Keratolytic Shampoo for Seborrhea and Scaly Skin Conditions
Seborrheic skin conditions — characterized by excessive scaling, flaking, greasiness, and an unpleasant odour — are among the most challenging dermatological presentations in dogs. Whether primary (idiopathic seborrhea) or secondary to underlying conditions like hypothyroidism, allergies, or nutritional deficiencies, these conditions require a shampoo formulated to actively break down and remove excess scale while normalizing the sebaceous gland activity driving the condition.
Virbac Keratolux is a specifically formulated keratolytic and keratoplastic shampoo combining proven active ingredients to normalize skin cell turnover, reduce excess scale production, and control the secondary microbial overgrowth that invariably accompanies seborrheic conditions. Developed by Virbac's veterinary dermatology team, Keratolux provides effective seborrhea management for both greasy (oleosa) and dry (sicca) forms of the condition.
Key Active Ingredients
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Salicylic acid: Keratolytic — breaks down and loosens excess scale and crust
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Sulfur: Keratoplastic and antibacterial — normalizes sebaceous secretion
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Selenium disulfide: Antifungal and antiseborrheic — controls Malassezia and scale production
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Zinc gluconate: Anti-inflammatory and sebum-regulating
Benefits
- Reduces excessive scaling and flaking
- Controls greasy or oily skin texture
- Manages secondary bacterial and yeast infections
- Reduces seborrheic odour
- Available in 237 ml and 473 ml sizes
How to Use
Wet the coat thoroughly. Apply Keratolux and massage deeply into the skin, paying particular attention to seborrheic areas. Allow 10 minutes contact time before rinsing thoroughly. Frequency: typically twice weekly for the first 4 weeks, reducing to weekly or bi-weekly for maintenance. Always use in consultation with your veterinarian to address the underlying cause of seborrhea.
Supplement Advisor's Note
Keratolytic shampoos are potent — they work by actively breaking down skin cells, which means overuse can disrupt the normal skin barrier. Stick to the recommended frequency and use the minimum effective dose. For dogs with both seborrhea and concurrent allergic disease, alternating Keratolux with Allermyl (using each on alternate bath days) addresses both components of the condition. Essential fatty acid supplementation alongside medicated bathing significantly improves seborrhea outcomes by addressing the nutritional underpinning of many seborrheic conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What sizes are available?
Available in 237 ml and 473 ml.
Is Keratolux safe for cats?
It can be used on cats with veterinary supervision — the sulfur and salicylic acid content requires careful monitoring and thorough rinsing to prevent irritation.
How is seborrhea sicca different from seborrhea oleosa?
Sicca presents as dry, flaky scale; oleosa as greasy, oily, malodorous scale. Keratolux addresses both forms. Your vet can help determine which type your pet has.
