Ketoconazole Shampoo (Nizoral) for Treating Hair Loss

What is Ketoconazole?

Ketoconazole, sold under the brand name Nizoral among others, is an antiandrogen and antifungal medication used to treat a number of fungal infections. Applied to the skin it is used for fungal skin infections such as tinea, cutaneous candidiasis, pityriasis versicolor, dandruff, and seborrheic dermatitis.

It has also been found to help wit the treatment of common hair loss types such as androgenic alopecia (pattern baldness) and alopecia areata. 

How does Ketoconazole treat hair loss?

It's thought that ketoconazole blocks the action of 5AR in the body. By doing this, ketoconazole lowers DHT levels and may help slow hair loss. It has even shown to support the function of hair growth. 

How effective is Ketoconazole for hair loss?

While ketoconazole can't regrow hair that has fallen out as a result of male pattern baldness (no medication can do that), it may potentially help with the regrowth of hair that's temporarily fallen out due to seborrheic dermatitis. Seborrheic dermatitis is a scalp condition that could cause temporary hair loss. 

Ketoconazole tends to be more effective for treating hair loss when used in conjunction with other treatments such as minoxidil and micro needling. 

What are the negative side-effects of Ketoconazole?

Although ketoconazole is considered to be a safe treatment (when used once a week), there is some risk of negative side-effects. The most common side-effects include; acne, itching, blistering, skin irritation, eye dryness, dizziness, headaches, and skin rash.  

Is Ketoconazole expensive?

Ketoconazole shampoo (Nizoral) is not expensive. You can purchase one bottle for around £5. This should last for one around month. 

Should you try Ketoconazole?

Ketoconazole is a treatment that could be considered if you are experiencing early stages of hair loss, caused by androgenic alopecia (male/female pattern baldness) or alopecia areata. 

If you are expecting a miracle treatment for hair loss, then you will not find it in Ketoconazole. Results are usually minimal, and the treatment is far more effective when used alongside a good hair supplement, minoxidil, or a good micro needling routine.

Like with any medication, there is the risk of negative side-effects, but these are usually minor, if any. Being cheap, and low risk, a shampoo lie Nizoral should certainly be considered if you are experiencing early stages of hair loss.  A 2% solution should be used around once a week. 

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