In short: ketoconazole is an antifungal shampoo, usually 2%. It's one of the most effective treatments for dandruff and seborrhoeic dermatitis, which can add to hair fall. Small studies suggest it may also give a modest extra benefit for pattern hair loss when used alongside proven treatments like minoxidil. It's inexpensive and widely available as a generic.
How it works
Dandruff and seborrhoeic dermatitis are linked to Malassezia, a yeast that lives on everyone's scalp. In some people it triggers flaking, itching and inflammation. Ketoconazole reduces the yeast, calming the scalp.
It may also have a mild anti-androgen effect on the scalp, which is one theory for why it might help pattern hair loss.
Does it help hair loss?
- Hair fall from dandruff or an inflamed, itchy scalp: yes. Treating the scalp reduces the itching, scratching and inflammation that add to shedding.
- Pattern hair loss: maybe a little, as an add-on. An older small study found results comparable to 2% minoxidil on some measures. Larger, modern trials are lacking.
- On its own, it's not a treatment for pattern baldness.
How to use it
- Wet your hair; apply to the scalp.
- Lather and leave for 3–5 minutes.
- Rinse well; use your normal conditioner on the lengths.
- Dandruff treatment: usually 2 times a week for 2–4 weeks, then once every 1–2 weeks to prevent it coming back.
- On other days, use a gentle regular shampoo.
Side effects
- Dryness, itching or irritation (less common than with many other shampoos)
- Change in hair texture; rarely, temporary hair dryness or oiliness
- Rare: allergic reaction. Stop if you get a rash or swelling.
- Avoid the eyes; rinse well if contact happens.
1% vs 2%
2% is the standard strength used in most studies and Indian products. 1% versions exist in some countries.
Brands and price in India
Prices checked 14 October 2026 (research/data/rx-and-ketoconazole-prices-2026-10.csv).
| Brand | Manufacturer | Strength | Pack | Price seen | Per 100 ml |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan Aushadhi ketoconazole shampoo | PMBJP | 2% | 100 ml | MRP ₹62 | ₹62 |
| Ketomac | Torque Pharmaceuticals | 2% | 110 ml | ₹185 (PharmEasy) | ₹168 |
| Ketocip | Cipla | 1% | 100 ml | ₹171 (PharmEasy) | ₹171 |
| Nizral | A. Menarini India | 2% | 50 ml | ₹255 (Truemeds) | ₹510 |
| Man Matters ketoconazole shampoo | Percos (for Man Matters) | 2% | 100 ml | ₹349 | ₹349 |
| Be Bodywise ketoconazole shampoo | — | 1% | 250 ml | ₹499 (₹359 on brand hair page) | ₹144–200 |
| Scalpe Plus (Glenmark) | Glenmark | Ketoconazole-based; strength not shown on page | 75 ml | ₹272 (PharmEasy) | ₹363 |
Prescription status: sellers don't agree. Nizral's listing says "prescription required", while Scalpe Plus and Be Bodywise's 1% shampoo say no prescription is needed, and Ketomac and Ketocip pages don't say either way. A pharmacist must confirm the current rules.
Not every "anti-dandruff" shampoo contains ketoconazole: Bare Anatomy's anti-dandruff shampoo appears to use salicylic acid instead. Check the label for "ketoconazole" and its percentage.
Where to buy
-
Torque
Ketomac 2% Shampoo
110 mlLicensed pharmacies only. A prescription may be required.
Where to buyPharmEasy · ₹185 -
Cipla
Ketocip 1% Shampoo
100 mlLicensed pharmacies only. A prescription may be required.
Where to buyPharmEasy · ₹171 -
Menarini
Nizral 2%
50 mlLicensed pharmacies only. A prescription may be required.
Where to buyTruemeds · ₹255 -
Glenmark
Scalpe Plus Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
75 mlLicensed pharmacies only. A prescription may be required.
Where to buyPharmEasy · ₹272
Prices and stock change often: these are what we saw on the date shown. Pack images are illustrations, not product photos. Links never affect scores or order. How we make money
When to see a doctor instead
- Thick, silvery scales or patches beyond the hairline (could be psoriasis)
- Red, weeping or painful scalp
- No improvement after 4 weeks of correct use → Dandruff and hair fall
See a doctor soon if you have: round bald patches that appear suddenly · hair coming out in clumps · redness, pain, pus, scaling or scarring on the scalp · hair loss with fever, weight loss, irregular periods, acne or new facial hair · eyebrow or eyelash loss · hair loss in a child.
Sources
- Piérard-Franchimont C, et al. Ketoconazole shampoo: effect of long-term use in androgenic alopecia. Dermatology. 1998;196:474–7.
Medical review pending: not yet reviewed by a dermatologist. Medical disclaimer
Discussion
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