Summary about Disease
Seborrheic dermatitis is a common skin condition that mainly affects the scalp and areas with many oil glands (sebaceous glands) like the face, sides of the nose, eyebrows, ears, eyelids, and chest. It causes scaly patches, red skin, and stubborn dandruff. It's a chronic condition, meaning it can be long-lasting, and requires repeated treatments. In infants, it's known as cradle cap.
Symptoms
Skin flakes (dandruff) on your scalp, hair, eyebrows, beard or mustache
Patches of greasy skin covered with flaky white or yellow scales or crust on the scalp, face, sides of the nose, eyebrows, ears, eyelids, chest, armpits, groin area
Red skin
Itching
In infants, thick crusty or oily scales on the scalp (cradle cap)
Causes
The exact cause isn't fully understood, but it's likely related to:
A yeast (fungus) called Malassezia that is normally present on the skin.
An inflammatory response to the Malassezia yeast.
Individual factors, such as genetics and stress.
Medicine Used
Antifungal shampoos, creams, and lotions: Containing ketoconazole, ciclopirox, or selenium sulfide.
Corticosteroid creams, lotions, and solutions: To reduce inflammation. Use with caution, as long-term use can have side effects.
Calcineurin inhibitors (tacrolimus, pimecrolimus): Alternative anti-inflammatory options.
Salicylic acid preparations: To help remove scales.
Coal tar shampoos: To reduce scaling and inflammation.
Is Communicable
No. Seborrheic dermatitis is not contagious. It cannot be spread from person to person.
Precautions
Use gentle, fragrance-free skin care products.
Avoid harsh soaps and detergents.
Limit scratching.
Manage stress.
Get adequate sleep.
Expose skin to sunlight.
How long does an outbreak last?
Outbreaks can last for weeks, months, or even years. It's a chronic condition with periods of improvement and flare-ups. Treatment can control the symptoms, but it often recurs.
How is it diagnosed?
Diagnosis is typically based on a physical examination of the skin. In some cases, a doctor may perform a skin biopsy to rule out other conditions.
Timeline of Symptoms
Symptoms can develop gradually or suddenly.
Early stages: Mild dandruff, slight redness.
Progression: Increased scaling, thicker plaques, more pronounced redness and itching.
Flare-ups: Periods of worsening symptoms, potentially triggered by stress, weather changes, or illness.
Remission: Periods of improvement or complete clearing of symptoms.
Important Considerations
Seborrheic dermatitis is not caused by poor hygiene, but good hygiene can help manage symptoms.
It is more common in people with certain neurological conditions (like Parkinson's disease) and immune disorders.
Infants with cradle cap usually outgrow the condition within a few months.
If over-the-counter treatments are not effective, consult a doctor or dermatologist.
Long-term use of topical steroids can cause side effects; discuss alternatives with your doctor.