If you’ve looked into hair loss treatments, you’ve probably heard of shampoos containing the active ingredient ketoconazole.

Ketoconazole is an antifungal medication approved by the FDA to treat a variety of fungal infections of the skin.

Ketoconazole has been scientifically linked to increased hair growth, making it a viable hair loss treatment option. It’s also simple to use because all it takes is a quick shower wash a few times per week.

The sections below explain what ketoconazole is and how it works as a treatment for male pattern baldness.

What is Ketoconazole Shampoo?

Ketoconazole shampoo is a medicated dandruff shampoo with antifungal properties that is used to treat scalp infections. It can be used to treat conditions such as stubborn dandruff, psoriasis, and others. You can buy ketoconazole shampoo over-the-counter (OTC) or with a prescription from your doctor.

Ketoconazole Shampoo Uses

1. Dandruff

Some dandruff is caused by a dry scalp, while other dandruff is caused by seborrheic dermatitis. According to research, seborrheic dermatitis may be caused by an overgrowth of Malassezia. Because of its antifungal properties, Ketoconazole shampoo for dandruff can aid in the treatment of seborrheic dermatitis.

2. Hair loss

A keto shampoo for dandruff also contains antifungal agents that can fight inflammation caused by androgenic alopecia or male pattern baldness. The shampoo works as a scalp treatment by killing the yeast, which reduces inflammation and, as a result, hair loss. Clinical studies have also revealed that ketoconazole increases the size of individual hair follicles, which aids in hair growth.

3. Psoriasis

Skin flaking, plaques, and redness are symptoms of inflammatory skin disease. These skin plaques are frequently infected by a yeast-like fungus. Ketoconazole is a popular psoriasis treatment. For psoriasis flares, prescription ketoconazole may be required.

4. Tinea infections

Tinea capitis is a scalp fungus infection that looks like ringworm. Skin infections caused by yeast overgrowth are known as tinea versicolor. Tinea capitis and tinea versicolor can also be treated with ketoconazole shampoo.

Benefits of using ketoconazole shampoo

• The shampoo not only fights dandruff but there is also evidence that it reduces hair loss by encouraging hair growth.
• Ketoconazole is not absorbed directly into the bloodstream, so its antifungal properties only work on the scalp.
• The shampoo is sufficient to treat dandruff without the need for additional shampoo.
• The shampoo has a simple application mechanism; it only needs to be applied twice a week, just like regular shampoo.
• The shampoo also takes care of the associated symptoms, such as itching, saving the embarrassment of itching and flaking of the scalp in public.

How to use ketoconazole shampoo

Use a ketoconazole shampoo as directed by your doctor or as directed on the product label.

Apply the shampoo to wet hair if you’re treating the scalp. Lather it up well and allow it to soak into your scalp before rinsing. After that, condition the ends of your hair, rinse, and dry it as usual.

If you’re using ketoconazole shampoo on a different part of your body than your scalp, apply it to the affected area and leave it on for five minutes. Wash it off thoroughly with water and pat your skin dry.

The frequency and duration with which you use the shampoo will be determined by a variety of factors. It is important to consider the strength of shampoo, the condition you’re treating, and the severity of your symptoms when choosing one. Depending on these factors, your doctor may recommend using it every other day or only once a week.

Ketoconazole Shampoo Side Effects

Before using ketoconazole shampoo, you should be aware of the following side effects:

• Skin irritation
• Skin irritation
• Discolouration
• Permed hair to lose its curl as well
• Abnormal hair texture

If you notice hair loss after using ketoconazole shampoo, consult your doctor right away.

Although allergic reactions to ketoconazole shampoo are uncommon, they should be taken seriously. If you experience any of the following symptoms of an allergic reaction, you should seek immediate medical attention:

• severe itching
• Dizziness
• difficulty breathing
• swelling of the face, tongue, or throat
• rash

Dosage, the number of applications, and treatment duration are determined by the strength of the shampoo (2% or 1%), as well as the condition being treated. Follow your doctor’s or the package’s instructions exactly.

Avoid getting Ketoconazole shampoo in your eyes. If your scalp or skin is broken or swollen, do not use the shampoo.

Over to You

Use ketoconazole shampoo exactly as your doctor prescribes — never more or less frequently. Unless your doctor tells you otherwise about your specific condition, you should see results within two to four weeks of starting to use the shampoo. If you haven’t seen any improvement after a month, consult your doctor to see if a change is necessary.

It is possible to try other options if ketoconazole shampoo does not help your skin condition. You may also be prescribed oral antifungals to treat a more widespread infection or your overall condition.