Overview
Diagnosis
Seborrheic dermatitis is usually diagnosed based on a discussion of your symptoms and a visual examination of your skin. In some cases, your healthcare provider may take a small skin sample (biopsy) to study in a lab. This helps rule out other conditions that can appear similar.
Treatment
For adolescents and adults, treatment for seborrheic dermatitis typically involves medicated shampoos, creams, and lotions. If self-care and over-the-counter products do not improve symptoms, your healthcare provider may suggest:
Antifungal treatments
-
Gels, creams, lotions, foams, or shampoos containing 2% ketoconazole or 1% ciclopirox.
-
Sometimes, rotating between two or more antifungal products can be more effective.
-
Medicated shampoos are usually applied once a day or 2 to 3 times per week for several weeks. Let the product sit on the scalp for a few minutes before rinsing. After symptoms improve, use the shampoo once a week or every two weeks to prevent relapse.
Anti-inflammatory treatments
-
Prescription-strength corticosteroid creams, lotions, or ointments such as hydrocortisone, fluocinolone, clobetasol, or desonide can reduce inflammation.
-
Use only until symptoms clear, as long-term use may cause side effects like thinning skin, loss of skin color, or streaks on the skin.
-
Calcineurin inhibitors such as tacrolimus or pimecrolimus may be used as alternatives. These have fewer side effects than corticosteroids but are not first-line treatments due to cost and potential safety concerns.
Oral antifungal medications
-
In severe cases or when other treatments are not effective, your healthcare provider may prescribe an antifungal medication in pill form to help control symptoms.
Advertisement
