Ketoconazole Shampoo | How to Use It and Benefits

If you are struggling with dandruff, hair fall, and other scalp conditions. Ketoconazole shampoo can be a great help and a good remedy. Do not worry it’s not a specific diet or something like a Keto diet for your scalp health.

Ketoconazole is a medicated shampoo and this treats scalp itching. If you have other infections like fungal or any discoloration in your scalp it’s perfect.

If you don’t know much about this shampoo, then it’s worth learning about this shampoo before applying it to your scalp. Before lathering up your scalp with this shampoo, you must know how it works, know the scalp issue and finding the right product, and last how to apply properly.

What’s ketoconazole Shampoo?

Ketoconazole has antifungal properties. Ketoconazole shampoo treats other skin diseases and infections. If you have skin problems like itching or ringworm, it’s best. It comes in cream or ointment form and is easily available in stores. It’s also available in shampoo if you have dandruff, itching, eczema, or any other fungal infection.

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So, how does it work? Ketoconazole shampoo slows down the growth of the infection caused by fungus. It causes discoloration and flaking of the scalp skin. Ketoconazole shampoo fights with fungi topically. Don’t worry, it does not enter or absorbed internally.

It’s easily available both OTC and as a prescription but depend on your scalp problem and the strength you are looking for. But before applying it is recommended to consult your dermatologist.

Different types of ketoconazole shampoo

• Ketoconazole 1 percent: It treats dandruff. dandruff is normally caused by Seborrheic Dermatitis. Other shampoos like, Nizoral shampoo is also available in the market to treat this skin condition.
• Ketoconazole 2 percent: It treats fungal infections like tinea versicolor. It’s not available over the counter. you need a prescription to get this from a store.

Who should use it? The side effects and risks

Do not worry it does not harm your skin. Ketoconazole shampoo is considered safe and won’t come with any other major risk. Sometimes it can have some annoying side effects.

During the wash, ketoconazole shampoo can cause itching, burning sensation, and irritation. Irritation is gentle usually but if it becomes severe immediately stop the use and consult your doctor. It can also cause scalp dryness or dry hair, sometimes a change in hair texture, and hair loss.

In some rare cases, this shampoo can also cause allergic reactions ranging from redness, rash, and swelling as well. If you are allergic stop using this shampoo. For pregnant and breastfeeding mothers, don’t use Ketoconazole shampoo. because it isn’t sure that it’s safe enough to use.

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If you have allergies to certain foods, sulfites, dyes, or preservatives, that means you are even more susceptible to having all allergic reactions to this shampoo.

Since It can irritate your skin and scalp, you need to avoid any other product that could make your scalp even more sensitive and vulnerable. That includes soaps, shampoos, hair dye bleach, wax, or other products containing irritants.

How to use it

You can use it as other normal shampoos, but with few instructions. You need to check either it contains 1 percent or 2 percent ketoconazole concentration. Whatever the concentration, make sure you don’t have an open sore or irritation.

1 % OTC ketoconazole shampoo

• Wash your scalp with water first and wet your hair well.
• Now, apply the shampoo on your scalp and gently rub to form a lather. Simple, right.
• Last, rinse with clean water and repeat.

Use it for some weeks, like 8 weeks, and see the results. Within 3-4 weeks you will notice the improvement. Don’t overuse it. For normal shampooing, you can use your regular shampoo in between.

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2 %  ketoconazole shampoo

You can not use this shampoo without a prescription. See your doctor before using this Shampoo.

• Before applying, wet the particular area of your scalp.
• Now, apply the shampoo to the affected area and rub gently.
• Leave the shampoo for 5 minutes not more than that and rinse well.

Ketoconazole shampoo is a good remedy for stubborn and serious dandruff and other fungal infections. You need to keep patience as it needs some time to show the wonders on your scalp. It may cause irritation initially but it will work with time.

One thing you need to check is the concentration and directions from your dermatologist. still left with questions and doubts, talk to your doctor.

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