Medications

Nizoral | Ketoconazole Cleanser for Seborrheic Dermatitis

Table of Contents

1. What is Nizoral?

Nizoral is a cleanser containing the antifungal agent ketoconazole as its active ingredient. It is used in seborrheic dermatitis when control of Malassezia is needed. While many know it as a shampoo, it can also be used on the face.

Actual product photo of Nizoral liquid 100mL bottle containing 2% ketoconazole, an antifungal cleanser used to control Malassezia burden in seborrheic dermatitis

2. How to Use

Nizoral is not a regular cleanser that you rinse off immediately. It is important to ensure adequate contact time for the ketoconazole to work effectively.

  • Lather the product and apply to affected areas.
  • Gently spread or massage into the skin, allow 3–5 minutes of contact time, then rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water.
  • For seborrheic dermatitis, it is typically used twice weekly.

Facial skin is more sensitive than the scalp, so irritation may occur more easily even with the same product. If significant irritation is felt, the frequency of use or contact time may be reduced.

3. Precautions for Use

  • Avoid contact with eyes, mouth, and mucous membranes.
  • Dryness, burning sensation, or irritation may occur.
  • Excessive contact time may increase irritation.
  • If swelling, oozing, or severe itching develops after use, it may indicate contact dermatitis. Discontinue use and seek medical consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should Nizoral be used daily?

For seborrheic dermatitis, it is typically used twice weekly for 2–4 weeks, followed by maintenance use once every 1–2 weeks. Frequency and duration may vary depending on the affected area and current skin condition.

Can it be used on the face?

It can be used on the face. However, facial skin is more sensitive to irritation than the scalp, so avoid the eye area. If swelling, oozing, or severe itching develops, it may indicate contact dermatitis. Discontinue use and seek medical consultation.