Salix purpurea Shampoo Supports Scalp Health in Patients with Dandruff and Erythema

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A new product made with fermented Salix purpurea (purple willow) bark extract was evaluated to determine if the ingredient treats dandruff and scalp erythema effectively and tolerably.¹ Two formulations were tested to determine which concentration was most effective. Although both products provided benefits to patients with scalp conditions, the 4% shampoo provided quicker, more intense results after 56 days of treatment. Due to its beneficial salicylate content, this extract is known for its anti-inflammatory, antifungal, and exfoliating properties that support the healthy microbiome of the scalp.²

“The demand for safer and effective anti-dandruff treatments has led to the development of various formulations, often incorporating natural extracts with known therapeutic benefits,” the researchers wrote.

Twenty adult patients with varying scalp conditions and hair types were divided to receive either Salixin Shampoo 2% orSalixin Shampoo 4% for at-home use for 56 days. All had visible dandruff and were asked to discontinue any existing use of other dandruff treatments. The trial took place at the investigating center, J.S. Hamilton Poland Sp. z o.o. Testing Laboratory.

Other ingredients in the product included deionized water, polyquaternium-10, caprylyl glyceryl ether, caprylhydroxamic acid, propanediol, cocamidopropylhydroxysultaine, sodium, cocoamphohydroxypropylsulfonate, cocamide DIPA, maltodextrin laurate, sodium cocoylglutamate, glycerin, citric acid 50%, and sodium chloride. These compounds provide other haircare benefits such as smoothness, detangling, moisture, cleansing, frizz reduction, and added shine.

Investigators measured overall scalp appearance, redness, itching, dandruff, and any adverse effects using clinical evaluation, user experience, and macrophotography documentation in zoom 60-times via Aramo ASW 300F. Visits took place on days 0, 7, 14, 28, 42, and 56.

Both formulations were well tolerated with no negative symptoms like irritation, burning, or redness that could indicate intolerance. At the first few time points, no changes were reported. However, most participants saw improvement at days 42 and 56 (p < 0.05). These results were confirmed by the macrophotography images, which showed visibly reduced dandruff and less redness in the scalp.

Both improved dandruff, but a stronger and faster effect was noted in the 4% concentration with a more gradual change in the 2% version. The heavier formulation maintained better short-term control by day 56. However, these differences were not statistically significant overall, and both can be used effectively for the long term, according to the researchers.

“The Salixin Shampoo 4% formulation is generally more potent but can cause deterioration in sensitive skin and redness in a few cases, likely due to its higher concentration,” the authors confirmed. “Redness and sensitive skin appear to be better managed with the 2% formulation, which might be gentler on sensitive skin types.”

The authors recommend future research to include larger sample sizes in varying climates. The product’s effectiveness should also be compared to a placebo formula as well as a traditional over-the-counter dandruff shampoo with a comparable active ingredient. This further data could confirm the benefits of Salix purpurea bark extract and improve the statistical significance of these initial results.

References

1. Kalinowska O, Maślana J, Gilreath A. The Treatment and Evaluation of Dandruff and Scalp Erythema with Fermented Salix purpurea Bark Extract. Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol. 2025;18:639-648. Published 2025 Mar 19. doi:10.2147/CCID.S503915

2. Seiwerth J, Tasiopoulou G, Hoffmann J, et al. Anti-Inflammatory Effect of a Novel Topical Herbal Composition (VEL-091604) Consisting of Gentian Root, Licorice Root and Willow Bark Extract. Planta Med. 2019;85(7):608-614. doi:10.1055/a-0835-6806