A healthy scalp is a prerequisite for the growth of healthy hair. But unhealthy lifestyles and haircare habits can damage your hair and scalp. Scalp dryness can lead to various scalp conditions such as dandruff, and seborrhoeic dermatitis, resulting in hair loss, hair thinning, breakage and split ends. If you suffer from dry scalp conditions such as dandruff, seborrhoeic dermatitis or unusually dark patches on your scalp, consider using Ketoconazole shampoo in your haircare regime.
Trichologists generally recommend ketoconazole shampoo for treating flaky or itchy scalp. It is also used to treat scalp infections, leading to hair loss.
Although using Ketoconazole for treating scalp infection is simple, it is worth knowing a bit more before you begin to apply it. Let's dig deeper into the benefits of Ketoconazole, how it works and how to use it to minimize irritation.
What is ketoconazole?
Ketoconazole is used in medication used for treating fungal infections. It is categorized under the class of imidazole antifungal drugs and inhibits the synthesis of compounds required for the fungi to grow.
Ketoconazole antifungal medicine is available in the form of oral tablets, ointment for topical application or as an ingredient in antifungal shampoos. This broad-spectrum drug is effective against many strains of fungi. It inhibits the production of ergosterol, a prominent compound found in yeast and fungus. These micro-organisms require ergosterol for making the cell membranes. Ketoconazole disrupts the formation of the normal cell membrane of yeast and fungus, in the absence of which they cannot survive.
For fungal skin or scalp infections, your healthcare provider may prescribe Ketoconazole. But Ketoconazole is generally not used as a first-line treatment; it's used only when other antifungal treatments are ineffective.
Ketoconazole frequently pops up in many anti-dandruff shampoos and anti-hair fall shampoos. Ketoconazole is used in numerous antifungal medications which are used to treat fungal infections.
Benefits of ketoconazole in haircare products
Ketoconazole is an antifungal medication that treats fungal infections on the skin and scalp. It inhibits the synthesis of the compound that aids in the growth of fungi, thus preventing various scalp conditions such as dandruff and seborrhoeic dermatitis. Ketoconazole is effectively used in many haircare products, such as anti-dandruff shampoos. Let's elucidate the other benefits of Ketoconazole in haircare products.
1. Effective against dandruff & seborrheic dermatitis
Ketoconazole is beneficial in treating itchy and flaky scalp conditions such as dandruff. Seborrheic dermatitis is another dry scalp condition which arises due to scalp inflammation which is the growth of the fungus- Malassezia on your scalp. It causes rashes, and inflammation, resulting in a flaky and dry scalp.
The antifungal property of Ketoconazole fights fungal infection on the scalp and has a soothing effect on the itchy and flaky scalp.
You can also use the Anti Dandruff Serum from ThriveCo. This pre-shampoo treatment maintains healthy, itch-free, and hydrated scalps by repairing the scalp barrier.
Buy ThriveCo Anti - Dandruff Serum
2. Helps with hair loss
As per clinical studies, Ketoconazole is effective in controlling hair loss. Many anti-hair fall shampoos contain Kotoconale is a vital ingredient. Scalp infection can lead to hair loss, and Ketoconazole uses its antifungal properties to control fungal infection on the scalp, resulting in reduced hair fall. As per studies, Ketoconazole has shown promising results in controlling male pattern baldness.
3. Effective against psoriasis
Ketoconazole shampoo is generally prescribed for psoriasis. This inflammatory scalp condition causes rashes and an itchy and flaky scalp.
OTC Ketoconazole shampoo is effective against fungal scalp infections. However, 2% Ketoconazole shampoo, which contains a higher concentration of Ketoconazole, is only available on prescription. It is better to consult a dermatologist if you are unsure about which concentration is going to work for you.
How to use ketoconazole in haircare products?
Ketoconazole shampoo can be used as your regular shampoo. You can use OTC Ketoconazole shampoo applied once a week for as long as eight weeks. Then you can use them as and when needed to control dandruff and other skin conditions.
Follow these steps to use OTC ketoconazole hair shampoo:
- Make sure your skin isn't broken, irritated or damaged before you apply the shampoo.
- Apply the Ketoconazole shampoo on damp hair. Use your hands to massage the shampoo into your hair. Apply the shampoo evenly to your scalp and hair.
- Rinse the shampoo from your hair and ensure you wash out all shampoo from your hair and scalp.
While using the prescribed 2% Ketoconazole shampoo, you need to follow the instructions provided by your dermatologist. You may need to apply this shampoo only once, but it may take a couple of months for scalp infection symptoms to fade.
Follow these steps to use the prescribed 2% Ketoconazole Shampoo:
- After rinsing your scalp, apply the shampoo to the affected area.
- Use your fingertips to gently massage the shampoo on the affected area of your scalp to form suds. You should leave the shampoo on your scalp for at least five minutes.
- Rinse the shampoo from the hair and make sure you wash it off thoroughly.
How to choose ketoconazole in your haircare product?
Depending upon the concentration of Ketoconazole in the shampoo, there are two types of Ketoconazole shampoos;
1% Ketoconazole shampoo
This OTC shampoo is used for treating dandruff and itchy scalp.
2% Ketoconazole shampoo
The prescribed Ketoconazole shampoo is used to provide relief from seborrheic dermatitis, psoriasis and tinea infection.
Choose the type of Ketoconazole shampoo depending on the severity of the infection.
Other ingredients it is compatible with
Ketoconazole works well with salicylic acid or pyrithione zinc to provide relief from the symptoms of dry scalp conditions.
Side effects of ketoconazole
Ketoconazole shampoo is considered to be safe for topical application. Ketoconazole can cause side effects and allergic reactions in people with sensitive skin.
Ketoconazole has the potential to cause the following side effects:
- Dry skin
- Itchy Scalp
- Rashes on the scalp
- Dry hair, dull and frizzy hair
- Greasy hair and scalp
- Scalp Inflammation
Most of these side effects are mild and temporary. Ketoconazole shampoo should be used cautiously if you experience persistent or severe side effects.
Adverse effect due to Ketoconazole is sporadic, and in case symptoms persist, you should immediately discontinue its use and consult a doctor.
If Ketoconazole shampoo or cream accidentally gets into your eyes, make sure to wash your eyes with plenty of water thoroughly.
Ketoconazole shampoo is used for treating various fungal infections on your scalp and skin. Ketoconazole has a promising result for hair loss when used along with minoxidil and finasteride.
Also Read :
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