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Selenium sulfide is a topical medicine used to reduce flaking and itching associated with dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis. It is also used to treat a fungal skin condition called tinea versicolor. Selenium sulfide works by slowing down the growth of skin cells on the surface and in hair follicles. Common side effects may include skin irritation, hair loss, discoloration of hair, or oily or dry hair or scalp. Follow instructions carefully. You will need to let the product sit on your scalp or skin for a certain amount of time before rinsing for it to be effective. After use, make sure to rinse thoroughly to minimize or avoid side effects. 

Uses

What is selenium sulfide used for?

Selenium sulfide is commonly used to reduce flaking and itching associated with dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis. It is also used to treat a fungal skin condition called tinea versicolor. 

Selenium sulfide may also be used for other conditions as determined by your health care provider.

Note: FDA has not found some forms of this medicine to be safe and effective, and the labels for the 2.25% and 2.3% shampoo are not approved by the FDA. Learn more about unapproved drugs here.

How does selenium sulfide work (mechanism of action)?

Selenium sulfide works by slowing down the growth of skin cells on the surface and in hair follicles.

How is selenium sulfide supplied (dosage forms)?

Brands and other names

  • Selsun Blue 2-in-1
  • Selsun Blue Medicated
  • Selsun Blue Moisturizing
  • Selsun Blue Normal to Oily

Dosage forms and strengths

  • 1%, 2.25%, 2.3% shampoo
  • 2.5% lotion

How should I store selenium sulfide?

Selenium sulfide should be stored at room temperature, between 68 F to 77 F (20 C to 25 C). It can be exposed to temperatures between 59 F to 86 F (15 C to 30 C) for shorter periods of time, such as when transporting it. Do not freeze, and keep out of excessive heat.

Side Effects

What are the most common side effects of selenium sulfide?

The most common side effects of selenium sulfide are listed below. Tell your health care provider if you have any of these side effects that bother you.

  • Skin irritation 
  • Hair loss
  • Discoloration of hair 
  • Oily or dry hair or scalp

There may be other side effects of selenium sulfide that are not listed here. Contact your health care provider if you think you are having a side effect of a medicine. In the U.S., you can report side effects to the FDA at www.fda.gov/medwatch or by calling 800-FDA-1088. In Canada, you can report side effects to Health Canada at www.health.gc.ca/medeffect or by calling 866-234-2345.

What are the serious side effects of selenium sulfide?

While less common, the most serious side effects of selenium sulfide are described below, along with what to do if they happen.

Severe Allergic Reactions. Selenium sulfide may cause allergic reactions, which can be serious. Stop using selenium sulfide and get help right away if you have any of the following symptoms of a serious allergic reaction.

  • Breathing problems or wheezing
  • Racing heart
  • Fever or general ill feeling
  • Swollen lymph nodes
  • Swelling of the face, lips, mouth, tongue, or throat
  • Trouble swallowing or throat tightness
  • Itching, skin rash, or pale red bumps on the skin called hives
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Dizziness, feeling lightheaded, or fainting
  • Stomach cramps
  • Joint pain

Warnings & Precautions

Who should not use selenium sulfide?

Allergies to Ingredients. People who are allergic to any of the following should not use selenium sulfide.

  • Selenium sulfide 
  • Selsun Blue 2-in-1
  • Selsun Blue Medicated
  • Selsun Blue Moisturizing
  • Selsun Blue Normal to Oily
  • Any of the ingredients in the specific product dispensed

Your pharmacist can tell you all of the ingredients in the specific selenium sulfide products they stock.

What should I know about selenium sulfide before using it?

Do not use selenium sulfide unless it has been prescribed to you by a health care provider. Use it as prescribed.

Do not share selenium sulfide with other people, even if they have the same condition as you. It may harm them.

Keep selenium sulfide out of the reach of children.

Selenium sulfide will be applied to your scalp or skin. Do not swallow. Avoid contact with eyes, lips and mucous membranes. If it gets into your eyes, rinse your eyes thoroughly with water. 

Do not use selenium sulfide on broken skin or on areas that are red, swollen, or leaking fluid. 

Take off jewelry before using selenium sulfide since some products can damage your jewelry. 

Shake the bottle well before using selenium sulfide. 

Follow instructions for use carefully. You will need to let the product sit on your scalp or skin for a certain amount of time before rinsing for it to be effective. And in some cases, the product may need to be applied more than once. 

Rinse thoroughly after using selenium sulfide, especially if applied to skin folds or in genital area. This will help limit skin irritation and other side effects. 

After treatment, wash your hands. 

Some selenium sulfide shampoos may darken over time. This is normal and the product is still OK to use. 

Talk to your health care provider if your condition becomes worse after using selenium sulfide. If you develop a rash or sensitive skin at the application site or elsewhere, you should stop using selenium sulfide.

What should I tell my health care provider before using selenium sulfide?

Tell your health care provider about all of your health conditions and any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using. This will help them determine if selenium sulfide is right for you.

In particular, make sure that you discuss any of the following.

Pregnancy. It is not known if or how selenium sulfide could affect pregnancy or harm an unborn baby. Tell your health care provider if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.

Breastfeeding. It is not known if selenium sulfide passes into breast milk. Tell your health care provider if you are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed.

Interactions

Does selenium sulfide interact with foods or drinks?

There are no known interactions between selenium sulfide and foods or drinks.

It is unknown if drinking alcohol will affect selenium sulfide.

Does selenium sulfide interact with other medicines (drug interactions)?

There are no known interactions between selenium sulfide and other medicines. Always tell your health care provider about any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using.

Does interact with other drugs you are taking?

Enter your medication into the WebMD interaction checker

Overdose/Missed Dose

What should I do if I accidentally use too much selenium sulfide?

If you or someone else has used too much selenium sulfide, get medical help right away, call 911, or contact a Poison Control center at 800-222-1222.

What should I do if I miss a dose of selenium sulfide?

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and only use the next dose. Do not use double or extra doses.