Selsun shampoo, also called Selsun Blue, is used to treat dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis. The active ingredient in Selsun shampoo is selenium sulfide. It is an anti-infective agent, according to PubMed Health, and works to relieve itching and flaking of the scalp. It also removes dandruff flakes. Selsun Blue shampoo is sold over the counter and contains 1 percent selenium sulfide. A 2.5 percent solution is available only with a prescription.
Types
Selsun Blue shampoo is available in different formulas. The Selsun Blue Naturals line is designed to be gentle on the hair. Selsun Blue Salon formulas help add moisture to dry hair, making it more manageable. The Itchy Dry Scalp shampoo contains moisturizers and other ingredients to help relieve itching. Selsun medicated shampoo is available in the original formula as well as a two-in-one formula that contains shampoo plus conditioner.
Use
Use Selsun shampoo at least twice weekly for best results. Apply to wet hair and work into lather. Let the shampoo remain on the scalp for two minutes. Rinse and repeat. Rinse the Selsun Blue out of your hair thoroughly. Drugs.com recommends rinsing chemically treated, blonde or gray hair for five minutes to reduce the risk of discoloration.
Considerations
Follow product label or doctor's advice when using Selsun shampoo. For scalp infections, use the shampoo daily for a period of one week, according to PubMed Health. Selsun shampoo may be recommended as treatment for tinea versicolor, a fungal infection on the body. When used for that purpose, massage it into the affected area and leave on for 10 minutes before rinsing.
Side Effects
Selsun shampoo might cause hair to become dry or oily. Hair loss or discoloration could occur, and according to PubMed Health, there could be scalp and skin irritation. The shampoo should not be left on the hair for prolonged periods, as it might cause scalp irritation.
Warning
Selsun shampoo should not be applied to broken areas of the scalp, as this could allow for increased absorption of selenium sulfide through the skin, according to Drugs.com. Shampoo with selenium sulfide should not be used on children under 2 years of age unless recommended by a doctor.
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