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Types of Medical Shampoo for Scalp Lumps

Scalp lumps are irritating and embarrassing and the cause is sometimes hard to determine. After consulting a doctor for the specific cause, which could be psoriasis, seborrheic dermatits, sebaceous dermatitis or scalp folliculitis, you have many choices in good over-the-counter treatments. Most come in the form of shampoo and contain one or more of a few effective ingredients.

  1. Zinc Pca Products

    • Zinc pyrithione is one of the leading ingredients used in scalp treatments and shampoos to prevent itching, flaky scalp, lumps and dermatitis. It starts at the root to cleanse and balance the pH level of the scalp, alleviating root buildup that can lead to scalp sores.There are several popular products using a variation of this formula, including Zincplex, Follicleanse, and Pureology. Many of these claim results within days and offer a money-back satisfaction guarantee.

    Selenium Sulfide Products

    • Selenium sulfide is an anti-infective and anti-fungal ingredient found in Selsun Blue dandruff shampoo to treat conditions of the scalp, including scalp lumps. For the first two weeks, use the product twice a week, and then taper the use down. There are possibilities of allergies and side effects such as hair loss, oiliness, discoloration of hair and irritation of skin and scalp. Always consult a doctor to make sure if this is the right treatment for your specific condition.

    Ketoconazole Products

    • Ketoconazole is the only FDA-approved treatment for dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis. This a potent anti-fungal treatment that is used for severe cases of dandruff and scalp lumps that stem from a fungal infection. Ketoconazole comes in several forms and requires a prescription at higher concentrations, but Nizoral 2 percent is a shampoo sold over the counter with this ingredient, and is found to be effective in reducing scalp problems.

    Coal Tar Products

    • Coal tar is used to treat many scalp lumps by slowing bacteria and loosening and softening crusts and scales on the scalp. It's been shown to continue working even after rinsing. There are several products available using coal tar, a popular and inexpensive one being Neutrogena T-gel. There's also Neutrogena T/Sal, which combines coal tar and salicylic acid, another ingredient effective for treating scalp conditions.

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