Ingredient
Selenium Sulfide
Selenium Sulfide is flagged for pregnancy, breastfeeding and trying to conceive. The concern behind the strongest flag is absorbed into the body and known teratogen.
- Selenium Disulfide
- SeS2
Verdict by profile
Truva checks every ingredient against six profiles. Jump to any of them for the full assessment.
- Strongest verdict
- Not Recommended
- Its verdict for pregnancy, the profile this one is worst in
- Profiles flagged
- 3 of 6
- Counting avoid, high risk and medium risk
- Irritancy
- 3 of 5
- Higher means more likely to sting or redden
Selenium Sulfide and pregnancy
Not Recommended
- Absorbed into the body
- Known teratogen
Selenium sulfide is an anti-fungal and anti-seborrheic agent used primarily in medicated shampoos to treat dandruff and scalp conditions. It works by reducing cell turnover and controlling Malassezia yeast on the scalp. While topical selenium sulfide is absorbed through the skin in small amounts, there are concerns about its use during pregnancy. Animal studies have shown potential adverse effects on fetal development with systemic selenium exposure. The FDA classifies selenium sulfide as pregnancy category C, meaning animal studies have shown adverse effects and human studies are inadequate. Most obstetricians and dermatologists recommend avoiding selenium sulfide during pregnancy due to the potential for systemic absorption and theoretical risk to the developing fetus. ACOG advises caution with medications that can be absorbed systemically during pregnancy. While short-term, limited use on the scalp may pose minimal risk, many healthcare providers recommend alternatives for treating dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis during pregnancy to avoid any potential exposure.
Selenium Sulfide and breastfeeding
Caution Advised
- Passes into breast milk
- Infant exposure
Selenium sulfide can be absorbed through the skin into the bloodstream, and selenium can transfer into breast milk. The amount transferred depends on total body burden and extent of application. While limited data exists on selenium sulfide specifically during breastfeeding, selenium is an essential trace element but can be toxic in excess. The AAD notes that systemic absorption from topical use is generally low, but caution is warranted. If selenium sulfide accumulates from repeated use, elevated selenium levels could theoretically pass to breast milk and affect the breastfed infant. Many healthcare providers recommend using selenium sulfide cautiously during breastfeeding, limiting application frequency and duration. Alternative anti-dandruff treatments with lower systemic absorption may be preferred. If used, ensure thorough rinsing and avoid application on areas where the infant's mouth might come into contact.
Selenium Sulfide and postpartum
Safe to Use
- Irritant
For postpartum women not breastfeeding, selenium sulfide can be used safely for treating dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis according to product directions. The main concern is local irritation rather than systemic effects. Postpartum hormonal changes can affect scalp health, and medicated shampoos may be helpful. Use as directed, typically one to two times weekly, and rinse thoroughly.
Selenium Sulfide and trying to conceive
Caution Advised
- Absorbed into the body
- Builds up in tissue
Women trying to conceive should approach selenium sulfide with caution due to the same concerns that apply during pregnancy. While specific fertility effects are not documented, the potential for systemic absorption and theoretical reproductive effects warrant a conservative approach. Many healthcare providers recommend discontinuing selenium sulfide or using it sparingly when actively trying to conceive, as pregnancy may occur before recognition. Safer alternatives for scalp conditions are available and preferable during the preconception period.
Selenium Sulfide and PCOS
Safe to Use
Selenium sulfide can be beneficial for women with PCOS who experience increased sebum production and dandruff related to elevated androgen levels. There is no evidence that topical selenium sulfide affects hormone levels or interferes with PCOS management. The ingredient does not have anti-androgenic or estrogen-disrupting properties. Women with PCOS can safely use selenium sulfide shampoos to manage scalp seborrhea and dandruff. The treatment addresses a symptom rather than affecting the underlying hormonal condition.
Selenium Sulfide and general use
Safe to Use
- Irritant
Selenium sulfide is an FDA-approved over-the-counter active ingredient for treating dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis, and tinea versicolor. It is effective at controlling scalp flaking, itching, and fungal growth. The primary concern for general use is local irritation, including skin and eye irritation if not rinsed properly. Some users may experience dryness, increased hair loss, or discoloration of hair. Following product instructions and limiting contact time reduces these risks. When used as directed in shampoo formulations (typically 1% concentration), selenium sulfide is considered safe for the general population. It should be applied only to affected areas, left on briefly, and rinsed thoroughly. Avoid use on broken or inflamed skin.
Everything else flagged for the same profiles
Related ingredients
Ingredients suggested in place of Selenium Sulfide, each one with its own page here.
Selenium Sulfide is itself suggested as the safer option on these pages.
Ingredients that raise the same concerns.
Where this came from
Truva summarises published guidance from bodies including ACOG, the FDA, the EU SCCS and the Cosmetic Ingredient Review. It has no access to your medical history and it is not a substitute for your doctor, dermatologist or midwife. These assessments have not been reviewed by a clinician, and nothing here is a diagnosis or a prescription. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding or being treated for PCOS, take the ingredient list to the person looking after you.
Assessment last pulled from the ingredient database on .
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