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Selsun Dandruff Treatment-50ml

Selsun Dandruff Treatment-50ml

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  • ✔️ Targets Malassezia yeast — a root cause of dandruff
  • ✔️ Reduces scalp flaking and itching with regular use
  • ✔️ Contains clinically active selenium sulphide 2.5% w/v
  • ✔️ Suitable for adults and children aged 5 and over
  • ✔️ Treats seborrhoeic dermatitis as well as dandruff

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Is Selsun Dandruff Shampoo Right for You?

 

Dandruff affects roughly half of all adults at some point in their lives, causing visible flaking, an itchy scalp, and — let's be honest — a fair amount of self-consciousness. If you've tried ordinary shampoos without much luck, it might be time to consider something with a clinically active ingredient. Selsun dandruff shampoo contains selenium sulphide 2.5% w/v, a well-established antifungal and cytostatic agent that targets the root causes of dandruff rather than simply washing away the flakes. You can browse our full range of hair care products if you're looking for complementary treatments alongside this one.

Selsun Dandruff Treatment 50ml is available over the counter without a prescription, making it a convenient and affordable option at just £2.49. It's been used in the UK for many years and remains one of the most recognised medicated shampoos for scalp conditions.

 

How Does Selsun Dandruff Treatment Work?

 

The active ingredient, selenium sulphide, works through two distinct mechanisms that together tackle dandruff effectively:

  • Cytostatic action: Selenium sulphide slows the rate at which scalp skin cells divide and shed. In dandruff, skin cells turn over far too quickly, producing the characteristic white or yellowish flakes.
  • Antifungal action: It reduces the population of Malassezia (formerly Pityrosporum) yeast on the scalp. This yeast is strongly associated with both dandruff and seborrhoeic dermatitis.
  • Anti-inflammatory effect: By reducing yeast overgrowth, the product indirectly calms the scalp irritation and itching that accompany these conditions.
  • Sebum regulation: Some evidence suggests selenium sulphide may help normalise sebum production, which can contribute to greasy, flaky scalp conditions.

The result is a reduction in visible flaking, less itching, and a healthier-looking scalp with regular use.

 

Who Should Use Selsun Dandruff Treatment?

 

Selsun is suitable for adults and children aged 5 years and over who are experiencing dandruff or mild to moderate seborrhoeic dermatitis of the scalp. It's particularly useful if standard cosmetic anti-dandruff shampoos haven't provided adequate relief. That said, it's not appropriate for everyone.

Selsun may be suitable for you if:

  • You have persistent dandruff that hasn't responded to regular shampoos
  • You've been told you have seborrhoeic dermatitis of the scalp
  • You experience significant scalp itching and flaking
  • You are aged 5 years or over

It is not recommended for use on broken, inflamed, or acutely infected skin. If you're unsure whether Selsun is appropriate for your scalp condition, speak to your pharmacist before purchasing.

 

How Does Selsun Compare to Other Dandruff Treatments?

 

Feature Selsun Dandruff Treatment 50ml Zinc Pyrithione Shampoo (e.g. Head & Shoulders)
Active ingredient Selenium sulphide 2.5% w/v Zinc pyrithione 1%
Antifungal action Yes — targets Malassezia yeast Yes — mild antifungal effect
Cytostatic (slows cell turnover) Yes Limited
UK classification Pharmacy medicine (P) General sale (GSL)
Suitable for seborrhoeic dermatitis Yes Mild cases only

 

Is Selsun Suitable for Long-Term Use and How Should It Be Stored?

 

Selsun dandruff shampoo is generally used as a short-to-medium-term treatment. After the initial intensive phase (twice weekly for two weeks), use is typically reduced to a maintenance frequency of once every one to four weeks. If your symptoms persist beyond four weeks of regular use, or if they worsen at any point, you should consult your GP or pharmacist. If you're also dealing with scalp-related hair thinning, our female hair loss collection may offer additional support options worth exploring.

Store Selsun below 25°C, away from direct sunlight, and keep it out of the reach and sight of children. Do not use after the expiry date printed on the packaging. The 50ml size is compact enough for travel but contains enough product for a full treatment course.

This product is a medicine. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist before using if you have an underlying medical condition or are taking other medicines.

