What is it?
Seborrheic dermatitis is a common skin disorder that
mainly affects areas of the body rich in sebaceous (oil) glands. It often
appears as greasy, yellowish flakes or patches of red, irritated
skin—particularly on the scalp, eyebrows, eyelids, nose, ears, and chest.
It’s thought to be linked to an overgrowth of a yeast called Malassezia,
which naturally lives on the skin, or to an inflammatory response in the
skin’s oil glands.
Symptoms tend to worsen in colder months or during
periods of stress, and flare-ups may come and go over a lifetime. Though not
contagious or dangerous, it can cause significant discomfort or cosmetic
frustration.
How is it treated?
Managing seborrheic dermatitis typically begins with
medicated shampoos like Selsun blue, T/Sal, and T-gel, and topical treatments
to reduce yeast, inflammation, and flaking. Ingredients such as ketoconazole,
selenium sulfide, zinc pyrithione, and salicylic acid are commonly
recommended. For more stubborn or widespread cases, corticosteroid creams or
calcineurin inhibitors may be prescribed to relieve redness and itching.
Patients are also given skincare guidance to avoid
harsh products and manage triggers like stress and weather changes. Treatment
can effectively control symptoms long term. Charlotte Dermatology offers
evaluation and follow-up care at all area locations to help patients keep
flare-ups under control and improve skin comfort.
THE TREATMENTS BELOW CAN HELP WITH SEBORRHEIC DERMATITIS:
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