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Home / Online dermatologist / Ketoconazole shampoo prescription

Get a Ketoconazole shampoo prescription

Response time: 24 – 48 hours
Available in all 50 states
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*Average online dermatologist response time from July-September 2026: 18.6 hours

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This medication is often prescribed for the following conditions.

ketoconazole shampoo​

Table of Content:
What is ketoconazole? | How to get ketoconazole shampoo? | Get the prescription | How does ketoconazole work? | Ketoconazole prescription request faq

Dermatologist Dr. Carolina Fernandez
Medically reviewed by:
Dr. Carolina Fernandez
Dermatologist
treating skalp yeast with nizoral shampoo

What is ketoconazole and what is it used for?

Dr. Fernandez says that ketoconazole shampoos and creams contain the antifungal agent ketoconazole. It is primarily used to treat yeast-related scalp and skin conditions such as dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis, and tinea versicolor (a yeast overgrowth). In addition to its antifungal properties, ketoconazole has mild anti-androgenic effects, meaning it can reduce the activity of hormones like dihydrotestosterone (DHT) on the scalp. Because of this, it is sometimes recommended as part of a hair loss treatment regimen. The regular use of ketoconazole shampoo (typically 1–3 times per week) may help reduce scalp inflammation, improve hair follicle health, and support other hair loss treatments.1 2

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Ketoconazole shampoo or cream RX

A dermatologist may prescribe a compounded ketoconazole shampoo or cream prepared by Foothills Pharmacy based on your individual needs. Simply select Foothills as your pharmacy of choice, and your dermatologist will determine the appropriate ketoconazole strength and, when clinically appropriate, may incorporate additional ingredients based on professional judgment and patient-specific factors such as scalp condition, sensitivity, and treatment goals.

Important Disclaimer: Compounded medications are not reviewed by the FDA for safety or efficacy.

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dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis, and tinea versicolor treatment

Common ketoconazole formulas
available via Miiskin

Ketoconazole

ketoconazole shampoo prescription

Price: $18

Ketoconazole + Salicylic acid

ketoconazole salicylic acid shampoo

Price: $49

Ketoconazole + Zinc Pyrithione

ketoconazole zinc pyrithione shampoo

Price: $49

Product packaging shown for visual reference only.

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Important Disclaimer: Compounded medications are not reviewed by the FDA for safety or efficacy.

Do you need a prescription to buy a ketoconazole cream or shampoo?

You can purchase a lower strength of a ketoconazole shampoo over the counter, but you need a prescription to buy ketoconazole shampoo 2% and ketoconazole cream. 

How to get a prescription for ketoconazole online?

To get a prescription for a ketoconazole online, you can have a consultation with a dermatologist via Miiskin, if medically adequate for you, they will issue a prescription. Consultation price is $59-$79 for new consultations and $39-$49 for medication refills. 

Where to buy my ketoconazole shampoo or cream online?

If you want your ketoconazole shampoo delivered to your doorstep, simply select Foothills as your preferred pharmacy and order your treatment on the Miiskin platform.

how to get ketoconazole shampoo prescription
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Request a ketoconazole prescription via Miiskin

  1. Select “Start consultation” to sign up.
  2. Fill out the consultation form and take photos of your skin.
  3. An independent dermatologist will prescribe ketoconazole to you, if medically appropriate.
  4. Buy ketoconazole affordably from the pharmacy of your choice.
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Ketoconazole Shampoo Explained

How does ketoconazole shampoo work?

Ketoconazole shampoo works by reducing the overgrowth of the Malassezia yeast, which is often related with these conditions. By addressing the root cause, ketoconazole shampoo alleviates symptoms like itching, redness, flaking, and irritation, promoting a healthier scalp and skin environment.3

man with scalp yeast problem

Provider & Prescription Information

Miiskin connects patients with independent dermatologists who provide care through their private practices. Compounded prescriptions can be ordered via Miiskin and are dispensed by Foothills pharmacy. Generic prescriptions can be filled at any local or online pharmacy.

Got more questions about ketoconazole shampoos and creams?

Dr. Carolina Fernandez Quiroga, board-certified dermatologist, answers common questions about ketoconazole for dandruff and fungal skin conditions.

Ketoconazole shampoo helps improve the health of your scalp by addressing yeast-related conditions, such as dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis, which can lead to itching, redness, and flaking. By reducing yeast overgrowth, it alleviates these symptoms and creates a healthier scalp environment that can support normal hair growth. Some studies suggest that ketoconazole may also have anti-inflammatory properties and could contribute to improved hair density when used as part of a hair care routine.4

Ketoconazole shampoo can cause side effects, though they are generally mild. Common negatives include dryness, irritation, or a stinging sensation on the scalp. In some cases, it may lead to changes in hair texture or slight hair shedding initially as the scalp adjusts. Rarely, individuals may experience an allergic reaction, which can include rash, swelling, or severe itching. Long-term or excessive use can potentially dry out the scalp or damage hair, particularly if the shampoo is not used as directed.5

Dr. Fernandez says that using ketoconazole shampoo daily is generally not recommended unless specifically directed by your healthcare provider. Frequent use can dry out your scalp and hair, potentially causing irritation or breakage. For most conditions, ketoconazole shampoo is used 2 to 3 times per week, and alternating with a gentle, non-medicated shampoo can help maintain scalp and hair health while still effectively treating the condition.

Dr. Fernandez says that ketoconazole shampoo is not a primary treatment for scalp psoriasis, as it targets yeast infections rather than the immune-mediated inflammation underlying psoriasis. However, it may help if there is a secondary fungal or yeast overgrowth contributing to symptoms. For scalp psoriasis, medicated shampoos containing coal tar, salicylic acid, or corticosteroids are more effective. A dermatologist can recommend the most appropriate treatment based on the severity of your psoriasis.

According to Dr. Fernandez, leaving ketoconazole shampoo overnight is not recommended. It is designed to be left on the scalp for a specific amount of time, usually 3 to 5 minutes, before rinsing thoroughly. Prolonged contact may cause irritation or dryness and is unlikely to enhance its effectiveness. Always follow the usage instructions provided on the product label or by your healthcare provider.

Dr. Fernadez says that the time it takes to see results from ketoconazole shampoo depends on the condition being treated. For dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis, you may notice an improvement in symptoms like flaking and itching within a few days to a week of use. For more persistent conditions, such as pityriasis versicolor or severe seborrheic dermatitis, it may take 2 to 4 weeks of consistent use to achieve significant results. It’s important to use the shampoo as directed and to complete the full course of treatment, even if symptoms improve earlier, to prevent recurrence. If symptoms persist or worsen, consult a healthcare provider for further evaluation.

Request a prescription for ketoconazole shampoo online

  1. Select “Start consultation” to sign up.
  2. Fill out the consultation form and take a photo of your skin.
  3. An independent dermatologist will prescribe ketoconazole shampoo to you, if medically appropriate.
  4. Purchase ketoconazole shampoo from the pharmacy of your choice.
Start consultation
Buy prescription medicine

References:
1https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/1108312-medication#2?form=fpf
2https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9843006/
3https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-75147-179/ketoconazole-topical/ketoconazole-shampoo-topical/details
4https://health.clevelandclinic.org/shampoo-for-hair-loss
5https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-75147-179/ketoconazole-topical/ketoconazole-shampoo-topical/details