Rosemary and neem: an insight into their combined anti-dandruff and anti-hair loss efficacy.

Dandruff, a common scalp disorder characterized by flaking dead skin, is often treated with conventional topical products. However, limitations exist due to potential side effects and high costs. Therefore, searching for natural, cost-effective solutions for dandruff and hair loss is crucial. Rosemary herb and neem tree, both cultivated in Egypt, possess well-documented anti-inflammatory properties derived from their rich phenolic phytoconstituents. This study formulated a standardized combined extract of rosemary and neem (RN-E 2:1) into hair gel and leave-in tonic formats. This extract demonstrated superior efficacy against Malassezia furfur (a causative agent of dandruff) and Trichophyton rubrum (associated with scalp disorders) compared to the conventional antifungal agent, ketoconazole. The combined extract (RN-E 2:1) also exhibited potent anti-inflammatory activity. Additionally, the suppression of iNOS expression is considered concentration-dependent. Quality control verified formulation stability, and ex-vivo studies confirmed effective ingredient penetration into the epidermis, the primary site of fungal presence. Remarkably, both formulations outperformed the standard treatment, minoxidil in hair growth trials. These findings highlight the potential of natural extracts for scalp and hair health.

Novel anti-dandruff shampoo incorporated with ketoconazole-coated zinc oxide nanoparticles using green tea extract.

BACKGROUND: Dandruff caused by Malassezia furfur is a prevailing fungal infection. Although ketoconazole (KTZ) is widely intended for anti-dandruff treatment, poor solubility, and epidermal permeability limits its use and the marketed KTZ shampoo adversely effects scalp and hair. OBJECTIVE: To prepare a novel shampoo loaded with KTZ-coated zinc oxide nanoparticles using green tea extract and evaluate its antifungal activity. METHODS: The KTZ-coated zinc oxide nanoparticles was prepared by green synthesis and was characterized by UV, FTIR, XRD, and the drug entrapment efficiency was investigated. The antifungal activity of the nanoparticles with respect to standard drug, KTZ was tested against Malassezia furfur. Further, a novel antidandruff shampoo was developed by incorporating the prepared nanoparticles into the shampoo base. RESULTS: The formation of KTZ-coated ZnO nanoparticles was confirmed by UV and FTIR analysis. XRD analysis confirmed the amorphous phase of KTZ in nanoparticles. The drug entrapment efficiency was found to be 91.84%. The prepared nanoparticles showed enhanced activity against Malassezia furfur compared to drug of choice, KTZ (1%). The evaluation of shampoo showed an ideal result. CONCLUSION: KTZ-coated ZnO nanoparticles loaded novel shampoo in comparison to marketed anti-dandruff shampoo could be an effective alternate for the treatment of dandruff.

Natural Topical Treatment Contributes to a Reduction of Dry Scalp Symptoms in Children.

Background: Dry scalp conditions affect a significant portion of the population, including children. Emerging evidence indicates the potential for improvement of atopic symptoms through altering the skin microbiome. Therefore, a topical treatment consisting of probiotic extracts, honey, turmeric, and vitamin B12 was manufactured to improve dry scalp symptomology through sustained balance of the microbiome. Purpose: This interventional clinical study aims to determine the safety and efficacy of the topical treatment in reducing dry scalp symptomology in children 1-17 years old with dry scalp symptoms. Methods: Participants applied the topical dry scalp treatment 2-3 times per week for two weeks. Safety and efficacy of the topical treatment was determined through physician assessment using the validated Investigator's Global Assessment (IGA) scale and the Total Severity Scale (TSS) during pre- and post-treatment clinic visits as well as parent reports at baseline, 1-week midpoint, and 2-week exit. Results: Use of the topical treatment was associated with reduced symptoms of itchiness, dryness, irritation, and flakiness in children. The average IGA score was 3.0 at baseline and 2.0 after treatment, corresponding to a score difference of 1.0 (p < 0.001, 95% CI: 0.7, 1.2). The TSS score difference was 1.9 (p < 0.001, 95% CI: 1.4, 2.4). The total parent-reported scalp severity score decreased from 16.6 (95% CI: 14.8, 18.4) to 12.4 (p < 0.001, 95% CI: 11.0, 13.7) at 2-week exit. Discussion: Study results mirror those reported in a study conducted in adults and point to the safety and efficacy of this natural topical treatment in reducing dry scalp symptomology in children. Based on our data, the combination of probiotic extracts and other anti-inflammatory ingredients appears to improve overall scalp health and appearance, though further studies will need to be conducted to further elucidate the link between clinical improvement and a balanced scalp microbiome.

