Does selenium sulfide cause hair loss?

My grandmother always told me to use hibiscus paste for dandruff, but the doctor advised a selenium sulfide shampoo. I noticed minor shedding initially because of scalp dryness, but the doctor said it's normal as long as you rinse it off completely in 2 minutes.

Honestly, I barely have energy to wash my hair, let alone deal with hair fall from dandruff shampoos. Selenium sulfide worked for my itching but my hair felt like dry grass and started shedding. I had to switch to a milder shampoo just to save my sanity.

I have seen this question raised quite often in our community. Selenium sulfide is strong and can cause temporary hair shedding if used daily. Use it only twice a week, and always follow up with a good moisturizing conditioner on the hair ends.

I would rather enjoy my Sunday biryani than stress over shampoo ingredients! But seriously, selenium sulfide can be super drying for the scalp, which leads to weak hair. Just don't overdo it, twice a week is more than enough.

My dermatologist explained that selenium sulfide does not cause androgenic alopecia. However, if left on the scalp for too long, it can irritate the follicles and cause acute telogen effluvium or hair breakage. He strictly advised rinsing it off within two to three minutes.