SELENIUM SULFIDE
Commonly Found In
Overview
Selenium sulfide is an inorganic anti-dandruff and antifungal active used in therapeutic shampoos. Clinical evidence indicates it may help reduce scalp scaling associated with seborrheic dermatitis and dandruff by slowing corneocyte turnover and inhibiting Malassezia yeast. It is permitted at 1% in EU anti-dandruff shampoos (Annex III), recognized as an OTC drug active by the US FDA at 1β2.5%, and used as a quasi-drug in Japan. The EU restricts its use to rinse-off hair care only; it is not for use on damaged or irritated skin.
Also known as: Selenium Sulfide, Selenium Disulfide, SeS2, Selenium(IV) Sulfide
Key Benefits
Clinical evidence indicates selenium sulfide may help reduce scalp scaling, itching, and dandruff by cytostatic action on scalp keratinocytes and antifungal activity against Malassezia; studies suggest efficacy in seborrheic dermatitis and tinea versicolor.
Supporting Research
- β’ FDA OTC Dandruff Drug Products Monograph β selenium sulfide 1% recognized as safe and effective
- β’ Gupta et al. (2004) β selenium sulfide in seborrheic dermatitis (Int J Dermatol)
Skin Compatibility Ratings
Comedogenic Rating
Non-comedogenic; antifungal active used in medicated shampoos for dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis.
Source: CIR Expert Panel; FDA OTC drug monograph
Irritancy Rating
Generally well tolerated in shampoo formulations at 1%; may cause scalp irritation or oiliness; not for use on inflamed or broken skin; avoid eye contact
Source: EU Annex III/49; clinical literature
Typical Use Concentration
Range
1β2.5%
Optimal
1% (EU cosmetic/OTC); 2.5% (US OTC drug for tinea versicolor)
EU Annex III permits 1% in rinse-off anti-dandruff hair products. US FDA OTC drug: 1% for dandruff/seborrheic dermatitis, 2.5% for tinea versicolor.
Works Well With / Avoid
Works Well With
Avoid Combining
Use With Caution
EU restricts to 1% in anti-dandruff shampoos (rinse-off only). US OTC drug monograph: 1β2.5% for dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis, tinea versicolor.
Commonly Found In
Global Regulation Summary
Overview of current status across major international markets.
Detailed Regional Status
| Region | Status | Max Conc. | Conditions | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| πͺπΊ EU | Banned | - | - | Official β |
| πΊπΈ USA | Allowed | - | - | Official β |
| π―π΅ Japan | Allowed | - | - | Official β |
| π°π· Korea | Unknown | - | - | Official β |
| π¬π§ UK | Restricted | - | Follows EU regulations (III/49) | Official β |
π Why Regulations Differ
The EU permits selenium sulfide at 1% in anti-dandruff shampoos (Annex III/49) as a restricted cosmetic ingredient. The US regulates it as an OTC drug active (1β2.5%) rather than a cosmetic. Japan classifies it as a quasi-drug. The distinction between cosmetic and drug classification explains the apparent 'banned' EU database status β it is restricted, not completely prohibited, for specific shampoo use.
Regulation Analysis
Regional Agreement
Banned in EU but allowed in USA, Japan.
Category Comparison
There are 13 ingredients in the ANTI-SEBORRHEIC category. 100% are banned in at least one major market.
Strictness Ranking
πΏ Natural Sources
Not found in significant amounts in nature. Selenium itself occurs in selenide minerals and as a trace element in sulfide ores (copper, silver, lead). Produced synthetically for commercial use.
π How It's Made
Produced by reacting selenium with sulfur at elevated temperatures, or by reacting hydrogen selenide with sulfur dioxide. The resulting compound is a bright orange to red-brown powder.
π Uses in Cosmetics
Used in cosmetic products primarily for anti-seborrheic, hair conditioning.
π¬ Other Applications
Used primarily in medicated anti-dandruff shampoos, treatment of tinea versicolor (skin fungal infection), and in some veterinary antifungal products.
π‘ Fun Facts
- β’ Selenium sulfide is the active ingredient in popular anti-dandruff shampoos like Selsun Blue, first introduced in the 1950s
- β’ It works against dandruff by slowing down the growth rate of skin cells on the scalp and killing the Malassezia fungus
- β’ The name 'selenium' comes from the Greek word 'selene' meaning moon, because the element was discovered alongside tellurium (named after Earth)
Related Skin Concerns
Data Sources
- β’ EU CosIng database (Annex III/49)
- β’ FDA 21 CFR 358 β OTC Dandruff Drug Products (selenium sulfide)
- β’ Gupta et al. Int J Dermatol 2004
Last data verification: 2026-04-16
Related Ingredients
ETHYL LAUROYL ARGINATE HCL
BHA
SALICYLIC ACID
CATALASE
COAL TAR
CYCLOMETHICONE
CYCLOTETRASILOXANE
Learn More
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is SELENIUM SULFIDE banned in the EU but allowed in the US?
The EU follows a precautionary principle, banning SELENIUM SULFIDE under III/49 due to potential safety concerns. The US FDA has not found sufficient evidence to prohibit its use, allowing it under different safety assessment standards. This reflects differing regulatory philosophies between the two regions.
Why is SELENIUM SULFIDE banned in the EU but allowed in Japan?
The EU prohibits SELENIUM SULFIDE (III/49) based on their strict safety criteria. Japan's Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (MHLW) has evaluated the ingredient and permits its use, potentially with different safety data or usage conditions.
What is SELENIUM SULFIDE used for in cosmetics?
SELENIUM SULFIDE is primarily used for anti-seborrheic in cosmetic products. It also serves as hair conditioning. The ingredient is commonly found in various cosmetic and personal care products.
Which countries regulate SELENIUM SULFIDE?
SELENIUM SULFIDE is banned in EU. It has concentration limits or usage restrictions in UK. The ingredient is freely allowed in JP, US.
Are there alternatives to SELENIUM SULFIDE?
Due to regulatory restrictions on SELENIUM SULFIDE, cosmetic manufacturers often use alternative ingredients with similar functions. For anti-seborrheic, alternatives may include other approved ingredients in the same category. Consult product labels for specific formulations, and look for products compliant with your region's regulations.
Disclaimer
The information on this website is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. While we strive for accuracy based on official government databases, cosmetic regulations change frequently. Always consult with a qualified professional or refer to the latest official regulatory documents for compliance. We are not responsible for any actions taken based on the information provided here.