The redox riddle of selenium sulfide.

Selenium sulfide, in analogy with selenium dioxide, is often considered as SeS2. At closer inspection, however, selenium sulfide represents a large family of rather complicated molecules which differ depending on the mode of preparation. Together, these compounds share extraordinarily low solubility in virtually any solvent with a biological activity rather impressive for such simple molecules. The surface reactivity of such microscopic and nanoscopic materials, prepared chemically or by fermentation, may provide an answer to this riddle and explain activities by a combination of physical, redox, metal binding, covalent, and non-covalent interactions with biomolecules and cells.

Promising Essential Oils/Plant Extracts in the Prevention and Treatment of Dandruff Pathogenesis.

BACKGROUND: Dandruff is a scalp disorder affecting the male populace predominantly. Topical agents and synthetic drugs used for dandruff treatment have specific side effects including burning at the application site, depression, dizziness, headache, itching or skin rash, nausea, stomach pain, vision change, vomiting, discoloration of hair, dryness or oiliness of the scalp and increased loss of hair. Thus, essential oils and extracts from plants could be valuable in the treatment and prevention of dandruff. AIMS & OBJECTIVES: This review aims to highlight current findings in dandruff occurrence, its etiology, promising plant essential oils/extracts, and novel treatment strategies. The main emphasis has been given on the anti-dandruff effect of essential oils and plant extracts to disrupt microbial growth. The proposed mechanism(s) of action, novel approaches used to perk up its biopharmaceutical properties, and topical application have been discussed. RESULTS: The literature survey was done, and bibliographic sources and research papers were retrieved from different search engines and databases, including SciFinder, PubMed, NCBI, Scopus, and Google Scholar. The selection of papers was accomplished based on exclusion and inclusion criteria. The scalp of diverse populations revealed an association of dandruff with microbial symbiosis, including Staphylococcus, Propionibacterium, Malassezia, and Candida as the pathogens responsible for the cause of dandruff. Topical antifungals are considered the first line of treatment for dandruff including azoles, with clotrimazole (1%), ketoconazole (2%), and miconazole (2%). Other commonly used therapies integrate benzoyl peroxide, coal tar, glycerin, zinc pyrithione, lithium succinate/gluconate, salicylic acid, selenium disulfide/sulfide, sodium sulfacetamide, etc. However, these medicaments and chemicals are known to cause specific side effects. Alternative therapies, including tea tree oil, thyme, Aloe vera, Mentha have been reported to demonstrate anti-dandruff activity by disrupting the microbial growth associated with dandruff formation. CONCLUSION: Overall, this review explains the occurrence of dandruff, its pathogenesis, and the potential applicability of promising plant essential oils/extracts and their novel treatment strategies. Further studies based on pre-clinical and clinical research are essential before making any conclusion about its efficacy in humans.

Comparative antidandruff efficacy of plant extracts prepared from conventional and supercritical fluid extraction method and chemical profiling using GCMS.

BACKGROUND: To combat dandruff associated pathogens, supercritical fluid extraction (SFE) can be used as an alternative eco-friendly technique to obtain antimicrobial plant extracts over conventional methods. OBJECTIVES: The purpose of the study was to compare the yield and antimicrobial potential of extracts obtained by different extraction methods. METHODS: Extraction was carried out by cold percolation method using ethyl acetate (EA) and SFE using CO2. Antimicrobial activity was studied against dandruff causing microbes; Malassezia furfur, Propionibacterium acne, and Staphylococcus epidermidis by agar well diffusion and micro broth dilution method. Statistical evaluation was done by principal component analysis (PCA). RESULTS: The yield was found higher in the ethyl acetate extracts. PCA indicated that among the sixteen extracts, SFE extract of Azadirachta indica leaves was the most influential with the highest F1 score and maximum antimicrobial activity. Cinnamomum zeylanicum SFE extract demonstrated the lowest MIC against P. acne and M. furfur. GC-MS analysis of A. indica extract inferred that ganoderic acid, 13,14-epoxyoleanan-3-ol acetate, henicosanal, 2-heptadecycloxirane were the major phytoconstituents whereas cinnamaldehyde, α- muurolene and caffeic acid were primarily found in cinnamon. CONCLUSION: Bioactive compounds identified in the extracts of A. indica and C. zeylanicum can be used in natural antidandruff products.

Herbal Therapy for the Management of Seborrheic Dermatitis: A Narrative Review.

