About Seborrheic Dermatitis

The symptoms of seborrheic dermatitis, such as itching and scalliness, reduce gradually under treatment. Your dermatologist may tell you to use a medicated lotion or shampoo every other day until you get relief, and then twice weekly to control the symptoms. See your dermatologist if you think you may have seborrheic dermatitis – only a doctor can make a complete diagnosis. The cause of seborrheic dermatitis is unclear. A common species of yeast normally found in healthy hair follicles has been proposed as one possible cause. A high-fat diet and alcohol ingestion are also thought to play some role. Other possible triggers include stress, fatigue, extreme weather, oily skin, obesity, AIDS, parkinson’s disease and other disorders.

Advice

Although there is no cure for seborrheic dermatitis (and you can't prevent it), the symptoms can be kept under control. Treatment depends on the severity and location of the concern. Using medicated, antidandruff shampoos can help control the skin build-up and flaking in mild cases. Mild-to-severe can be treated with medicated shampoos containing steroids. Lotions containing steroids are also used for the face and other body parts.