But what does science say? Is Selsun Blue safe to use on the skin? Or does it cause more harm? In this article, we discuss the benefits of Selsun Blue for skin and its potential risks. Keep reading.
2. May Help Treat Seborrheic Dermatitis
This skin condition is characterized by red patches with yellow-gray scales that mostly appear on the face, scalp, upper chest, and back. A study found that selenium sulfide used in concentrations of 0.5% to 2.5% in lotion, ointment, cream, and jelly vehicles may help treat the skin condition effectively. Besides, concentrations of 0.5% and 1% were found to be less irritating than and as effective as the higher concentrations (2). This disease may often occur in conjunction with other skin conditions like acne vulgaris and eczema (3). Hence, treating seborrheic dermatitis may help reduce the flare-up of these conditions, as it works as an anti-infective agent.
3. May Help Treat Pityriasis Versicolor
Pityriasis (tinea) versicolor is a skin condition that causes hyperpigmented and hypopigmented scaly patches. It is caused by the fungus Malassezia furfur. Research suggests that selenium sulfide may treat this skin condition effectively with its antifungal properties, besides showing better efficacy than sodium sulfacetamide (4). However, it may cause certain adverse effects. Hence, practice caution.
4. May Help Treat Rashes
Selenium sulfide is an antifungal agent. Anecdotal reports suggest that it may be used to treat skin rashes. However, consult a dermatologist before using Selsun Blue for rashes as it may cause side effects in some individuals. These are the potential skin benefits of Selsun Blue. But how do you use it for achieving the desired results?
How To Use Selsun Blue For Skin
Selsun Blue is meant for use on the skin only. Ensure you shake the package before use (as directed on the package). Remove jewelry before using the product. Rinse your hair and scalp before applying the product to treat seborrheic dermatitis or scalp dandruff. Massage the product in and leave it on for the prescribed duration. Check the label to understand if the product can be used on color-safe and processed hair. Keep in mind that each product may have slightly different application instructions, so be sure to look out for those. For tinea versicolor, apply selenium sulfide to the affected area. Add a few drops of water to form lather. Leave it on the skin for about 10 minutes and wash off. Wash your hands after using selenium sulfide. Do not leave this medication on your hair, scalp, or skin for a longer period. Also, do not use it more often than directed. Consult a doctor or pharmacist if your condition worsens or does not improve despite using Selsun Blue.
Note: Do not apply any products containing Selsun Blue into your eyes, nose, or mouth. Avoid applying it to broken or inflamed skin, unless directed by a medical professional, as it may cause swelling and irritation. Selenium compounds are not easily absorbed through the skin. Hence, using medicated shampoos containing selenium is generally considered safe. However, one may still experience side effects like contact dermatitis (5). Read to know the other side effects of Selsun Blue in the following section.
Selsun Blue: Side Effects And Precautions
The side effects of Selsun Blue include (6):
Redness, burning, itching, stinging, and irritation of the skin Scalp sores, increased skin oiliness, and nail hyperpigmentation Scalp hyperpigmentation Scalp discoloration Alopecia (hair loss) Rarely, nausea may occur due to the medication’s odor
Note: Children aged below five years and women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should not use Selsun shampoo. Do not use Selsun shampoo if:
You are allergic (hypersensitive) to selenium sulfide or any of the other ingredients of the shampoo. You should always do a patch test before using it as directed for your condition to ensure that you do not have any sensitivities to the product. You have broken or severely inflamed skin
Do you know that food we take contains selenium? But does it make the food healthy or harmful? Keep scrolling to know the answers.
Is It Wrong To Eat Food With Selenium?
No. Selenium is an essential nutrient for humans and animals. People receive a majority of their daily selenium intake from food, and to a lesser extent, from water. However, selenium can be harmful when regularly taken in amounts higher than those needed (6). The seriousness of the adverse effects depends on how much selenium is taken and how often. Brittle hair and deformed nails can develop even if mildly excessive amounts of selenium are taken over long periods. Anecdotal evidence suggests that people may also lose feeling and control in their arms and legs in extreme cases. Swallowing a large amount of selenium supplement pills could be life-threatening without immediate treatment.
In A Nutshell
Can you sleep with Selsun Blue on? No. Leaving Selsun Blue on your skin for too long may result in an allergic reaction (6). Ensure you follow the instructions for safe results. Can we use Selsun Blue for skin psoriasis? Yes. Scientific evidence suggests that topical selenium sulfide may effectively improve psoriatic plaques (1). Does Selsun Blue get rid of white spots on skin? Yes. Selsun Blue has antifungal properties that may treat the white spots (hypopigmentation) on the skin (7). Consult your doctor for proper instructions and dosage. Can we use selenium sulfide for burnt skin? There is currently no research to support the use of Selsun Blue on burnt skin. Consult a doctor for more information. How long should you leave Selsun Blue on sunspots? Leave Selsun Blue on the affected areas for 10 to 15 minutes before washing it off with water.
