If you’ve noticed flaking skin on your scalp, eyebrows, or around your nose—perhaps accompanied by redness or itching—you might be dealing with seborrheic dermatitis. This common skin condition affects individuals of all ages and skin types, but it’s not well-known by most people, and it can sometimes be mistaken for dry skin, eczema, or even psoriasis. Here’s how to recognize seborrheic dermatitis and what treatments can help soothe and even out your skin.
What Is Seborrheic Dermatitis?
Seborrheic dermatitis is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that typically appears in areas rich in oil glands, such as the scalp, sides of the nose, eyebrows, ears, and eyelids. It often presents as:
- Dandruff or skin flakes on the scalp, hair, eyebrows, or facial hair area
- Greasy skin patches with white or yellow scales or crusts
- Red skin
- Itching or burning
While seborrheic dermatitis isn’t contagious or caused by poor hygiene, it can be persistent—and frustrating—without proper treatment.
Common Triggers
The following factors can worsen seborrheic dermatitis or lead to flare-ups:
- Stress
- Cold, dry weather
- Hormonal changes
- Certain skin or hair care products
- A yeast called Malassezia that lives on the skin
Treatment Options
Seborrheic dermatitis is manageable with the right approach. Depending on the severity of your symptoms, your dermatologist may recommend:
- Topical corticosteroids (low-strength corticosteroid creams) to help reduce inflammation and redness
- Antifungal creams, gels, or shampoos (like ketoconazole or selenium sulfide) to help control yeast overgrowth
- Antifungal oral medications
- Anti-inflammatory medications, including creams, shampoos, and ointments
- Calcineurin inhibitors (like pimecrolimus or tacrolimus) for sensitive areas like the face
- Medicated shampoos with ingredients such as zinc pyrithione or salicylic acid, well-lathered in and used in an alternating schedule to control scalp symptoms
- Over-the-counter dandruff shampoos (daily at first, then 1-3 times per week as needed)
- Overnight treatments such as bath oil or Baker’s P&S solution to soften thick scalp plaques
- Daily gentle skin cleansers and moisturizers to help keep affected areas clean and hydrated
When treating seborrheic dermatitis, take care to avoid harsh products and scrubbing actions that can irritate your skin or worsen flaking.
When to See a Dermatologist
If your symptoms persist despite over-the-counter care, or if your skin becomes increasingly red, itchy, or painful, it’s time to see a dermatologist. We can help tailor a treatment plan to your skin type and lifestyle that will give you long-term relief.
Managing seborrheic dermatitis may take time and consistency, but with the right support, your skin can feel calm and healthy again. To get help, contact our dermatology office to schedule a consultation. Call Medovate Dermatology at (847) 499 – 5500 today.