A Selenium Disulfide-Based Shampoo Is Beneficial for Dandruff Management and Rebalancing the Scalp Microbiome of Subjects of Any Hair Type.

INTRODUCTION

Dandruff is a chronic scalp condition occurring in all hair types. Selenium disulfide (SeS) shampoo is beneficial in dandruff and rebalances the scalp microbiome. However, data regarding subjects with curly hair are missing. This study assessed the clinical and scalp microbiome benefits of SeS shampoo in subjects of any hair type with moderate-to-severe dandruff.

METHODS

A 6-week study in adult subjects of any De La Mettrie hair type (I-VIII) assessed total dandruff, SD severity score (SSSD), erythema, hair greasiness, quality of life, discomfort, local tolerance, perceived benefit, acceptability, cosmeticity, and changes in the scalp microbiota. SeS shampoo was applied twice every week.

RESULTS

Overall, 93 subjects of any hair type (women: 83%, hair types: I-III: 41%, IV-V: 29%, VI-VIII: 30%) were recruited. 69% were of European and 31% of African origin. SSSD and total dandruff scores were the highest in hair type IV-V, erythema scores in hair type I-III, and the itching score in hair type VI-VIII, with no differences between hair types for any parameter. After 4 weeks, clinical signs and subject assessments had significantly (all < 0.05) decreased in all phototypes. SeS shampoo significantly ( < 0.001) rebalanced the scalp microbiome. All subjects highly appreciated its benefit, acceptability, and cosmeticity. SeS shampoo was well tolerated.

CONCLUSION

SeS shampoo is beneficial in moderate-to-severe dandruff and rebalances the scalp microbiota in all hair types. SeS shampoo was highly appreciated by the subjects for its benefit, acceptability, and cosmeticity, allowing a potential improvement of compliance, including in the long term.