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FAQ's

What is Dermax Therapeutic Shampoo?

Dermax is a therapeutic shampoo indicated for the treatment of scaly scalp conditions.

What is the active ingredient?

The active ingredient is benzalkonium chloride. Benzalkonium chloride acts as a mild antiseptic which improves clinical performance where the condition is exacerbated by the presence of microbes. The major site of action against micro-organisms appears to be the cell membrane, where permeability is altered, making it difficult for micro-organisms to defend themselves.

How does Dermax Therapeutic Shampoo lift and clear the scales?

The surface active cationic germicide, benzalkonium chloride, is formulated to be adsorbed onto dry skin scales, which are a feature of pityriasis capitis (severe dandruff) and other seborrhoeic scalp conditions. The scales are thereby loosened and attain a net positive charge. In the presence of the anionic foaming agent, the dandruff scales are then lifted into the negatively charged surface of the foam, and are thus washed from the hair.

Is Dermax Therapeutic Shampoo effective against Malassezia furfur?

Benzalkonium chloride is active against Malassezia furfur, which can exacerbate scaly scalp conditions such as dandruff. An in-vitro study showed that the antimicrobial activity of Dermax Therapeutic Shampoo achieved maximum reduction of M. furfur at all the time points at all dilutions.¹

Reference 1. In vitro challenge test. February 2005; data on file

How often can patients use Dermax Therapeutic Shampoo?

Dermax Therapeutic Shampoo can be used daily if necessary, reducing the frequency of use to once or twice a week as the condition improves. Thereafter, occasional use may be necessary.

What are the contra-indications and warnings for Dermax Therapeutic Shampoo?

Patients who are sensitive to any of the ingredients should not use Dermax Therapeutic Shampoo. Patients should also keep the product away from the eyes.

What is the NHS cost of Dermax Therapeutic Shampoo?

Dermax Therapeutic Shampoo is competitively priced at £5.69 (basic NHS price) for a 250ml bottle.

Dermax Therapeutic Shampoo is a remarkable way to lift and clear scale from the scalp. Click here for an animated demonstration of how Dermax could help your patients with scaly scalp conditions.