INTRODUCTION: Dandruff and Seborrheic Dermatitis (SD) are similar skin conditions with different degrees ofseverity. Since the current therapies cannot remove dandruff efficiently, herbal extracts with better effectiveness and fewer side effects are used in the pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries. Due to the adverse effects of chemical drugs, the use of natural products and traditional medicine has significantly increased over the past few decades. Therefore, in this review, we reported the herbs used as anti-dandruff agents in traditional medicine worldwide. METHODS: The review was conducted on the literature available on the medicinal utility of certain plants as anti-dandruff agents using PubMed and Google Scholar and the following search terms: Dandruff and plants or medicinal plant and dandruff treatment, and essential oil and dandruff. RESULTS: Since the current therapies cannotefficiently remove dandruff, herbal extracts with better effectiveness and fewer side effects are used in the pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries. Nowadays, there are numerous different types of herbal antidandruff shampoos. They are effective and safe without the side effects of chemical agents. Recently, herbal medicine has attracted a great deal of scientific attention. Clinical evidence on the therapeutic effects of herbal products has resulted in the study of far more herbs for their therapeutic roles. CONCLUSION: Herbal therapy plays a significant role in the development of favorable therapeutics, either alone or in combination with conventional antibiotics. However, the major challenges in this regard include finding compounds with satisfactorily lower MICs, low toxicity, and high bioavailability for effective and safe use in humans and animals.

Pityriasis capitis: Causes, pathophysiology, current modalities, and future approach.

BACKGROUND: Pityriasis capitis commonly known as dandruff is one of the most common and widely seen dermatological disease that affects majority of the world population. It is more than superficial flaking, as it leads to significant structural changes in the stratum corneum and inflammatory biomarkers. Various intrinsic and extrinsic factors, such as Malassezia yeast, host epidermal conditions, sebaceous secretion, and abnormal immune responses, are found to contribute to the pathogenesis. Regardless of wide research, detail understanding, and treatment modalities, it still remains to be a cause of concern due to its recurring nature. AIMS: The objective of this study is to enhance the understanding of its wide causes, pathophysiology, current treatment, and future approach. METHODS: The article also aims at evaluating various promising anti-dandruff agents that can be further researched to become the leads in anti-dandruff therapy. RESULTS & CONCLUSION: The article summarizes the current knowledge on dandruff and present new facts and evidences in order to spread awareness, create potential for new herbal treatment options, and effectively control the most commercially exploited scalp disorder.

Ocular demodicosis: A review. / Demodicosis ocular: una revisión.

Demodex folliculorum and Demodex brevis are ectoparasites that inhabit the skin of humans. They have been related to alterations in the ocular surface, such as, dysfunction of Meibomian glands, blepharitis, chalazion, etc. Ocular demodicosis is characterised by the pathognomonic presence of cylindrical dandruff at the base of the eyelashes, and various symptoms including, among others, itching, lacrimation, and hyperaemia. A bibliographic review was carried out on the role of Demodex spp. in ocular disease, including publications made by the scientific society between 2005 and 2018. A significant relationship was found between prevalence and incidence of Demodex spp. in eye diseases. D. folliculorum is usually found more frequently than D. brevis in ocular infestation, with the prevalence or incidence of infestation by both species increasing with the age of the patient. In patients with blepharitis or other infectious diseases of the ocular surface, unresolved with antibacterial treatment, the search for Demodex spp. should be considered.

Study of the composition of 140 shampoos: similarities and differences depending on the sales channel used.

Shampoo is a hair care product designed to clean the skin and hair of the scalp. Among the ingredients that go into the making of a shampoo are detergents, conditioners, thickeners, sequestering agents, pH adjusters, preservatives, and active ingredients such as anti-dandruff agents. The purpose of this study was to identify the composition of 140 shampoos available in pharmacies, in stores of a mass-market chain, or from mail-order retailers. Forty-one shampoos were advertised as "gentle", 12 as specially formulated for infants, 35 as anti-dandruff, and 52 without any particular claim. We analysed the cleansing base, preservatives, and anti-dandruff agents when relevant and identified the allergens regardless of whether or not they are listed under Regulation (EC) No. 1223/2009 as one of the 26 regulated substances. We discovered that unlike shampoos sold in stores of a mass-market chain and those available from mail-order retailers, those sold in pharmacies expose users to some of the 26 substances listed under Regulation (EC) No. 1223/2009. We also determined that baby shampoos sold in pharmacies are allergen-free. Regarding anti-dandruff formulations, the largest variety of active ingredients was found in shampoos sold in pharmacies. Overall, the most common active ingredients were olamines, zinc pyrithione, azoles, selenium disulphide, and plant extracts. Shampoos sold in pharmacies appear to contain fewer allergens listed under Regulation (EC) No. 1223/2009 compared to those sold elsewhere.

