Herbal Shampoo Formulations Enriched with Phytoconstituents as Effective Alternatives to Ketoconazole: Comparative Physicochemical and Antifungal Evaluation Against Malassezia furfur

This study developed and evaluated 11 herbal shampoo formulations enriched with phytoconstituents as alternatives to ketoconazole for managing seborrheic dermatitis. The formulations, containing eugenol, rutin, menthol, and camphor, showed antifungal efficacy comparable to ketoconazole by inhibiting ergosterol, with IC50 values similar to the standard. They also exhibited superior detergency, foam characteristics, and dirt dispersion, without causing dermal irritation, unlike ketoconazole, which can lead to adverse effects such as alopecia. These findings suggest that phytoconstituent-enriched shampoos offer a safer, effective alternative for treating seborrheic dermatitis.