What is Selsun shampoo used for?
- Dandruff.
- Seborrhoeic dermatitis affecting the scalp.
- When prescribed by a doctor, this shampoo can also be used off-license to treat a skin condition called pityriasis versicolor.
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How does Selsun shampoo work?
Selsun shampoo contains the active ingredient selenium sulfide.
Selenium sulfide kills certain types of fungi or yeasts called dermatophytes, including one called Pityrosporum (Malassezia). Overgrowth of this fungi on the skin is involved in causing seborrhoeic dermatitis, dandruff (which is a mild form of seborrhoeic dermatitis) and pityriasis versicolor. Using Seleneium shampoo reduces numbers of these fungi on the skin so helps clear up these conditions.
Selenium also slows down the turnover of cells in the top layer of skin, which reduces flaking, scaling and itching.
Who shouldn't use Selsun shampoo?
- Children under five years of age.
- People who are allergic to any ingredient of the shampoo.
What should I know before using Selsun shampoo?
- Selsun shampoo may discolour gold, silver or other metallic jewellery, so it's important to remove all jewellery before using the shampoo.
- Selsun shampoo should not be applied two days before or after dyeing, tinting or permanently straightening or perming the hair. Make sure that Selsun shampoo is thoroughly rinsed out of the hair before any such hair treatments are carried out.
- Don't apply the shampoo to broken or very inflamed areas of skin.
- Don't leave the shampoo in contact with the hair or skin for longer than recommended, as irritation, burning sensation or blistering may occur.
- Do not use the shampoo more often than recommended.
How do I use Selsun shampoo?
- Shake the bottle of shampoo well before using. Take care to avoid getting the shampoo in the eyes.
- To treat dandruff or seborrhoeic dermatitis affecting the scalp, Selsun shampoo should be used twice a week for two weeks and then once a week for the next two weeks. After this you should only use it as often as necessary to control the condition.
- Selsun shampoo should be applied liberally to wet hair. Use enough shampoo to form a lather and leave it in the hair for three minutes before rinsing off thoroughly.
- To treat pityriasis versicolor when prescribed by a doctor, Selsun shampoo should be applied to the affected areas of skin once a day for seven days. Leave the shampoo on the skin for 10 minutes before rinsing off. The course may be repeated if necessary. Diluting the shampoo with a small amount of water before applying it can reduce any irritation to the skin.
Can I use Selsun shampoo while pregnant or breastfeeding?
- There is no information available about the safety of using Selsun shampoo during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Although it's unlikely to be harmful, the manufacturer states it shouldn't be used by women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. You should get advice from your doctor before using Selsun if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
What are the possible side effects of Selsun shampoo?
Medicines and their possible side effects can affect individual people in different ways. The following are some of the side effects associated with Selsun shampoo. Just because a side effect is stated here doesn't mean that all people using the shampoo will experience that or any side effect.
- Skin irritation or burning sensation.
- Skin blistering may rarely occur, particularly if the shampoo is left on for longer than recommended.
- Oiliness or dryness of scalp and hair.
- Increased hair loss.
- Hair discolouration.
- Allergic reactions such as a rash or hives. Stop using the shampoo and get medical advice if you think you've had an allergic reaction to it.
Read the leaflet that comes with the shampoo or talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist if you want any more information about the possible side effects of Selsun shampoo. If you think you have experienced a side effect, did you know you can report this using the yellow card website?
Can I use Selsun shampoo with other medicines?
Yes - it's fine to use Selsun shampoo alongside other medicines.
Other medicines containing the same active ingredient
- Selsun blue.
Last updated 06.09.2017
Frequently asked Questions
Q
- Are the SELSUN BLUE shampoos pH balanced?
- Are there any animal products in any of the SELSUN BLUE Shampoos?
- Can SELSUN BLUE be used on permed hair?
- Is it acceptable to use the SELSUN BLUE product for seborrheic dermatitis?
- Are SELSUN BLUE shampoos gluten free?
- Are there any contra-indications for long-term use of Selenium Sulfide?
- How long should I leave the product on my hair?
a
Are the SELSUN BLUE shampoos pH balanced?
Yes.
Are SELSUN BLUE shampoos gluten free?
SELSUN BLUE products have not been tested to determine gluten content. Therefore, we cannot certify that they are gluten free.
Are there any animal products in any of the SELSUN BLUE Shampoos?
Although most of our ingredients are synthetic or plant derived, we cannot guarantee that none used in our Selsun products are derived from animal by-products.
Are there any contra-indications for long-term use of Selenium Sulfide?
Do not use if you have an allergy or sensitivity to Selenium Sulfide or any other ingredient in the product. Do not use on broken skin or inflamed areas. If you have bleached, tinted or permanent-weaved hair, be sure to rinse for 5 minutes. Do not use within 48 hours of bleaching hair, applying hair colours or permanent waving preparations. Consult a doctor prior to use in children under 2 years of age.
Can SELSUN BLUE be used on permed hair?
Yes. However, the perm should be washed for at least one cycle with regular shampoo to remove/dilute the perm chemicals before using SELSUN BLUE.
How long should I leave the product on my hair?
It is recommended while using SELSUN BLUE that you let the shampoo stay on your head for approximately two (2) minutes. This allows the suspension system to break and the active ingredient to fall onto the scalp.
Is it acceptable to use the SELSUN BLUE product for seborrheic dermatitis?
Yes.