Ichthammol Shampoos for Eczema Treatment
Ichthammol (ammonium bituminosulfonate) shampoos are less irritating than coal tar shampoos and can be effectively used for treating eczema, particularly for lichenified forms of the condition. 1
Characteristics and Formulations
- Ichthammol is a derivative of shale that is less irritant than coal tars and is commonly used in the treatment of atopic eczema 1
- Ichthammol is typically available in 20% concentration in topical preparations 2
- It can be applied as an ointment (such as 1% ichthammol in zinc ointment) or in the form of paste bandages for treating lichenified eczema 1
- Medicated shampoos provide a more convenient alternative for patients who require topical administration for scalp conditions compared to conventional cream and ointment formulations 3
Benefits of Ichthammol in Eczema Treatment
- Ichthammol does not cause systemic side effects related to percutaneous absorption unless used extravagantly 1
- It is particularly useful for healing lichenified eczema when used in appropriate formulations 1
- Therapeutic shampoos like those containing ichthammol can effectively target symptoms of inflammatory scalp disorders 3
- These shampoos can be used as part of a regular treatment regimen, replacing regular shampoos for affected patients 4
Application Guidelines
- Treatment should not be applied more than twice daily 1
- Ichthammol preparations are most effective when used as part of a comprehensive treatment approach that includes proper skin hydration and avoidance of irritants 5
- For scalp application, medicated shampoos should be used according to specific product instructions, typically allowing the product to remain on the scalp for several minutes before rinsing 3
- Patients should be allowed to decide on the most suitable bathing regimen when using medicated products 1
Important Considerations and Precautions
- Ichthammol shampoos should be used as directed for treating specific skin conditions like eczema 2
- For most patients with eczema, first-line management includes proper skin care, emollients, and topical corticosteroids, with ichthammol preparations serving as adjunctive therapy 1, 6
- Patients should avoid soaps and detergents that remove natural skin lipids and instead use dispersible cream as a soap substitute 5
- Cotton clothing is recommended over wool or other potentially irritating fabrics 1
- Keeping nails short is advised to minimize damage from scratching 5
Alternative and Complementary Treatments
- Topical corticosteroids remain the mainstay of treatment for atopic eczema and can be used safely with appropriate precautions 6
- Antihistamines may be useful as short-term adjuvants during relapses with severe pruritus 1
- Emollients should be applied after bathing to provide a surface lipid film that retards evaporative water loss 1
- For scalp conditions, other medicated shampoo options include tar shampoos for psoriasis, antifungal shampoos for seborrheic dermatitis, and corticosteroid shampoos like clobetasol propionate 0.05% for psoriasis of the scalp 3