What is seborrheic dermatitis?

   Seborrheic dermatitis is a more severe form of dandruff, which is red, scaly and often itchy. This condition may occur on various locations on the body. The scalp, sides of the nose, eyebrows, eyelids, the skin behind the ears, the center of the chest, and the genitalia are the most commonly involved areas. These areas have the greatest number of oil glands. Seborrheic dermatitis is common in people with oily skin or hair. Yeast-like organisms may be important in causing seborrheic dermatitis.

 How is seborrheic dermatitis treated?

   There is no cure for seborrheic dermatitis. The goal of treatment is to control the condition and to prevent symptoms such as itching and flaking. Shampooing with anti-seborrheic shampoos is the most important part of the therapy for this condition. The most commonly recommended anti-seborrheic shampoos contain zinc, salicylic acid, selenium, tar or ketoconazole. Topical anti-yeast creams and cortisone creams are sometimes used if the shampoos alone do not control this dermatitis.

 How can Cary Dermatology help me?

   Our doctors can help to diagnose seborrheic dermatitis and to initiate the appropriate therapy.