Conaz Shampoo in Pakistan — Complete Ketoconazole Guide for Dandruff and Scalp Problems (2026)
If you have been dealing with stubborn dandruff, itchy scalp, or flaky patches that just will not go away no matter how many shampoos you try — chances are someone has already recommended Conaz Shampoo to you. It is one of the most commonly prescribed medicated shampoos in Pakistan, and for good reason.
But here is the thing — most people use it wrong. They treat it like a regular shampoo, wash and rinse in 30 seconds, and then complain it does not work. Or they use it every single day and end up with a dry, irritated scalp that is worse than before.
This guide covers everything you need to know about Conaz Shampoo — what it actually is, how the active ingredient works, the correct way to use it, what results to expect, and when you should consider switching to something else. Whether you are in Lahore dealing with humidity-triggered dandruff or in Karachi where sweat makes your scalp itch all summer, this one is for you.
What Exactly Is Conaz Shampoo?
Conaz Shampoo is a medicated anti-fungal shampoo manufactured by Atco Laboratories in Pakistan. Its active ingredient is Ketoconazole BP 20mg/ml, which means it contains 2% Ketoconazole — a powerful antifungal agent that targets the root cause of most dandruff and scalp conditions.
Important clarification: some older product listings and even some pharmacy websites incorrectly list Conaz as containing Zinc Pyrithione. That is wrong. Conaz is a Ketoconazole-based shampoo. Zinc Pyrithione is found in different products like Head & Shoulders. If you want Ketoconazole specifically, Conaz is one of your options.
The shampoo comes in a 60ml bottle and is available at most pharmacies across Pakistan without a prescription. The typical price ranges from PKR 250 to 400 depending on where you buy it.
How Ketoconazole Works on Your Scalp
Most dandruff is not just \"dry skin flaking off.\" The real culprit in the majority of cases is a yeast-like fungus called Malassezia (previously known as Pityrosporum). This fungus naturally lives on everyone's scalp, but in some people it overgrows — triggered by oily skin, humidity, sweat, stress, or hormonal changes.
When Malassezia overgrows, it feeds on the oils your scalp produces and releases oleic acid as a byproduct. This irritates your scalp, causes inflammation, and triggers the rapid turnover of skin cells that you see as white or yellowish flakes.
Ketoconazole works by disrupting the ergosterol pathway in fungal cell membranes. Ergosterol is to fungi what cholesterol is to human cells — it keeps the cell membrane intact and functional. When Ketoconazole blocks ergosterol production, the fungal cell membrane becomes leaky and weak, and the fungus dies.
This is why Ketoconazole shampoos are more effective than regular anti-dandruff shampoos for persistent dandruff — they do not just wash away flakes, they actually kill the organism causing them.
What Conditions Does Conaz Treat?
Conaz Shampoo is used for several scalp conditions, not just regular dandruff:
Dandruff (Pityriasis Capitis): The most common use. White or greyish flakes on your scalp and shoulders. If your dandruff keeps coming back after using regular shampoos, it is likely fungal and needs Ketoconazole.
Seborrheic Dermatitis: A more severe form of dandruff with red, scaly, greasy patches. Common around the hairline, behind the ears, and on the eyebrows. Very common in Pakistan's humid climate, especially during monsoon season in Lahore and Islamabad.
Scalp Fungal Infections (Tinea Capitis): Actual fungal infections of the scalp that can cause patchy flaking, hair breakage, and sometimes small bald spots. More common in children but adults get it too.
Scalp Itching and Irritation: Even when there are no visible flakes, fungal overgrowth can cause persistent itching. Many people in Karachi and other coastal cities deal with this during summer when sweat sits on the scalp.
How to Use Conaz Shampoo Correctly
This is where most people go wrong. Conaz is not your everyday shampoo — it is a treatment. Here is the proper method:
Step 1: Wet your hair thoroughly with warm water. Not hot — hot water strips your scalp's natural oils and can worsen irritation.
Step 2: Apply a small amount of Conaz to your scalp. You do not need much — about a teaspoon for short hair, a tablespoon for longer hair. Focus on the scalp, not the hair length.
