Selenium Sulfide and Dandruff

Ever since the commercials of Selsun Blue shampoo advertised it relentlessly as a key active ingredient more than twenty years ago, the medication known as selenium sulfide has embedded itself into the collective consciousness of modern society as a treatment for various skin disorders.  These include a form of scalp infection called seborrehic dermatitis, a condition known as tinea versicolor that wreaks havoc with the color of one’s skin, and most commonly, dandruff.  It is available today either as a regular topical medicine, or as part of a formula in certain medicinal shampoos.  The concentration of the selenium sulfide content is normally pegged at either 1 percent or 2.5 percent for both the lotion and the shampoo form, and marketed under brand names such as Head and Shoulders, Selsun and Exsel.  Stronger preparations of this substance are available by prescription in some countries.

To apply selenium sulfide in pure medicine form for dealing with scalp dermatitis or dandruff, you should first make sure that your head is clean, so wash your hair first with a regular shampoo.  After rinsing your hair but without drying it, shake the selenium sulfide lotion bottle well, and then massage the lotion into your scalp.  Allow it to remain there and settle for 2 to 3 minutes, then wash it off, and repeat the process once more.  The recommended dosage begins at 2 applications every week, then it can gradually be reduced to weekly or even once every two weeks once it starts to take effect, for maintenance purposes.  Your dandruff should dissipate over the next few weeks of regular use.

Potent as selenium sulfide is, you should take care to avoid splashing it on or into certain areas.  For instance, if the lotion does somehow manage to get into your eyes, rinse them thoroughly with clear water.  Do not use the medication on inflamed, cut or irriated skin, as it may aggravate your existing symptoms.  Neither should you allow selenium sulfide to remain on your scalp or skin for long periods of time, because of its propensity to cause irritation.  Also, take note that some areas of skin are more sensitive than others – in particular, you should not apply it to your face or genitals.  Make sure that when you rinse the solution off, you manage to wash all of it away.  As a side point, when using this medication, remove your jewelry first, as selenium sulfide may cause discoloration or worse damage if it comes into contact with them.

In some people, selenium sulfide may actually cause unusually dry or oily skin, skin irritation, or even hair loss.  In the event that you suffer any or all of these unwanted side effects, stop using the product immediately and notify your doctor of your experiences.  You should likewise consult a physician if you experience any abnormal effects other than those mentioned.

Pregnant women suffering from dandruff should have no problem using selenium sulfide.  However, care should still be taken to avoid using it on infected skin, as it may get absorbed and cause damage to the unborn fetus. 

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