Selsun Dandruff Treatment 50ml specifications
Treatment category Dandruff / Seborrhoeic dermatitis
Active ingredient Selenium sulphide 2.5% w/v
Mechanism of action Cytostatic and antifungal — reduces skin cell turnover and Malassezia yeast
Suitable for Adults and children aged 5 years and over
Pack size 50ml
UK classification Pharmacy medicine (P)
Drug class Antifungal / cytostatic agent
Preparation Medicated shampoo (topical suspension)
Route of administration Topical — scalp application
Effective for Dandruff, seborrhoeic dermatitis of the scalp

Specifications of Selsun Dandruff Treatment 50ml

 

What Is Selsun Dandruff Treatment and What Is It Used For?

 

Selsun Dandruff Treatment 50ml is a medicated shampoo containing selenium sulphide 2.5% w/v as its active ingredient. It is used to treat dandruff and seborrhoeic dermatitis of the scalp — two closely related conditions that cause flaking, itching, and scalp irritation. Seborrhoeic dermatitis is a common inflammatory skin condition that tends to affect areas rich in sebaceous (oil-producing) glands, including the scalp. Dandruff is considered a milder form of the same condition. Selsun dandruff shampoo works by reducing the overgrowth of Malassezia yeast and slowing the excessive shedding of scalp skin cells that causes visible flakes.

 

What Do You Need to Know Before Using Selsun Dandruff Treatment?

 

Before using Selsun, read the following carefully. Not everyone is suitable for this treatment.

Do not use Selsun if:

  • You are allergic to selenium sulphide or any other ingredient in the product
  • Your scalp skin is broken, acutely inflamed, or infected
  • Your child is under 5 years of age
  • You have an acute exudative (weeping) scalp condition

Warnings and precautions:

  • Avoid contact with eyes — rinse immediately with water if contact occurs
  • Do not use within 48 hours of applying hair colouring, perming, or straightening treatments
  • May cause temporary discolouration of bleached, tinted, or grey hair — rinse thoroughly after each use
  • Wash hands thoroughly after application
  • Do not use more frequently than directed — overuse may worsen scalp oiliness
  • If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, speak to your GP or pharmacist before use

Drug interactions:

  • No clinically significant interactions have been reported for topical selenium sulphide at standard OTC concentrations
  • If you are using other medicated scalp treatments, speak to your pharmacist before combining them

 

How Should You Use Selsun Dandruff Treatment?

 

Always use Selsun exactly as described in the patient information leaflet or as directed by your pharmacist. The following steps apply to scalp use in adults and children aged 5 and over.

  1. Wet your hair and scalp thoroughly with warm water
  2. Apply a small amount of Selsun shampoo directly to the scalp
  3. Massage gently into the scalp using your fingertips — avoid vigorous rubbing
  4. Leave the shampoo on the scalp for 2–3 minutes
  5. Rinse thoroughly with water — ensure no residue remains on the scalp or hairline
  6. Repeat the application once more if desired (double application is optional)
  7. Wash hands after use
Indication Age Group Dose Frequency
Dandruff / seborrhoeic dermatitis Adults & children ≥5 years Small amount to wet scalp Twice weekly for 2 weeks
Maintenance (dandruff control) Adults & children ≥5 years Small amount to wet scalp Once weekly for 2 weeks, then once every 1–4 weeks
Children under 5 years Under 5 Not recommended

 

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Selsun Dandruff Treatment?

 

Like all medicines, Selsun can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. If you're also managing other skin conditions, our skin care collection includes a range of products that may help support overall skin health.

Common side effects (may affect up to 1 in 10 people):

  • Scalp irritation or a burning sensation
  • Dryness or increased oiliness of the scalp
  • Temporary hair discolouration (particularly in bleached or grey hair)

Less common side effects:

  • Increased hair loss or hair breakage — usually temporary and resolves after stopping use
  • Skin rash or allergic reaction at the application site
  • Scalp tenderness
  • Unpleasant smell on the hair or scalp

Stop using Selsun and seek medical advice if you develop signs of a serious allergic reaction, such as swelling of the face, lips, or throat, difficulty breathing, or a widespread skin rash.

 

How Should You Store Selsun Dandruff Treatment?

 

Proper storage helps maintain the product's effectiveness and safety. If you're looking for other treatments to keep in your medicine cabinet, our athletes foot and fungal infections range covers a variety of antifungal options.

  • Store below 25°C
  • Keep away from direct sunlight and heat sources
  • Do not freeze
  • Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use
  • Keep out of the reach and sight of children
  • Do not use after the expiry date printed on the bottle or carton
  • Do not dispose of via wastewater or household waste — return unused medicine to your pharmacist

Written and reviewed by our qualified team

Your safety and success are our highest priorities. Our medical team rigorously evaluates every product and piece of advice we provide, ensuring you receive only the most effective, science-backed solutions available.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I buy Selsun dandruff shampoo online in the UK?

