FAQs
Q1. What causes dandruff, and how does the ketoconazole in Keraglo-AD Shampoo treat it?
A1. Most dandruff is caused by Malassezia furfur, a yeast-like fungus that naturally lives on the scalp but overgrows under certain conditions — stress, oiliness, hormonal shifts — triggering the inflammation and flaking we call dandruff. Ketoconazole is an antifungal that directly disrupts Malassezia's cell membrane, killing the fungus that's causing the problem rather than just washing away visible scales. This is why medicated shampoos like Keraglo-AD work better than cosmetic anti-dandruff options for moderate to severe cases.
Q2. How often should I use it, and do I need to leave it on?
A2. For active dandruff, use twice weekly. Apply to wet hair, work into a lather, and leave on for 5 minutes before rinsing. That contact time is essential — it's what allows the ketoconazole to act on the scalp microbiome. Once dandruff is controlled, reduce to once weekly as maintenance. Use a regular mild shampoo on the other days.
Q3. How quickly will I see results?
A3. Reduction in itching and flaking is usually noticeable within 2–4 washes. Significant improvement — clear scalp, persistent relief — typically takes 2–4 weeks of consistent twice-weekly use. If there's also scalp redness, thicker crust, or the dandruff covers a wider area (eyebrows, sides of nose), this may indicate seborrheic dermatitis, which may benefit from a dermatologist consultation alongside home treatment.
Q4. Is it safe for colour-treated or chemically straightened hair?
A4. Ketoconazole shampoos are generally safe for colour-treated and chemically processed hair when used at the twice-weekly frequency rather than daily. The 5-minute leave-on is focused on the scalp, not the hair shaft, which reduces risk to colour viability. Avoid daily use of any medicated shampoo on chemically treated hair as prolonged exposure can gradually affect colour intensity.
Q5. What if dandruff comes back after I stop using it?
A5. Dandruff often recurs because Malassezia is a permanent scalp resident — ketoconazole controls its overgrowth but doesn't eliminate the fungus permanently. The most effective long-term strategy is once-weekly maintenance use after achieving initial control, rather than stopping entirely. Seasonal recurrence (particularly in winter or with lifestyle stress) is common and responds well to resuming the twice-weekly protocol.
Q6. Can it be used alongside Kera XL Serum or minoxidil solutions for hair loss?
A6. Yes — dandruff and hair loss frequently co-exist, and an inflamed, fungal scalp environment actively impairs hair growth. On treatment days, apply Keraglo-AD Shampoo, leave 5 minutes, rinse well, and after the scalp is fully dry, apply your minoxidil solution or Kera XL Serum. Treating the scalp first gives those treatments a healthier environment to work in.