Identification and Evaluation of Inhibitors of Lipase from Malassezia restricta using Virtual High-Throughput Screening and Molecular Dynamics Studies.

Recent studies revealed the role of lipase in the pathogenicity of Malassezia restricta in dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis (D/SD). The lipase from M. restricta (Mrlip1) is considered a potential target for dandruff therapy. In this work, we performed structure-based virtual screening in Zinc database to find the natural bioactive inhibitors of Mrlip1. We identified three compounds bearing superior affinity and specificity from the Traditional Chinese Medicine database (~60,000 compounds), and their binding patterns with Mrlip1 were analyzed in detail. Additionally, we performed three sets of 100 ns MD simulations of each complex in order to understand the interaction mechanism of Mrlip1 with known inhibitor RHC80267 and the newly identified compounds such as ZINC85530919, ZINC95914464 and ZINC85530320, respectively. These compounds bind to the active site cavity and cause conformational changes in Mrlip1. The Molecular Mechanics Poisson-Boltzmann Surface Area (MMPBSA) studies suggested that the average binding energy was stronger in the case of Mrlip1-ZINC85530919 and Mrlip1-ZINC95914464. The selected natural inhibitors might act as promising lead drugs against Mrlip1. Further, the present study will contribute to various steps involved in developing and creating potent drugs for several skin diseases including dandruff.

The myrtus communis L. solution versus ketoconazole shampoo in treatment of dandruff: A double blinded randomized clinical trial.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of myrtus communis L. solution in the treatment of dandruff and to compare it with ketoconazole. METHODS: This double-blind randomised clinical trial was conducted at Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran, from December 2015 to August 2016, and comprised patients with dandruff aged 18-60 years visiting the dermatology out-patient clinic. The subjects were randomised into two equal groups. The treatment group received myrtus communis L. solution and a placebo shampoo, while the control group received ketoconazole shampoo and a placebo solution. The total duration of the study for each subject was one month and subjects in both groups used their respective interventions 8 times during that period. The parameters studied were pruritus, erythema, severity of scaling, and the extent of scalp involvement. All subjects underwent scalp scaling tests at the beginning, after 10 days and at the end of the 30th day. SPSS 21 was used for data analysis. RESULTS: Of the 90 individuals, there were 45(50%) in each of the two groups. However, 74(82%) subjects completed the third visit and, of them, there were 37(50%) in each group. Both groups showed significant improvement in all outcome measures (p<0.001). There were no significant differences between the groups in terms of efficacy, satisfaction rate and side effects (p>0.05 for each outcome). CONCLUSIONS: Myrtus solution was found to be effective in the treatment of dandruff.

Scalp Seborrheic Dermatitis and Dandruff Therapy Using a Herbal and Zinc Pyrithione-based Therapy of Shampoo and Scalp Lotion.

Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of an herbal and zinc pyrithione shampoo and a scalp lotion (Kamedis Derma-Scalp Dandruff Therapy, Kamedis Ltd., Tel Aviv, Israel) for the treatment of scalp seborrheic dermatitis and dandruff. Design: This was an interventional, open-label, safety and efficacy study. Setting: This open-label study was conducted at Consumer Product Testing Company Inc. in Fairfield, New Jersey. At the baseline visit (Day 0), an examination of the scalp was conducted by a board-certified dermatologist. The entire scalp was evaluated for evidence of seborrheic dermatitis using the Adherent Scalp Flaking Score with a 10-point scale. Only subjects with evidence of moderate-to-greater seborrheic dermatitis or moderate-to-greater dandruff were deemed qualified for inclusion in the study. Participants: Fifty subjects were recruited and included in the study. Measurements: Study subjects were evaluated by the same dermatologist for erythema and flaking at Days 0, 14, 28, and 42 using a five-point scale for each parameter. At each time point, a total severity score was calculated based on the findings of the evaluations. Following the scalp evaluation, each subject had a standardized digital photograph taken of his or her scalp. Each subject was also asked to answer a satisfaction questionnaire regarding the product treatment enhancement and characteristics. Results: A reduction in both parameters evaluated was seen at all time points. Statistical significance was achieved at each time point when compared with the baseline visit. In addition, the subjects expressed a high degree of satisfaction with the treatment. No adverse events were reported during this study. Conclusion: The study showed that the herbal zinc pyrithione shampoo and scalp lotion provided improvement in the main symptoms of seborrheic dermatitis.

Incubatory environment of the scalp impacts pre-emergent hair to affect post-emergent hair cuticle integrity.

