If you're struggling with what is commonly termed fungal acne, which is more accurately known as pityrosporum folliculitis or malassezia folliculitis, then dandruff shampoo could be worth trying. As one woman recently revealed on Reddit, her sister saw a significant reduction in her blemishes when she started using Selsun Blue three times a week. This led Allure to consult two board-certified dermatologists to determine if this is a safe and probable solution for treating this form of acne. It turns out, it might be.
Understanding Selenium Sulfide's Role
Selenium sulfide is an antifungal medication primarily used in dandruff shampoos because it effectively lowers levels of yeast and subsequently reduces the inflammation that causes flakes. Joshua Zeichner, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City, explains that it is thought that the same type of fungus may play a role in certain forms of acne. In cases of fungal acne, high levels of fungus promote inflammation within the hair follicles, leading to the development of bumps, pus, and pimples. If your acne is not responding to traditional treatments, antifungals like selenium sulfide may be helpful because by reducing inflammation in the follicle, you can aid in clearing the acne.
Adam Friedman, a board-certified dermatologist based in Washington, D.C., expressed similar sentiments. He notes that selenium sulfide, the active ingredient in Selsun Blue, is typically used to treat dandruff by helping with cell turnover and reducing inflammation. However, he believes it could also potentially be effective at treating acne for the same reasons. That being said, Friedman points out that while he believes it could be theoretically useful for treating fungal acne, clinical trials would be necessary to definitively prove its efficacy.
Expert Recommendations and Usage Guidelines
Lily Talakoub, a board-certified dermatologist based in McLean, Virginia, has previously recommended Selsun Blue specifically for fungal acne. In regards to its usage for acne treatment, Zeichner recently shared some off-label instructions: "It should be applied to the skin, left to lather while you sing the alphabet, then rinsed off," he advises. "If it does not have enough time to sit on the skin, then it cannot do its job properly." This method aligns with how the Redditor's sister reportedly used Selsun Blue to successfully treat her acne, indicating proper application is key.
Potential Side Effects and Precautions
Regarding possible side effects, Friedman cautions that irritation could occur, particularly in individuals with sensitive skin or if the product is left on for too long. As Zeichner emphasized, rinsing the shampoo off after just a minute or two is advisable. It's important to note that Selsun Blue 3in1 can cause a serious allergic reaction or severe skin irritation, and this is not an exhaustive list of potential side effects; others may occur. Always consult your doctor for medical advice regarding side effects.
To avoid potential issues, it's recommended not to bandage treated skin or expose it to heat. Also, avoid touching the tip of the ointment tube or placing it directly on the skin. For foam products, shake well before each use and store away from open flame or high heat. Certain Selsun Blue 3in1 products are flammable and should not be used near high heat or open flame. Medicine used on the skin is less likely to interact with other drugs, but interactions can still occur. Avoid getting the medicine in your eyes or mouth.
Combining Treatments for Enhanced Results
While the improvement in the woman's acne is notable, it's important to acknowledge that she was also using Cosrx's Salicylic Acid Daily Gentle Cleanser in conjunction with Selsun Blue. As Zeichner explains, salicylic acid is an FDA-approved acne medication that works by removing excess oil and dead skin cells from the skin's surface, thereby drying out pimples and keeping pores clear. He further notes that salicylic acid is one of the most common ingredients found in acne cleansers and recommends leaving it on the skin for one to two minutes before rinsing to allow it to work effectively.
When to Consult a Dermatologist
If you suspect you might have fungal acne, it is crucial to consult with your dermatologist to confirm the diagnosis before attempting any new treatments, including dandruff shampoo. It is always better to err on the side of caution and seek professional medical advice.
Product Information and Usage Details
Selsun Blue is available in various forms, including shampoo, lotion, and foam, with strengths typically containing 1% or 2.5% selenium sulfide. These are used to control the symptoms of dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis on the scalp, and the 2.5% strength is also used on the body to treat tinea versicolor, a fungal skin infection. In the United States, the 2.5% strength may require a doctor's prescription. Other brand names associated with selenium sulfide include Dandrex, Selenos, SelRx, Selseb, Selsun Blue Medicated Treatment, and Tersi Foam.
General Usage Instructions:
- For Scalp (Dandruff/Seborrheic Dermatitis): Wet hair and scalp with lukewarm water. Apply approximately 1-2 teaspoons of Selsun Blue to create a lather. Allow the lather to remain on the scalp for 2-3 minutes before rinsing. Repeat application and rinse thoroughly. If using on light, blond, gray, or chemically treated hair, rinse for at least 5 minutes to minimize the risk of discoloration. Wash hands well after treatment. For the 1% strength, use at least twice a week. For the 2.5% strength, use twice a week for two weeks, then reduce to once a week or less often.
- For Body (Tinea Versicolor): Apply to affected areas of the body, avoiding the face and genitals. Work into a lather with a small amount of water and let it remain on the skin for 10 minutes. Rinse the body thoroughly.
Important Precautions:
- Do not use if blistered, raw, or oozing areas are present on the scalp or treatment area unless directed by a doctor.
- Keep away from eyes. If contact occurs, flush thoroughly with water.
- If your condition does not improve or worsens after regular use, consult your doctor.
Potential Side Effects:
- Less Common/Rare: Skin irritation.
- More Common: Unusual dryness or oiliness of hair or scalp.
- Less Common: Increase in normal hair loss.
Always consult your healthcare professional if side effects persist or are bothersome.