Seborrheic Dermatitis

Approximately
11% of the population
has seborrheic dermatitis
Seborrheic dermatitis peaks in
infancy and adolescence
for most people
Overall
more men than women
get seborrheic dermatitis
A family history of
dermatitis or psoriasis
makes you more susceptible

What is seborrheic dermatitis?

Seborrheic dermatitis is a common skin condition that affects areas of the skin that produce the most oil. It appears as defined patches of greasy, yellow, scaly skin. It is found primarily on the scalp but may also appear on the ears, eyebrows, back, and the upper chest or beard area in men. The condition may be mistaken for dandruff, but it is not the same. Dandruff shows up as white flakes and is only on your scalp and hair.

Babies and adolescents are most likely to get seborrheic dermatitis. In infants, the condition is called “cradle cap,” and about 43% of children have at least one outbreak. It is also common around puberty, especially in boys.

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What does seborrheic dermatitis look and feel like?

Seborrheic dermatitis looks similar to psoriasis, eczema, or an allergic reaction. You may have the following symptoms:

  • Redness, swelling, and inflammation
  • Itching and burning
  • Oily patches
  • Crusty, scaly, thickened skin
  • Flaking similar to dandruff

Seborrheic dermatitis can be easily recognized and diagnosed by a dermatologist. Testing is not necessary, although the doctor may look for signs of other conditions if it is resistant to treatment.

Causes of seborrheic dermatitis

There isn’t one single cause of seborrheic dermatitis, but several factors may contribute to or aggravate the condition. These include:

  • Increased oil production by the sebaceous glands
  • The presence of excess yeast on the skin
  • A suppressed immune system
  • High cholesterol
  • Parkinson’s disease
  • A family history of dermatitis or psoriasis
  • Certain medications
  • Stress or depression
  • Symptoms may worsen in cold, dry climates

Treating seborrheic dermatitis

There is little you can do to prevent seborrheic dermatitis, and it may not go away on its own without treatment. Over-the-counter dandruff shampoos can help with inflammation, itching, and flaking. This may be enough to manage mild cases.

If your symptoms are stubborn, if scratching has made the inflammation worse, or if the condition makes you feel self-conscious, a Forefront dermatologist can help.

Our board-certified dermatologists have a number of treatments they can recommend, including:

  • Topical antifungal ointments and shampoos
  • Corticosteroids or other anti-inflammatory medication
  • Calcineurin inhibitors
  • Prescription-strength coal tar shampoo
  • Phototherapy

If you suspect that you or your child may have seborrheic dermatitis, help is available. Find a Forefront location near you and schedule a consultation today.

Interested in Seborrheic Dermatitis? Request a consultation with a skin specialist today.

*Treatment options may vary at each location.
Please confirm your desired treatment is offered at your preferred location when scheduling. *Age Restriction.
For patients scheduling who are under 18 years of age (19 in Alabama and Nebraska) please make sure you have permission from your parent or legal guardian to schedule this appointment.  Your parent or legal guardian must accompany you on your initial visit and on certain subsequent visits to provide appropriate informed consent.

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