OBJECTIVES: To determine whether the oxidative stress transmitted to newly grown hair from an unhealthy scalp has physical consequences to the cuticular condition and function. METHODS: A uniquely designed 24-week clinical study included 8 weeks of pretreatment with a cosmetic shampoo and 16 weeks of treatment with either a potentiated zinc pyrithione (ZPT) antidandruff shampoo or a placebo cosmetic shampoo. This clinical design allowed the growth and acquisition of hair samples under conditions of varying but known scalp health as a result of treating a dandruff/seborrheic dermatitis (D/SD) population. Two complementary methods were used to characterize the integrity of the cuticular surface. Hair surface hydrophobicity was assessed by quantifying water wetting force using a Wilhelmy balance method. Surface structure and porosity were assessed using dynamic vapor sorption (DVS) to gravimetrically quantify water sorption. RESULTS: Chemical oxidative stress to pre-emergent hair has been shown to have negative consequences to hair surface structure. Compared to a placebo shampoo control, use of a potentiated ZPT shampoo improved scalp health and significantly improved the following attributes associated with healthy hair: hair surface hydrophobicity (surface energy) and cuticular moisture barrier effectiveness (dynamic vapor sorption). CONCLUSIONS: Pre-emergent hair can be negatively impacted by the oxidative stress that occurs with an unhealthy scalp, possibly due to metabolic activity of resident microbes. Manifestations of the oxidative stress include altered cuticle surface properties that are responsible for its protective function; these effects are similar in type to those observed by bleaching post-emergent hair. These alterations have the potential to make the hair, once emerged from the scalp, more susceptible to the cumulative physical and chemical insults responsible for hair feel and look, fiber integrity, and overall retention.

The effects of narrowbands of visible light upon some skin disorders: a review.

This review article focuses on clinical studies published in the fields of (i) photorejuvenation and anti-ageing, (ii) oily or acne-prone skin and related imperfections, (iii) skin pigmentation and lightening, (iv) dandruff and other Malassezia-related skin disorders and (v) prevention and reversal of hair loss using non-thermal, non-ablative devices (principally light-emitting diodes). It mainly focuses on clinical proof of performance and also on in vitro studies that support the clinical findings. The mode of action of narrowbands of visible light upon the skin is only briefly discussed since their biological effects have been previously reviewed.

Eficacia terapéutica frente a la caspa grasa y la caspa seca de compuestos basados en terpineol, ácido salicílico y climbazol / Therapeutic effectiveness against oily or dry dandruff of compounds based on terpineol, salicylic acid and climbazole

Introducción: la caspa se define como una descamación excesiva del cuero cabelludo, en general acompañada de prurito. Su etiología es multifactorial y depende de la presencia de levaduras del género Malassezia, de la producción de sebo y de la susceptibilidad individual. Más allá de los tratamientos tradicionales para controlar la caspa, existen nuevas formulaciones que pueden incluir queratolíticos como el ácido salicílico, el climbazol, que además de agente antimicótico presenta potenciales propiedades antiproteolíticas o el terpineol, antimicótico de amplio espectro con acción antiinflamatoria. Objetivo: el objetivo principal de este estudio, consistió en evaluar el efecto sobre la caspa grasa de un champú con terpineol, extracto de sauce, ácido salicílico, climbazol y lipoaminoácido seborregulador y de una loción con terpineol, ácido salicílico, climbazol y glucósidos del extracto de roble y té verde. Se evaluó igualmente la eficacia sobre la caspa seca de un champú con terpineol, extracto de sauce, ácido salicílico y climbazol. Se realizaron una visita inicial (T0), otra al finalizar tratamiento (T28) y una final (T42), para evaluar la eventual reaparición de la caspa una vez suspendido el tratamiento. Material y Método: estudio unicéntrico abierto, no aleatorizado, a simple ciego, de 42 días de duración, llevado a cabo en 78 pacientes con caspa grasa o seca. Se clasificó la gravedad de la caspa en 4 grados. Según el tipo de caspa y su grado, se administraron un champú para caspa grasa (A), un champú para caspa seca (B), una loción para caspa grasa (C) o un champú neutro (D). Se establecieron 4 grupos de tratamiento en función del producto asignado (A, B, AC y CD). Resultados: un 59% de los participantes fueron mujeres y un 41% varones. La edad media fue de 47 años (rango 20-72). Del total de pacientes: 20 presentaron caspa grasa en grado medio-bajo (grupo A), 20 caspa seca en cualquier grado (grupo B), 17 caspa grasa en grado elevado (grupo AC) y 21 caspa grasa en grado medio-alto (grupo CD). Al cabo de cuatro semanas de tratamiento, el grado de caspa se redujo vs. basal en ≥70% de los casos en todos los grupos. Estas cifras ascendieron, en los pacientes con caspa grasa, a un 70% (grado bajo-medio), un 76,2% (grado medio-alto) y un 88,2% (grado elevado); el efecto fue más notable en aquellos con caspa seca, donde la cifra fue del 90%. La eliminación de la caspa fue completa en el 78,5%, 62,5%, 47% y 44,4% de ellos, respectivamente. Una vez transcurridas las dos semanas de lavado posterior al tratamiento, el nivel de caspa siguió descendiendo en un 55% de los pacientes tratados con el champú A, un 57,1% de los que emplearon la loción C, el 58,8% de los que usaron el champú A + la loción C, y el 35% de los que recibieron el champú B. Se declararon satisfechos o muy satisfechos con el producto un 70% de los pacientes del grupo A, un 80% del grupo B, un 66,7% del grupo CD y un 70,6% del grupo AD. Conclusiones: los resultados obtenidos en este estudio, orientan acerca de la eficacia frente a la caspa grasa y la caspa seca de dos champúes y una loción basados en terpineol, ácido salicílico y climbazol. Se requieren investigaciones adicionales que amplíen los resultados en este campo.

