Smooth And Silky Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
Smooth And Silky Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
Product Description
Head & Shoulders Smooth & Silky Anti-Dandruff Shampoo pairs a clinical 1% Pyrithione Zinc active with added moisturizers to fight visible flakes while taming dry, frizzy hair. From the #1 dermatologist-recommended dandruff brand, it works seven scalp-surface layers deep for up to 100% flake-free, smooth hair with up to 24-hour frizz control.
β¨ Texture & Feel
Clinical Dandruff Defense
1% Pyrithione Zinc targets the Malassezia yeast linked to dandruff, delivering up to 100% flake-free results with regular use.
Added Moisturizers
Conditioning agents and dimethicone help restore dry, frizzy hair so it feels softer and looks sleeker after a single wash.
24-Hour Frizz Control
Formulated to smooth the hair cuticle and tame frizz for up to 24 hours of manageable, polished-looking hair.
Color & Daily-Use Safe
pH-balanced and gentle enough for everyday washing, even on color-treated or chemically treated hair.
π‘οΈ Safety & Compatibility
No retinoids, salicylic acid or hydroquinone. Pyrithione Zinc is a rinse-off active with minimal absorption, but human pregnancy data is limited β check with your doctor before use.
This is an antifungal anti-dandruff treatment; Pyrithione Zinc actively suppresses Malassezia. Note it does contain glycol distearate, a stearic-acid ester.
Contains SLS and SLES surfactants for cleansing and lather. May feel drying for very dry or curly hair β follow with conditioner.
Contains parfum plus the MCI/MI preservative blend, which can trigger sensitivity in people with known isothiazolinone or fragrance allergies.
Labeled color-safe and pH-balanced, suitable for dyed or chemically treated hair with daily use.
Free from parabens and harsh alcohols; ingredient profile is considered reef-safe per SkinSort analysis.
π¬ Ingredient Breakdown
π Zinc Pyrithione 1% Proven
The clinical anti-dandruff active. Pyrithione Zinc is an antifungal and antibacterial agent that reduces the Malassezia yeast on the scalp responsible for flaking, itch and irritation.
- Source: The most common over-the-counter anti-dandruff active in the US, used at the standard 1% therapeutic concentration.
- How it works: Inhibits the multiplication of fungal and bacterial cells on the scalp surface.
𧴠Sodium Lauryl & Laureth Sulfate Surfactants Proven
The primary cleansing and foaming system. SLS delivers deep cleansing and a rich lather, while the milder SLES helps cleanse with less harshness β together they remove oil, product buildup and flakes.
- Source: SLES is derived from coconut or palm kernel oil and is notably gentler than SLS.
- Note: Reviewed as safe in rinse-off products at typical use levels, though SLS can be drying with prolonged exposure.
π§ Dimethicone Emollient Proven
A silicone conditioning agent that coats the hair shaft to smooth the cuticle, add slip and shine, and deliver the signature "silky" feel and frizz control.
- Source: A synthetic silicone (polydimethylsiloxane) made from quartz-derived materials.
- Benefit: Sits on the surface, so it rarely irritates and is recognized for improving the look of texture and smoothness.
πΏ Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride Conditioning Promising
A guar-gum-derived conditioning agent that forms a light, breathable film to reduce water loss during cleansing, leaving hair feeling soft instead of stripped and boosting a creamier lather.
- Source: Derived from natural guar gum.
- Benefit: Its large molecule size means it stays on the hair surface rather than penetrating.
16 ingredients
Zinc Pyrithione 1%, Water, Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, Glycol Distearate, Zinc Carbonate, Sodium Chloride, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Parfum, Sodium Xylenesulfonate, Dimethicone, Sodium Benzoate, Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride, Magnesium Carbonate Hydroxide, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Methylchloroisothiazolinone, Methylisothiazolinone.
π Where It Fits in Your Routine
Use as your first cleansing step. For best results, leave the lather on the scalp 1β2 minutes so the active can work, then follow with the matching Smooth & Silky Conditioner to lock in moisture.
π How to Use
Wet hair thoroughly
Saturate hair and scalp with warm water before applying.
Massage into scalp
Apply a coin-sized amount, working a rich lather into the scalp and roots where flakes form.
Let it work
Leave on for 1β2 minutes to give the 1% Pyrithione Zinc time to act on the scalp.
Rinse & condition
Rinse thoroughly, then follow with conditioner. Use at least twice a week, or daily as needed.
π€ Who Is It For?
β Perfect for you if:
- You have visible dandruff, flakes or an itchy, oily scalp
- Your hair is dry, frizzy or unmanageable and you want smoothing
- You want an affordable, drugstore-accessible dermatologist-recommended option
- You color or chemically treat your hair and need a color-safe formula
- You prefer a rich lather and fresh floral scent
β Consider alternatives if:
- You want a fully sulfate-free or fragrance-free shampoo
- Your scalp reacts to isothiazolinone (MCI/MI) preservatives
- You have very dry or tightly curled hair prone to stripping
- You're shopping for an EU-market formula (Pyrithione Zinc is restricted there)
- You need a stronger prescription-level antifungal like ketoconazole
π― Scalp Type Compatibility
Sulfate cleansing system removes excess oil and buildup while the active controls flaking.
