Ketoconazole
INCI: Ketoconazole
Also known as: Nizoral
Hair & ScalpactivesyntheticStrong evidencePregnancy safe
80
Skinlumis Rating
Comedogenic
0/5
Irritancy
2/5
Best applied
Both
Effective range
1%–2%
How It Works
An antifungal used in shampoos for dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis. Also shows anti-androgen activity that may support hair loss treatment.
Inhibits fungal ergosterol synthesis; also weakly inhibits 5-α-reductase peripherally.
pH Range
5.0–7.0
Benefits
- Antifungal scalp treatment
- Anti-dandruff
- Adjunct for androgenetic alopecia
Proven For
What the evidence supports.
Seborrheic dermatitisDandruff
Best For
- All skin types
Avoid If
No notable contraindications reported.
Layering Order
1/10
Apply early in routine, toner/essence step.
Max Safe Concentration
2% OTC
Concentration range in well-formulated products: 1%–2%
Seasonal Use
Year-round; 2× weekly maintenance.
For Estheticians & Professionals
2× weekly leave-on for 5 minutes before rinsing produces best results.
Pairs Well With
MinoxidilSalicylic Acid (scalp)
Conflicts With
No flagged conflicts. Still, patch-test new actives.
Your Skin Compatibility
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