The mineral selenium is effective for treating a chronic fungal skin infection known as tinea versicolor. For this condition, you don't consume the selenium -- you apply it in a topical solution. You'll need a prescription from a doctor to buy the selenium solution in a strength that eliminates the infection.
Tinea Versicolor
Tinea versicolor is relatively common, mainly affecting adolescent and young adult males in hot climates, according to PubMed Health. It is caused by the yeast Pityrosporum ovale, which is normally found on human skin but can cause the infection under certain conditions. Tinea versicolor is characterized by patches of discolored skin with fine scales. The patches may be dark reddish-tan, or if you are of African descent, there may be a loss of skin color or an increase in skin color. The affected areas may be itchy.
Selenium Sulfide
You might be familiar with selenium sulfide as an ingredient in some dandruff shampoos. These shampoos are available over the counter at 1 percent strength. PubMed Health suggests treating tinea versicolor with a topical antifungal medication such as ketoconazole or miconazole, and advises that applying a dandruff shampoo to the affected areas for 10 minutes each day also may help. A study published in the August 1984 issue of the "Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology" found that applying a 2 1/2 percent strength selenium sulfide lotion for 10 minutes per day for seven consecutive days was effective for treating tinea versicolor. A solution with this concentration of selenium sulfide requires a prescription.
Usage
To use selenium sulfide for tinea versicolor, place some solution in your hand and add a small amount of water, then work it into a lather. Apply the medicine to the affected areas of your skin, but not to your face or genitals. Leave the solution on your skin for 10 minutes, then rinse it off.
Considerations
Side effects are uncommon with topical selenium sulfide. You could experience some skin irritation. Unless your doctor instructs you to do so, don't apply selenium sulfide to areas of your skin that are blistered or have open sores. This helps avoid excess absorption of the solution. If any selenium sulfide gets in your eyes, flush them with water.
Member Comments