Score computed from verified review sentiment, ingredient efficacy, and cross-platform consistency.
Reviewed by Flash AI Editorial Team · Last updated March 2026.
Effectively eliminates and significantly reduces dandruff, with numerous users reporting substantial improvement or complete removal of flakes. This is supported by claims of antibacterial and antifungal properties from herbal ingredients, showing significant anti-dandruff activity.
Improves overall hair texture, leaving hair soft, silky, and manageable. Users report noticeable improvements in frizz reduction and manageability, with some experiencing these benefits from the first use or within a week.
Reduces scalp itching and inflammation, providing relief from discomfort. The serum nourishes the scalp and strengthens hair roots, contributing to healthier hair growth and reduced hair fall and breakage.
The serum formulation is well-designed with good rheological properties, ensuring it is easily spreadable and homogeneous. It absorbs quickly into the hair and scalp, leaving no noticeable smell and a lightweight, oil-like consistency.
The product caused increased dryness, flakiness, itching, and burning on the scalp for some users, indicating potential sensitivity or adverse reactions. A few users reported no significant improvement or even increased dandruff.
Some users experienced increased hair fall after using the serum, contradicting claims of hair growth and reduced breakage. Additionally, one user reported the serum feeling rough and not making hair soft.
A significant drawback is the strong, chemically, or paint-like smell reported by multiple users, which can be overpowering and unpleasant. This medicinal smell may detract from the user experience.
Flash AI analyzes thousands of reviews across Amazon, Nykaa, YouTube & Reddit, etc. to give you one honest score — and finds you the best price in India.
The Minimalist Anti-Dandruff Serum with Cph Complex and 0.8% Oligopeptide is a targeted scalp treatment designed to address dandruff, sebum buildup, and scalp irritation. Applied directly to the scalp before shampooing, it works by addressing the root causes of flaking rather than coating the scalp to mask symptoms. The serum stays on for one hour before rinsing, giving its active ingredients direct contact time with the scalp. With an AI Score of 90/100 on Flash AI and 240 verified reviews across 5 platforms, this serum has earned consistent recognition for its effectiveness against stubborn dandruff.
The formulation brings together five active ingredients. Salicylic Acid provides gentle exfoliation to clear dead skin buildup and keep the scalp surface clear. Capryloyl Glycine contributes antimicrobial properties to help maintain a balanced scalp environment. Climbazole and Elestab directly target dandruff-causing fungus, addressing the microbial root cause of flaking. Oligopeptide-29 works at the scalp level to support overall hair health. Glycerin adds moisture balance to counter the potential drying effect of the exfoliating actives. The serum is fragrance-free, essential oil-free, sulphate-free, and paraben-free, which makes it suitable for those who prefer clean formulations. Its non-greasy texture spreads easily and absorbs quickly into the scalp without leaving heavy residue.
This serum suits adults across all hair types, including damaged hair, who deal with dandruff, scalp itching, or sebum buildup. Verified reviewers frequently mention significant reductions in flaking, softer and more manageable hair, and relief from scalp discomfort, with some reporting improvements within the first week of consistent use. However, a portion of users experienced increased dryness, flakiness, or a burning sensation after starting use, indicating that sensitivity reactions are possible with the active ingredient combination. A few users also reported greater hair fall, and some found their scalp became oilier rather than less so. Multiple reviewers noted a strong chemical or medicinal smell, which is a notable drawback if you are sensitive to scent.
Priced between ₹399 and ₹599 across 15 sellers, this serum sits at an accessible price point for a multi-active scalp treatment. The combination of antifungal agents, a gentle exfoliant, and scalp-supporting peptides provides solid value at the ₹399 entry point, and review sentiment across platforms strongly supports its effectiveness for dandruff control and scalp health. Apply the serum 3-4 times a week to affected areas, one hour before shampooing, for best results. The Flash AI verdict: a well-formulated, no-frills scalp serum for adults dealing with persistent dandruff or scalp irritation. Patch test before full application, use it consistently, and allow a few weeks before assessing results.
"With a Flash AI Score of 90/100, Minimalist Anti-Dandruff Serum Cph Complex + Oligopeptide 0.8% 50 Ml earns its ranking through demonstrated, cross-platform results."
