Below is every ingredient in Triple Actives Anti-Dandruff Scalp Serum - 50ml explained, its standout actives, and the side effects reported in research for those actives — analysed for Indian skin.
Flags derived from the ingredient list using dermatology reference data (fungal-acne substrate, comedogenicity, EU allergens). General guidance, not a diagnosis.
Answers are derived from the printed ingredient list and dermatology reference data — general guidance, not a diagnosis or a therapeutic claim.
Salicylic acid is a lipid-soluble beta-hydroxy acid that exfoliates the skin surface and penetrates sebaceous pores to loosen and dissolve keratin and debris. It is widely used to treat acne, blackheads, and conditions involving thickened or scaly skin.
Piroctone olamine is an antifungal compound commonly used in shampoos and scalp products to control Malassezia yeast associated with dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis. It is also used as a preservative and to help regulate sebum-related scalp conditions.
Climbazole is a topical azole antifungal commonly used in shampoos and scalp treatments to control Malassezia yeast associated with dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis. It is also used as a preservative-boosting and anti-microbial agent in some cosmetic formulations.
Zinc PCA is the zinc salt of pyrrolidone carboxylic acid used in skincare to help control excess sebum, support antimicrobial activity, and provide mild hydration. It is commonly included in products targeting oily and acne-prone skin.
Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Extract is a plant-derived ingredient rich in polyphenols such as rosmarinic acid and carnosic acid, valued for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties in skincare. It is commonly used to help protect against free-radical damage and may provide mild antimicrobial benefits.
Salvia officinalis (sage) extract is a plant-derived ingredient rich in polyphenols, rosmarinic acid, and essential oil compounds, used in skincare for its antioxidant, antimicrobial, astringent, and anti-inflammatory properties. It is commonly included to help soothe skin, reduce oiliness, and provide mild preservative-boosting effects.
Aggregated from the active ingredients in this product.
| Reported effect | How often | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Mild skin dryness or tightness | Uncommon | More likely with high concentrations or frequent use on already dry skin. |
| Skin irritation or redness | Rare | Generally considered low-irritant; possible in sensitive individuals or with prolonged contact. |
| Eye irritation | Rare | Can cause stinging if cleanser enters the eyes. |
| Allergic contact dermatitis | Very rare | Sensitization is uncommon but has been occasionally reported. |
| Skin or eye irritation | Uncommon | Mild stinging or irritation, more likely in concentrated or rinse-off products and around the eyes. |
| Cross-reactivity with related surfactants | Rare | Patch-test reactions may overlap with chemically related amphoteric or amine-containing surfactants. |
| Skin irritation or sensitivity | Rare | Generally considered non-irritating; occasional mild reactions reported in sensitive individuals. |
| Contact dermatitis or allergic reaction | Very rare | Silicones are considered low-allergenicity; documented allergic responses are uncommon. |
| Comedogenic effects / clogged pores | Rare | Largely regarded as non-comedogenic, though some acne-prone users report buildup with heavy use. |
| Product buildup on skin or hair | Uncommon | Film-forming nature may lead to perceived residue if not adequately cleansed. |
| Mild transient skin dryness | Uncommon | Possible with frequent use or high concentrations, generally less than with sulfate surfactants |
| Skin irritation or stinging | Rare | Reported infrequently, typically in already compromised or very sensitive skin |
| Skin irritation | Common | Anionic surfactants can cause dryness, stinging or irritation, especially with high concentration or prolonged contact. |
| Contact dermatitis | Uncommon | Allergic or irritant dermatitis reported in sensitive individuals. |
| Nitrosamine formation concern | Rare | TEA-based ingredients can theoretically form nitrosamines if combined with nitrosating agents; a formulation/safety consideration rather than a direct user reaction. |
Frequencies reflect typical cosmetic use reported in the literature, not a guarantee for your skin.
