Treatment FAQ

what shampoo or treatment for dandruff

by Lennie Koch Published 2 years ago Updated 1 year ago
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Best Overall: Nizoral Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
We selected Nizoral's Anti-Dandruff Shampoo as our top pick because it contains ketoconazole, which is a potent anti-fungal also found in prescription-grade dandruff medications. The formula controls flaking and irritation and is safe for color-treated hair.
Apr 7, 2022

What type of shampoo is best for treating dandruff?

Healthline's picks of the best dandruff shampoosPhilip B Anti-Flake Relief Shampoo Lite. ... Beautiful Hair and Scalp Anti-Dandruff Shampoo. ... Jupiter Balancing Shampoo. ... Selsun Blue Medicated Anti-Dandruff Shampoo. ... Oribe Serene Scalp Anti-Dandruff Shampoo. ... SACHAJUAN Scalp Shampoo.More items...•

How can I permanently get rid of dandruff?

10 Home Remedies to Get Rid of Dandruff NaturallyTea tree oil. Historically, tea tree oil has been used to treat ailments such as acne and psoriasis. ... Coconut oil. ... Aloe vera. ... Minimize stress levels. ... Apple cider vinegar. ... Aspirin. ... Omega-3s. ... Probiotics.More items...

What do dermatologists prescribe for dandruff?

The best way to control dandruff is to use a shampoo that contains a medication, such as selenium sulfide (Selsun Blue), zinc pyrithione (Head & Shoulders, ZNP), or Nizoral AD. For more severe cases try tar (Ionil T, T/gel, Pentrax) or sulfur (Meted or Sebulex). For best results, buy 2 or 3 and alternate them.

What causes dandruff in women's hair?

Dry skin. A yeastlike fungus (malassezia) that feeds on oils on the scalps of most adults. Sensitivity to hair care products (contact dermatitis) Other skin conditions, such as psoriasis and eczema.

What is the best shampoo for dandruff?

It contains ketoconazole, a potent anti-fungal also found in prescription-grade dandruff medications. A luxurious alternative, the Oribe Serene Scalp Anti-Dandruff Shampoo makes treating dandruff feel like a high-end spa treatment. The combination of salicylic acid ...

What are the ingredients in anti dandruff shampoo?

Ingredients: The common ingredients found in anti-dandruff shampoos are pyrithione zinc, selenium sulfide, ketoconazole, salicylic acid, and coal tar. These can all effectively reduce dandruff, according to Dr. Markowitz. Exactly which ingredient is right for you may take some trial and error.

Does Selsun Blue shampoo help with dandruff?

When other formulas fall short, this Selsun Blue Medicated Shampoo controls itching and flaking caused by the toughest cases of dandruff with selenium sulfide, pyrithione zinc, and salicylic acid. It also helps prevent seborrheic dermatitis of the scalp to keep symptoms from flaring up again.

Is nizoral good for hair color?

Nizoral contains ketoconazole, which is a potent anti-fungal also found in prescription-grade dandruff medications. This gentler formula is still safe for color-treated hair and adds a pleasant clean scent to the thick suds. It leaves a fresh scent behind, so you can rest easy knowing that your hair will have a clean appearance and smell. Nizoral should be used twice a week for best results.

Does ketoconazole help with dandruff?

First Look. "Contains ketoconazole, a potent anti-fungal also found in prescription-grade dandruff medications.". "Controls itching and flaking caused by the toughest cases of dandruff with selenium sulfide, pyrithione zinc, and salicylic acid.". "Salicylic acid gently exfoliates the scalp and caffeine rejuvenates hair follicles to help alleviate ...

Does zinc help with dandruff?

The active ingredient pyrithione zinc helps eliminate dandruff, minimizing visible flakes and over time it calms the scalp. With extended use, you’ll notice a purified scalp free of build-up from styling products and pollution, in addition to a healthy, dandruff-free head.

Is Mustela shampoo safe for kids?

Kids can suffer from dandruff, too. Thankfully, the active ingredients that fight flakes in adults are also safe for children, per Dr. Markowitz. This Mustela Foam Shampoo is many parents’ go-to for infants to kids under nine years old. You can feel good about using it on your little ones, because it’s preservative-free (think parabens and phthalates).

What causes dandruff in shampoo?

When you start to look at dandruff shampoos, it’s important to know that dandruff usually occurs due to a combination of the three following factors: 1 presence of Malassezia yeasts on the scalp 2 sebaceous (oil gland) function and overproduction 3 your body’s immune response to the presence of yeast

What is dandruff on the scalp?

