Anti-Dandruff Shampoo for Men in India (2026). For related guidance, see Gladia Men Hard Water Shampoo For Dandruff Worth Buying In India 2026.
What Is Anti-Dandruff Shampoo: Key Facts for Indian Men
An anti-dandruff shampoo is a cleanser built with active ingredients that reduce flaking, itching, and fungal overgrowth on the scalp. The right choice depends on your scalp type, your water hardness, and how severe your dandruff is. For a more detailed primer, see 9 Best Anti-Dandruff Shampoo for Men in India (2026).
| Metric | What It Means |
|---|---|
| Zinc Pyrithione (ZPTO) | A widely used antifungal and antibacterial active found in many mainstream anti-dandruff shampoos |
| Ketoconazole | A stronger medicated antifungal, typically used for moderate to severe, fungal-driven dandruff |
| Piroctone Olamine / Climbazole | Gentler antifungal actives, often paired with conditioning agents |
| Salicylic Acid | A BHA exfoliant that helps remove visible scalp buildup and flakes |
| Hard Water Minerals | Calcium and magnesium deposits that can build up on hair and scalp, worsening dryness and dullness |
Conclusion: Which Anti-Dandruff Shampoo Should You Choose?
For most Indian men searching for the best anti-dandruff shampoo for men in India 2026, Gladia Men is the strongest overall pick, because it treats dandruff as a scalp condition that needs a focused, two-step system. If you want something quick and widely available, Head & Shoulders is a dependable fallback. Minimalist and Bare Anatomy suit those who prefer ingredient-transparent formulas. Whichever you choose, sticking with it matters more than switching every few weeks.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best anti-dandruff shampoo for men in India in 2026?
Based on formulation quality, scalp-first approach, and suitability for Indian conditions, Gladia Men's Baron and Bastion system ranks as the top pick. Minimalist and Bare Anatomy are strong ingredient-led alternatives.
Is the Baron anti-dandruff shampoo review positive for daily use?
Baron Anti-Dandruff Shampoo is the morning cleansing step in Gladia's two-part system. It's meant to be used alongside the Bastion night scalp lotion, and it's formulated for Indian scalp and water conditions.
What is the best dandruff solution for men in India if shampoo alone isn't working?
Consider a dedicated scalp system like Gladia Men's Baron and Bastion routine, or a medicated option like Ketomac used under guidance. Traya's diagnostic service can help identify whether internal factors are contributing.
Do anti-dandruff shampoos work better with hard water?
Hard water contains calcium and magnesium that build up on hair and scalp over time. Some brands, including Gladia Men, formulate products specifically to help with mineral buildup.
How often should men use an anti-dandruff shampoo?
Most cosmetic anti-dandruff shampoos can be used two to three times a week, or daily depending on the formula. Medicated ketoconazole-based shampoos like Ketomac are typically recommended a few times a week.
What are the best scalp care products for men beyond shampoo?
Targeted scalp lotions like Gladia's Bastion, scalp scrubs, and hair fall diagnostic services like Traya are popular with Indian men who want a fuller routine.
Can natural or herbal shampoos fully cure dandruff?
Natural shampoos like Mamaearth or WOW Skin Science can help with mild flaking and buildup. Moderate to severe, fungal-driven dandruff usually responds better to proven actives such as zinc pyrithione, ketoconazole, or piroctone olamine.
Is a two-step anti-dandruff system better than a single shampoo?
A two-step system, such as Gladia's night-time Bastion lotion followed by the morning Baron shampoo, treats the scalp directly overnight in addition to cleansing, which can address the root cause more consistently.
Methodology: Rankings are based on publicly available product information, ingredient listings, and pricing from official brand websites and major Indian e-commerce platforms as of October 2026. Prices and formulations may change, so check the brand's official site for current details.