Scalp microbiome

The scalp microbiome is a complex ecosystem of microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, and viruses, that inhabit the human scalp and play a vital role in maintaining dermatological health (Grimshaw et al., 2016). It is primarily dominated by bacterial genera such as Cutibacterium and Staphylococcus, alongside fungal species of the genus Malassezia, which thrive in the sebum-rich environment of the scalp (Saxena et al., 2018). This microbial community contributes to the skin's physical barrier, modulates local immune responses, and protects against colonization by pathogenic organisms. Dysbiosis, or an imbalance in these microbial populations, is a key factor in the pathogenesis of common scalp conditions like dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis, and is increasingly linked to hair loss disorders such as alopecia (Clavaud et al., 2013). Therapeutic interventions targeting the scalp microbiome often utilize antifungal agents to manage Malassezia overgrowth or prebiotics and probiotics to restore a healthy microbial equilibrium and reduce inflammation.

Other names

Scalp microbiotaScalp floraScalp microbial community

Inhibition of fungal cell wall synthesis (e.g., ergosterol inhibition by azoles), reduction of microbial oxidative stress, and modulation of the bacterial-to-fungal ratio to restore homeostatic diversity.