Seborrhoeic Dermatitis: Treatments, Causes & Care Options

Seborrhoeic dermatitis affects areas rich in oil glands and can create redness, irritation, and visible scaling that feels difficult to manage in daily life [1].

In this article we explore its symptoms, causes, and treatment options to support calm decision making and help people manage this condition with confidence.

Common Symptoms

Seborrhoeic dermatitis presents with varied symptoms that change in intensity and location, which can make recognition challenging for many individuals.

Table 1: Common symptoms

Symptoms may vary from simple dandruff to thick and painful crusts. Flares often worsen with cold weather or stress, and some people notice dietary influences [2].

Infants may develop cradle cap, which appears as greasy and scaly patches on the scalp and usually settles naturally by twelve months [3].

Causes Of Seborrhoeic Dermatitis

Seborrhoeic dermatitis develops from a mix of genetic and environmental factors, along with the presence of Malassezia yeast, although its exact role remains debated [1].

Factors & Contributors

Table 2: Contributing factors

Environmental triggers, sensitivity to yeast, stress, and hormonal changes all shape the pattern of symptoms. Identifying triggers supports long term comfort [5].

How To Treat Seborrhoeic Dermatitis

Seborrhoeic dermatitis is long lasting, but with the right treatment it can be managed effectively. Approaches aim to reduce inflammation, scaling, and yeast activity.

Over The Counter Treatments

Shampoos with ketoconazole, selenium sulfide, salicylic acid, or zinc pyrithione help calm scalp irritation. Ketoconazole reduces Malassezia growth and scaling [6].

Regular use supports comfort and helps prevent flares, while ingredients such as tea tree oil may soothe the scalp, although evidence remains limited [2].

Topical Creams & Lotions

Creams with antifungals or mild corticosteroids can calm redness on non scalp areas. Coal tar products reduce scaling but are less common because of odour [1].

Olive oil may soften cradle cap in infants, though families are advised to seek guidance to ensure gentle and appropriate care [3].

Prescription Treatments

More persistent symptoms may need medical treatments tailored to severity and skin sensitivity to achieve steady improvement over time.

Topical corticosteroids calm inflammation quickly but must be used for short periods because prolonged use may thin the skin [7].

Antifungal medicines treat significant yeast imbalance. Calcineurin inhibitors such as tacrolimus may support facial care when steroid alternatives are preferred [2].

Lifestyle & Home Remedies

Lifestyle changes can support comfort and work alongside medical treatments to reduce the frequency of flares.

Regular Skincare Routine

Gentle skincare using non irritating cleansers removes excess oil and scales without stressing the skin barrier, supporting daily comfort [4].

Stress Management

Calming practices such as meditation or breathing exercises may help reduce inflammation by easing the effect of stress on the body [4].

Diet & Nutrition

Balanced nutrition supports overall skin health. Some people report that reducing sugar or yeast helps, although evidence is limited [2].

When To See A Dermatologist

Guidance is recommended when symptoms persist or worsen despite treatment, or if redness and discomfort begin to affect daily confidence or wellbeing.

Medical review is also important when there are signs of infection, such as warmth or pus. Early care supports clearer outcomes and comfort [2].

Conclusion

Seborrhoeic dermatitis can be managed with steady routines that include medicated shampoos, topical treatments, and habits that help minimise triggers. With consistent care, many people see improvements in comfort and overall skin balance.

If you would like personalised skincare designed around your own needs, you can explore a tailored formula through Monderma.

Content is for informational purposes only. Monderma treatments are prescribed following consultation. Results and timeframes can vary. Use as directed by your prescriber.

References

1. Tucker D, Masood S. Seborrheic Dermatitis. StatPearls Publishing.
2. American Academy of Dermatology. Seborrheic Dermatitis Treatment.
3. Victoire A, Magin P, Coughlan J, van Driel ML. Interventions for Infantile Seborrhoeic Dermatitis. Cochrane Database Syst Rev.
4. Borda LJ, Wikramanayake TC. Seborrheic Dermatitis and Dandruff. J Clin Investig Dermatol.
5. Lin Q, Panchamukhi A, Li P, et al. Scalp Microbiome in Seborrheic Dermatitis. Bioprocess Biosyst Eng.
6. Ketoconazole Shampoo for Seborrheic Dermatitis. PMC.
7. Drug Office. Topical Corticosteroids.