Dandruff is a scaly, itchy scalp condition where clumps of skin cells come together to create flakes you can see in your hair. If you have mild to moderate dandruff, treating it with over-the-counter (OTC) shampoos can often help keep flakes, itching, and irritation at bay. Keep reading to learn what to look for in a dandruff shampoo, ...

Why are men more likely to have dandruff than women?

Men are more likely than women to have dandruff due to differences in their skin barrier. A small study#N#Trusted Source#N#found men’s dandruff responded better to a 1 percent ZPT shampoo compared with women who used the same shampoo.

Why is ZPT important for hair?

In addition to conditioners, it’s important to avoid certain hair products that may be drying to the scalp. A dry scalp can cause an overproduction of oil that further contributes to dandruff.

What is the best way to reduce skin cell growth?

Adding sulfur to salicylic acid helps further reduce skin cell buildup. Sulfur also has antimicrobial activity. Selenium sulfide. This antimicrobial agent also helps slow skin cell turnover and scaling as well as reduce yeast growth.

Is head and shoulders shampoo safe?

Use for: Head & Shoulders clinical strength shampoo contains selenium sulfide to fight dandruff. Marketed for severe dandruff symptoms, the shampoos are labeled as safe for color-treated, curly, and textured hair types. However, if you do have light-colored, gray, or permed hair, the brand cautions you to rinse out the shampoo for at least 5 minutes.

Can you use Nizoral A-D over the counter?

While 2 percent shampoos are only available by prescription, you can purchase the Nizoral 1 percent solution over the counter.

What are the causes of dandruff?

But since dandruff has many causes—dry skin, sensitivity to hair products, and a yeast-like fungus are common culprits—you may need to experiment with a few different products to find the formula that works best for you.

Is dandruff a pain?

From the telltale itchy scalp to white flakes on your dark sweater, there's no doubt about it— dandruff is a pain. The good news: Over-the-counter shampoos can help remedy the chronic skin condition, which affects nearly 50% of people worldwide . RELATED: 7 Ways to Regrow Thinning Hair, According to Dermatologists.

What shampoo is good for dry scalp?

After my highly-effective-yet-terribly-drying prescription ran out, my dermatologist recommended Neutrogena’s shampoo. It employs a 3 percent salicylic acid formula to chemically exfoliate your scalp, meaning that it first lifts and then removes gross flakes — kind of like a chemical peel for your scalp.

What is the best shampoo for scalp flaking?

The Best Dandruff Shampoos for Every Type of Hair. No one likes flakes, especially when they’re on your head. A dandruff shampoo is the most effective solution, but there are a lot out there. And then there’s the small matter of figuring out why your scalp is flaking at all.

Why does my scalp flake?

And then there’s the small matter of figuring out why your scalp is flaking at all. If your dandruff tends to occur seasonally, you might just have a dry scalp. Year-long flakes may indicate a skin condition, like psoriasis or seborrheic dermatitis, a kind of eczema. But you can find relief no matter why your scalp is flaking.

What is balancing shampoo?

Balancing Shampoo. This shampoo will mentally teleport you to a spa with the calming aroma alone. The medicated cleanser is imbued with vegan ingredients that work to nourish the scalp while getting to the root of dandruff and irritation with an ingredient list that is free of sulfates, parabens, phthalates, and dyes.

How much is Sachajuan shampoo?

Sachajuan Scalp Shampoo. $28. While most dandruff shampoos are at the very least a little bit drying, Sachajuan’s is actually moisturizing. It makes hair feel soft and the bottle is actually pretty (and not an embarrassing medicinal-looking thing).

What is Philip B anti flake shampoo?

Instead of chemical exfoliants or ketoconazole, Philip B’s Anti-Flake shampoo uses zinc and coal tar to fight dandruff. They work to normalize your scalp’s natural oil production and slow down the rate at which scalp skin cells die and flake off.

Can you buy dandruff shampoo?

It’s now possible to buy dandruff shampoos in millennial pink, skin-care-level packaging. With Oribe’s luxe formula, your scalp gets the treatment your face is used to with exfoliating salicylic acid that lifts flakes instead of sloughing them off. It also has vitamin C and caffeine to keep your scalp stimulated. —AW.

How to get rid of dandruff on scalp?

The first two to try are brushing your hair and using a dandruff shampoo. Brush your hair from your scalp down with steady, firm strokes . This carries the oil away from your scalp, where the buildup of it and skin cells can cause dandruff.

How to get rid of a swollen scalp?

