FERMENZA: A Patented Natural Alternative to Ketoconazole and Zinc Pyrithione for Managing Dandruff and Scalp Disorders

Background: Dandruff and related scalp disorders, often caused by Malassezia furfur, pose significant dermatological challenges. This study evaluates FERMENZA®, a novel, patented formulation derived from pomegranate and beetroot fermented extracts, as a natural alternative to synthetic agents like ketoconazole and zinc pyrithione. Methodology and Results: In this study, mixed substrate fermentation was utilized for synergistic effect on bioactivity of natural fruits and vegetable extracts. The pomegranate-beetroot fermented extract demonstrated impressive antifungal efficacy against Malassezia furfur MTCC 1374, with percent inhibition of 96% and 86.7% compared to active pharmaceutical ingredients ketoconazole and zinc pyrithione, respectively. The investigational formulation FERMENZA® derived from pomegranate and beetroot fermented extract exhibited the highest zone of inhibition (ZOI) of 28 ± 0.12 mm, outperforming marketed products A and B lotions by achieving 93 ± 0.04% and 60 ± 0.09% inhibition, respectively. Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) studies revealed potent activity of the formulation at 8mg/ml. The MIC90 value was observed at 20µg/mL achieving 92 ± 0.01% inhibition compared to ketoconazole. A time-kill assay highlighted the superior antifungal potency of FERMENZA® against M. furfur, significantly reducing fungal growth intensity within 48 hours, starting from 6 hours of incubation. The mechanism of fungicidal action is attributed to gallic acid, a key active component of pomegranate and beetroot fermented extract which disrupts fungal cell structures.Conclusion: Efficacy and sensory evaluation confirmed FERMENZA®’s ability to alleviate dandruff, itching, flaking, and scaling within 10 days, with moderate benefits in reducing hairfall. These results underscore FERMENZA®'s potential as a comprehensive, natural solution for managing dandruff and scalp disorders, providing a safer alternative to synthetic antifungal agents.