Introduction: dandruff is defined as excessive flaking of the scalp accompanied by itching. The etiology is multifactorial and depends on the presence of Malassezia yeasts, sebum production and individual susceptibility. Beyond traditional treatments to control dandruff, there are new formulations that may include keratolytics such as salicylic acid; climbazole, an antifungal agent which potential antiproteolytic properties, or terpineol, broad-spectrum antifungal with antiinflammatory action. Objective: the main objective of this study was to evaluate the effect on seborrheic dandruff of a shampoo with terpineol, willow extract, salicylic acid, climbazole and sebum-regulating lipoaminoacid, and a lotion with terpineol, salicylic acid, climbazole and glycosides from oak and green tea extract. Effectiveness on dry dandruff of a shampoo containing terpineol, willow extract, salicylic acid and climbazole was also evaluated. Three study visits were performed (T0, T28 and T42). Methods: single-center, open, non-randomized, single-blind, 42-day study conducted in 78 patients with seborrheic or dry dandruff. Dandruff severity was classified into 4 grades. A shampoo for oily dandruff (A), a shampoo for dry dandruff (B), a lotion for oily dandruff (C) and a neutral shampoo (D) were administered. Four treatment groups were established according to the assigned treatment (A, B, AC and CD). Results: 59% of participants were women and 41% men. The average age was 47 years (range 20-72). Of the total patients, 20 had medium-low oily dandruff (group A), 20 dry dandruff at any level (group B), 17 severe oily dandruff (AC) and 21 medium-high oily dandruff (group CD). After four weeks of treatment the severity of dandruff was reduced vs. baseline in ≥70% of cases in all groups; for oily dandruff results were 70% (low-medium grade), 76.2% (medium-high) and 88.2% (high level); the effect was most marked in patients with dry dandruff (90%). Dandruff removal was complete in 78.5%, 62.5%, 47% and 44.4% of them, respectively. Two weeks after having suspended the treatment, dandruff level continued to decline in 55% of patients treated with shampoo A, 57.1% of those who used the lotion C, 58.8% of patients who used shampoo A + lotion C, and 35% of those receiving shampoo B. Seventy per cent of patients in group A, 80% in group B, 66.7% of the CD group and 70.6% of the AD group were satisfied or very satisfied with the study treatments. Conclusions: the results obtained in this study suggest the effectiveness against oily and dry dandruff of two shampoos and a lotion based on terpineol, salicylic acid and climbazole. Further research to extend the results in this field is required.

Eficacia terapéutica frente a la caspa grasa y la caspa seca de compuestos basados en terpineol, ácido salicílico y climbazol / Therapeutic effectiveness against oily or dry dandruff of compounds based on terpineol, salicylic acid and climbazole