Added moisturizers help, but some users find it drying β pairing with conditioner is recommended.
Targeted 1% Pyrithione Zinc is purpose-built for visible flakes, itch and irritation.
Contains fragrance and MCI/MI preservatives β patch test if you have reactive or allergy-prone skin.
Labeled color-safe and pH-balanced; reviewers report color stays intact with regular use.
Effective on flakes but the sulfate base can feel stripping on textured hair that needs extra moisture.
π Results Timeline
Immediate smoothness
Hair feels cleaner, softer and smoother right away, with a fresh floral scent and reduced frizz.
Most users notice instantlyFlakes start clearing
Many reviewers report noticeably fewer visible flakes and less scalp itch within the first couple of uses.
Common reviewer feedbackScalp under control
With twice-weekly to daily use, the scalp feels calmer and flaking is kept in check between washes.
Up to 100% flake-free with regular useMaintenance
Dandruff is managed but not cured β continued regular use is needed to keep flakes and itch from returning.
Best as a long-term routineβ Ratings by Platform
βοΈ Pros & Cons
β Praised
- Effective on dandruff and itch with clinical 1% Pyrithione Zinc
- Leaves hair noticeably smoother, softer and shinier
- Pleasant, long-lasting fresh floral scent
- Affordable and widely available at major retailers
- Color-safe, paraben-free and gentle enough for daily use
β Criticized
- Can feel drying without the matching conditioner
- Contains sulfates and synthetic fragrance
- MCI/MI preservatives may irritate sensitive scalps
- Frizz-control results vary by hair type
- Manages but doesn't permanently cure dandruff
π° Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)
Also uses Pyrithione Zinc as its active for very similar flake control at a lower price, but with less of the moisturizing/smoothing focus.
Gentle, pH-balanced anti-dandruff option with built-in conditioning. A cheaper everyday alternative, though scent and lather are more basic.
Uses selenium sulfide instead of zinc, with added moisturizers for dry scalps. A different active, but comparable anti-dandruff and smoothing aim.
π Comparison with Competitors
Head & Shoulders Smooth & Silky (Featured)
~$6.99Nizoral Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
~$15.99Selsun Blue Moisturizing
~$7.49Head & Shoulders Classic Clean
~$6.49π¦ Storage & Shelf Life
12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place; keep the cap closed and away from direct heat.
Flip-top plastic bottle
Available in travel-size bottles under 100ml; larger bottles are not carry-on compliant.
β Frequently Asked Questions
It contains no retinoids, salicylic acid or hydroquinone. The active, Pyrithione Zinc, is a rinse-off ingredient with minimal skin absorption, which is why many consider it low-risk. However, dedicated human pregnancy data is limited, so we recommend checking with your doctor or midwife before regular use.
Yes β it's actually an antifungal anti-dandruff treatment. Pyrithione Zinc directly targets the Malassezia yeast tied to fungal acne and dandruff. One caveat: it contains glycol distearate, a stearic-acid ester some strict fungal-acne lists avoid, but as a rinse-off product designed to fight Malassezia it's generally well tolerated.
Yes. As a rinse-off scalp shampoo it doesn't interfere with facial actives like retinol, vitamin C, AHAs or BHAs. You can keep your usual skincare routine; just avoid getting shampoo directly on freshly exfoliated or actively treated skin.
It's best for oily or dandruff-prone scalps paired with dry, frizzy hair that needs smoothing. Curly, coily or very dry hair may find the sulfate base stripping, and sensitive scalps should patch test due to the fragrance and MCI/MI preservatives.
Most users feel smoother hair from the first wash, and many report fewer visible flakes within about two washes. Up to 100% flake-free results come with regular use over one to two weeks. Dandruff is managed rather than cured, so continued use keeps it controlled.
It's your first cleansing step. Massage into a wet scalp, leave on for 1β2 minutes so the active can work, rinse, then follow with conditioner and any leave-in or styling products. Use at least twice a week, or daily as needed.
It has a low comedogenic rating of about 1/5. As a rinse-off shampoo it has minimal pore-clogging risk, though those very prone to hairline or back breakouts should rinse the body thoroughly after washing, since dimethicone and glycol distearate can linger.
The Period After Opening is around 12 months. Store it in a cool, dry place with the cap closed. If the scent, color or texture changes noticeably, it's time to replace it.
Verdict: Head & Shoulders Smooth & Silky is a dependable, affordable two-in-one fix for dandruff and frizz, powered by clinical 1% Pyrithione Zinc plus smoothing conditioners and dimethicone. It earns consistently high marks for flake control, softness and scent across Amazon, Walmart and Target. The trade-offs are predictable: it relies on sulfates and fragrance and can feel drying without the matching conditioner, so very dry, curly or sensitive scalps should proceed thoughtfully. For most people wanting flake-free, smoother hair from a trusted derm-recommended brand, it's an easy, value-packed pick.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skinβs own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging Β«promisesΒ» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 |
Zinc Pyrithione
Antiseborrhoeic, Preservative
|
|
|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 0 |
Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
|
|
|
| 1 |
Glycol Distearate
Skin Conditioning, Emollient, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Emulsifying, Opacifying
|
|
|
| 0 |
Zinc Carbonate
|
|