Step 3: Massage gently into your scalp for about one minute to create a lather. Make sure it reaches all areas, especially behind the ears and at the nape of your neck where dandruff tends to be worst.
Step 4: This is the critical step — leave it on for 3 to 5 minutes. Set a timer on your phone. The Ketoconazole needs contact time with your scalp to work. If you rinse it off immediately, you are wasting your money.
Step 5: Rinse thoroughly with cool or lukewarm water.
For treatment: Use 2 to 3 times per week for 4 to 6 weeks. Do not use it every day — that will dry out your scalp.
For maintenance: Once your dandruff is under control, reduce to once or twice a week to prevent it from coming back. On the other days, use a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo.
Treatment Timeline — What to Expect
| Week | What You Should Notice |
|---|---|
| Week 1 | Itching starts to reduce. Flaking may initially increase as dead skin loosens. |
| Week 2 | Visible reduction in flakes. Scalp feels less oily and irritated. |
| Week 3–4 | Significant improvement. Most people see 70-80% reduction in dandruff by now. |
| Week 5–6 | Dandruff should be mostly or fully controlled. Switch to maintenance frequency. |
| After 8 weeks | If no improvement, consult a dermatologist. You may need oral antifungals or have a different condition. |
Side Effects and Precautions
Conaz is generally well-tolerated, but some people experience mild side effects:
Common (usually temporary): Mild scalp dryness, slight itching or tingling during application, temporary change in hair texture — some people find their hair feels slightly drier or coarser during the treatment period.
Less common: Scalp irritation or redness, especially if you use it too frequently or leave it on longer than recommended. Some people with colour-treated or chemically processed hair notice slight discolouration — test on a small area first if this concerns you.
When to stop and see a doctor: If you develop severe burning, swelling, blistering, or a rash that spreads beyond your scalp. These reactions are rare but do happen in people who are sensitive to azole antifungals.
Precautions for Pakistan's climate: If you are using Conaz during summer, your scalp may feel drier than usual because the combination of Ketoconazole plus sun exposure plus AC can strip moisture. Use a light conditioner on your hair lengths (not the scalp) after rinsing Conaz to keep your hair manageable.
Conaz vs Other Anti-Dandruff Options in Pakistan
Conaz is not the only option for dandruff treatment. Here is how it compares to other approaches available in Pakistan:
| Product | Active Ingredient | Best For | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Conaz Shampoo 60ml | Ketoconazole 2% | Fungal dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis | PKR 250–400 |
| Pharmaceris H Anti-Dandruff Shampoo | Piroctone Olamine + Climbazole | Dandruff with hair thinning, gentle daily use | PKR 7,900 |
| Bionnex Anti-Dandruff Shampoo | Plant-based anti-dandruff complex | Mild dandruff with hair loss concerns | PKR 3,990 |
| Head & Shoulders (various) | Zinc Pyrithione 1% | Mild, occasional dandruff | PKR 200–600 |
| Selsun Blue | Selenium Sulfide 1% | Oily scalp dandruff | PKR 500–800 |
| Nizoral (imported) | Ketoconazole 2% | Same as Conaz but imported brand | PKR 1,200–2,000 |
The bottom line: If your dandruff is mild and occasional, a regular anti-dandruff shampoo might be enough. But if it is persistent, keeps coming back, or you have been diagnosed with seborrheic dermatitis, Ketoconazole-based options like Conaz are the standard medical treatment. The difference between Conaz and imported Nizoral is mainly branding — the active ingredient and concentration are the same.
When Dandruff Also Causes Hair Loss
One question that comes up constantly — \"can dandruff cause hair loss?\" The short answer is yes, indirectly. Chronic scalp inflammation from untreated dandruff or seborrheic dermatitis can weaken hair follicles and lead to increased shedding. You might notice more hair on your pillow, in the shower drain, or on your comb.
The good news is that dandruff-related hair loss is usually reversible once you treat the underlying condition. But if you are dealing with both dandruff and noticeable hair thinning, you may want to use a treatment shampoo alongside a hair-growth product.