Introducción: la caspa se define como una descamación excesiva del cuero cabelludo, en general acompañada de prurito. Su etiología es multifactorial y depende de la presencia de levaduras del género Malassezia, de la producción de sebo y de la susceptibilidad individual. Más allá de los tratamientos tradicionales para controlar la caspa, existen nuevas formulaciones que pueden incluir queratolíticos como el ácido salicílico, el climbazol, que además de agente antimicótico presenta potenciales propiedades antiproteolíticas o el terpineol, antimicótico de amplio espectro con acción antiinflamatoria. Objetivo: el objetivo principal de este estudio, consistió en evaluar el efecto sobre la caspa grasa de un champú con terpineol, extracto de sauce, ácido salicílico, climbazol y lipoaminoácido seborregulador y de una loción con terpineol, ácido salicílico, climbazol y glucósidos del extracto de roble y té verde. Se evaluó igualmente la eficacia sobre la caspa seca de un champú con terpineol, extracto de sauce, ácido salicílico y climbazol. Se realizaron una visita inicial (T0), otra al finalizar tratamiento (T28) y una final (T42), para evaluar la eventual reaparición de la caspa una vez suspendido el tratamiento. Material y Método: estudio unicéntrico abierto, no aleatorizado, a simple ciego, de 42 días de duración, llevado a cabo en 78 pacientes con caspa grasa o seca. Se clasificó la gravedad de la caspa en 4 grados. Según el tipo de caspa y su grado, se administraron un champú para caspa grasa (A), un champú para caspa seca (B), una loción para caspa grasa (C) o un champú neutro (D). Se establecieron 4 grupos de tratamiento en función del producto asignado (A, B, AC y CD). Resultados: un 59% de los participantes fueron mujeres y un 41% varones. La edad media fue de 47 años (rango 20-72). Del total de pacientes: 20 presentaron caspa grasa en grado medio-bajo (grupo A), 20 caspa seca en cualquier grado (grupo B), 17 caspa grasa en grado elevado (grupo AC) y 21 caspa grasa en grado medio-alto (grupo CD). Al cabo de cuatro semanas de tratamiento, el grado de caspa se redujo vs. basal en ≥70% de los casos en todos los grupos. Estas cifras ascendieron, en los pacientes con caspa grasa, a un 70% (grado bajo-medio), un 76,2% (grado medio-alto) y un 88,2% (grado elevado); el efecto fue más notable en aquellos con caspa seca, donde la cifra fue del 90%. La eliminación de la caspa fue completa en el 78,5%, 62,5%, 47% y 44,4% de ellos, respectivamente. Una vez transcurridas las dos semanas de lavado posterior al tratamiento, el nivel de caspa siguió descendiendo en un 55% de los pacientes tratados con el champú A, un 57,1% de los que emplearon la loción C, el 58,8% de los que usaron el champú A + la loción C, y el 35% de los que recibieron el champú B. Se declararon satisfechos o muy satisfechos con el producto un 70% de los pacientes del grupo A, un 80% del grupo B, un 66,7% del grupo CD y un 70,6% del grupo AD. Conclusiones: los resultados obtenidos en este estudio, orientan acerca de la eficacia frente a la caspa grasa y la caspa seca de dos champúes y una loción basados en terpineol, ácido salicílico y climbazol. Se requieren investigaciones adicionales que amplíen los resultados en este campo.(AU)

Introduction: dandruff is defined as excessive flaking of the scalp accompanied by itching. The etiology is multifactorial and depends on the presence of Malassezia yeasts, sebum production and individual susceptibility. Beyond traditional treatments to control dandruff, there are new formulations that may include keratolytics such as salicylic acid; climbazole, an antifungal agent which potential antiproteolytic properties, or terpineol, broad-spectrum antifungal with antiinflammatory action. Objective: the main objective of this study was to evaluate the effect on seborrheic dandruff of a shampoo with terpineol, willow extract, salicylic acid, climbazole and sebum-regulating lipoaminoacid, and a lotion with terpineol, salicylic acid, climbazole and glycosides from oak and green tea extract. Effectiveness on dry dandruff of a shampoo containing terpineol, willow extract, salicylic acid and climbazole was also evaluated. Three study visits were performed (T0, T28 and T42). Methods: single-center, open, non-randomized, single-blind, 42-day study conducted in 78 patients with seborrheic or dry dandruff. Dandruff severity was classified into 4 grades. A shampoo for oily dandruff (A), a shampoo for dry dandruff (B), a lotion for oily dandruff (C) and a neutral shampoo (D) were administered. Four treatment groups were established according to the assigned treatment (A, B, AC and CD). Results: 59% of participants were women and 41% men. The average age was 47 years (range 20-72). Of the total patients, 20 had medium-low oily dandruff (group A), 20 dry dandruff at any level (group B), 17 severe oily dandruff (AC) and 21 medium-high oily dandruff (group CD). After four weeks of treatment the severity of dandruff was reduced vs. baseline in ≥70% of cases in all groups; for oily dandruff results were 70% (low-medium grade), 76.2% (medium-high) and 88.2% (high level); the effect was most marked in patients with dry dandruff (90%). Dandruff removal was complete in 78.5%, 62.5%, 47% and 44.4% of them, respectively. Two weeks after having suspended the treatment, dandruff level continued to decline in 55% of patients treated with shampoo A, 57.1% of those who used the lotion C, 58.8% of patients who used shampoo A + lotion C, and 35% of those receiving shampoo B. Seventy per cent of patients in group A, 80% in group B, 66.7% of the CD group and 70.6% of the AD group were satisfied or very satisfied with the study treatments. Conclusions: the results obtained in this study suggest the effectiveness against oily and dry dandruff of two shampoos and a lotion based on terpineol, salicylic acid and climbazole. Further research to extend the results in this field is required.(AU)

Exploration of nutraceutical potential of herbal oil formulated from parasitic plant.

