Dermax Therapeutic Shampoo 250ml is a medicated shampoo developed by Dermal Laboratories to treat dry, scaly scalp conditions, including severe dandruff (pityriasis capitis) and seborrhoeic dermatitis.

Containing benzalkonium chloride 0.5% w/w, Dermax helps loosen and lift scales from the scalp so they can be washed away during shampooing. Its active ingredient also acts as a mild antiseptic, helping control microorganisms that may aggravate certain scalp conditions.

Unlike coal tar-based treatments, Dermax offers a coal tar-free formulation. It also contains coconut oil, which helps condition the hair and soften the scalp.

The 250ml bottle is suitable for adults, children and older people, making it a versatile option for managing dandruff and scaling.

Key Benefits

  • Medicated Scalp Treatment: Contains benzalkonium chloride 0.5% w/w.
  • Removes Scalp Scales: Helps loosen and wash away dry, flaky skin.
  • Treats Severe Dandruff: Suitable for pityriasis capitis and related scalp scaling.
  • Helps Manage Seborrhoeic Dermatitis: Designed for seborrhoeic scalp conditions associated with dandruff.
  • Mild Antiseptic Action: Helps combat microorganisms that can worsen certain scalp conditions.
  • Coal Tar-Free Formula: An alternative to traditional coal tar shampoos.
  • Contains Coconut Oil: Helps condition the hair and soften the scalp.
  • Flexible Treatment Schedule: Can be used daily when necessary, reducing frequency as symptoms improve.
  • Suitable for Different Age Groups: Intended for adults, children and older people.

Active Ingredient

  • Benzalkonium Chloride 0.5% w/w: Helps loosen scalp scales and acts as a mild antiseptic.

Other Ingredients

  • Coconut oil.
  • Dilute hydrochloric acid.
  • Lauryldimonium hydroxypropyl hydrolysed collagen (contains phenoxyethanol and potassium sorbate).
  • Macrogol lauryl ether (4).
  • Sodium benzoate (E211).
  • Sodium chloride.
  • Sodium lauryl ether sulfate (contains sodium hydroxide as a pH adjuster).
  • Purified water.

Allergy information:

  • Do not use if allergic to benzalkonium chloride or any other ingredient.
  • Contains sodium benzoate, which may cause local irritation.
  1. Wet the hair and scalp thoroughly.
  2. Apply enough shampoo to the scalp to produce a rich lather.
  3. Massage thoroughly using your fingertips.
  4. Remove as much lather as possible with your hands.
  5. Rinse thoroughly under running water.
  6. Repeat the application if necessary.

Additional Instructions

  • For short hair, approximately a 50p coin-sized amount may be sufficient.
  • Adjust the amount according to hair length and thickness.
  • Keep the shampoo and lather away from the eyes.
  • Follow the patient information leaflet or your pharmacist's advice.

Initial Treatment

  • Dermax may be used daily if necessary.
  • Continue until the scalp looks and feels better, following the leaflet or professional advice.

As Symptoms Improve

  • Reduce use to once or twice weekly.
  • Occasional use may be appropriate thereafter.

When to Seek Advice

  • Stop using Dermax if irritation develops.
  • Consult a pharmacist, GP or nurse if symptoms worsen.
  • Seek advice if there is no improvement after 4 weeks.

Possible Side Effects

  • No specific side effects are currently known according to the UK product information.
  • Local irritation may occur because the formulation contains sodium benzoate.
  • Allergic reactions are possible in people who are sensitive to an ingredient.

What Should You Do?

  • Stop using Dermax if irritation develops.
  • Speak to a pharmacist, GP or nurse if symptoms worsen or you experience a suspected side effect.
  • Seek urgent medical help if you experience symptoms of a serious allergic reaction.
  • Do not use if allergic to benzalkonium chloride or any other ingredient.
  • For external use only.
  • Keep the shampoo and lather away from the eyes.
  • Stop treatment if irritation develops.
  • Stop treatment and seek advice if symptoms worsen or fail to improve after 4 weeks.
  • Contains sodium benzoate, which may cause local irritation.
  • Sodium benzoate may increase jaundice in newborn babies up to 4 weeks old; seek professional advice before
  • use in newborns.
  • The product can be used during pregnancy and breastfeeding according to the patient information leaflet, although specific safety trials have not been conducted.
  • No medicine interactions are currently known.
  • Keep out of the sight and reach of children.

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