Some options that pair well with anti-dandruff treatment:
The Pharmaceris H Anti-Dandruff Shampoo (PKR 7,900) is a good two-in-one option — it targets dandruff while also containing ingredients that stimulate hair growth. It is gentler than Ketoconazole, so you can alternate: use Conaz twice a week for the antifungal action, and Pharmaceris H on other days for gentle cleansing and growth support.
For active hair regrowth, products like the Minoxidil 5% + Finasteride 0.25% Topical Spray (PKR 1,799) can be applied to the scalp after washing. Just make sure your scalp is dry before applying — and apply it on your non-Conaz days or at least 2 hours after washing.
The Bionnex Anti Hair Loss Shampoo (PKR 3,990) is another daily-use option that works well between your Ketoconazole treatment days. It focuses on reducing hair fall with a plant-based formula that is gentle enough for everyday use.
Common Mistakes People Make with Conaz
Using it every day: This is the number one mistake. Conaz is meant to be used 2–3 times per week during treatment. Daily use strips your scalp of natural oils and can cause rebound dryness and irritation that feels worse than the original dandruff.
Not leaving it on long enough: If you apply and rinse within 30 seconds, the Ketoconazole barely has time to work. You need a minimum of 3 minutes contact time. Five minutes is better.
Stopping too early: Your dandruff might look better after one week, but the fungus is still there. Complete the full 4–6 week course before switching to maintenance. Stopping early is why dandruff \"keeps coming back.\"
Using it on dry scalp instead of wet: Conaz works best when applied to thoroughly wet hair. The water helps distribute the product evenly and creates the right environment for the active ingredient to penetrate.
Applying conditioner to the scalp after: Conditioner should go on the mid-lengths and ends of your hair only. Putting it on your scalp can create a barrier that feeds the fungus — exactly what you are trying to kill.
Expecting it to fix non-fungal problems: Not all scalp flaking is dandruff. Psoriasis, contact dermatitis from hair products, and dry scalp from hard water (very common in Lahore and Islamabad) look similar but have different causes. If Conaz is not working after 6–8 weeks, see a dermatologist for proper diagnosis.
Hard Water and Dandruff in Pakistani Cities
This deserves its own section because it is a massive issue that nobody talks about. Many cities in Pakistan — Lahore, Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Faisalabad — have very hard water with high mineral content. This hard water leaves calcium and magnesium deposits on your scalp that can mimic dandruff symptoms: flaking, itching, dull hair.
If you have moved to a new city and suddenly developed \"dandruff\" that does not respond to any treatment, hard water might be the actual problem. In this case, Conaz will not help because there is no fungal overgrowth to treat.
What to do: Try washing your hair with filtered or RO water for two weeks and see if the flaking improves. If it does, invest in a shower filter. You can still use a gentle anti-dandruff shampoo like Bionnex Anti-Dandruff (PKR 3,990) for maintenance, but fixing the water quality is the real solution.
Building a Complete Scalp Care Routine
Using Conaz alone is fine for treating active dandruff, but for long-term scalp health you want a complete routine. Here is what works well for Pakistani weather conditions:
Treatment days (2–3 times/week): Use Conaz as described above. After rinsing, apply a light conditioner to hair lengths only. Let hair air dry if possible — heat styling on treatment days can irritate a sensitive scalp.
Non-treatment days: Use a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo. The Augeas Sulfate-Free Keratin Shampoo (PKR 3,700) works well because it cleanses without stripping oils, and the keratin helps repair any dryness from the Ketoconazole treatment days.
Weekly scalp check: Once a week, part your hair in sections and look at your scalp in good lighting. Check for redness, flaking, or unusual patches. This helps you catch any recurrence early before it gets bad again.
If you are also dealing with hair fall: On your non-Conaz days, you can use the Pharmaceris H Strengthening Shampoo (PKR 5,250) which focuses on strengthening weak, thinning hair. Pair it with a leave-on treatment like the Hairsmart Growth Actives Spray (PKR 4,950) applied to dry scalp before bed.
