Seborrheic Dermatitis Quiz
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Redness of the skin
Itchy
Increase in dandruff
My skin is dry
Red spots on skin
Itching
Even more dandruff now
Not seeing your symptoms? No worries!
What is Seborrheic Dermatitis?
Rashes with scaly flaky skin, typically on the eyebrows, bridge of the nose, and sides of the nose. It is believed to be caused by an overgrowth of the Malassezia fungus, which feeds on increased sebum in some patients. Risk factors include HIV and Parkinson's disease. This condition can also occur in newborns.
Typical Symptoms of Seborrheic Dermatitis
- Scalp rash
- Mild itch
- Itchy skin
- Multiple areas of skin redness or red spots
- Scab
- Skin over the entire body is red
- Red skin improves with steroid creams
- Dry skin
Diagnostic Questions for Seborrheic Dermatitis
Your doctor may ask these questions to check for this disease:
- Do you have a rash on your scalp?
- Do you have a mild itch?
- Do you have itchy skin?
- Do you have multiple red areas or spots on your skin?
- Do you have a scab?
Treatment of Seborrheic Dermatitis
Creams are usually prescribed. If it involves the scalp, a special shampoo might be recommended. It tends to resolve on its own in newborns.
Reviewed By:
Unnati Patel, MD, MSc (Family Medicine)
Dr.Patel serves as Center Medical Director and a Primary Care Physician at Oak Street Health in Arizona. She graduated from the Zhejiang University School of Medicine prior to working in clinical research focused on preventive medicine at the University of Illinois and the University of Nevada. Dr. Patel earned her MSc in Global Health from Georgetown University, during which she worked with the WHO in Sierra Leone and Save the Children in Washington, D.C. She went on to complete her Family Medicine residency in Chicago at Norwegian American Hospital before completing a fellowship in Leadership in Value-based Care in conjunction with the Northwestern University Kellogg School of Management, where she earned her MBA. Dr. Patel’s interests include health tech and teaching medical students and she currently serves as Clinical Associate Professor at the University of Arizona School of Medicine.
Yukiko Ueda, MD (Dermatology)
Dr. Ueda graduated from the Niigata University School of Medicine and trained at the University of Tokyo Medical School. She is currently a clinical assistant professor at the Department of Dermatology, Jichi Medical University, and holds several posts in the dermatology departments at Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Komagome Hospital, University of Tokyo, and the Medical Center of Japan Red Cross Society.
Content updated on Mar 31, 2024
Following the Medical Content Editorial Policy
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- Wound
- The skin is itchy and has scratches
- Skin itching that worsens at night
- Healing skin lesion
- Itch is mild
- Black scabs
- Scratching the skin
- Scrape
- Nighttime itch is worse
- Persistent, mild itch
- Scab on skin
- Itch
- A scratch
- Itch improves during the day
- Itch is minor
See full list
Symptoms Related to Seborrheic Dermatitis
Diseases Related to Seborrheic Dermatitis
FAQs
Q.
Scalp Still Itching? Why Your Scalp Is Flaking & Ketoconazole Shampoo Next Steps
A.
Persistent scalp itching and flaking are most often from seborrheic dermatitis or dandruff driven by Malassezia, and ketoconazole shampoo is an effective first-line treatment when used correctly. Apply to the wet scalp, leave on 5 minutes, use 2 to 3 times weekly, then continue maintenance; if it fails after 4 to 6 weeks or symptoms are severe, consider combination treatments and evaluation for other causes like psoriasis, contact dermatitis, or tinea capitis. There are several factors to consider, including red flags and side effects; see complete guidance below to choose the right next steps.
References:
* Yosipovitch G, Kwatra SG. Scalp Pruritus: A Comprehensive Review. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2023 Aug;89(2):321-331. doi: 10.1016/j.jaad.2023.01.037. PMID: 36720704.
