Last reviewed 2026-04-20 · How we verify

Selsun (SELENIUM SULFIDE)

Selsun is a small molecule drug in the selenium sulfide class, originally developed by Chattem and currently owned by the same company. It was FDA approved in 1951 for the treatment of Pityriasis simplex, Pityriasis versicolor, and Seborrheic dermatitis. Selsun is available as a generic medication, with six generic manufacturers, and is off-patent. As a topical treatment, it is applied directly to the affected skin area. Key safety considerations include potential skin irritation and allergic reactions.

At a glance

Approved indications

• Pityriasis simplex
• Pityriasis versicolor
• Seborrheic dermatitis

Common side effects

No common side effects on file.

Key clinical trials

• Evaluation of the Benefits of Shampoo During 4 Weeks of Treatment and After 24 Weeks
• Evaluation and Comparison of the Benefits of Routine vs Shampoo Alone During 4 Weeks Treatment and 12 Weeks Remanence
• Evaluation of the Efficacy of SeS2 Shampoo on Subjects Having Dandruff (NA)
• Effects on the Scalp Lipids and TEWL of a 1% Selenium Disulfide and 1% Salicylic Acid Antidandruff Shampoo on Dandruff Scalp (NA)
• Effects on the Scalp Microbiota of a 1% Selenium Disulfide and 1% Salicylic Acid Shampoo After 2% Ketaconazole Foaming Gel Treatment for Scalp Seborrheic Dermatitis (NA)
• The Comparative Assessment of Mycological Efficacy, Safety, Recurrence, and Cost-effectiveness of Selenium Sulfide 1.8% Shampoo Versus Ketoconazole 2% Shampoo in Pityriasis Versicolor: a Double-blind Randomized Controlled Trial (PHASE4)
• Selenium Sulfide, Ketoconazole and Ciclopirox Shampoo as Additional Treatments for Tinea Capitis (Scalp Ringworm) (NA)

Primary sources

Every claim on this page is sourced from regulatory or scientific primary sources. See our editorial policy for full methodology.