Abstract
Dandruff, also known as seborrhea sicca, pityriasis capitis or sicca capitis, can be defined as chronic non-inflammatory scaling of the scalp, or an abnormality in the desquamation process which occurs on the scalp (Willet, 2010). It is said that dandruff affects at least 50% of the world’s adult population and about 15 – 20% of the world’s total population (Prambhamanju et al., 2009). Dandruff is usually marked by flaking as well as itching and irritation of the scalp which can also lead to greasiness. Dandruff can lead to physiological and psychological issues and can be very distressing and embarrassing for sufferers, causing low self-esteem and social problems (Nowicki, 2006).
According to the literature, pale sulphonated shale oil has widespread dermatological uses as it is believed to have anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial and anti-seborrheic properties (Lunar Pharmaceutics, 2014).
The aim of the study was to ascertain the effect of sodium shale oil sulphonate 1% shampoo on the appearance of dandruff. Forty participants completed the study and participants were of both genders between the ages of 18 and 45. The study compromised of 16 days with 3 visits each 8 days apart.
The study design consisted of double-blind, placebo-controlled study where participants were grouped into matching pairs based on the severity of the condition. Participants were then randomly assigned to the treatment or placebo group. At each visit, participants were assessed using the following assessment measures: a Visual Analogue Scale for the participant comprising of scaling, irritation, itching, greasiness and global impression; a Visual Analogue Scale for the researcher comprising of scaling, irritation, greasiness and global impression as well as an Adherent Scalp Flake Score grading completed by the researcher.
Parametric and non-parametric analyses were used and the results of the study demonstrated overall statistically significant improvement in all parameters for the treatment and placebo groups but the extent of improvement was greater in the treatment group. However, at individual visits, only certain parameters expressed statistically significant changes when compared to the placebo group...
M.Tech. (Homoeopathy)