Ingredient

Ketoconazole

An imidazole antifungal commonly discussed in seborrheic dermatitis and dandruff guidelines.

Antifungal / Malassezia axisGuideline

Mechanism of action

Ketoconazole inhibits fungal ergosterol synthesis, reducing Malassezia viability on skin.

Reducing Malassezia load lowers downstream inflammatory signaling and flaking.

Common as 1–2% shampoos and topical creams in clinical literature.
Often cycled long-term given the chronic, relapsing nature of seborrheic dermatitis.

Targets

Lipophilic yeasts associated with seborrheic dermatitis and other sebum-rich skin presentations.

Innate immune response producing redness, swelling, and discomfort in affected skin.