*Packaging may vary based on availability.
Generic for Nizoral · Antifungal shampoo · 120mL
Ketoconazole 2% shampoo is a prescription-strength medicated shampoo used to treat seborrheic dermatitis and dandruff-like flaking on the scalp. It targets Malassezia, the yeast associated with greasy scale, redness, and itching, in a rinse-off format made for hair-bearing areas.
It can be used alongside an eczema treatment plan when a clinician identifies a seborrheic or fungal component on the scalp.
Ketoconazole is an imidazole antifungal. It interferes with ergosterol production, weakening the cell membrane of susceptible fungi and yeast. This reduces the Malassezia population that can contribute to scalp scaling and inflammation.
The shampoo is lathered onto the scalp, left in place briefly, and rinsed away. Follow the frequency and duration on your prescription.
Ketoconazole 2% shampoo is FDA-approved for tinea versicolor caused by Malassezia. Clinicians also prescribe ketoconazole shampoo for seborrheic dermatitis when they identify a yeast-associated scalp pattern.
The application schedule depends on the condition being treated. Your Fern clinician will confirm whether ketoconazole is appropriate and provide instructions for your case.
Ketoconazole shampoo does not replace anti-inflammatory treatment for eczema elsewhere on the body. It also does not treat bacterial or viral skin infections.
Avoid contact with the eyes. Tell your clinician if the scalp is broken, weeping, painful, or swollen, or if the shampoo causes worsening irritation.
| Traditional | With Fern | |
|---|---|---|
| Doctor appointment | ~30 days to book | 5-hour clinician review |
| Getting the Rx | Separate pharmacy trip | Shipped to your door |
| Cost | Insurance + copays | $35/mo, no insurance |
| Follow-up | Second appointment | Message the care team |
They contain the same active ingredient in different forms. Shampoo is designed for the hair-bearing scalp and broader areas of scale. Cream stays on targeted skin areas such as the eyebrows, behind the ears, or the neck. Your clinician may recommend one or both based on where symptoms appear.
Wet the scalp, work the shampoo into a lather, leave it on for the time directed on your prescription, and rinse thoroughly. Your clinician will set the frequency and duration for your symptoms.
Often, yes. Ketoconazole is used on scheduled treatment days while a gentle regular shampoo is used as needed. Follow the plan from your clinician and stop if you develop significant irritation.
Scale, itch, and redness often begin improving after consistent use over a few weeks. Contact the care team if symptoms worsen or do not improve as expected.
Fern clinicians review every case individually. Most patients hear back in under 3 hours.
Start your assessment →This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Consult with a healthcare provider before starting any treatment.
“There’s a specific look I recognize in eczema patients who’ve been managing on their own too long. They’ve stopped believing it can get better. Fern shortens that window of suffering. It gets people into real treatment before hopelessness sets in.”