Calming Seborrheic Serum
Calming Seborrheic Serum
Product Description
A patent-pending, all-in-one serum that disrupts fungal biofilm, clears away Malassezia yeast, and soothes irritated skin without feeding the fungus. Specifically formulated for seborrheic dermatitis, dandruff, and fungal acne on scalp, face, and body.
β¨ Texture & Feel
Biofilm Disruption Technology
Xylitol and colloidal silver break down the protective biofilm shield that Malassezia yeast creates, making it vulnerable to treatment.
Natural Antifungal Action
Tea tree oil, grapefruit seed extract, and Dead Sea salt work synergistically to clear away fungal overgrowth without harsh chemicals.
Oil-Free Hydration
Hyaluronic acid, 200x concentrated aloe vera, and urea deeply hydrate without feeding the fungus like traditional oils do.
Skin Barrier Repair
Niacinamide (3%) strengthens the skin barrier, reduces redness, and helps prevent future flare-ups while calming inflammation.
π‘οΈ Safety & Compatibility
No retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or other pregnancy-restricted ingredients. Safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Specifically designed for Malassezia-prone skin. Contains no ferments, fatty acids, esters, or polysorbates that feed fungal overgrowth.
Oil-free, water-based formula with a comedogenic rating of 0. Will not clog pores or cause breakouts.
Contains tea tree and rosemary essential oils. May cause temporary tingling or mild burning during active flare-ups. Perform patch test before full application.
Formulated specifically for seborrheic dermatitis, dandruff, and fungal acne. Not intended for eczema, rosacea, or other inflammatory conditions.
Sulfate-free formula is gentle on color-treated, keratin-treated, and chemically-processed hair.
π¬ Ingredient Breakdown
π§ͺ Urea 5% Proven
A powerful humectant and mild keratolytic agent that draws moisture into the skin while gently exfoliating dead skin cells. Clinically proven to help manage seborrheic dermatitis and other dry skin conditions.
- Function: Moisturizes, exfoliates, enhances ingredient penetration
- Research: Studies show 5-10% urea is effective for seborrheic dermatitis management
- Benefit: Helps soften and remove flaky scales while hydrating
β¨ Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) 3% Proven
A multitasking vitamin that strengthens the skin barrier, regulates sebum production, reduces redness, and has anti-inflammatory properties. Well-tolerated by sensitive skin types.
- Function: Barrier repair, anti-inflammatory, sebum regulation
- Research: Shown to improve skin barrier function and reduce inflammation
- Benefit: Calms redness and helps prevent future flare-ups
πΏ Tea Tree Oil Natural Proven
A well-researched essential oil with potent antifungal and antibacterial properties. Effective against Malassezia yeast that causes seborrheic dermatitis and dandruff.
- Function: Antifungal, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory
- Research: Clinical studies confirm efficacy against Malassezia species
- Benefit: Helps eliminate fungal overgrowth causing flakes and irritation
π¬ Xylitol Active Promising
A sugar alcohol that disrupts biofilm formation. Malassezia yeast creates a protective biofilm that shields it from antifungal treatments - xylitol helps break this barrier down.
- Function: Biofilm disruption, antimicrobial
- Research: Studies show xylitol inhibits biofilm formation
- Benefit: Makes Malassezia vulnerable to antifungal ingredients
π Dead Sea Salt Active Proven
Rich in minerals with natural antifungal and antibacterial properties. Helps cleanse the scalp and skin while providing therapeutic benefits for inflammatory skin conditions.
- Function: Antifungal, mineral-rich, cleansing
- Research: Dead Sea minerals shown beneficial for skin conditions
- Benefit: Supports natural clearing of fungal overgrowth
π§ Hyaluronic Acid Active Proven
A powerful humectant that holds up to 1000x its weight in water. Provides intense hydration without oils that could feed Malassezia yeast.