Wet your hair, then put baking soda on your scalp. Let it sit for a few minutes, then rinse it out. Lemon juice. Rub 2 teaspoons of lemon juice into your scalp, let it sit for a couple of minutes, then rinse. Follow that by mixing another teaspoon of lemon juice mixed with 1 cup of water and pouring it over your scalp.

How to stop hair from flaking when stressed?

They’re either moisturizing or they might be helpful against bacteria or fungi: Coconut oil. Start by rubbing 3 to 5 teaspoons of this into your scalp, then wait an hour and shampoo your hair. Aloe vera.

How to get rid of hair follicles?

Start by rubbing 3 to 5 teaspoons of this into your scalp, then wait an hour and shampoo your hair. Aloe vera. Rub a bit into your scalp just before you shampoo your hair. Apple cider vinegar: Mix a quarter cup of apple cider vinegar with a quarter cup of water, then pour it over your scalp.

Does coal tar help with dandruff?

Coal tar treats dandruff by making the skin cells on your scalp die and flake off more slowly, but there are things you should know : Some people have an allergic reaction to it.

Does tea tree oil help with dandruff?

Some studies have shown that tea tree oil, a by-product of the Australian tea tree, may help with dandruff, but more research is needed. In some cases, it can irritate your skin or cause an allergic reaction.

Can you use dandruff shampoo while pregnant?

Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding shouldn’t use it. How to use dandruff shampoos. When shampooing: Rub the shampoo into your scalp well. Leave the shampoo on your head for 5 minutes, or as directed. Rinse thoroughly. Any leftover shampoo may irritate your skin.

How long should I let dandruff shampoo sit on my scalp?

Wash effectively: For best results, rub your dandruff shampoo into your scalp with your fingertips, letting it sit for at least five minutes before rinsing, Dr. Zeichner says. Make sure you pick up an anti-dandruff conditioner, too.

How often should I wash my hair to get rid of dandruff?

Mind your frequency: Start by washing at least twice a week, says Dr. Fusco. Take note of how your scalp and hair looks and feels.

What is in a 1% pyrithione zinc shampoo?

Thanks to a blend of 1% pyrithione zinc and moisturizing green tea polyphenols, your flakes won’t know what hit ‘em once they’re slathered with this soothing anti-dandruff shampoo. It also contains peppermint oil and menthol to offer some cooling relief as you wash.

What is the best product for scalp flakes?

Both Dr. Fusco and Dr. Zeichner recommend the Dove Dermacare line. It utilizes the ingredient pyrithione zinc, which works to reduce the inflammation-causing yeast on your scalp, a driving force behind flakes.

Does dandruff shampoo strip?

Many dandruff shampoos can be stripping, but this one is full of hydrating ingredients like coconut oil, removes build-up with a creamy lather, and smells great. Pair it with the line’s conditioner or opt for the co-wash. 4. BEST SCALP EXFOLIATOR. T/Sal Shampoo Scalp Build-Up Control.

Is Nizoral good for hair color?

Zeichner explains. But unlike some stronger formulas, Nizoral is still gentle enough to use on color-treated hair and offers a thick lather that leaves a clean scent behind.

Does coal tar help with dandruff?

Scan for active ingredients: Pyrithione zinc, selenium sulfide, ketoconazole, salicylic acid, and coal tar can all work to reduce dandruff, says Dr. Zeichner, but you may need to experiment a bit to find the one your scalp reacts to the best.

What is the best shampoo for dry hair?

Dove's Dryness and Itch Relief Anti-Dandruff Shampoo is another great, affordable drugstore option. "This is gentle and very nourishing for the hair," confirms Francesca Fusco, a dermatologist at Wexler Dermatology in New York City. It can be used daily for all hair types and is infused with a coconut and shea butter scent.

What shampoos help with flakes?

Consider Nizoral A-D Anti-Dandruff Shampoo your quick fix for flakes. "It contains the active ingredient ketoconazole found in prescription shampoos, which reduces inflammation and fungal growth which is the root cause of dandruff," says Sadick.

What is a kamedis shampoo?

The Kamedis Dandruff Therapy Shampoo is formulated with natural botanicals used in traditional Chinese medicine to soothe flaky, itchy scalps. "Let the product sit on the scalp while you sing 'Happy Birthday' and then rinse it out," says Zeichner.

What shampoos contain selenium sulfide?

Zeichner also recommends Selsun Blue's 2-in-1 shampoo which contains 1 percent selenium sulfide. "It’s an ingredient that helps lower levels of yeast on the scalp to reduce inflammation and flaking," he explains. Bonus: It also conditions hair as it cleanses.

What is Paul Mitchell's tea tree shampoo?

