Ketoconazole works as an antifungal medication by inhibiting the growth of fungi in the body. It is frequently employed to treat fungal infections, particularly those affecting the skin and the nails. From the time of its discovery by lab scientists in the United States in 1976 until its approval for commercial distribution by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 1981, it was used as an oral treatment for infections caused by fungus attacks. It wasn’t until recently that trichologists began incorporating this product into hair treatments, primarily in the form of shampoos, which have shown to be a breakthrough in the treatment of a broad spectrum of fungal-related hair illnesses.
Hair Loss and Ketoconazole
Several studies have shown that men’s hair loss can significantly decrease by using Nizoral shampoo. The use of ketoconazole-based shampoos has been found to increase hair density in people who are experiencing hair loss. Despite this, additional studies were undertaken after the first tests were completed. They all came to the same conclusion: Nizoral shampoos contained hair growth stimulants that were found to reverse the effects of hair loss following the testing successfully.
The mechanism behind ketoconazole’s antifungal effect is that it inhibits the production of cell membrane and enzymes that support fungi development in the body. A range of medicines and substances, including steroids and testosterone precursors, utilize this suppression of synthesis.
Types of Ketoconazole shampoo
To a large extent, all ketoconazole shampoos act in the same manner. Just that certain shampoos have a higher concentration of ketoconazole, making them more potent than shampoos with a smaller concentration. But that does not mean that you should always purchase a heavy-duty product. When it comes to medication, more isn’t always better.
Shampoos with 1% ketoconazole
Seborrheic dermatitis-related dandruff, for example, is often treated with Shampoos of ketoconazole concentration of 1 percent. It is recommended that over-the-counter solutions such as Nizoral Anti-Dandruff Shampoo be used a few times a week for a limited period of time.
Shampoos with 2% ketoconazole
Infections with fungi such as tinea versicolor are commonly treated with Ketoconazole 2 percent solution. Because it is intended to be a one-time treatment, it can only be obtained through a doctor’s prescription.
How to use ketoconazole shampoo
- The first step is to wet your hair and scalp thoroughly.
- When shampooing, apply a sufficient amount of lather to clean the hair and scalp thoroughly.
- Gently massage your scalp with your fingers and allow 5 minutes.
- Apply warm water to the hair to rinse it.
- Finally, make sure your hair is dehydrated before resuming your normal activities
Note that you should repeat this procedure is if your doctor tells you to.
If you’re using an over-the-counter shampoo (1 %), lather it up and rinse thoroughly. You can repeat this process, but make sure to dry your hair after the second shampooing session completely. If you are treating locations other than the scalp, apply the shampoo to the affected area and the healthy skin around it. Leave on the spot for 5 minutes before rinsing with water.
Keep in mind that the number of applications and the length of treatment depends on the strength of the shampoo (whether it contains 2% or 1% ketoconazole) and the problem being treated. Make sure you strictly adhere to your doctor’s or the package’s recommendations.
Take care to avoid eye contact, and if the shampoo does go into them, rinse them out immediately with plenty of water. If your scalp or skin is damaged or swollen, do not use shampoo. Call your doctor right away if your illness persists or worsens after 2-4 weeks of treatment.
Are there side effects?
Ketoconazole is a fantastic option if you’re looking for a safe and effective shampoo. But there are some drawbacks, and some people may want to avoid them.
First, ketoconazole shampoo can induce a burning, stinging, and itchy sensation when used on the skin. Irritation from shampoo is common, but severe cases should be reported to a doctor, and the product discontinued.
Among other things, it can lead to dry scalp, oily or oily hair, scalp blisters, a change in hair texture, and hair loss. There have been reports of allergic reactions ranging from hives, redness, and swelling to difficulty breathing or swallowing after using a product. Again, if you feel allergic to ketoconazole, you should stop usage immediately.
Who should use a ketoconazole shampoo?
Anyone can use a ketoconazole shampoo, as long as you do not have underlining health conditions that can make you susceptible to an adverse effect. Below are a few lists of conditions where ketoconazole usage is not advisable.
Pregnancy
As for who should steer clear of it? Using ketoconazole shampoo while pregnant or breastfeeding is a bad idea because specialists aren’t sure if it’s safe to do so.
Allergy
Some people’s biological composition causes them to quickly develop an allergy to new substances. For example, some are allergic to antifungals such as itraconazole and miconazole; thus, ketoconazole shampoo is not advised for them. Additionally, if you are allergic to sulfites, dyes, or preservatives, you may be more likely to have an adverse reaction to ketoconazole shampoos. So, if you have any allergies, see your doctor before using this shampoo.
Remember that ketoconazole can cause your scalp to become more irritated, so steer clear of any products that could make it even more vulnerable. This category includes products such as soap and shampoo that are overly harsh on the skin. Additionally, hair color or bleach and waxes that contain a lot of alcohol or astringents should be avoided.
In conclusion
Depending on your needs, you can get ketoconazole shampoo for a prescription or over-the-counter formulation. Ketoconazole shampoo can be used to treat seborrheic dermatitis and dandruff, as well as other scalp-related illnesses such as tinea versicolor, which can be challenging to cure. The use of ketoconazole shampoo should be discontinued immediately if you suffer an allergic reaction. You should also consult your doctor promptly for expert advice.