salicylic acid/sulfur shampoo

Action and Spectrum

Actions and Spectrum 

Action: 

Exfoliation: salicylic acid is a beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) known for its exfoliating properties. Promoting a healthier environment for the scalp, the process aids in the elimination of lifeless skin cells and the clearance of obstructed hair follicles. 

Anti-inflammatory: salicylic acid has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce redness, itching, and irritation on the scalp.  

Antifungal: Both salicylic acid and sulfur have antifungal properties, making the shampoo effective against fungal infections like ringworm or tinea capitis. They help control the overgrowth of fungi on the scalp, reducing itching and flaking. 

Spectrum: 

Dandruff: salicylic acid’s exfoliating action helps remove flakes and reduce dandruff symptoms. 

Psoriasis: The anti-inflammatory properties of salicylic acid soothe the scalp, reduce scaling, and alleviate the symptoms of psoriasis. 

Seborrheic dermatitis: salicylic acid and sulfur’s exfoliating and antifungal properties help manage seborrheic dermatitis by reducing inflammation, flaking, and itching. 

Drug Interaction

Adverse Reaction

Frequency not defined  

High concentrations (>10%) may cause muscle cramps, vomiting, dizziness headache 

Desquamation 

Stinging/burning of scalp 

Black Box Warning

Black Box Warning:  

None

Contraindication / Caution

Contraindication/Caution:  

Allergy or hypersensitivity: Individuals who are allergic or hypersensitive to salicylic acid, sulfur, or any other ingredients in the shampoo should avoid using it. The allergic reaction may include rash, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing. 

Open wounds or broken skin: Do not apply salicylic acid/sulfur shampoo to areas with open wounds, cuts, or broken skin, as it may cause irritation or stinging sensations. 

Sensitivity to salicylates: Some individuals may have a sensitivity or intolerance to salicylates, a class of compounds that includes salicylic acid. If you have a known sensitivity to salicylates, it is advisable to avoid using salicylic acid/sulfur shampoo. 

Children: The shampoo may not be suitable for infants or young children, especially if they have a history of skin sensitivity or are prone to developing adverse reactions. 

Eye contact: Avoid contact with the eyes when using salicylic acid/sulfur shampoo, as it can cause irritation.  

Other medications: The shampoo may interact with certain medications, such as blood thinners or resorcinol. It is crucial to tell all the medications you are currently using to your healthcare provider in order to avoid any interactions. 

Pregnancy / Lactation

Pregnancy warnings:     

Pregnancy category: C 

Lactation: Excreted into human milk is unknown 

Pregnancy Categories:         

Category A: Studies that were well-controlled and met expectations revealed no risk to the fetus in either the first or second trimester. 

Category B: There were a lack of studies on pregnant women and no evidence of risk to the fetus in animal experiments.   

Category C: there was evidence of risk of adverse effects in animal reproduction studies, and no adequate evidence in human studies must take care of potential risks in pregnant women.    

Category D: adequate data with sufficient evidence of human fetal risk from various platforms, but despite the potential risk, and used only in emergency cases for potential benefits.   

Category X: Drugs listed in this category outweigh the risks over benefits. Hence these categories of drugs need to be avoided by pregnant women.    

Category N: There is no data available for the drug under this category

Pharmacology

Pharmacology:  

salicylic acid/sulfur shampoo (sebex) is a combination product that is commonly used to treat various scalp conditions, including dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis, and psoriasis. It combines the keratolytic properties of salicylic acid with the antifungal and antibacterial effects of sulfur. 

Pharmacodynamics:  

salicylic Acid: 

keratolytic activity: 

salicylic acid is a keratolytic agent that softens and loosens the skin’s outer layer (epidermis).  

Anti-inflammatory Activity: salicylic acid also possesses anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate itching, redness, and inflammation associated with scalp conditions. 

sulfur: 

Antifungal Activity: sulfur has broad-spectrum antifungal properties and can inhibit the growth of fungi, such as Malassezia spp., which are often implicated in dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis. 

Antibacterial Activity: sulfur also possesses mild antibacterial effects, which can help control the overgrowth of bacteria on the scalp. 

Pharmacokinetics: 

Absorption 

salicylic acid is readily absorbed through the skin. Topically applied in a shampoo formulation can penetrate the scalp and hair follicles sulfur, on the other hand, has limited skin absorption. However, the absorption of both salicylic acid and sulfur can vary depending on factors such as the formulation, concentration, and duration of contact. 

Distribution 

salicylic acid can be distributed throughout the body, although systemic distribution is generally minimal when applied topically. sulfur, if absorbed, does not distribute significantly in the body. The distribution of both substances mainly occurs within the skin layers, targeting the areas where they are applied. 

Metabolism 

salicylic acid undergoes hepatic metabolism, primarily through conjugation with glycine to form salicyluric acid, which is then further metabolized to produce various metabolites. sulfur does not undergo significant metabolism.  

Excretion and Elimination 

salicylic acid and its metabolites are mainly excreted in the urine. The elimination half-life of salicylic acid is relatively short, typically ranging from 2 to 3 hours. sulfur, if absorbed, is excreted through various routes, including the skin and respiratory tract, but it does not undergo extensive systemic elimination. 

Adminstartion

Administration:  

Apply a small amount of salicylic acid/sulfur shampoo to your scalp. 

Gently massage the shampoo into your scalp, working it into a lather. Pay particular attention to the affected areas. 

Rinse your hair and scalp thoroughly with lukewarm water. 

Patient Information Leaflet

Patient information leaflet 

Generic Name: salicylic acid/sulfur 

Why do we use salicylic acid/sulfur?  

Dandruff treatment: The shampoo is effective in reducing and controlling dandruff. They help remove flakes and dead skin cells from the scalp, which are often the cause of dandruff. 

Seborrheic dermatitis: The shampoo can help manage the symptoms of seborrheic dermatitis by reducing inflammation and exfoliating the affected areas. 

Psoriasis: The shampoo can be used as an adjunctive treatment for scalp psoriasis. They can help soften and remove the thick, scaly patches on the scalp, reducing itching and improving the overall appearance. 

Excessive oiliness: The shampoo have a drying effect on the scalp, making them beneficial for individuals with oily scalps. They help regulate sebum production and remove excess oil, promoting a healthier scalp environment. 

Scalp acne: Salicylic acid is known for its remarkable action to clear congested pores and diminish occurrences of acne.When used in a shampoo formulation with sulfur, it can be effective in treating scalp acne by exfoliating the skin and reducing inflammation.