BACKGROUND: Cuscuta reflexa (C. reflexa) is a parasitic climber of medicinal importance. The present study was aimed to evaluate the nutraceutical potential of C. reflexa stems collected from different hosts and to evaluate the role of the herbal formulation in dandruff, hair fall control as well as hair growth promoter. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Hair formulations of C. reflexa collected from different host plants were prepared in the form of herbal oils (10% w/v). C. reflexa stems were extracted using mustard oil as base oil by using direct boiling technique. Prepared oil was studied as hair tonic. The experimental protocols used were anti-dandruff hair growth activity, as well as hair fall reduction. Herbal hair oils versus mustard oil were evaluated by applying oils on human volunteers with hair fall and dandruff problem whereas promotion of hair growth activity was conducted on rats. The formulated oils were also characterised for proximate analysis, physiochemical composition, as well as antimicrobial activity. RESULT: The test oils of C. reflexa collected from Azadiracta indica and Zizyphus jujuba were effective in the promotion of hair growth, dandruff control, as well as reduction in hair fall activity. CONCLUSION: All the formulated oils showed potent antimicrobial activity against all selected strains of bacteria and fungi.

Effectiveness of Home-use Light Emitting Diode Device for Seborrheic Dermatitis of the Scalp: a Preliminary Study / 대한의진균학회지

BACKGROUND: Seborrheic dermatitis (SD) is a chronic, relapsing inflammatory disease, mainly affecting the scalp and face. The pathogenesis of SD has been not fully understood yet, but may be related to the skin colonization of Malassezia species, lipophilic yeasts. Phototherapy with light emitting diode (LED) device has been become a new therapeutic modality for some skin diseases such as acne. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate effectiveness and safety of phototherapy with home-use LED in the treatment of patients with SD of the scalp. METHODS: Eight patients with mild-to-moderate SD of the scalp participated. The patients used a home-use LED device combined 395 nm blue light with 660 nm red light for 6~7 min twice daily for 8 weeks. Patients' assessments were made by clinical findings including erythema (0~15), scales (0~15), itching (0~10), and lesional extent (0~15). And clinical photographs were taken at 0, 2, 4 and 8 weeks, respectively. RESULTS: At 8 weeks after LED treatment, erythema (7.75 to 5.13, p=0.018), scales (7.38 to 4.13, p=0.017), itching (6 to 3, p=0.011) and lesional extent (8.25 to 5.25, p=0.017) were significantly decreased, respectively. Satisfactory scores were also relatively high (mean 8.13 of 10). No severe adverse reaction was reported, excepting hair dryness (n=1) and brief stinging sense (n=1). CONCLUSION: Home-use LED was effective and safe in the treatment of SD of the scalp. These results suggest the LED device might be an adjuvant therapeutic tool in the treatment of Malassezia species associated diseases such as dandruff and SD. Further long-term and large-scale studies are required to assess the efficacy and safety of home-use LED.

Clinical Study on the Management of Huzaz/Abria (Dandruff) with a pharmacopoeal Preparation of a Unani Medicine and its Cosmetic Evaluation.

Dandruff called Huzaz/Abria in Unani medicine is a common ailment in the world with easy options of treatment. Most of the treatment options have ignored the cosmetic aspect of hair. Unani medicine has got a vast array of drug formulation to evaluate the efficacy of Unani pharmacopoeal formulation in mild form of seborrhic dermatitis of scalp (dandruff). Its efficacy was compared with standard drug (2% ketakonazole shampoo). Patients were enrolled after ethical clearance and informed consent in the study. 30 patients were treated with Unani formulation and 20 patients with the standard drug. The assessment of various parameters like Itching, Scalp shedding, Erythema, Hair frizz, Hair combing ease, and Hair smoothness was made before and after 30 days. The assessments of the parameters were analyzed and compared using appropriate statistical tests. The study revealed that Unani formulation was equally effective as standard drug and the hair comesis was better than the standard drug as seen clinically, but was not statistically significant (p=0.576).