From the FDA Drug Label
For treatment of tinea versicolor: Apply to affected areas and lather with a small amount of water. Allow product to remain on skin for 10 minutes, then rinse the body thoroughly. Repeat procedure once a day for 7 days.
- Treatment duration: 7 days
- Application time: Leave selenium sulfide lotion on the skin for 10 minutes before rinsing, once a day 1
From the Research
For the treatment of tinea versicolor, selenium sulfide lotion should be left on the skin for 10 minutes before rinsing off, as this duration has been shown to be effective in killing the Malassezia yeast causing the infection 2. The standard regimen involves applying the lotion to affected areas daily for 7 days. Some healthcare providers may recommend leaving it on overnight for more severe cases, but this should only be done under medical guidance as it may cause skin irritation. When applying, ensure the skin is clean and slightly damp, then spread a thin layer over all affected areas. After the treatment period, thoroughly rinse the lotion off with water. This treatment works because selenium sulfide has antifungal properties that target the Malassezia yeast causing tinea versicolor. The 10-minute contact time allows the medication to penetrate the skin and effectively kill the fungus. For maintenance and prevention of recurrence, some dermatologists recommend using selenium sulfide once or twice monthly, especially during warm, humid weather when tinea versicolor tends to flare up. Key points to consider when using selenium sulfide lotion for tinea versicolor include:
- Apply the lotion to clean, slightly damp skin
- Leave the lotion on for 10 minutes before rinsing off
- Apply the lotion daily for 7 days
- Consider using the lotion once or twice monthly for maintenance and prevention of recurrence
- Be aware of potential skin irritation, especially with overnight use. It's worth noting that while selenium sulfide is effective, other treatments like ketoconazole 2% shampoo have also been shown to be effective in treating tinea versicolor 3. However, the use of selenium sulfide lotion is a well-established and recommended treatment option 2, 4.