Cover
Vol. 4 No. 1 (2026)

Published: June 1, 2026

Pages: 91-110

Review Article

Nanotechnology in Multifunctional Anti-Dandruff Shampoos: Synergistic Role of Keratolytic, Anti-fungal, and Herbal Agents: overview

Raghad Thamir Saad 1 Yasir Q. AlMajidi 1
1 Department of Pharmaceutics,College of Pharmacy, Al-Nahrain University, Baghdad, Iraq
History
  • Received: January 22, 2026
  • Revised: May 1, 2026
  • Accepted: May 2, 2026
  • Available Online: June 1, 2026

Abstract

dandruff chronic and recurring scalp condition that characterised by excessive flaking, itching. Overactive sebaceous glands, microbial imbalance, impaired skin barrier function, and susceptibility to infection are among the overlapping causative factors that distinguish it from seborrheic dermatitis. Malassezia fungi, particularly Malassezia pityriasis, play a crucial role in the pathogenesis of dandruff by metabolizing lipids, releasing inflammatory mediators, and disrupting the stratum corneum barrier. Antifungal, exfoliating, and anti-inflammatory ingredients such as ketoconazole, zinc pyrithione, selenium sulfide, and salicylic acid are frequently found in conventional anti-dandruff shampoos. However, these formulations are limited by their low bioavailability, short duration on the scalp, poor penetration into the hair follicles, and the potential for irritation with prolonged use. Recent advances in nanotechnology have enabled the development of novel drug delivery systems, such as liposomes, solid lipid nanoparticles, lipid nanocarriers, polymer nanoparticles, microemulsifiers, and advanced exosome-based systems, significantly improving the effectiveness of anti-dandruff shampoos. In addition to reducing discomfort and the frequency of application, these nanocarriers enhance drug deposition in the scalp, target hair follicles, ensure controlled release, and stabilize active ingredients. Furthermore, herbal enhancers, including coconut oil, aloe vera, green tea and rosemary, possess synergistic antifungal, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and scalp barrier-repairing properties when added. Thus, by simultaneously addressing microbial overgrowth, inflammation, and scalp barrier damage, multifunctional, nanotechnology-enhanced shampoos offer an effective approach to tackling the multifactorial nature of dandruff. This review underscores the potential of nanoparticle-based anti-dandruff shampoos to increase therapeutic efficacy by highlighting recent developments, formulation considerations and evaluation techniques, related to these products.

Keywords

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