Using Selsun Blue to Treat Rosacea - Benefits, Risks and Tips

Using Selsun Blue for Rosacea: Benefits, Risks and Treatment Guidance

Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that affects over 16 million Americans. It causes facial redness, inflammatory bumps, and visible blood vessels. While there is no cure, a number of over-the-counter and prescription treatments can help control symptoms. One popular option is Selsun Blue medicated shampoo. But does it actually help rosacea? Heres what you need to know.

What is Rosacea?

Rosacea causes redness, flushing and visible blood vessels, typically on the face. Pimple-like bumps and swollen skin may develop in more severe cases. Common areas affected include the cheeks, nose, chin, and forehead. While symptoms may come and go, they often worsen over time without treatment.

There are four main subtypes of rosacea:

• Erythematotelangiectatic rosacea - characterized by persistent facial redness and visible blood vessels
• Papulopustular rosacea - causes acne-like breakouts with red bumps and pus-filled pimples
• Phymatous rosacea - leads to thick, bumpy skin on the nose and cheeks from excess tissue
• Ocular rosacea - affects the eyes with symptoms like dryness, itching, and burning

Rosacea typically begins between ages 30 to 60 and is more common in women. The cause is unknown but may be related to immune dysfunction, microorganisms, and a genetic predisposition. Triggers like sun exposure, spicy foods, alcohol, stress, and hot temperatures can make it worse.

How Selsun Blue May Help Rosacea

Selsun Blue is an over-the-counter medicated shampoo containing 1% selenium sulfide. It is used to treat dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis, and tinea versicolor caused by a fungal overgrowth called malassezia. This same fungus may also play a role in rosacea.

Some small studies show that oral and topical anti-fungal treatments can reduce redness and pimple-like lesions in people with rosacea. This suggests that suppressing the malassezia fungus on the skin may calm inflammation. Selsun Blue may work in a similar manner when applied to the face.

In addition, Selsun Blue contains sulfur, which has some antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. Sulfur may help soothe irritation and redness from rosacea when used topically on the skin.

Using Selsun Blue for Rosacea

To use Selsun Blue for rosacea, apply a thin layer to clean dry skin on the affected areas. Leave on for 2-5 minutes before rinsing off. Be careful to avoid contact with your eyes and lips.

For some people, daily use works best for controlling symptoms. For others, using it just 2-3 times a week is sufficient. Monitor your skins response to determine the ideal frequency for you.

Using Selsun Blue along with other topical rosacea treatments like metronidazole may enhance its effectiveness. However, check with your dermatologist before combining products.

Benefits of Selsun Blue for Rosacea

Here are some of the benefits that people with rosacea experience when using Selsun Blue medicated shampoo:

• Reduces redness and flushing
• Lessens bumps, pimples and swelling
• Controls itching and burning sensations
• Improves appearance of skin
• Soothes irritation from triggers like sun exposure
• Contains no harsh fragrances or dyes
• More affordable than prescription treatments
• Easy to find over-the-counter

In addition to its antifungal properties, Selsun Blue also seems to assist with regulating the immune responses that drive rosacea symptoms. For many sufferers, it provides noticeable relief and improvement in their skins condition.

Risks and Side Effects

When used as directed, Selsun Blue is generally safe for treating rosacea. However, some people may experience side effects including:

• Skin irritation - stinging, burning, rashes, dryness
• Eye irritation if product gets in eyes
• Increased facial redness and flushing initially
• Skin photosensitivity - increased sun sensitivity
• Allergic reactions - primarily skin-related

To minimize risks:

• Do a patch test before full facial application
• Avoid contact with eyes, nostrils and lips
• Rinse thoroughly after use
• Use a sunscreen when going outside
• Stop using if irritation develops

Check with your dermatologist before trying Selsun Blue if you have very sensitive skin. It may not be suitable for everyone with this condition.

Other Treatment Guidelines for Rosacea

While Selsun Blue may help control symptoms, it should be used in conjunction with other standard rosacea treatments. Here are some tips:

• Avoid triggers like sun, spicy food, alcohol, extremes of heat/cold
• Use gentle skincare and cleansers made for sensitive skin
• Apply moisturizer daily to protect skin barrier
• Consider prescription treatments like metronidazole, azelaic acid, etc.
• Use green-tinted makeup/concealer to reduce redness
• Protect skin with broad spectrum sunscreen rated SPF 30+
• Try laser therapy to improve visible blood vessels
• Take low-dose antibiotics if pimples/bumps persist

Rosacea often requires a combination approach with lifestyle changes, over-the-counter products, and prescription medications. Work closely with your dermatologist to develop an effective treatment plan.

The Bottom Line on Selsun Blue for Rosacea

While more research is still needed, current evidence suggests Selsun Blue may offer an affordable over-the-counter option for controlling rosacea flares. Its antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties can help reduce redness and lesions.

However, results vary widely based on the individual. Some experience great success with Selsun Blue, while others get no relief. Negative reactions like skin irritation are also possible.

Use Selsun Blue as a supplementary treatment, not a standalone. See your dermatologist regularly to make sure your rosacea is under control. With the right multi-pronged approach, you can successfully manage symptoms and improve your skins appearance.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.