Abstract

Introduction: Dandruff, a common scalp disorder often linked to Malassezia overgrowth, is characterized by flaking, itching, and irritation due to inflammation and compromised scalp barrier function. Conventional treatments focus on antifungal, anti-inflammatory, and keratolytic approaches. ThriveCo Anti-Dandruff Pre-Shampoo Treatment, powered with Zenscalpin^TM (a unique blend of witch hazel, piroctone olamine, and niacinamide) designed to address dandruff by targeting reduction in fungal overgrowth, inflammation, and scalp skin barrier repair. This study evaluates the safety, efficacy, and tolerability of the scalp serum for its immediate effectiveness in managing dandruff in healthy adults. Methods: This prospective, interventional, open-label, single-center, single-arm clinical study was conducted to evaluate the efficacy of an anti-dandruff serum for dandruff management. Ethical approval was obtained from the ACEAS Independent Ethics Committee, and written informed consent was obtained from all participants prior to any clinical procedures. The severity of dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis was assessed using the Adherent Scalp Flaking Score (ASFS), along with dermatological evaluations and phototrichogram analysis using the CASLite Nova Instrument. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS (v29.0.1.0) and Microsoft Excel 2019, with a significance level set at 5%. A total of 32 individuals were enrolled and 28 healthy adult participants aged 18–60 years completed the study, with the primary focus on assessing improvements in scalp health at 30 minutes post-application on Day 1 and following 8 days of serum use. Results: The study demonstrated significant improvements in scalp health following 8 days of using the test hair serum. In comparison to the baseline, a 27.72% reduction in adherent scalp flaking was observed within 30 minutes of application on Day 1. This effect further increased to a 54.79% reduction by Day 8. These results were statistically significant, with a p-value of <0.0001, indicating the serum’s effectiveness in alleviating dandruff. Additionally, 92.86% of subjects reported reduced scalp dryness by Day 8, and a significant reduction in skin itchiness was observed, with 92.86% of subjects experiencing no itchiness by the end of the study. Reductions in scalp redness, roughness, and scaliness were also noted, with 96.43% of participants reporting no redness or scaliness by Day 8. The serum effectively improved overall scalp health, with most participants reporting smoother scalp texture and reduced discomfort, supporting its potential for daily use in dandruff management. No adverse events were reported throughout the study. Conclusion: The Test Anti-Dandruff Serum, enriched with Zenscalpin^TM containing witch hazel, piroctone olamine, and niacinamide, demonstrated significant efficacy in reducing dandruff and enhancing scalp health within 8 days. By targeting fungal overgrowth, inflammation, and skin hydration, it effectively reduced flaking, dryness, itchiness, redness, and scaliness. These results highlight its potential as a clinically effective adjuvant therapy and a reliable option for daily dandruff management.

Keywords

scalp dandruff, healthy adults, seborrheic dermatitis, piroctone olamine, ‘ThriveCo anti-dandruff pre-shampoo treatment