The skinification of scalp care: How Unilever’s expertise delivers on demand

Unilever Power Brands Dove and CLEAR are capitalising on this soaring consumer demand with the skinification of scalp care, combining advanced skincare ingredients and fully proven results in high-performance shampoos, conditioners, tonics and treatments. These new targeted solutions go beyond generic products to address issues such as scalp irritation and dandruff – and they’re boosting business growth.

The products are pioneering, but Unilever’s Science & Technology team have been exploring the biology behind common scalp concerns like dandruff and follicle health for more than 50 years. With more than 80 scientific publications and 50+ patents in this space, our expertise is built on decades of superior science and rigorous research to understand the scalp and skin issues underpinned by common or distinct biological pathways.

Focusing on the health of the scalp as the foundation for achieving a healthier scalp and stronger hair, our brands are applying skincare ingredients such as niacinamide (vitamin B3) and ceramide precursor technology to scalp care to help build the scalp barrier integrity, enhance hydration and reduce irritation. And we’re leveraging our extensive research on the skin microbiome for future hair and scalp care, providing holistic solutions for beauty and wellbeing.

“We know consumers are increasingly seeking holistic care that provides proven dermatological efficacy while also offering indulgent textures and fragrances as well as stylish packaging,” explains Eric Han, Unilever Head of R&D, Beauty & Wellbeing, North Asia and Global Scalp Innovation Lead.

“The scalp care sector is undergoing a premiumisation shift, especially within the masstige segment. That’s exactly what our brands are delivering.”

Here’s how we’re setting a new standard in scalp care.

The scalp science shaping Dove’s new range

Launched in Indonesia on October 2025, Dove’s Hairfall Control range was tested dermatologically to expand Dove’s hair expertise to the scalp – improving its condition and function to reducing hairfall.

As the scalp is also skin, the range is powered by skincare-inspired ingredients and Dynazinc™ Complex+, proprietary technology from Dove, designed to strengthen the scalp’s barrier function and maintain a healthy foundation for stronger hair.

Each variant is enriched with tailored ingredients to address different scalp needs: Biotin for dry scalps, Micellar for oily scalps, Niacinamide for dandruff-prone scalps, and Hyaluron for sensitive scalps. All variants are further enhanced with Ceramide, known to help reinforce the scalp barrier and maintain optimal scalp condition.

The result? hair is stronger with up to 99% less hair fall due to breakage, and is clinically tested to grow +2,700 strands of hair within four weeks.^[b]

CLEAR’s cutting-edge ScalpPro Tech™ technology

Dandruff affects 50% of the world’s population^[c], with a similar figure found in Indonesia at 44.3%^[d] – placing the prevalence of dandruff in our country at the 4th rank after China, India, and the United States.^[e]

To address this, CLEAR unveiled its latest breakthrough innovation through CLEAR Anti-Dandruff Scalp Tonic, powered by its best scalp technology, CLEAR ScalpPro Tech™. Developed through CLEAR’s Scalp Derma Research platform and backed by insights from over 1,100 dermatologists, this technology is designed to strengthen the scalp’s barrier function and is dermatologically proven to combat dandruff while helping prevent its recurrence.

Formulated with Piroctone Olamine to target dandruff, CLEAR offers a lightweight feel on the scalp, with a cooling sensation that helps keep scalp feeling clean and fresh throughout the day. CLEAR’s broader approach to scalp care complements the use of shampoo to maintain long-term scalp health. When used in combination with CLEAR shampoo, the CLEAR scalp tonic is 91% more effective at fighting dandruff^[h].

Beyond treating dandruff, CLEAR continues the focus to strengthening the scalp’s barrier condition. Powered by ScalpPro Tech™—featuring Piroctone Olamine, now 40% more effective, and 10X Niacinamide^[g]—the formula helps build a stronger, healthier scalp. Available across the full CLEAR shampoo range, this advanced technology works to reduce dandruff recurrence and keep flakes from coming back.

Contributing to global scalp care studies

Insights from Unilever’s comprehensive studies of scalp biology were included in a landmark book, launched at the 2025 European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology (EADV) Congress in Paris. The new CLEAR Scalp Health Science and Research guide consolidates decades of dermatological research from over 1,000 experts and more than 350 peer-reviewed publications.

Unilever has also invested in one of the biggest multi-dimensional studies of textured hair in history, and we shared findings from this at the EADV event. The pioneering ‘Bridges Study’ incorporated both clinical and consumer studies to link consumer perception with biological findings – a vital way to ensure consumers are perceiving the differences in scalp health that we see in biological tests.

Bridges comprised 1,400 participants and applied advanced analytical techniques and next-generation multiomics – a biological analysis approach – exploring genes, proteins and metabolites. This provided a wide breadth of insights, including discoveries on scalp barrier integrity and function that will help us shape personalised hair and scalp solutions in the future.

Frequently Asked Questions

• How often should CLEAR shampoo be used for optimal results?

  For optimal results, CLEAR shampoo is recommended to be used regularly according to the instructions on the packaging, especially for people who are active or tend to sweat easily. It is also important to make sure that the hair and scalp are completely dry after washing, particularly before wearing a hijab, hat, or helmet, to prevent trapped moisture that can trigger dandruff.

• Is CLEAR suitable for sensitive scalps?

  CLEAR products are developed through a series of dermatological tests, making them suitable for various scalp types, including sensitive scalps. However, since each person’s scalp condition may differ, if any incompatibility or discomfort occurs, it is advisable to stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional or doctor for appropriate advice.

• How does CLEAR ensure the safety and quality of its products?

  CLEAR ensures the safety and quality of its products through a structured development process, starting from ingredient selection, formulation, and manufacturing, as well as benefit testing and relevant assessments to ensure the products meet regulatory requirements and industry standards. Therefore, all CLEAR products can be used as part of a daily hair care routine.