An independent survey of 129 practicing dermatologists identified the over-the-counter products they recommend most, and Head & Shoulders Classic Clean ranked number 1 among anti-dandruff shampoos.
Head & Shoulders Classic Clean was ranked the #1 dandruff shampoo in a U.S. News & World Report ranking based on a survey of 129 practicing dermatologists*. The survey asked dermatologists to identify the over-the-counter (OTC) products they recommend most, and Head & Shoulders was named the leading dandruff shampoo brand.
The recognition adds to Head & Shoulders’ longstanding focus on anti-dandruff care and scalp science. At the heart of that expertise is Head & Shoulders Classic Clean, an anti-dandruff shampoo that controls visible flakes and improves overall scalp health1.
When it comes to scalp care, trust is built on results you can see and feel, backed by clinical science. Head & Shoulders has earned that trust through consistent performance and quality, and a long history of dermatologist recommendations and treatment plan success.
What the ranking recognizes
U.S. News & World Report surveyed 129 practicing dermatologists about the OTC products they recommend most. In the dandruff shampoo category, Head & Shoulders was identified as the leading brand with a broad portfolio of products with cosmetic benefits and solutions for different hair types and scalp concerns. Head & Shoulders Classic Clean with 1% zinc pyrithione was ranked as the #1 Dandruff Shampoo with dermatologists also recognizing Head & Shoulders for having a Clinical Strength line with 1% selenium sulfide for stubborn dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis.
The ranking reflects the survey’s findings; it does not mean that every dermatologist recommends the product or that the product is right for every individual. Consumers with persistent or severe scalp symptoms that has not resolved within a few weeks of treatment should consult a healthcare professional.
About Head & Shoulders Classic Clean with HydraZinc™
Targets the Root Causes of Dandruff for 24/7 Protection, Even Between Washes
Head & Shoulders’ proprietary HydraZinc™ Complex takes a multidimensional approach to dandruff—targeting its underlying drivers while supporting scalp recovery.
HydraZinc combines 1% zinc pyrithione (ZPT) with complementary technologies designed to address three key drivers of dandruff: microbiome imbalance, scalp-barrier disruption, and underlying irritation and scalp stress. Niacinamide and glycerin help support and hydrate the scalp barrier, while zinc carbonate helps rebalance the scalp biome and piroctone olamine and Neo-Cerealis help reduce underlying irritation and scalp oxidative stress.
Developed by Head & Shoulders scalp biologists and dermatologist tested, Head & Shoulders with HydraZinc is built to deliver 24/7 dandruff protection, even between washes. In a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled clinical study, Head & Shoulders Classic Clean with the HydraZincTM Complex demonstrated significant reductions in flaking, improvements in scalp hydration and calming of underlying scalp stress.
Lasting dandruff relief means more than removing visible flakes2. Head & Shoulders’ HydraZincTM Complex surrounds 1% zinc pyrithione—an established anti-dandruff active—with complementary technologies that support the scalp’s recovery.
Head & Shoulders includes the HydraZincTM Complex in its new lineup, including its iconic Classic Clean formula to provide: Barrier support, biome balance and irritation control. The dandruff fighting formulas address the interconnected changes that occur during dandruff flare-ups—not simply the flakes they produce—and provide consistent protection that continues between washes.
For more information on the US News & World Report survey methodology and results visit: https://health.usnews.com/otc/articles/pharmacists-picks-otc-medicine-health-products
- Warner RR, Schwartz JR, Boissy Y, Dawson TL. Dandruff has an altered stratum corneum ultrastructure that is improved with zinc pyrithione shampoo. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology. 2001;45(6):897-903.
- Locker KCS, Bacon RA, Caterino TL, et al. Understanding the dandruff flare-up: A cascade of measurable and perceptible changes to scalp health. International Journal of Cosmetic Science. 2025;47(4):703-717. doi:10.1111/ics.13067.
About Head & Shoulders, the #1 Most Awarded Scalp Care Brand**
With more than 65 years of trailblazing innovation in scalp care, Head & Shoulders is the world’s #1 anti-dandruff shampoo, #1 dermatologist-recommended anti-dandruff brand in the US, and the most-awarded scalp care brand** with a broad portfolio of products with cosmetic benefits and solutions for different hair types and scalp concerns. For more information, visit www.headandshoulders.com or follow Head & Shoulders on Instagram, TikTok and Facebook.
*Ranked 2026-2027 Best OTC Medicine & Health Products by U.S. News & World Report based on a survey of 129 practicing dermatologists. For more information: https://health.usnews.com/otc.
**Based on total awards from U.S. beauty, grooming and lifestyle publications/websites in the Nielsen scalp-care segment between 2017–2026
