Givaudan Active Beauty unveils saffron petal-based ingredient to tackle dandruff

SWITZERLAND – Givaudan Active Beauty, a Swiss manufacturer of fragrances and active cosmetic ingredients, has introduced DandErase, a botanical active ingredient that eliminates dandruff and promotes scalp health.

DandErase inhibits the growth of Malassezia, a fungus naturally present in the skin microbiota.

It prevents overgrowth triggered by environmental factors and restores scalp balance for long-lasting anti-dandruff effects.

This ingredient is derived from saffron petals harvested in Morocco.

Clinical trials have shown that DandErase can eliminate up to 95% of dandruff within three days. 

Romain Reynaud, R&D director at Givaudan Active Beauty, said, “DandErase is a 100% natural origin, low-carbon botanical active developed as part of our circular beauty strategy.” 

“Selected from hundreds of candidates, it harnesses the power of precious, potent, and rare upcycled crocus flowers infused with unique molecules.”

According to Givaudan, the molecule targets both the root causes and symptoms of dandruff by reducing inflammation and redness, alleviating itching and scalp discomfort, and restoring the skin barrier function.

Givaudan utilises its green fractionation technology to extract the dandruff-fighting molecule from saffron at its Green Fractionation Centre of Excellence in Avignon, France. 

This facility employs biomimetic technologies and Natural Deep Eutectic Solvents to selectively extract compounds based on their physical or chemical properties. 

This product’s introduction comes as the personal care industry increasingly focuses on botanical ingredient innovations. 

According to Innova Market Insights, 28% of consumers now prioritize natural products when purchasing beauty and personal care items. 

This shift in consumer preference is driven by a growing awareness of the benefits of natural ingredients, which are perceived to be safer, more effective, and environmentally friendly.

Market data reveals that Asia is at the forefront of this trend, leading global product launches with botanical claims at 43%, followed by Europe, which accounts for 33% of such launches.

The high percentage of Asian botanical claims can be attributed to the region’s rich heritage of using plant-based ingredients in traditional medicine and beauty practices.

In Europe, the demand for botanical ingredients is also strong, with consumers becoming more conscious of the environmental impact of their beauty and personal care products.

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