You can buy Selsun Dandruff Treatment 50ml directly from Cured Pharmacy, a GPhC-registered UK online pharmacy, for just £2.49. No prescription is needed as it is an over-the-counter pharmacy medicine. Simply add it to your basket and it will be dispatched to your door. You can also browse our wider hair care collection for complementary products.

How does Selsun dandruff shampoo work in the body?

Selsun contains selenium sulphide 2.5% w/v, which works by slowing the excessive rate at which scalp skin cells divide and shed — a process known as cytostasis. It also has antifungal properties that reduce the Malassezia yeast on the scalp, which is a key driver of dandruff and seborrhoeic dermatitis. Together, these actions reduce flaking, itching, and scalp inflammation with regular use.

How do I use Selsun Dandruff Treatment step by step?

Wet your hair thoroughly, apply a small amount of Selsun to the scalp, and massage in gently with your fingertips. Leave it on for 2–3 minutes before rinsing thoroughly — make sure no residue is left on the scalp or hairline. Use twice weekly for the first two weeks, then reduce to once weekly and eventually once every one to four weeks as a maintenance dose.

What is the correct dose of Selsun for dandruff?

For adults and children aged 5 and over, the standard starting dose is twice weekly for two weeks. After that, reduce to once weekly for a further two weeks, then use once every one to four weeks to maintain results. Do not use more frequently than directed, as overuse can worsen scalp oiliness and irritation.

When is the best time to use Selsun dandruff shampoo?

There is no specific time of day required — use Selsun whenever it fits your routine, as long as you follow the recommended frequency. Avoid using it within 48 hours of applying hair colouring, perming, or chemical straightening treatments to reduce the risk of hair discolouration. Many people find it easiest to incorporate into their regular shower routine.

What are the side effects of Selsun dandruff shampoo?

Common side effects include scalp irritation, dryness, or a temporary increase in scalp oiliness. Some users notice temporary discolouration of bleached, tinted, or grey hair, which is why thorough rinsing is important. Less commonly, temporary hair loss or breakage may occur, but this usually resolves once you stop using the product.

How do I manage side effects of Selsun dandruff shampoo?

If you experience scalp irritation, try reducing the frequency of use and ensure you rinse the product off completely after each application. For hair discolouration, rinsing very thoroughly and avoiding use near chemical hair treatments usually helps. If side effects are severe or persistent, stop using Selsun and speak to your pharmacist or GP.

Who is eligible to use Selsun Dandruff Treatment?

Selsun is suitable for adults and children aged 5 years and over who have dandruff or seborrhoeic dermatitis of the scalp. It is not suitable for children under 5, people with broken or acutely inflamed scalp skin, or those with a known allergy to selenium sulphide. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, consult your GP or pharmacist before use.

Can I use Selsun if I have coloured or chemically treated hair?

Selsun may cause temporary discolouration in bleached, tinted, permed, or grey hair due to the selenium sulphide content. You should avoid using it within 48 hours of any chemical hair treatment. If you do use it on treated hair, rinse very thoroughly to minimise the risk of discolouration.

What happens if I miss a dose of Selsun?

If you miss a scheduled application, simply use it at your next convenient opportunity and then continue with your regular schedule. Do not double up by applying twice in one day to compensate for a missed dose. Consistency over time matters more than any single application.

How long does it take for Selsun to work on dandruff?

Many users notice a visible reduction in flaking and itching within the first two weeks of twice-weekly use. Full improvement typically takes around four weeks of consistent use across the initial and maintenance phases. If you see no improvement after four weeks, speak to your GP as a different treatment may be needed.

How long can you use Selsun dandruff shampoo for?

Selsun is designed for short-to-medium-term use, with an initial intensive phase followed by a maintenance phase. If you need to continue using it beyond four weeks, or if symptoms return frequently, consult your GP or pharmacist to rule out an underlying scalp condition. Long-term unsupervised use is not generally recommended.

Is Selsun safe to use during pregnancy?

There is limited clinical data on the safety of selenium sulphide during pregnancy, so it is not routinely recommended without medical advice. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, speak to your GP or pharmacist before using Selsun. They can advise on whether the benefits outweigh any potential risks in your specific situation.

What are the alternatives to Selsun for dandruff?

