Kerastase Symbiose

Kérastase Symbiose was developed to address dandruff as a scalp health condition rather than simply a cosmetic concern. The range targets the underlying causes of dandruff — scalp microbiome imbalance, excess sebum, and skin cell turnover irregularities — rather than managing visible flakes as a symptom. By restoring the scalp's natural balance, Symbiose delivers long-lasting results that go beyond what a standard anti-dandruff shampoo can achieve.

The range is built around two clinically proven anti-dandruff actives. Piroctone Olamine targets the Malassezia fungus responsible for dandruff at the microbiological level, reducing flake production at the source. Salicylic Acid exfoliates the scalp surface, removing existing flakes and dead skin cell buildup that blocks follicles and contributes to scalp discomfort. The combination of these actives with Kérastase's signature nourishing formulas makes Symbiose one of the most effective — and most luxurious — anti-dandruff systems available.

Bain Crème Anti-Pelliculaire Shampoo: The Symbiose shampoo for dry, sensitive scalps prone to dandruff. A creamy, nourishing formula that eliminates flakes while soothing scalp irritation and dryness simultaneously. Suitable for scalps where dandruff is accompanied by dryness, tightness, or sensitivity rather than excess oil.

Bain Pureté Anti-Pelliculaire Shampoo: The Symbiose shampoo for oily scalps prone to dandruff. A purifying formula that removes excess sebum and eliminates flakes without drying — rebalancing the scalp for a cleaner, fresher, less congested environment. Suitable for scalps where dandruff is accompanied by greasiness or visible scalp oil.

Fondant Apaisant Essentiel Conditioner: A soothing rinse-out conditioner that hydrates and detangles hair while calming scalp irritation at the lengths. Extends the soothing effect of the Symbiose shampoo from scalp to ends — particularly beneficial for sensitised scalps where irritation accompanies dandruff. Use after every Symbiose shampoo.

Micro-Peeling Cellulaire Scalp Scrub: A targeted exfoliating scalp treatment that removes existing flakes, dead skin cells, and product buildup in one application. Used in place of shampoo once or twice weekly — apply to damp scalp, massage, leave for 3 minutes, then rinse before using the Symbiose shampoo. Significantly accelerates visible flake removal and improves the effectiveness of the anti-dandruff shampoos that follow.

Sérum Nuit Intensif Overnight Serum: An intensive leave-in scalp serum applied before bed. Works overnight to deliver concentrated anti-dandruff actives to the scalp during rest — the extended contact time maximises the effect of Piroctone Olamine and accelerates scalp rebalancing. Applied to a clean, dry scalp and left in overnight. Most effective as a course treatment during the first 4-6 weeks of the Symbiose routine.

Select Bain Crème for dry or sensitive dandruff-prone scalps, or Bain Pureté for oily dandruff-prone scalps — use at every wash. Apply Fondant Apaisant after every shampoo. Use Micro-Peeling Cellulaire once or twice weekly before shampooing for accelerated flake removal. Apply Sérum Nuit to a clean scalp before bed 2-3 times per week during the first month, then reduce to once weekly for maintenance. Most clients notice significant flake reduction within 2 weeks of consistent use of the full system.

Symbiose is Kérastase's dedicated clinical anti-dandruff range — formulated to address dandruff as a scalp health condition with pharmaceutical-grade actives, not simply mask it. Unlike pharmacy anti-dandruff shampoos that compromise on sensory quality, Symbiose delivers the same Kérastase luxury experience alongside clinical efficacy. For scalp concerns that are more about sensitivity or oil balance without dandruff, Kérastase Spécifique is the more appropriate range. When dandruff is accompanied by significant thinning, Symbiose and Spécifique can be used in combination.

Which Symbiose shampoo is right for me — Bain Crème or Bain Pureté? The choice is based on your scalp's oil level, not the severity of your dandruff. If your scalp feels dry, tight, or irritated alongside dandruff, choose Bain Crème. If your scalp feels oily, greasy, or congested alongside dandruff, choose Bain Pureté. If you are unsure, our Kérastase-trained stylists at any Partners Hair salon can assess your scalp and recommend the right option.

How quickly does Symbiose eliminate dandruff? Most clients notice a significant reduction in visible flakes within 2 weeks of consistent use. The Micro-Peeling Cellulaire scrub used in the first week accelerates visible improvement by removing existing flake buildup immediately. For complete dandruff elimination and long-term scalp rebalancing, 4-6 weeks of the full system delivers the most sustained results.

Is Kérastase Symbiose safe for colour-treated hair? Yes — both Symbiose shampoos are safe for colour-treated hair. The formulas are gentle enough for chemically processed hair while still delivering effective anti-dandruff results. For colour-treated hair with dandruff, Symbiose addresses the scalp concern while being gentle enough not to compromise colour longevity.

Can I use Symbiose long-term or just as a course treatment? Both approaches work. For mild or seasonal dandruff, a 6-week course treatment using the full system followed by maintenance with the shampoo alone is effective. For chronic dandruff that recurs consistently, long-term daily use of the Symbiose shampoo with weekly Micro-Peeling and monthly Sérum Nuit treatments maintains a dandruff-free scalp indefinitely.

Partners Hair Design is an authorised Kérastase stockist — every Symbiose product is 100% authentic and sourced directly from the official South African L'Oréal Professionnel distributor. Kérastase is one of the most counterfeited professional hair care brands in South Africa — when you buy from Partners Hair, you are guaranteed the real thing. Our Kérastase-trained stylists across Cape Town are available for consultations at Canal Walk, V&A Waterfront, Cavendish Square, Tygervalley, Somerset Mall, Gardens Centre, Cape Gate, and Constantia Village. Free delivery on orders over R390 across South Africa. Orders placed before 1pm on weekdays are dispatched same day.