Main research findings

Selenium sulfide has been reported to be effective in the treatment of demodicosis in golden hamsters. 4 . In a study comparing the efficacy of four shampoos, including Nizoral (Jansen), EDS Zinc (Schering), Zinkan (Lederle), and Selsun (Abbott), selenium sulfide showed clinically and mycologically significant results, although it was less effective than Nizoral shampoo. 2 . Furthermore, anti-dandruff shampoos containing selenium sulfide have been reported to be effective in treating dandruff. 3 . However, it was found that shampoos containing selenium sulfide had lower patient compliance compared to other anti-dandruff shampoos. 3 .

Reasons for side effects

Side effects of selenium sulfide include skin irritation, allergic reactions, and hepatotoxicity. 2 . Selenium sulfide can cause irritation or allergic reactions by coming into contact with the skin. Additionally, because selenium sulfide is metabolized in the liver, it can lead to hepatotoxicity. 1 .

Common side effects

Skin irritation

Selenium sulfide can cause skin irritation. 2 . Symptoms such as redness, itching, and rash may occur.

Allergic reactions

Selenium sulfide can cause allergic reactions. 2 . Symptoms such as hives, difficulty breathing, and anaphylactic shock may occur.

Hepatotoxicity

Selenium sulfide can cause hepatotoxicity. 1 . Symptoms such as abnormal liver function, jaundice, and hepatitis may occur.

Measures to prevent side effects

Skin irritation

If skin irritation occurs, discontinue use of selenium sulfide and consult a doctor. 2 . You can also apply cold compresses or ointment to reduce irritation.

Allergic reactions

If an allergic reaction occurs, immediately stop using selenium sulfide and take appropriate action such as calling an ambulance. 2 .

Hepatotoxicity

To reduce the risk of hepatotoxicity, avoid long-term use of selenium sulfide and use it as directed by a doctor. 1 . It is also important to undergo regular liver function tests.

Comparison between studies

Common points of research

All studies have shown that selenium sulfide is effective in treating skin diseases. 4 2 3 . All studies have also shown that selenium sulfide can cause side effects. 2 3 .

Differences between studies

The effects and side effects of selenium sulfide varied depending on the study. 4 2 3 . For example, the study in 2 showed that selenium sulfide was less effective than Nizoral shampoo. On the other hand, the study in 4 showed that selenium sulfide was effective in treating demodicosis in golden hamsters. Furthermore, the study in 3 showed that anti-dandruff shampoos containing selenium sulfide were effective in treating dandruff.

Precautions for application in real life

Although selenium sulfide has been shown to be effective in treating skin diseases, it can also cause side effects. 2 . Therefore, when using selenium sulfide, follow your doctor’s instructions and discontinue use immediately and consult a doctor if any side effects occur. 2 .

Limitations of current research

Research on selenium sulfide is still insufficient. 2 3 . In particular, further research is needed on the long-term safety and efficacy of selenium sulfide. 1 .

Future research directions

Further research is needed on the safety and efficacy of selenium sulfide. 2 3 . In particular, it is necessary to investigate side effects from long-term use of selenium sulfide and the effects of selenium sulfide on other skin diseases. 1 .

Conclusion

Selenium sulfide has been shown to be effective in treating skin diseases, but it can also cause side effects. 2 3 . When using selenium sulfide, follow your doctor’s instructions and discontinue use immediately and consult a doctor if any side effects occur. 2 . Further research on the safety and efficacy of selenium sulfide is needed. 1 .