Alternatives to Selsun include ketoconazole shampoos (such as Nizoral), zinc pyrithione shampoos, coal tar preparations, and salicylic acid-based scalp treatments. The right choice depends on the severity of your dandruff and any underlying scalp condition. Our skin care collection includes a range of options that may be suitable for different scalp concerns.

What are the latest studies on selenium sulphide for dandruff?

Selenium sulphide has been used clinically for dandruff and seborrhoeic dermatitis for decades, and its efficacy is well established in dermatological literature. Published research consistently supports its antifungal and cytostatic properties as effective mechanisms for reducing scalp flaking and Malassezia overgrowth. It remains a recommended treatment option in UK clinical guidance for seborrhoeic dermatitis of the scalp.

How Should You Use Selsun Dandruff Treatment?

Using Selsun correctly makes a real difference to how well it works. Always apply it to wet hair and scalp — never to dry hair — and make sure you massage it in gently rather than scrubbing, which can aggravate an already irritated scalp.

What Is the Correct Dose of Selsun Dandruff Treatment?

The dose varies depending on whether you are in the initial treatment phase or the maintenance phase. Using more than directed will not speed up results and may actually worsen scalp oiliness or irritation, so stick to the schedule below.

When Is the Best Time to Use Selsun Dandruff Treatment?

There is no clinically specified time of day for using Selsun — morning or evening both work equally well. What matters most is consistency with the recommended frequency. One important timing consideration: do not use Selsun within 48 hours of applying any chemical hair treatment such as colouring, perming, or relaxing, as this can increase the risk of hair discolouration or damage.

How Long Can You Use Selsun Dandruff Treatment For?

Selsun is intended for short-to-medium-term use. The standard course runs from an intensive twice-weekly phase through to a maintenance phase of once every one to four weeks. If your symptoms have not improved after four weeks of consistent use, or if they return repeatedly, speak to your GP or pharmacist — a different treatment or further investigation may be needed. Do not exceed the recommended dose. If in doubt, speak to your pharmacist.

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What Are the Most Common Side Effects of Selsun Dandruff Treatment?

Most people tolerate Selsun well, but like all medicines, it can cause side effects in some users. Common side effects tend to be mild and localised to the scalp or hair.

  • Scalp irritation or a mild burning sensation during or after application
  • Dryness of the scalp
  • Increased oiliness of the scalp (particularly with overuse)
  • Temporary discolouration of bleached, tinted, grey, or permed hair

What Are the Less Common Side Effects of Selsun Dandruff Treatment?

Less commonly, some users experience side effects that are more noticeable but still usually temporary. These tend to resolve once you stop using the product or reduce the frequency of use.

  • Temporary increase in hair shedding or hair breakage
  • Scalp tenderness or sensitivity
  • An unpleasant smell on the hair or scalp after use
  • Skin redness or mild rash at the application site

What Are the Serious Side Effects of Selsun Dandruff Treatment?

Serious side effects are rare with topical selenium sulphide at the concentrations found in Selsun. However, you should be aware of the signs of a serious allergic reaction (hypersensitivity). Stop using Selsun immediately and seek urgent medical attention if you experience any of the following:

  • Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
  • Difficulty breathing or swallowing
  • A widespread or rapidly spreading skin rash
  • Dizziness or feeling faint

What Should You Do If You Experience Side Effects of Selsun?

For mild side effects such as scalp irritation or dryness, try reducing the frequency of application and ensure you rinse the product off very thoroughly after each use. Leaving residue on the scalp is a common cause of irritation. If hair discolouration occurs, rinsing more thoroughly and avoiding use near chemical treatments usually helps. For any side effect that is severe, worsening, or causing you concern, stop using Selsun and speak to your pharmacist or GP promptly.

Can Selsun Dandruff Treatment Interact With Other Medicines?

No clinically significant drug interactions have been reported for topical selenium sulphide at the concentrations used in Selsun. However, if you are using other medicated scalp treatments — such as topical corticosteroids or other antifungal shampoos — at the same time, speak to your pharmacist before combining them to avoid potential irritation or reduced effectiveness. If you are concerned about any side effects, contact your pharmacist or GP immediately.

Patient Information Leaflet

Important - Before taking any medication, it is always important to read the Patient Information Leaflet (PIL)

Written and reviewed by our qualified team

GPhC Number: 2233073
Tarun Kumar

Reviewed by:

Tarun Kumar

Superintendent/ Clinical Lead

📖 Find out more about our team of medical content authors and how we ensure the accuracy of our content with our content guidelines.

Content last updated: 31 Mar 2025

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