Essential Oils as Potential Source of Anti-dandruff Agents: A Review

Background: Dandruff is a frequent occurring scalp problem that causes significant discomfort to approximately 50% population at some stage of life, especially post-puberty and preadult age.

Objectives: In this review, we aim to summarise the recent findings regarding anti-fungal properties of herbal essential oils against pathogens involved in dandruff prognosis.

Methods: A literature search of studies published between 2000 and 2020 was conducted over databases: PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus, and Science Direct. Literature was explored using the guidelines given in Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA).

Results: Dandruff, characterised by clinical symptoms of dryness, pruritis, scaly, and flaky scalp, is considered as a primary manifestation of seborrheic dermatitis. Amongst various etiological and pathophysiological factors, significant role of yeasts, primarily, species of Malassezia, Candida, has been strongly correlated with dandruff, while incidences of M. furfur, M. restricta and M. globosa are high compared to others. Due to relapse of symptoms with withdrawal of conventional anti-dandruff products, patients find best alternatives in natural products. Essential oils of herbal origin such as tea tree oil, lime oil, rosemary oil, have gained global importance in dermatology. These oils are rich in aromatic secondary metabolites, especially terpenes and phenolic components that impart substantial antimicrobial properties and resisting biofilm production.

Conclusion: On the basis of the available information, we can conclude that essential oils have huge potential to be developed as anti-dandruff products, however, further studies are warranted to establish their efficacy in dandruff cure.