Jupiter Shampoo Reviews: Is the Doctor-Approved Dandruff Solution Worth It?

If you’ve dealt with dandruff or dry skin on your head, you know how annoying a flaky scalp can be. Aside from the itch, dandruff can be tough to manage — practically and emotionally.

Though there are tons of hydrating and anti-dandruff shampoos on the market, you may wonder which ones actually work. That’s where Jupiter^® shampoo reviews come into play.

We’ll take a close look at two of Jupiter’s top products (the Balancing Shampoo and Hydrating Shampoo), breaking down what’s in them, how they compare to traditional options, and whether they’re worth the price.

Plus, we spoke with Hannah Koppelman, DO, dermatologist and osteopathic medicine specialist at Koppelman Hair Restoration, to get her take on the products.

Jupiter offers a line of hair care products formulated with the help of dermatologists to address scalp concerns. They aim to help treat dandruff and combat dry scalp while still keeping your strands healthy and hydrated.

Jupiter Shampoos include:

• Balancing Shampoo. The brand’s Balancing Shampoo targets dandruff with 1% zinc pyrithione to reduce flakes and soothe the scalp.

• Hydrating Shampoo. This one uses tea tree oil and other ingredients to alleviate dryness and itchy scalp and keep hair moisturized.

Both shampoos are sulfate-free, color-safe, infused with natural fragrances, and made to work on a variety of hair types.

Jupiter shampoos treat scalp care like skin care. Their products are made with ingredients known to help calm inflammation, fight fungus, remove buildup, and keep scalp skin healthy without stripping hair of moisture in the process.

Jupiter Balancing Shampoo

Jupiter’s Balancing Shampoo is formulated with zinc pyrithione, an antifungal and antibacterial ingredient. It targets Malassezia, a yeast found on the scalp that can overgrow and lead to flakes, redness, and itching.

Clinical studies have shown that zinc pyrithione can start to visibly reduce dandruff symptoms within two weeks of regular use.

Jupiter Hydrating Shampoo

The Hydrating Shampoo from Jupiter doesn’t contain specific dandruff-fighting ingredients. But it’s designed to support the process of fighting fungus and keeping the scalp hydrated.

It includes scalp-friendly and antibacterial moisturizers, such as coconut oil and squalane, and humectants like glycerin to help ease dryness and irritation — common side effects of flake-fighting treatments.

Together, the two shampoos work as a team: one treats, the other soothes.

It depends on which version you’re using. Jupiter recommends using the Balancing Shampoo three to four times a week, though you can use it more frequently if needed.

Pair it with the Hydrating Shampoo between treatments to keep your scalp nourished without skipping wash days. Unlike harsher drugstore options, both are sulfate-free and color-safe, with a refreshing natural scent.

Below, find reviews of Jupiter products from Dr. Hannah Koppelman.

Jupiter Balancing Shampoo Review

Product type: Anti-dandruff shampoo

Key ingredients: Zinc pyrithione

Cost: $25 for 8.5-ounce bottle

Purpose: Claims to combat dandruff and scalp flakiness

”The key ingredient in this shampoo is zinc pyrithione at 1%, which I’ve used and recommended countless times for patients with dandruff or seborrheic dermatitis,” says Dr. Koppelman. ”I also appreciate that it includes coconut oil, squalane, and algae extract — these help hydrate the scalp and keep it from getting too dry while using an antifungal.”

• Efficacy: ★★★★ ”It’s strong for mild to moderate dandruff, especially if used consistently,” Dr. Koppelman tells us.

• Side effects: ★★★★ ”Most people tolerate it well, but some might experience dryness or slight irritation depending on their sensitivity,” she adds. 

• Ease of use: ★★★★★ ”It lathers well, smells great, and doesn’t feel medicinal,” says Dr. Koppelman.

”Overall, I think this is a great option if you’re looking to treat scalp flaking and itchiness, but like any dandruff shampoo, you have to use it regularly to see results,” Dr. Koppelman advises. “I wouldn’t use it as your only shampoo long-term if your scalp is no longer flaring up — you can alternate it with a gentler shampoo.”

Jupiter Hydrating Shampoo Review

Product type: Dry-scalp shampoo

Key ingredients: Coconut oil, glycerin, squalane

Cost: $25 for 8.5-ounce bottle

Purpose: Claims to hydrate a tight, dry scalp

”This one is all about replenishing moisture to a dry or irritated scalp,” Dr. Koppelman says. “It doesn’t contain any antifungals, so it’s not going to treat dandruff in the clinical sense.”

• Efficacy: ★★★★ Dr. Koppelman rates this formula four out of five stars for efficacy.

• Side effects: ★★★★★ ”Very minimal, very well tolerated,” says Dr. Koppelman. 

• Ease of use: ★★★★★ ”It’s pleasant to use and leaves the scalp feeling calm,” she adds.

”My overall impression is that it’s a strong option if you’re looking to calm a reactive scalp or undo some of the damage from over-washing,” Dr. Koppelman notes. “Look out for ingredients like colloidal oatmeal and glycerin in other shampoos — they’re skin-soothing and non-irritating.”

Based on Jupiter shampoo reviews, ingredients lists, and available product information, here are the advantages:

• Both shampoos are developed with dermatologists to ensure efficacy and safety.

• The formulas are gentle on color-treated and chemically processed hair.

