Dermax Therapeutic Shampoo

Dermax is a medicated shampoo designed for people with dry, scaly scalp conditions such as seborrhoeic dermatitis (patches of red, scaly, itchy skin on the scalp) and severe dandruff (a condition doctors call "pityriasis capitis"). It is a "Pharmacy Medicine" (usually labelled with a 'P'), meaning you can buy it from a pharmacy, but you will need to answer a few short questions so the pharmacist can be sure it is right for you.

Unlike some medicated shampoos that just wash flakes away, Dermax uses a clever two-step process built around its active ingredient, benzalkonium chloride: Lifts the scales: The active ingredient binds to the dry scales on your scalp, loosening them. These particles then get trapped in the rich foam of the shampoo. When you remove the lather, you physically wash the flakes and debris away from your scalp and hair. Fights micro-organisms: Dermax acts as a mild antiseptic. It targets and helps combat the micro-organisms (specifically the yeast Malassezia furfur) that can make scaly scalp conditions worse. It also contains coconut oil to help soothe the scalp and condition the hair, so your scalp feels moisturised and comfortable after treatment.

Using Dermax is straightforward. The manufacturer Dermal Laboratories provides the following recommended method: 1. Wet your hair thoroughly with warm water. 2. Apply the shampoo: Put a small amount (about the size of a fifty pence piece for short hair – adjust the amount up or down for long or thick hair) directly onto your scalp and hair. 3. Massage it in: With the tips of your fingers, gently massage it into your scalp to produce a rich lather. Rub it in thoroughly. 4. Remove the excess lather: Using your hands, remove as much of the foam as you can. This step is important because it's the foam that lifts the scales from your hair. 5. Rinse: Rinse your hair thoroughly under running water. 6. Repeat: It is recommended you do a second application. Apply a small amount again, massage it in thoroughly, remove the foam with your hands, and rinse again. After washing, you can dry your hair as normal.

Dermax is designed to be used daily if you need it, until your scalp looks and feels better. As your condition improves, you can gradually reduce your use to once or twice a week. Afterwards, you may only need to use it occasionally to stop the condition from coming back. A very important rule: If you have seen no improvement after 4 weeks, or if your scalp seems to be getting worse, stop using the shampoo and speak to your doctor or pharmacist. This is a standard check to ensure you're not delaying getting a different treatment that might work better for you.

The undiluted shampoo and the lather can cause irritation if it gets in your eyes. If you do get it in your eyes, immediately rinse them with plenty of clean water. When rinsing one eye, be careful to avoid washing the product into the other eye. If the irritation persists, tell your doctor or pharmacist.

Yes, Dermax can be used by adults, the elderly, and children. It's considered suitable for all ages. However, if you're treating a young child, it's always a good practice to check with a pharmacist first to confirm it's appropriate.

Yes, Dermax can be used during pregnancy and while breastfeeding. The individual ingredients have been used in this and similar preparations for many years without reported problems. That said, no formal safety trials have been conducted, so as a precaution, it's always sensible to speak to a doctor or pharmacist before using any new product if you are pregnant, might become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.

Most people use Dermax without any problems, especially when following the 4-week rule. However, potential side effects can occur. Skin Irritation or Allergy: In some rare cases, it can cause irritant or allergic skin reactions, particularly on extremely sensitive skin. These are most likely to happen during or just after the first few uses. If you notice redness, itching, or a rash developing, stop using it. Sodium Benzoate: The shampoo contains a preservative called sodium benzoate (E 211), which may cause local skin irritation in some people. Important Warning for Newborns: Sodium benzoate may increase jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes) in newborn babies (up to 4 weeks old). Therefore, Dermax should not be used on newborn babies in the first 4 weeks of life without specific medical advice. When to stop and see a doctor or pharmacist: - If you have a severe allergic reaction (swelling of the face and throat, skin rash, breathing difficulties) – this is rare. - If your scalp becomes more irritated or the condition worsens significantly. - If you experience any side effects that worry you. If you experience any side effects, you should also stop using the product and report them through the MHRA Yellow Card Scheme.

Yes, a few other points are worth knowing to help you use Dermax safely and get the best results: Allergies: Do not use Dermax if you are allergic (hypersensitive) to benzalkonium chloride or any of the other ingredients listed on the bottle. This is a specific contraindication, so check the label if you have known sensitivities. It's External Only: Dermax is for external use on the scalp only. Keep it out of the reach of children. Don't drink it. NHS Availability: Because it's available over the counter, the NHS does not always prescribe it. Some local formularies list it as suitable for self-care without routine follow-up.