| Ingredient | What it does |
|---|---|
| Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate Mild surfactant/cleansing agent | Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate is a gentle, coconut-derived anionic surfactant widely used in syndet cleansing bars and facial cleansers to produce a creamy lather while being milder than traditional soaps. It cleanses by emulsifying oils and debris with relatively low irritation potential. |
| Cocamidopropyl Betaine Surfactant / foaming cleanser | Cocamidopropyl Betaine is an amphoteric surfactant derived from coconut oil and dimethylaminopropylamine, used in cleansers, shampoos, and body washes to provide gentle foaming, viscosity, and to reduce the harshness of stronger anionic surfactants. It is widely regarded as mild but is a recognized contact allergen. |
| Dimethiconol Emollient/silicone conditioning agent | Dimethiconol is a silicone-based polymer used in skincare and haircare to provide smoothing, conditioning, and a soft, non-greasy emollient feel. It forms a thin, breathable film that reduces moisture loss and improves spreadability of formulations. |
| Sodium Lauroyl Methyl Isethionate Mild surfactant/cleansing agent | Sodium Lauroyl Methyl Isethionate (SLMI) is a gentle anionic surfactant derived from coconut-based fatty acids and isethionic acid, used to cleanse and produce a soft, creamy lather in syndet bars, facial cleansers, and body washes. It is valued for its mildness relative to harsher sulfates and good compatibility with sensitive skin. |
| TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate Surfactant/cleansing agent | TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate is an anionic surfactant (the triethanolamine salt of dodecylbenzenesulfonic acid) used as a cleansing and emulsifying agent in rinse-off and some leave-on cosmetic formulations. It helps remove dirt and oil and contributes to foaming. |
| Salicylic Acid Key active Beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) exfoliant / keratolytic | Salicylic acid is a lipid-soluble beta-hydroxy acid that exfoliates the skin surface and penetrates sebaceous pores to loosen and dissolve keratin and debris. It is widely used to treat acne, blackheads, and conditions involving thickened or scaly skin. |
| Glycerin Humectant | Glycerin is a widely used humectant that attracts and retains water in the skin, helping to hydrate the stratum corneum and support barrier function. It is considered safe and well-tolerated across most skin types and concentrations. |
| Piroctone Olamine Key active Antifungal/anti-dandruff agent | Piroctone olamine is an antifungal compound commonly used in shampoos and scalp products to control Malassezia yeast associated with dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis. It is also used as a preservative and to help regulate sebum-related scalp conditions. |
| Climbazole Key active Antifungal/antidandruff agent | Climbazole is a topical azole antifungal commonly used in shampoos and scalp treatments to control Malassezia yeast associated with dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis. It is also used as a preservative-boosting and anti-microbial agent in some cosmetic formulations. |
| 3-Propanediol Humectant / solvent | 1,3-Propanediol is a naturally-derived glycol used in skincare as a humectant, solvent, and texture enhancer that helps boost skin hydration and improve the spreadability and stability of formulations. It is often produced via fermentation of corn sugar as a plant-based alternative to propylene glycol. |
| Zinc PCA Key active Sebum-regulating, antimicrobial | Zinc PCA is the zinc salt of pyrrolidone carboxylic acid used in skincare to help control excess sebum, support antimicrobial activity, and provide mild hydration. It is commonly included in products targeting oily and acne-prone skin. |
| Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride Conditioning agent / cationic polymer | Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride is a quaternized, cationic derivative of guar gum used in skincare and haircare as a conditioning, antistatic, and viscosity-modifying agent. It deposits on negatively charged skin and hair surfaces to improve softness, manageability, and texture. |
| Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Extract Key active Antioxidant / soothing botanical | Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Extract is a plant-derived ingredient rich in polyphenols such as rosmarinic acid and carnosic acid, valued for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties in skincare. It is commonly used to help protect against free-radical damage and may provide mild antimicrobial benefits. |
| Salvia Officinalis (Sage) Extract Key active Antioxidant/antimicrobial botanical extract | Salvia officinalis (sage) extract is a plant-derived ingredient rich in polyphenols, rosmarinic acid, and essential oil compounds, used in skincare for its antioxidant, antimicrobial, astringent, and anti-inflammatory properties. It is commonly included to help soothe skin, reduce oiliness, and provide mild preservative-boosting effects. |
| Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract Soothing/moisturizing agent | Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract is derived from the aloe vera plant and is used in skincare for its hydrating, soothing, and mild anti-inflammatory properties. It is commonly included as a supportive base ingredient rather than a primary treatment active. |
| Sodium PCA Humectant | Sodium PCA (sodium pyrrolidone carboxylic acid) is the sodium salt of pyroglutamic acid and a component of the skin's natural moisturizing factor (NMF). It is widely used in cosmetics as a water-binding humectant to hydrate and soften the skin. |
| Glycol Stearate Emollient / opacifying agent | Glycol stearate is the ester of ethylene glycol and stearic acid, used in cosmetics as an emollient, thickener, and pearlescent opacifying agent. It improves texture and gives products a smooth, creamy appearance. |
| Stearamidopropyl Dimethylamine Conditioning agent / emulsifier | Stearamidopropyl Dimethylamine is a fatty tertiary amine used primarily in hair conditioners and some skincare formulations as a conditioning agent and emulsifier, helping to reduce static and improve smoothness. It is also valued as a non-quaternary alternative to traditional cationic conditioners. |
| Sodium Benzoate Preservative | Sodium benzoate is a salt of benzoic acid used as a preservative in cosmetic and skincare formulations to inhibit the growth of bacteria, yeast, and fungi, particularly in acidic products. It is most effective at a pH below 5. |
| Mica Colorant/opacifying agent | Mica is a naturally occurring silicate mineral used in cosmetics as a colorant and light-reflecting pigment to add shimmer, opacity, and a smooth feel to formulations. It is considered inert and is widely used in makeup, sunscreens, and skincare products. |
| Acrylates Copolymer Film-former / texture enhancer | Acrylates Copolymer is a synthetic polymer used in skincare and cosmetics primarily as a film-forming agent, viscosity modifier, and to improve product texture and wear. It helps control sebum, provides a smooth feel, and stabilizes formulations. |
| Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate Chelating agent | Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate (Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, or HEDTA-type biodegradable chelator) is a biodegradable chelating agent used to bind metal ions in cosmetic formulations. By sequestering trace metals, it helps stabilize products, prevent discoloration and rancidity, and enhance the efficacy of preservatives and antioxidants. |
| Titanium Dioxide Key active UV filter / mineral sunscreen | Titanium dioxide is an inorganic mineral compound used primarily as a physical (mineral) sunscreen agent that reflects and scatters UV radiation, and also serves as a white pigment and opacifier in cosmetic formulations. It is broadly photostable and considered gentle, making it common in products for sensitive and pediatric skin. |
| Phenoxyethanol Preservative | Phenoxyethanol is a widely used broad-spectrum preservative that protects cosmetic and skincare formulations from bacterial and fungal contamination. It is typically used at concentrations up to 1% and serves as a formulation/base ingredient rather than an active treatment. |
| Menthol Key active Cooling agent / counterirritant | Menthol is a naturally occurring or synthetic compound derived from mint oils that produces a cooling sensation by activating TRPM8 receptors on the skin. It is used in topical products for its soothing, mild analgesic, and antipruritic effects. |
| Mentha Piperita Oil Fragrance/cooling agent | Mentha Piperita (peppermint) Oil is an essential oil derived from peppermint leaves, used in skincare primarily as a fragrance and cooling/refreshing agent due to its menthol content. It provides a tingling sensation but offers limited proven therapeutic benefit in topical formulations. |
| Sodium Hydroxide pH adjuster | Sodium hydroxide (lye) is a strong alkaline compound used in small amounts to adjust and stabilize the pH of cosmetic formulations. At regulated low concentrations in finished products it is considered safe, though it is corrosive in concentrated form. |
| Sodium Chloride Thickener / viscosity adjuster | Sodium chloride (table salt) is commonly used in cosmetics as a thickening and viscosity-control agent, particularly in surfactant-based cleansers, and also acts as a mild abrasive in scrubs. It is generally well tolerated and considered a formulation ingredient rather than a treatment active. |
| PEG-45M Thickener / viscosity modifier | PEG-45M (polyethylene glycol 45M, a high-molecular-weight polyethylene oxide) is a water-soluble polymer used in cosmetics primarily as a thickening, gelling, and texture-enhancing agent. It is considered a formulation/base ingredient rather than a therapeutic active. |
Key active = does the main work. Ingredient explanations are drawn from public databases & literature.
Peer-reviewed papers on the active ingredients in this product, via PubMed.