• They’re infused with natural scents for a great smell without harsh additives.

• Jupiter shampoos are cruelty-free and vegan.

Here are the potential drawbacks of Jupiter shampoos:

• These shampoos are more expensive than most drugstore shampoos.

• The effectiveness of the formulas may vary based on individual scalp conditions.

• They might not be great options if you’re sensitive to natural fragrances, like essential oils.

Now that you’ve read through Jupiter shampoo reviews, we’ll answer some commonly asked questions about Jupiter shampoo.

Does Jupiter Shampoo Work?

Clinical research shows that zinc pyrithione (the active ingredient in Jupiter Balancing Shampoo) is effective in treating dandruff with regular use. Dr. Koppelman also recommends the Balancing Shampoo for its effectiveness in reducing flakes and itchiness.

​​Is Jupiter Shampoo Good for All Hair Types?

Jupiter products are sulfate-free and color-safe, which makes them suitable for color-treated and chemically processed hair. Also, ingredients in the Hydrating Shampoo, like squalane and coconut oil, help retain moisture without weighing down fine hair while still offering hydration for thick and dry hair types.

However, while the formulations are designed to be inclusive and cater to various hair types, everyone’s hair is different. So Jupiter shampoo isn’t guaranteed to be a good fit for all.

Can I Use Jupiter Shampoo If I Have a Sensitive Scalp?

Jupiter’s products are free from parabens, phthalates, and artificial fragrances, which might help reduce the risk of irritation if you have a sensitive scalp.

The Hydrating Shampoo includes moisturizing ingredients with soothing properties, making the shampoo gentle yet effective for sensitive skin.

Be mindful, though, that the shampoos have natural fragrance oils in them. If you’re sensitive, you should use them with caution.

Are There Jupiter Shampoo Side Effects?

Jupiter’s shampoos are generally well-tolerated, but as with any hair care product, some users may experience side effects, such as:

• Scalp irritation. There might be rare instances of irritation, possibly due to sensitive skin.

• Allergic reactions. If you have allergies to specific ingredients, perform a patch test before using the shampoo.

• Overuse concerns. Using medicated shampoos more frequently than recommended can lead to dryness or irritation.

Consult a healthcare provider if you experience persistent adverse reactions.

Is Jupiter Shampoo Similar to Selsun Blue?

While both Jupiter and Selsun Blue^® aim to treat dandruff, their formulations differ in terms of:

• Active ingredients. Selsun Blue typically has selenium sulfide as the main ingredient, whereas Jupiter’s Balancing Shampoo uses zinc pyrithione.

• Formulation. Jupiter’s products are sulfate-free, color-safe, and infused with natural fragrances, so there is more of an emphasis on the overall wellness benefits.

• User experience. Jupiter focuses on a luxurious, salon-quality feel and scent, whereas Selsun Blue has a more medicinal profile.

Choosing between these brands and other dandruff-reducing options depends on personal preferences, as well as your current scalp health and specific scalp needs.

How Much Does Jupiter Shampoo Cost?

Both the Balancing Shampoo and Hydrating Shampoo cost $25 for an 8.5-ounce bottle. But you can subscribe to Jupiter for 15 percent off and get automatic shipments of either shampoo every 60 days for $21.25. You can also modify or cancel your subscription at any time.

If Jupiter isn’t quite right for you, plenty of other products out there can help fight flakes. Here are a few alternatives to consider.

Hims Dandruff Detox Shampoo

If you want something dermatologist-backed, like Jupiter, consider Hims Dandruff Detox Shampoo. It’s formulated with 1% zinc pyrithione to help fight dandruff, along with avocado and argan oil to help with moisture.

Bonus: Hims can connect you to licensed providers if you’re interested in other hair treatments, like minoxidil or finasteride.

Selsun Blue

Selsun Blue is a well-known drugstore brand that uses selenium sulfide to treat dandruff by slowing the growth of Malassezia, the yeast often responsible for flakes.

It’s generally effective, affordable, and easy to find. That said, some formulas can be a bit drying, so it’s best when paired with a nourishing conditioner to help maintain hair health.

Nizoral Anti-Dandruff Shampoo

Nizoral^® contains ketoconazole, an antifungal ingredient that targets the root cause of dandruff. It’s been shown in research to be effective with just two washes a week. Like Jupiter, it tackles both flaking and itching, but it’s usually cheaper.

Head & Shoulders Clinical Strength

Head & Shoulders^® has been around forever, but its Clinical Strength line ups the game with 1% selenium sulfide. It’s a budget-friendly pick and offers fast results. Having said that, the formulas can contain sulfates and fragrances, which may be irritating for more sensitive scalps.

Here’s what to keep in mind when exploring Jupiter shampoo reviews or considering which formula to buy:

• Jupiter’s Balancing and Hydrating Shampoos offer science-backed solutions. They can work well for dandruff and dry scalp issues.

• They’re made with medicinal ingredients and ethical formulas. This might help justify the higher price point.

• Effectiveness depends on your individual needs. While lots of people might have positive results, you’ll need to consider your individual scalp concerns.

• Alternatives are available. If you’re looking for different active ingredients or more budget-friendly options for a flake-free scalp, consider drugstore formulas or Hims dandruff shampoo.

Learn more about dandruff causes and treatments in our dandruff condition guide. You can also explore remedies for hair loss, thinning, and scalp issues on our hair health platform.