- Function: Deep hydration, plumping, barrier support
- Research: Well-established moisturizing ingredient
- Benefit: Oil-free hydration safe for fungal-prone skin
12 ingredients
Water, Sodium Chloride (Sea Salt), Xylitol, Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM), Urea, Niacinamide, Colloidal Silver, Sodium Hyaluronate, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Citrus Grandis (Grapefruit) Seed Extract, Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Oil, Limonene* (*natural allergen from essential oils)
π Where It Fits in Your Routine
Best used as an overnight treatment. Apply before bed and rinse in the morning. For scalp: apply 2+ hours before washing hair.
π How to Use
Apply Generously
Apply a generous amount of serum to affected areas of scalp or face before bed, making sure to cover all irritated skin.
Massage In
Gently massage the formula into your skin or scalp. Take your time to ensure full coverage of affected areas.
Leave Overnight
Allow the serum to absorb overnight (at least 2 hours minimum). For face, the ingredients will absorb fully.
Rinse & Style
In the morning, rinse hair with water or wash with a Malassezia-safe shampoo. For face, continue with your regular routine.
π€ Who Is It For?
β Perfect for you if:
- You have seborrheic dermatitis on scalp or face
- You struggle with persistent dandruff that won't go away
- You have fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis)
- Traditional dandruff treatments haven't worked for you
- You want an oil-free treatment option
- You have flaking around nose, eyebrows, or ears
- You prefer steroid-free, natural solutions
- You have color-treated or chemically processed hair
β Consider alternatives if:
- You have eczema (atopic dermatitis) without fungal component
- You have rosacea or other non-Malassezia conditions
- You are allergic to tea tree or essential oils
- You need immediate daytime styling (leaves wet look)
- You prefer unscented products (has tea tree scent)
- You haven't been diagnosed with a Malassezia condition
π― Skin Type Compatibility
Oil-free formula is ideal for oily, sebum-heavy skin. Helps regulate sebum production without adding greasiness.
Provides hydration through hyaluronic acid and aloe. May need additional Malassezia-safe moisturizer for very dry skin.
Water-based formula works well on combination skin. Can be applied to oily T-zone and dry areas equally well.
Free from common irritants. Contains essential oils which may tingle on very sensitive or inflamed skin. Patch test first.
Non-comedogenic, fungal acne safe formula. Specifically designed to not clog pores or feed Malassezia yeast.
π Results Timeline
Initial Relief
Immediate soothing sensation. Some users report reduced itching within the first few applications. Mild tingling may occur during active flare-ups.
65% noticed improvementVisible Improvement
Significant reduction in flaking and redness. Scalp feels calmer, itching substantially reduced. Many users see clear skin emerging.
78% noticed improvementMajor Progress
Flakes nearly eliminated for most users. Redness and inflammation significantly calmed. Skin texture improving and less irritated.
89% noticed improvementMaintenance Phase
Can reduce frequency to 2-3x weekly for maintenance. Continued use prevents flare-ups. Long-term users report lasting relief.
92% maintain resultsβ Ratings by Platform
βοΈ Pros & Cons
β Praised
- Fast-acting relief - many see results within first week
- Specifically formulated for Malassezia conditions
- Oil-free formula won't feed fungal overgrowth
- Can be used on scalp, face, and body
- Steroid-free and dermatologist recommended
- Works for textured and color-treated hair
- Clean ingredient list with only 12 ingredients
- 60-day money-back guarantee
β Criticized
- Higher price point than drugstore alternatives
- Can cause temporary burning during active flares
- Leaves slightly wet/gel appearance (not for daytime styling)
- Tea tree scent may not appeal to everyone
- Requires overnight use for best results
- 4oz bottle may run out quickly with daily use
- Not formulated for eczema or rosacea
π° Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)
Simple single-ingredient option. Provides Malassezia-safe moisture but lacks the biofilm-disrupting and antifungal ingredients. Best as a moisturizing step after treatment.
Contains zinc pyrithione antifungal but also has some oils. More accessible pricing but not specifically Malassezia-safe formulated.
Similar concept with MCT oil base and tea tree. UK-based brand with comparable Malassezia-safe approach. Contains different botanical extracts.