Budget-Friendly vs Premium Dandruff Treatment Plans
| Plan | Products | Monthly Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Budget | Conaz Shampoo (2–3x/week) + any mild daily shampoo | PKR 300–500 |
| Mid-Range | Conaz (treatment) + Bionnex Anti-Dandruff (daily) | PKR 1,500–2,000 |
| Premium (Dandruff + Hair Loss) | Pharmaceris H Anti-Dandruff + Pharmaceris H Growth Treatment | PKR 5,000–6,000 |
When to See a Dermatologist
Conaz is a great first-line treatment, but it is not a replacement for professional medical advice. See a dermatologist if:
Your dandruff has not improved after 6–8 weeks of consistent, correct use. You have thick, silvery scales that might indicate psoriasis rather than dandruff. You notice patchy hair loss along with the flaking. Your scalp has open sores, crusting, or oozing. The condition is spreading to your face, eyebrows, or chest. You are experiencing severe itching that keeps you up at night.
In major Pakistani cities, a dermatologist consultation typically costs PKR 1,500–3,000. Many dermatologists in Lahore, Karachi, and Islamabad now offer online consultations for PKR 800–1,500 if you cannot visit in person. It is worth the investment — a proper diagnosis saves you from wasting money on products that are not addressing your actual problem.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use Conaz Shampoo every day?
No. Conaz is a medicated treatment shampoo meant for 2–3 times per week during the treatment phase, then 1–2 times per week for maintenance. Daily use can dry out your scalp and cause irritation.
Is Conaz the same as Nizoral?
Both contain Ketoconazole 2% as the active ingredient, so they work the same way. Conaz is manufactured locally by Atco Laboratories and costs PKR 250–400, while Nizoral is an imported brand costing PKR 1,200–2,000. You are paying for the brand name, not a better formula.
Can I use Conaz on colour-treated hair?
Ketoconazole can potentially strip some hair colour with repeated use. If you have colour-treated hair, do a patch test first. You might want to consider gentler alternatives like Bionnex Anti-Dandruff which is formulated to be gentler on treated hair.
Does Conaz help with hair growth?
There is some research suggesting Ketoconazole may have mild anti-androgenic properties that could support hair growth, but it is not a proven hair loss treatment. If you need actual hair regrowth, use a dedicated product like Minoxidil + Finasteride Spray alongside your dandruff treatment.
Can women and children use Conaz?
Women can use Conaz safely. For children under 12, consult a pediatrician first — the concentration may be too strong for younger scalps. There are gentler Ketoconazole formulations (1%) available for children.
My dandruff gets worse in winter. Should I use Conaz year-round?
Many people in Pakistan notice seasonal dandruff — worse in winter when indoor heating dries the air, or worse in monsoon when humidity triggers fungal growth. You can use Conaz seasonally: start the treatment course 2–3 weeks before your problem season typically begins, and continue maintenance doses through it.
Can I use Conaz on my beard or face?
Seborrheic dermatitis often affects the beard area and eyebrows too. You can carefully apply a small amount of Conaz to affected beard areas, leave for 3–5 minutes, and rinse. Avoid getting it in your eyes. For facial use around the eyebrows, a Ketoconazole cream (not shampoo) prescribed by a dermatologist is usually more practical.
What should I use on non-Conaz days?
A gentle, sulfate-free shampoo works best. Options like the Augeas Sulfate-Free Keratin Shampoo (PKR 3,700) or Bionnex Anti Hair Loss Shampoo (PKR 3,990) cleanse without stripping your scalp's recovering microbiome.
Is Conaz available online in Pakistan?
Yes, Conaz is available at most online pharmacies and health stores. You can also find it at physical pharmacies in all major cities. No prescription is needed for the shampoo formulation, though oral Ketoconazole tablets do require a prescription.
I used Conaz and my dandruff came back after I stopped. What went wrong?
Nothing went wrong — this is actually normal. Dandruff is a chronic condition for most people. The Malassezia fungus is a permanent resident of your scalp. Conaz controls it but does not eliminate it forever. That is why maintenance use (once or twice a week after the initial treatment course) is recommended long-term. Think of it like brushing your teeth — you do not stop just because your teeth are clean today.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified dermatologist for persistent scalp conditions. Individual results may vary.
