What Is Exsel?

Learn about the anti-seborrheic and hair conditioning characteristics of Exsel and its usage in personal care products.

What Is Exsel? Brandon Jones / IngredientReviewer

Last Updated: October 2, 2024

Written by Brandon Jones

What Is Exsel?

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Selenium disulfide is a substance that can help treat dandruff and a skin condition called seborrheic dermatitis. It is often used in special shampoos to help improve the health of your hair and scalp. This substance comes in the form of bright orange crystals or powder, but it's important to note that it can be harmful if accidentally ingested or inhaled. Selenium disulfide works by fighting off fungus that can cause these conditions, so if you use one of these shampoos you may notice an improvement in the health and appearance of your hair and scalp over time.

What is the purpose of Exsel in personal care products? It is used for its anti-seborrheic and hair conditioning characteristics. Exsel helps relieve seborrhea symptoms and improves the look and feel of hair.

Names and identifiers that we found for this substance include: Exsel, Seleen, Selsun, Selenium disulfide, S2 Se, "Selane, thioxo-, sulfide", Selenium sulfide (SeS2), and Bis(sulfanylidene)-λ~4~-selane.

What Are Anti-Seborrheic Ingredients?

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Exsel has anti-seborrheic characteristics.

Anti-seborrheic products are designed to reduce the symptoms of seborrheic dermatitis and improve the overall health and appearance of the skin. This common skin condition can cause redness, itching, flaking, and scaling on the skin, particularly on the scalp, face, and chest.

Some anti-seborrheic products may also contain moisturizing ingredients, like hyaluronic acid or ceramides, which can help to hydrate and nourish the skin and reduce flakiness and scaling.

Types of Anti-Seborrheic Ingredients

Here are some of the most common types of anti-seborrheic ingredients in cosmetics:

  • Astringents: These ingredients help dry the skin and reduce oil production.

  • Antimicrobials: These ingredients help kill the bacteria and fungi that contribute to seborrheic dermatitis.

  • Anti-inflammatory agents: These ingredients help to reduce inflammation and irritation associated with seborrheic dermatitis.

  • Exfoliants: These ingredients help remove dead skin cells and unclog pores, which can reduce oil buildup.

  • Moisturizers: While it may seem counterintuitive, using a moisturizer can help regulate oil production and prevent the skin from overproducing oil.

What Are Hair Conditioning Ingredients?

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Exsel has hair conditioning characteristics.

Hair conditioning ingredients are used in cosmetic products to enhance the appearance and feel of hair. They leave your hair easy to comb, flexible, soft, and shiny while imparting volume, lightness, gloss, and texture.

One of the critical functions of hair conditioning ingredients is to smooth the surface of the hair strands. This makes the hair easier to comb or brush, reducing the risk of breakage and split ends. Conditioning ingredients also help to seal the hair cuticle, which helps to reduce frizz and enhance shine.

Types of Hair Conditioning Ingredients

Different conditioning ingredients work in different ways to achieve these results. For example, some ingredients, like silicones, natural oils, and fatty alcohols, help to create a protective film around each hair strand, which locks in moisture and prevents dryness.

Other ingredients, like proteins and amino acids, penetrate the hair shaft to strengthen and repair damaged hair. These ingredients work by filling in the gaps in the hair's structure, smoothing the surface, and increasing elasticity.

Hair conditioning products also often contain ingredients that provide volume and texture, such as polymers and thickeners. These ingredients can help give hair a fuller, thicker appearance, making it more manageable and easier to style.

Safety

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Remember, always read and follow the instructions provided on product labels carefully. If you have any questions or concerns about using a product containing various ingredients, consult with your doctor or healthcare provider before use.