Ketoconazole Shampoo—The Secret to Treating an Itchy Scalp

We’ve all been there before, fighting the urge to scratch an itchy scalp or brush off flakes from a dark top. Dandruff and its tell-tale signs are a common occurrence that can happen to even the healthiest scalp. When it comes to treating the issue, nothing compares to a ketoconazole shampoo. More than just a cleanser, these shampoos go the extra mile to balance the scalp and rid it of flakes for good. The hero ingredient, ketoconazole, is an anti-fungal that penetrates deep beneath the scalp’s surface to address the problem at its source. While ketoconazole shampoos typically require a prescription, there are a handful of good over-the-counter options to relieve the symptoms of dandruff and keep you flake-free.

Best ketoconazole and anti-itch shampoos

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Nizoral Anti-Dandruff Shampoo ($40)

When it comes to over-the-counter ketoconazole products, few compare to Nizoral. It may be pricey, but thanks to a potent amount of ketoconazole, it’s a staple for thoroughly cleansing the scalp from fungal and bacterial agents. It’s also ideal for treating deeper issues like seborrheic dermatitis.

• BUY NOW – $18

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Remedy Skin for Dandruff ($20)

Much more than a shampoo, Remedy’s treatment is an all-in-one product that cleanses, treats and restores the scalp’s natural balance. The nozzle applicator dispenses the product right at the roots of your hair while the potent formula helps regulate natural oils and promote a healthy environment for new growth.

• BUY NOW – $20

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Head & Shoulders Clinical Strength Dandruff Defense Shampoo & Conditioner ($12.50 each)

This drugstore find is a treasure for relieving itchiness and getting rid of flakes for good. It gets to the root of the issue, working at the scalp to infuse it with the key ingredient and provide relief with a cooling effect. Even better? It’s priced under $15 and highly accessible.

• BUY NOW – $12.50

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Vichy Dercos Selenium Sulfide Anti-Dandruff Shampoo ($20)

Okay, so this shampoo doesn’t actually contain ketoconazole, but it does feature a comparable anti-fungal ingredient for treating dandruff and its key symptoms, so we thought it was worth mentioning. With 0.6 percent micronized selenium sulfide it gently treats the problem at the source and keeps your scalp itch-free and moisturized.

• BUY ON DERMSTORE – $20
• BUY ON CVS – $20