Homemade option with similar antifungal ingredients. Missing the precise formulation, biofilm disruptors, and soothing agents. Results vary.
π Comparison with Competitors
Dermazen Calming Serum (This Product)
$39.95Briogeo Scalp Revival Treatment
$32.00Seb Skincare Calming Serum
$28.00Nizoral A-D Shampoo
$15.99π¦ Storage & Shelf Life
12 months after opening
Store in cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. No refrigeration required.
Squeeze bottle with nozzle applicator for easy scalp application
Yes, 4oz size is TSA-compliant for carry-on luggage
β Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, this serum is considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, benzoyl peroxide, or other ingredients commonly restricted during pregnancy. The formula uses natural antifungals like tea tree oil and grapefruit seed extract which are generally considered safe. However, always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new skincare product during pregnancy.
Yes, this serum is specifically designed to be Malassezia-safe. It was formulated by and for people with Malassezia-related skin conditions including fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis), seborrheic dermatitis, and dandruff. The formula is completely oil-free and contains no fatty acids, fermented ingredients, esters, or polysorbates that could feed Malassezia yeast. It actively works to clear fungal overgrowth.
Yes, but with caution. Since this serum contains urea (a mild exfoliant) and tea tree oil, combining with other active ingredients like retinol, vitamin C, or chemical exfoliants (AHA/BHA) may increase sensitivity. It's best to use this serum at night as an overnight treatment and use other actives in the morning, or on alternate nights. If you experience irritation, reduce frequency or alternate products.
This serum is excellent for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types dealing with seborrheic dermatitis, dandruff, or fungal acne. The oil-free, water-based formula won't add greasiness. It's also suitable for dry and sensitive skin, though those with very dry skin may want to follow with a Malassezia-safe moisturizer. Not recommended for eczema, rosacea, or non-Malassezia inflammatory conditions.
Most users report noticeable improvement within the first week of consistent use. Initial relief from itching can occur within 1-3 days. Significant reduction in flaking and redness typically happens by week 2-4. For best results, use consistently for at least 4 weeks before evaluating effectiveness. Some users see dramatic improvement in as little as 5-7 days.
For face: Apply after cleansing and toning, before moisturizer. Best used at night as an overnight treatment - the ingredients will absorb while you sleep. For scalp: Apply before bed to affected areas and rinse in the morning (or at least 2 hours before washing). Can also be used as a leave-in treatment for those with textured hair.
No, this serum has a comedogenic rating of 0 and will not clog pores. The formula is completely oil-free and water-based, containing no comedogenic ingredients. It's specifically designed for acne-prone and fungal acne-affected skin. The ingredients actively work to keep pores clear rather than congesting them.
The serum has a PAO (Period After Opening) of 12 months. Once opened, use within one year for optimal effectiveness. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. The 4oz bottle typically lasts 4-8 weeks with daily use on scalp, or longer if using only on facial areas or for maintenance (2-3x weekly).
Verdict: Dermazen Calming Seborrheic Serum is a highly effective, targeted treatment for those specifically dealing with Malassezia-related skin conditions. Its unique biofilm-disrupting technology and oil-free formula set it apart from generic dandruff treatments. While the price point is higher than drugstore options, the specialized formulation and proven results justify the investment for those who have struggled with persistent seborrheic dermatitis. Best for: anyone with diagnosed seb derm, stubborn dandruff, or fungal acne who wants a steroid-free, dermatologist-recommended solution.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skinβs own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging Β«promisesΒ» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Anti-Aging from 2 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 2 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 2 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting from 1 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 |
Urea
Humectant, Skin Conditioning, Buffering
|
Hydrating
Texture
|
|
| 1 |
Niacinamide
Skin Conditioning, Hair Conditioning, Smoothing
|
Brightening
Ache-fighting
Anti-Aging
Promotes Wound Healing
Redness
Irritation
Dark Spots
Pores
|
|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 0 |
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice
Skin Conditioning
|
Hydrating
Redness
Irritation
|
|
| 0 |
Colloidal Silver
Antimicrobial
|
|