Novel Synthesized Silver Nanoparticle Shampoo is Comparable to 2% Ketoconazole for SD Treatment

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A new study has compared a green-synthesized silver nanoparticle shampoo (AgNP) to 2% ketoconazole shampoo for seborrheic dermatitis on the scalp.¹ Similar results in efficacy were observed in the novel formulation with no adverse events and a positive impact on patients’ quality of life.

The prospective, randomized, double-blinded, controlled trial took place at the Department of Dermatology, Chulabhorn Hospital in Bangkok, Thailand. Sixty adult patients with moderate to severe scalp seborrheic dermatitis were evenly split up into 2 groups to receive either the AgNP shampoo or the 2% ketoconazole shampoo. About 83% of participants were female. The mean age in both groups was 35.38 years. Each patient had an adherent scalp flaking score (ASFS) of > 6.

The shampoos (10 mL) were applied 3 times a week for 4 weeks. The product was left on for 10 minutes before being rinsed off. After the 4 weeks, participants were asked to use normal shampoo without any anti-dandruff therapy for the remainder of the study.

The product was made with bergamot peel and moringa leaf extracts, which are plants commonly found in Thailand. Both are antimicrobial and have proven anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and photoprotective properties for healing. The silver nanoparticles have similar benefits and are known for killing microorganisms by disrupting the cell walls and membranes.²

“Thus, green-synthesized AgNP created using organic compounds as reducing and stabilizing agents may prevent environmental toxicity. Furthermore, the phytochemical agents may provide other add-on potential beneficial properties,” the authors wrote.

Investigators used the ASFS and Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) to assess efficacy, safety, and patient satisfaction at baseline and weeks 1, 2, 4, and 8. Scalp samples were also collected for fungal detection.

After just 1 week, the ASFS was significantly lower in patients who used the AgNP shampoo versus the ketoconazole shampoo (p = 0.014, p = 0.083). However, after 2 and 4 weeks, both formulations had similar improvements when compared to baseline (p < 0.001). When the use of either shampoo was discontinued, ASFS was lower than baseline 1 month later after discontinuation (p < 0.001). No patients saw a complete resolution in disease symptoms.

DLQI also improved from baseline in the AgNP shampoo group (p = 0.026) but not the ketoconazole shampoo group (p = 0.171). Despite this, patient-rated satisfaction levels were similar among both cohorts. Both groups had similar responses in the respective products’ scalp gentleness, oil removal, smell, and treatment effectiveness. No adverse effects were reported, and no fungal growths were detected in the scalp samples.

Future research can support these findings through a greater number of participants, a wider variety of study groups, and a longer follow-up. This further literature can confirm if this novel therapy can be used in clinical practice. Current common treatments for seborrheic dermatitis include ingredients like ketoconazole, ciclopirox, piroctone olamine, selenium sulfide, zinc pyrithione, lithium, and essential oils.³

“Using topical corticosteroids for a long period causes many complications. In the era of an aging society, it is important to identify the most effective treatment for SD that causes the least adverse events,” the authors concluded.

References

1. Limtanyakul P, Smithrithee R, Wongwitthayakool P, Taweechotipatr M, Chottechathammanee P, Wattanasirichaigoon S. Comparison of green‐synthesized silver nanoparticle shampoo created by moringa and bergamot extraction versus 2% ketoconazole shampoo for scalp seborrheic dermatitis: A prospective, randomized, double‐blinded, controlled trial. Dermatologic Therapy. 2025;2025(1). doi:10.1155/dth/7166552

2. Bamal, D., Singh, A., Chaudhary, G., Kumar, M., Singh, M., Rani, N., ... & Sehrawat, A. R. (2021). Silver nanoparticles biosynthesis, characterization, antimicrobial activities, applications, cytotoxicity and safety issues: An updated review. Nanomaterials, 11(8), 2086.

3. Dessinioti, C., & Katsambas, A. (2013). Seborrheic dermatitis: etiology, risk factors, and treatments:: facts and controversies. Clinics in dermatology, 31(4), 343-351.