Anti-dandruff shampoo with selenium sulfide: what is it and which one should you choose?
White flakes on your shoulders, an itchy scalp, and a standard anti-dandruff shampoo that doesn't seem to help anymore after a few weeks. Dandruff is stubborn, and not every shampoo tackles it the same way.
On this page, we explain what selenium sulfide is, why it is a special ingredient, how to use the shampoo, and which of the three Regal Anti-Dandruff Shampoos is right for your hair and scalp.
What is selenium sulfide?
Selenium sulfide is a compound of selenium and sulfur and one of the best-known active ingredients against dandruff. It has been used in anti-dandruff shampoos for decades.
What makes it special: it is one of the few anti-dandruff ingredients regulated separately by European cosmetic legislation. In cosmetics, selenium sulfide may only be used in anti-dandruff shampoo, at a concentration of up to 1%. A shampoo with selenium sulfide is therefore, by definition, a targeted anti-dandruff shampoo, not an ordinary shampoo with an anti-dandruff claim.
How does it work?
With dandruff, the skin on your head renews itself faster than normal. Those extra skin cells shed as visible flakes, often accompanied by itching and a scalp that becomes oily more quickly.
Selenium sulfide inhibits this accelerated cell renewal and helps balance the scalp's sebum production. The result: fewer flakes and less itching. Because the substance does not dissolve in water but floats through the shampoo as fine particles, always shake the bottle before use.
Step by step:
- Shake the bottle well so that the selenium sulfide is evenly distributed
- Wet your hair thoroughly and massage the shampoo in, especially on the scalp
- Leave it on for a moment so the active ingredient has time to work
- Rinse thoroughly; if you have colored or permed hair, rinse extra carefully
- Repeat 2 to 3 times a week; on other days, you can use a mild shampoo
Which Regal Anti-Dandruff Shampoo suits you?
All three contain selenium sulfide as the active ingredient. The difference lies in the caring ingredients added, tailored to your hair and scalp:
- Normal to oily hair (R 261): with menthol, peppermint oil, and clay (kaolin). The clay absorbs excess sebum; menthol provides a cooling, fresh sensation. For a scalp that gets oily quickly and dandruff accompanied by oily residue
- Normal to dry hair (R 260): with caffeine and niacinamide (vitamin PP). Soothes the scalp, reduces redness and itching, and does not dry out your hair further. For dry flakes and hair that feels dull or dry
- Any hair type (R 262): with bisabolol (from chamomile) and green tea extract. Works in a calming and soothing way. For an irritated or sensitive scalp, or if you are unsure which one you need
Are you unsure between oily and dry? Look at your scalp, not your ends. If you have to wash your hair again after one day, choose R 261. If your scalp feels tight or taut, choose R 260.
Who is it suitable for?
Regal Anti-Dandruff Shampoo works best if:
- You suffer from visible flakes and an itchy scalp
- A standard anti-dandruff shampoo gives insufficient results
- You are looking for a shampoo that you use structurally 2 to 3 times a week
- You want a formula that is tailored to your scalp type
All three shampoos are dermatologically tested. If you have a wound, an inflamed or damaged scalp, or symptoms that do not improve, do not use the shampoo and consult your doctor.
What can you expect?
Realistic expectations are important. Here is what you will notice:
- After the first few washes: a fresher scalp and less itching
- After a few weeks: visibly fewer flakes when used 2 to 3 times a week
- Long term: dandruff often returns if you stop; therefore, continue to use the shampoo regularly, possibly alternating with a mild shampoo
Regal Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
Regal Anti-Dandruff Shampoo with selenium sulfide, in three versions: for normal to oily hair, normal to dry hair, and any hair type. Dermatologically tested, in a 200 ml bottle.
Available at MISTER33.COM as the exclusive Benelux distributor. Please read the product information on the product page before use.
Normal to oily hair →
Normal to dry hair →
Any hair type →
Frequently asked questions
I used to use Selsun. Is this an alternative?
Selsun is a medication containing 2.5% selenium sulfide and has been difficult to obtain or unavailable in the Netherlands for a long time. Regal Anti-Dandruff Shampoo contains the same active ingredient but is a cosmetic shampoo: the concentration remains within the legal limit of maximum 1% for cosmetics. Therefore, it is intended for regular use against dandruff, flakes, and itching. If you used Selsun on the advice of your doctor or pharmacist for a skin condition, consult them first.
How often should I use the shampoo?
2 to 3 times a week. Daily use is not necessary for results.
Why do I need to shake the bottle?
Selenium sulfide does not dissolve in water but floats through the shampoo as fine particles. Shaking ensures you get the right amount with every wash.
What is the difference between the three shampoos?
The active ingredient is the same. R 261 contains menthol and clay for an oily scalp, R 260 contains caffeine and niacinamide for a dry scalp, and R 262 contains bisabolol and green tea for an irritated scalp and any hair type.
Can I use the shampoo on colored hair?
Yes, but rinse extra thoroughly. This prevents residues from remaining in colored, bleached, or permed hair.
What if the shampoo gets into my eyes?
Rinse immediately with plenty of water. Avoid contact with the eyes and damaged skin.
Will the dandruff return if I stop?
Often, yes. For many people, dandruff is a recurring problem. Therefore, keep using the shampoo regularly, even after the flakes have disappeared.