Paul Mitchell's Tea Tree Special Shampoo combines tea tree oil, peppermint, and lavender for a zingy, get-your-scalp-right kind of clean. It helps wash away impurities and is made for all hair types, too. Fusco recommends using it with its matching conditioner, which also invigorates the scalp.

Why does my scalp itch?

It is caused by high levels of yeast on the skin that promote inflammation.

Is Robin's shampoo good for dandruff?

Anti-dandruff, but make it bougie. " [Christophe Robin's Purifying Shampoo With Jujube Bark Extract] is a natural, gentle shampoo which is good for not only dandruff but anyone with scalp issues including oiliness, flakiness, and even itchiness," says Fusco.

What is dandruff on the scalp?

A. Dandruff, which is a chronic skin condition known as seborrheic dermatitis of the scalp , can range from a minor irritant to a severe rash of the entire scalp. It is caused when a skin fungus called Malassezia irritates the sebaceous glands of the scalp. This triggers an immune response, which leads to a scaly rash.

Does coal tar shampoo work?

Coal tar shampoo is also effective, although it may discolor light-colored hair. If all these treatments do not work, you need prescription-strength medication. A topical corticosteroid, such as fluocinolone (Capex), may be used for two-weeks to quiet the rash.

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Overview

  • Scalp psoriasis. This inflammatory skin condition gives the scalp a silvery, powdery appearance. Scalp psoriasis often causes thick scales and large, white flakes, and may cause itching. Psoriasis occurs for unknown reasons, but is thought to be an autoimmune condition. Although you can't prevent or cure psoriasis, various medical treatments, like coal tar, light therapy, and to…
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  • Honey is another remedy that you can use in addition to apple cider vinegar for dandruff. Honey has a soothing effect on the scalp and also contains anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, making it the perfect addition to an AVC scalp treatment for you if you are experiencing painful scalp issues or very itchy skin.
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  • This medication is used to treat dandruff and a certain scalp infection (seborrheic dermatitis). It reduces itching, flaking, irritation, and redness of the scalp. Selenium sulfide is also used for a condition that causes discoloration of the skin (tinea versicolor). This medication belongs to a class of medications called anti-infectives. It works by slowing the growth of the yeast that caus…
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Prevention

  • Although there is no way to prevent dandruff, regular use of an anti-dandruff shampoo can control the problem. Avoid exposing your scalp to excessive heat, such as through frequent use of a hair dryer.
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  • Dry scalp. Dry skin on the scalp can cause scaly flakes. Dandruff due to a dry scalp can be treated with inexpensive, medicated dandruff shampoos sold in drugstores. Look for products that contain pyrithione zinc, salicylic acid, tar, selenium sulfide, or ketoconazole. Use dandruff shampoo a few times a week to keep flakes away. A gentle scalp massage and a good rinse ca…
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  • Skin care routine for mild dandruff: Skin care routine for moderate or severe dandruff: See self-care at home for other ideas on preventing dandruff flares.
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  • Dandruff can often be a chronic condition, but it can be controlled with the proper treatment. First, try shampooing with a non-medicated shampoo, massaging the scalp firmly, and then rinsing well. Frequent shampooing removes flakes, reduces oiliness, and prevents dead skin cell buildup. If this fails to help, special antidandruff shampoos are usually helpful. Instructions for use depend …
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Causes

  • If your black shirt is covered in white flakes and it's not snowing outside, your scalp is probably to blame. This symptom, commonly known as dandruff, can be due to a variety of conditions, from a simple dry scalp to a form of eczema or even psoriasis. Dandruff flakes are actually dead skin cells that naturally fall off the scalp more so if you scratch. Many people think that a dry scalp is …
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Bacteria have not been found to cause dandruff. Dandruff is not a fungal infection and is not the same as scalp \"ringworm,\" which is actually a fungal infection called tinea capitis. Dandruff is not contagious. Dandruff may also be triggered or made worse by poor hygiene and infrequent shampooing and washing. The immu…
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  • Skin cells are formed continuously on the scalp, so the shedding of dead skin cells is a normal process. Sometimes with dandruff, however, skin cells are shed at a faster rate than normal. Oil from the scalp causes the skin cells to clump together and appear as white flakes.Dandruff can be caused by a number of things, including dry skin; sensitivity to hair products; and skin conditi…
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Dandruff is a common affliction that many people suffer from, and there are many causes for the flaky and itchy skin that bothers many a scalp on a daily basis. In order to treat dandruff successfully, you should know what is causing your issue in the first place. If your dandruff is accompanied by bleeding, severe itching, or an o…
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Treatment

