Shampoos with fermented Salix purpurea bark extract effectively reduce dandruff, with higher concentrations showing greater benefits. Both formulations were well tolerated and improved scalp health.

A study published in Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology suggested that shampoos containing fermented Salix purpurea (purple willow) bark extract effectively reduce dandruff and improve scalp health.  

The non-invasive study evaluated two shampoo formulations—Salixin Shampoo 2% and Salixin Shampoo 4%—on 21 participants over a period of 56 days. Researchers conducted clinical assessments, trichological evaluations, and macrophotography analysis to measure scalp tolerance and dandruff reduction. Statistical analysis, including paired and unpaired t-tests, was used to assess treatment efficacy.  

Both shampoo formulations were well tolerated, with improvements in dandruff symptoms, scalp itching, and redness. While Salixin Shampoo 4% demonstrated a more pronounced effect in reducing dandruff, the difference was not statistically significant.  

The study concluded that fermented purple willow bark extract is a promising ingredient for dandruff management, with higher concentrations potentially offering enhanced benefits.

(Source:https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.2147/CCID.S503915 )