From the Guidelines
For an itchy scalp and dandruff, I strongly recommend using a ketoconazole 2% shampoo, such as Nizoral, as it has shown efficacy in reducing symptoms 1. When managing an itchy scalp and dandruff, it's essential to use a medicated shampoo that targets the underlying causes of these conditions.
- Ketoconazole 2% shampoo is a suitable option, as it has antifungal properties that can help reduce yeast and fungal infections on the scalp 1.
- Selenium sulfide 1% shampoo is another alternative, as it has also demonstrated efficacy in reducing transmission of spores and alleviating symptoms 1.
- When using these shampoos, apply them directly to the wet scalp, massage gently, and leave them on for 3-5 minutes before rinsing thoroughly.
- Start by using the medicated shampoo 2-3 times per week and reduce usage to once weekly for maintenance once symptoms improve.
- It's crucial to note that if symptoms persist or worsen, consulting a dermatologist for further guidance and potential prescription-strength treatments is necessary.
- The British Association of Dermatologists' guidelines support the use of topical agents, including ketoconazole 2% and selenium sulfide 1% shampoos, to reduce transmission of spores and alleviate symptoms 1.
From the FDA Drug Label
For treatment of tinea versicolor, seborrheic dermatitis of scalp and treatment of dandruff. For treatment of dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis of the scalp. Massage 1 or 2 teaspoonfuls of shampoo into wet scalp. Allow to remain on scalp for 2 to 3 minutes. Rinse scalp thoroughly.
Selenium sulfide shampoo can be used for an itchy scalp and dandruff, as it is indicated for the treatment of seborrheic dermatitis of the scalp and dandruff 2.
- It is recommended to massage 1 or 2 teaspoonfuls of shampoo into the wet scalp, allow it to remain on the scalp for 2 to 3 minutes, and then rinse thoroughly 2.
- However, it is essential to note that selenium sulfide shampoo may cause skin irritation, increase in normal hair loss, and discoloration of hair, and its use should be directed by a physician 2.
From the Research
Shampoos for Itchy Scalp and Dandruff
- There are several shampoos that can be used to treat an itchy scalp and dandruff, including:
- A gentle anti-dandruff itch-relieving shampoo formulation, which has been shown to be effective in reducing clinical signs of dandruff and pruritus in patients with mild-to-moderate dandruff 3
- Shampoos containing ciclopirox olamine (1.5%) and salicylic acid (3%), or ketoconazole (2%, Nizoral), which have been shown to be effective in treating dandruff and seborrhoeic dermatitis 4
- Nizoral 1% and Nizoral 2% shampoo preparations, which have been shown to have antifungal activity against the yeast Malassezia furfur, a common cause of dandruff 5
- Ketoconazole 2% shampoo, which has been shown to be effective in treating moderate to severe dandruff and is better tolerated than selenium sulfide 2.5% shampoo 6
- However, it's worth noting that some shampoos can cause allergic contact dermatitis, such as zinc pyrithione-containing shampoo, which can aggravate psoriasis and cause pustular psoriasis and the Kobner phenomenon 7
Key Ingredients
- Ciclopirox olamine: an antimycotic agent that is effective in treating dandruff and seborrhoeic dermatitis 4
- Salicylic acid: a keratolytic agent that aids in the removal of scales and is effective in treating dandruff and seborrhoeic dermatitis 4
- Ketoconazole: an antifungal agent that is effective in treating dandruff and seborrhoeic dermatitis 4, 6
- Zinc pyrithione: an antifungal and antimicrobial agent that is effective in treating dandruff, but can cause allergic contact dermatitis in some individuals 7