Go Here Test

More Diets

Go Here Test

Selenium Sulfide

Pronounced

"seh-LEE-nee-um SUL-fide"

Common brand names:

Selsun Blue

Uses

This medication is used to treat dandruff and a certain scalp infection (seborrheic dermatitis). It reduces itching, flaking, irritation, and redness of the scalp. Selenium sulfide is also used for a condition that causes discoloration of the skin (tinea versicolor). This medication belongs to a class of medications called anti-infectives. It works by slowing the growth of the yeast that causes the infection.

How to Use This Medication

This medication is for use on the skin only. Some brands require shaking before use. Check your product package to see if your brand needs to be shaken. Before using this medication, remove any jewelry to avoid damage to it. Avoid getting this medication into your eyes, inside your nose or mouth, or on any areas of broken/inflamed skin since it may cause irritation. If this occurs, flush the area with plenty of water. Consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions about how to use this medication properly.

For the treatment of dandruff or scalp dermatitis, follow the manufacturer's instructions, or use as directed by your doctor. Wet the scalp and massage the medication onto the wet scalp. Leave it on your scalp for 2-3 minutes and rinse thoroughly. Some brands may require a second application. Check your product package to see if your brand requires a repeat application. Be sure to rinse your hair and scalp well with water after each application, especially on bleached, tinted, or permed hair. This medication is usually used 1 or 2 times per week to treat dandruff or seborrheic dermatitis, or less often to maintain control of dandruff.

For the treatment of tinea versicolor, apply selenium sulfide to the affected skin. Lather with a small amount of water. Allow it to remain on your skin for 10 minutes. Rinse your skin thoroughly with water after each use. If the medication touches the genital areas or skin folds, rinse the area well with water for a few minutes to prevent irritation. This medication is applied usually once daily for 7 days to treat tinea versicolor, or use as directed by your doctor.

Wash your hands after using selenium sulfide. Do not leave this medication on your hair, scalp, or skin for a longer period or use it more often than directed. Your condition will not clear faster, but side effects may be increased.

If your condition worsens or does not improve, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

Copyright © 2025 TraceGains, Inc. All rights reserved.

RxAnswers™ is a copyrighted combined product from TraceGains and First DataBank, Inc.

Drug information is selected from data included with permission and copyrighted by First DataBank, Inc. This is a summary and does not contain all possible information about this product. For complete information about this product or your specific health needs, ask your healthcare professional. Always seek the advice of your healthcare professional if you have any questions about this product or your medical condition. This information is not intended as individual medical advice and does not substitute for the knowledge and judgment of your healthcare professional. This information does not contain any assurances that this product is safe, effective or appropriate for you.

This information is intended only for residents of the United States. Products sold under the same brand names in other countries may contain different ingredients.

Learn more about First DataBank

There are some limitations on the information provided in “Nutrient Interactions.” Do NOT rely solely on the information in this article. Please read the disclaimer.

Learn more about TraceGains, the company.

TraceGains and/or its suppliers make no warranties or representations as to the accuracy or completeness of this content herein or that of any organization referred or linked to within this content and will not be liable for any damages arising out of your access to or use of any information found herein or that of any organization referred to within this content.

Information expires December 2025.