Formulating Shampoo for Dry, Flaky Scalp with Dandruff

Based on your needs for an anti-dandruff and moisturizing shampoo that is gentle on a dry, flaky scalp and minimizes allergic reactions, here is the information regarding your questions:

1. Can Dandruff-Guard (Piroctone Olamine) be added to a shampoo made from natural oils?

Yes, Dandruff-Guard (Piroctone Olamine) can be added to a shampoo formula, including one based on natural oils, provided the shampoo contains appropriate surfactants (detergents). Piroctone Olamine is designed to dissolve in detergent systems.

Usage Recommendation:

• Disperse Dandruff-Guard powder in water first before slowly adding it to your shampoo formula.
• Avoid heating the mixture above 80°C during the mixing process.
• The recommended usage rate for anti-dandruff shampoo is typically 0.5-1.0%. Please adhere to local regulations (e.g., FDA Thailand allows up to 1.0% for rinse-off products).

2. Natural Ingredients or Vitamins for Scalp Moisturization and Soothing

Several natural ingredients and vitamins can help moisturize and soothe a dry, flaky scalp while being gentle:

• Allantoin: Naturally found in the comfrey plant, Allantoin is known for its ability to reduce irritation and resist skin allergies. It can help soothe the scalp and support the creation of healthy tissue. It is considered safe and can be used in scalp care products like shampoo at a recommended rate of around 0.5% (as its solubility in water at room temperature is limited).
• Natural Moisturizing Amino Acids: This blend of amino acids and Sodium PCA mimics the skin's Natural Moisturizing Factors (NMF). It helps keep the skin and scalp soft and hydrated and can aid in healing. It can be used in scalp care products at 0.5-1% and is mixed into the water phase.
• MOIST72™: Derived from plant-based sugar molecules, MOIST72™ provides significant and long-lasting moisturization to the skin and scalp, helping to reduce dryness and peeling. It is water-soluble and typically used at 2-5%. It should be added in the final step of formulation below 40°C.
• Babassu Oil (Refined): As a natural oil, Babassu Oil is an excellent emollient and moisturizer. It is quickly absorbed and can help soothe dry, itchy, and irritated skin/scalp. It can be incorporated into your oil-based shampoo formula at various concentrations (1-100%).
• PCA Glyceryl Oleate: A 100% natural-based ingredient that acts as both a hair conditioner and skin moisturizer. It helps improve scalp hydration, strengthens the skin barrier, and reduces water loss. It is water-soluble and used at 0.1-2.0%.
• Licorice Extract (Water-Soluble): Contains Licochalcone A, which has strong anti-inflammatory and anti-irritant properties. It can help reduce scalp irritation, redness, and oiliness, which can contribute to dryness and flaking. It is water-soluble and recommended at 0.5-1.0% for reducing irritation.

When selecting ingredients, consider their solubility and compatibility with your natural oil-based shampoo formula. Combining a few of these moisturizing and soothing ingredients along with Dandruff-Guard can help create a shampoo that effectively addresses both dandruff and scalp dryness without causing irritation.