This $16 Product Cured My Itchy, Flaky Scalp

This $16 Product Cured My Itchy, Flaky Scalp

BuzzFeed-Shopping·2025-10-02 13:05

Have you ever shampooed and conditioned your hair only for your scalp to turn itchy and flaky one to two days later? Having dandruff is a very specific nuisance you only understand if you suffer from it. For decades, I’ve tried to remedy the uncomfortable, large patches that develop under my hair: prescription shampoos, DIY oil concoctions, scalp ointments, the list goes on. Nothing helped.

Three years ago, at my total wits’ end and desperate to find something that works, I scrolled through dozens of TikToks, hoping to land on other itchy-scalp beauties with an effective solution. That’s when I was introduced to Nizoral anti-dandruff shampoo for the first time. Not to be dramatic, but the blue shampoo changed my life! After just one use, I noticed that my scalp remained clear for about seven days until my next washday.

No big, scaly flakes or constant itching. I didn’t feel the urge to shampoo my hair 48 hours after just washing it. Never had I ever experienced this comfort or freedom. I was sold, and I still regularly use the product.

Nizoral is the only over-the-counter shampoo formulated with ketoconazole, a clinically-proven ingredient that fights dandruff and kills scalp fungus, according to the product description. If you suffer from severe dandruff, it’s a great time to try the product and see if it brings you any relief. It can leave hair feeling dry, so I always follow up with a hydrating shampoo and conditioner.

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See what some other reviewers had to say or just scroll all the way to get a bottle for yourself.

“This shampoo is very effective at eliminating dandruff and reducing itching from the first use. Its ketoconazole formula targets the fungus that causes dandruff, leaving the scalp clean and fresh. I like that it not only fights dandruff but also controls oily scalp, helping hair stay clean longer. Plus, it has a pleasant, mild scent — not harsh or medicinal like some other treatments.” —Arturo Avila

“I was utterly shocked when my dandruff completely went away after using this product two to three times a week! My hair is now dandruff-free and super healthy, soft, thick, and shiny! This shampoo will definitely stay in my hair care regimen, as I have had dandruff my whole life before using this product. I truly am amazed by it, and I definitely recommend it to anyone else out there that may struggle with dandruff like I always have.” —Ariella3112

“Nizoral’s 1 % ketoconazole shampoo has truly been a game-changer for me. It battles dandruff and the fungal root of the problem with a clean, fresh scent and no harsh side effects. I’ve recommended it to friends and family, and many have achieved similar results. While it costs more than standard shampoos, the infrequent usage and potent outcomes make it a worthwhile scalp investment. Just pair it with a hydrating conditioner if you’re prone to dryness. If dandruff or scalp irritation has been a recurring issue, Nizoral is absolutely worth trying.” —Clarity Blues

“I am highly amazed! I’m 37 and had serious dandruff for months, where it made me not even want to style my hair or even go anywhere. Right now, I keep running my fingers through my hair; it’s so refreshing. I washed my hair upside down with this shampoo, rinsed, washed again, and rinsed. I didn’t like how dry and rough it felt, so I used a pack of Argan oil deep conditioner for a minute, then rinsed, and my hair was amazing from the duo... This product removed all dandruff in one single wash session. My hair can breathe again, it’s dandruff-free, weightless, and full of life. I’m so happy! It doesn’t have a bad smell at all. Also, you do not need a lot of shampoo, as it lathers and foams up thick while shampooing.” —Amazon Customer

“First of all, I don’t write reviews! For me to take the time off my busy schedule to write this review says it all. I have had really bad thick, flaky dandruff for years. I have tried different types of dandruff shampoos without any relief. I finally realized it must be some type of fungal infection. I searched for anti-fungal shampoo. I read a few reviews and chose this shampoo. I didn’t have any expectations. I figured I would give it a shot. OH MY GOODNESS — I have only used this shampoo twice! It has cleared my scalp. My scalp has never been clean. I would wash my hair and by the second day, my scalp would be caked up like biscuits in the oven. I am very satisfied. I am recommending this product to everyone I know with dandruff, even strangers.” —Johanna

Get it from Amazon for $15.88.

Reviews for this post have been edited for length and/or clarity. 

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