Paraprobiotic shampoo 'stands out' in decreasing dandruff, improving scalp appearance

A study published in the International Journal of Cosmetic Science found that paraprobiotics applied topically in a shampoo decreased dandruff particles and improved overall scalp appearance after twenty-eight days.

"The microbiome plays an important role in a wide variety of skin disorders​," the authors stated. "Hence, dysbiosis in the skin and/or gut microbiome is associated with an altered immune response, promoting the development of skin diseases, such as atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, acne vulgaris and dandruff​."

From the cosmetic industry standpoint, the paraprobiotic shampoo would be of benefit as it’s a stable, soluble and compatible natural ingredient.

"In addition, because it is a natural active ingredient, it does not have any inflammatory or irritating potential for the skin or microbiome, standing out a lot for the cosmetic industry...​” the authors shared in an interview with CosmeticsDesign.

Shampoo methodology and mechanisms​

Thirty-three volunteers participated in the randomized double-blind clinical trial, which lasted twenty-eight days. All volunteers had some degree of dandruff. The paraprobiotic used was Neoimuno LACT GB® (Bifidobacterium lactis strain CCT 7858) at 1% within a shampoo.

In their interview, authors shared that the paraprobiotic shampoo “stimulates the development of beneficial microorganisms already naturally present in the skin microbiome, which are responsible for immunomodulating skin health, maintaining the skin barrier effect, preventing the growth of pathogenic microorganisms...​”

Further, the shampoo can also help produce or stimulate the production of lactic acid, hyaluronic acid, ceramides, vitamins and natural antibiotics. 
Certain species-specific paraprobiotics have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity, the researchers said in an interview. Through these functions, paraprobiotics can balance moisture and oiliness, favor barrier function and modulate the skin microbiome.

Conclusions​

A combability test and perception tests were completed prior to the trial and at fourteen and twenty-eight days. After twenty-eight days of use, there was a significant decrease in the number of particles. The perception test also revealed improvement after twenty-eight days with a better general appearance and cleanliness.

The fourteen-day tests did not reveal any significant differences. The 1% paraprobiotic shampoo reduced scalp flakiness and improved cleanliness and dandruff overall.

“Thus, with the results obtained through the clinical trial, Neoimuno LACT GB® presents itself as a natural, safe and effective ingredient in the treatment of dandruff​,” the authors concluded. They stated that the main effect will be reduced inflammation and oxidative damage, with the aim of creating homeostasis for scalp skin.

The paraprobiotic shampoo is sold in Brazil with Gabbia Biotecnologia as an ingredient manufacturer. This study was completed to clinically prove the safety and efficacy of the ingredient.
Source: International Journal of Cosmetic Science​

2023, 45(2). https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/ics.12850​

“Clinical evaluation of paraprobiotic-associated Bifidobacterium lactis​ CCT 7858 anti-dandruff shampoo efficacy: a randomized placebo-controlled clinical trial.”

Alves de Jesus, G., et al.