— Flash AI Editorial TeamMinimalist is an Indian skincare brand built around single-ingredient, high-efficacy formulations at accessible price points. Founded in 2020 and headquartered in Gurugram, it popularised ingredient-first skincare in India with products like 2% Salicylic Acid serum and 10% Niacinamide. Available across Amazon, Nykaa, Flipkart, and major Indian marketplaces.
| Features | Anti-Dandruff Serum Cph Complex | Max Care Cold Pressed Virgin Coconut Oil | Bajaj 100% Pure Coconut Oil - No Added |
|---|---|---|---|
| Key Ingredients | Salicylic Acid, Capryloyl Glycine, Climbazole, Elestab, Oligopeptide-29 | 100% Natural | Coconut Oil |
| Best For | Dandruff | ||
| Hair Type | Fragrance Free | — | — |
| Price From | ₹399 | ₹188 | ₹446 |
"Just got the serum today. Used it after washing my hair absorbs quickly and doesn?t leave any smell. I bought it mainly for itchiness and hair fall so will ..."
"From the first day I used this anti-dandruff serum, I noticed a big improvement. It’s a really good product with a reasonable price, and it’s worth even more than it costs. I highly recommend it to anyone suffering from dandruff and scalp itching definitely give it a try"
"The formula realy works n my daughter noticed 100% dandruff reduc..."
Apply the serum 3-4 times a week for best results. Part your hair in sections, apply directly to affected scalp areas, massage gently, and leave it on for one hour before rinsing with shampoo. You can use it in the morning or evening, timed to every shampoo session.
Yes, the serum is formulated for all hair types, including damaged hair. It specifically targets dandruff, scalp irritation, and excess sebum, making it relevant for oily scalps as well as those dealing with dryness-related flaking. The non-greasy formula is designed to avoid weighing hair down regardless of type.
Climbazole is an antifungal agent that directly targets the dandruff-causing fungus on the scalp. In this serum, it works as part of the Cph Complex alongside Elestab and Oligopeptide-29 to reduce fungal activity, which is a primary driver of persistent dandruff and scalp flaking.
Based on verified reviewer feedback, many users report noticeable reductions in dandruff and scalp irritation within the first week of consistent use. For more significant improvement, applying the serum 3-4 times a week over several consecutive weeks gives the active ingredients sufficient time to deliver meaningful results.
Yes, some users have reported increased dryness, flakiness, burning, or scalp irritation after use. A few users also reported increased hair fall after starting the serum. If your scalp is sensitive or reactive, patch test on a small area before applying across the full scalp. Discontinue use and consult a dermatologist if irritation persists.
Unlike a shampoo that rinses off within minutes, this serum stays on your scalp for one hour before washing, giving the active ingredients more direct contact time. It combines Salicylic Acid for exfoliation, Climbazole and Elestab for antifungal action, and Oligopeptide-29 for scalp support, which is a more targeted multi-ingredient approach than most standard anti-dandruff shampoos.
This serum is available across 15 sellers, with prices starting from ₹399. Platforms like Amazon India, Flipkart, and Nykaa typically list this product and run periodic offers, so comparing prices across these before purchasing helps you find the best available deal.
The serum has a non-greasy, lightweight, oil-like consistency that spreads easily and absorbs quickly into the scalp. Positive reviewers describe it as comfortable to use with little noticeable residue. However, some users found it made their scalp feel oilier than expected, and multiple reviewers noted a strong chemical or medicinal odour that can be off-putting for those sensitive to scent.
Salicylic Acid at cosmetic concentrations is widely used for scalp exfoliation and is generally considered safe for regular adult use. However, some reviewers of this serum did report increased dryness or flaking after use. If you notice these signs, reducing application frequency is advisable. Consult a dermatologist if irritation is persistent or severe.
The serum is free from sulphates, parabens, and essential oils, and the specs list it as suitable for all hair types. However, the product specifications do not explicitly address compatibility with colour-treated hair. If your hair is colour-treated, consult your stylist before introducing active ingredients like Salicylic Acid and Climbazole into your scalp routine.
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