  • There are many effective shampoos on the market to control dandruff. Look for active ingredients such as salicylic acid, tar and selenium. Most shampoos work best if they are left on for several minutes after lathering and then rinsed out thoroughly. Reapply if directed. When over-the-counter products are not strong enough, a prescription medication can be requested from a health care …
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  • If an individual is so uncomfortable with his/her dandruff that his/her social, sleep, work, or other daily activities are disrupted, he/she needs a more effective treatment and should see a health care practitioner. All affected areas including the scalp, ears, face, and chest should also be washed with the therapeutic shampoo. Skin inflammation may be treated with topical applicatio…
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  • While many people choose to use traditional methods of treating their dandruff by using specialty shampoos and tar-based remedies, these expensive cures often dont have long-term benefits, and dont quell the underlying causes of dandruff in the first place. Discovering apple cider vinegar, also known as ACV, can help you learn how to manage your dandruff symptoms and problems …
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Symptoms

  • One of the most common and often the first symptom of dandruff can be white flakes seen on dark clothes. Scalp itching may be another common first symptom. In some, the initial noticeable symptom is simply dry facial skin without any other rashes. Patients may see their physician complaining of dry skin that fails to respond to daily lotions and creams. Often they have used e…
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  • The symptoms of dandruff include white flakes of dead skin in the hair and on the shoulders, as well as an itchy, red, or scaly scalp. Dandruff flakes are usually scattered throughout the scalp.If seborrheic dermatitis is the cause of dandruff, the symptoms usually appear gradually. The scalp becomes dry or greasy, is red, and feels itchy. As skin cells die, they turn to yellowish scales. A b…
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Diagnosis

  • How do you know for sure what condition is causing your dandruff? Only a dermatologist can uncover the real cause and prescribe the best course of action. This is especially important when a medical condition like eczema or psoriasis is to blame. If drugstore dandruff shampoos and conditioners arent helping, get a firm diagnosis and advice on treatment from a specialist and s…
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  • If dandruff is worsening (spreading, causing hair loss, increasing redness, painful, or infected) despite proper skin care and hair hygiene, call a dermatologist for an office appointment. In rare instances, highly atypical cases may require more exams and tests including skin scrapings for, microscopic evaluation, and skin biopsies. A health care practitioner may scrape some scales of…
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  • Dandruff is a condition that people can pretty much self-diagnose from the symptoms of an itchy, dry, and scaly scalp. Seborrheic dermatitis appears as reddish-looking skin with mild, greasy, yellow scales and plaques with indistinct margins.
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Prognosis

  • Dandruff is usually a chronic condition, so it will tend to come back. Use an antidandruff shampoo once or a twice a week to help control it.
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  • The outlook for dandruff is good. Although dandruff is not curable, it is controllable. While the exact cause remains unknown, typically dandruff is easy to control with medicated shampoos and topical cortisone products. Dandruff may spontaneously clear even without treatment. Babies frequently completely outgrow their dandruff or \"cradle cap.\" Since most common dandruff ten…
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Medical Uses

  • Topical cortisones are safe when used appropriately under a physician's care and guidance. As there are some, possible long-term side effects of all steroids, they should be used sparingly and only where needed. Many cortisone preparations are available including ointments (more greasy, clear, petroleum-based) creams (thick, white, and lubricating), lotions (light, flowing liquid), soluti…
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  • Apple cider vinegar has been used for centuries for a variety of uses, from preserving foods to treating many medical maladies. Since ACV is a great anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial aid, its a perfect tool for not only treating the agony associated with dandruff, but in treating the excess bacteria and yeast-like fungus that make dandruff reoccur as well.
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Risks

  • Irritant or allergic contact dermatitis. You can have an allergic or irritant reaction to a shampoo, styling gel, or other hair product. Using a product with an ingredient youre allergic to or one that simply irritates the scalp can result in inflammation and dry, flaky skin. Discontinuing the product that causes a reaction may be all it takes to stop the reaction and the dandruff flakes.
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  • You should pay attention, however, to possible side effects of this method, which includes dry hair and burning of the scalp if open sores are present. For sensitive scalps, apple cider vinegar should be slightly diluted with water to lessen its impact on the scalp, or used with a shampoo that contains selenium to best combat stubborn dandruff.
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Precautions

  • If you use a salicylic acid shampoo, you should avoid applying products that contain alcohol or harsh cleansers or soaps to the same areas of skin without your doctor’s explicit approval. You should also avoid the use of skin medications that include sulfur, benzoyl peroxide and tretinoin. Failure to heed these precautions may result in significant or severe irritation of your affected sk…
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  • Before using selenium sulfide, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.
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