* Naldi L, Naldi G. Seborrheic Dermatitis in Adults: An Updated Review of Management. Dermatol Ther (Heidelb). 2023 Feb;13(2):331-347. doi: 10.1007/s13555-022-00858-3. PMID: 36585640.
* Reeder N, Abdo H, Leitenberger S, Kurek D. Dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis: a comprehensive review with a focus on its microbial etiology. J Dermatolog Treat. 2023 Dec;34(1):2263900. doi: 10.1080/09546634.2023.2263900. PMID: 37781033.
* Borda LJ, Perper M, Keri JE. Seborrheic Dermatitis: A Comprehensive Review. J Drugs Dermatol. 2019 Feb 1;18(2):157-164. PMID: 30730825.
* Chen X, Jiang X, Tsui C, Zhou B, Jiang Y, Lu C, Yang M, Li W, Du S, Wang X. Antifungal drugs for tinea capitis. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2016 May 19;2016(5):CD004142. doi: 10.1002/14651858.CD004142.pub4. PMID: 27196642.
Q.
Nizoral Shampoo Failing? Why Your Scalp is Flaking + Medical Next Steps
A.
There are several factors to consider if Nizoral shampoo is not helping: incorrect technique, a different diagnosis such as psoriasis or tinea capitis, moderate to severe seborrheic dermatitis that needs combination therapy, sensitivity to the product, or wash-frequency and trigger issues like stress or illness. Next steps include proper 3 to 5 minute contact for 2 to 4 weeks, rotating antifungal shampoos and addressing inflammation, and seeing a clinician for diagnosis if not improving or urgently for hair loss, pain, fever, pus, or a spreading rash; important details that can change your plan are outlined below.
References:
* Ryu C, Shin SM. Seborrheic dermatitis: an updated review. Arch Dermatol Res. 2023 Aug;315(6):1597-1608. doi: 10.1007/s00403-023-02636-5. Epub 2023 Aug 25. PMID: 37628678.
* Sugita T, Suto H, Unno T, Tsuboi R, Nishikawa A. Malassezia species in seborrheic dermatitis pathogenesis and therapeutic implications. J Dermatol. 2020 Dec;47(12):1377-1382. doi: 10.1111/1346-8138.15571. Epub 2020 Sep 18. PMID: 32943715.
* Gupta AK, Kogan N, Bhatia S, Gupta M. The efficacy and safety of topical ketoconazole for seborrheic dermatitis: A systematic review and meta-analysis. J Dermatolog Treat. 2020 Nov;31(7):727-734. doi: 10.1080/09546634.2020.1837344. Epub 2020 Nov 2. PMID: 33130983.
* Vázquez-Herrera NE, Sánchez-González B, Lazo-Langner A, Sánchez-Hinojosa R, García-Gasca A, Vázquez-Velázquez V, Orozco-Paredes N, Rojas-García CR. Treatment of recalcitrant seborrheic dermatitis: a comprehensive review. Gac Med Mex. 2020;156(4):369-376. doi: 10.24875/GMM.20000007. PMID: 32837372.
* Schwartz RA. Differential Diagnosis of Scaling Conditions of the Scalp. J Drugs Dermatol. 2021 Jul 1;20(7):760-763. doi: 10.36849/JDD.2021.5794. PMID: 34215263.
Q.
Flaky and Red? Why Seborrheic Dermatitis Won’t Stop & Medical Steps
A.
Seborrheic dermatitis keeps recurring because it is a chronic immune reaction to Malassezia yeast in oily areas, causing red, flaky, sometimes greasy patches that flare with stress, weather, and hormones, and return when treatment stops. There are several factors and medical steps to consider; see below for details on consistent antifungal shampoos or creams, short-term anti-inflammatories, gentle skin care, trigger management, and red flags that mean you should see a doctor or rule out look-alikes like psoriasis or tinea.
References:
* Borda LJ, Perper M, Keri JE. Seborrheic Dermatitis: A Comprehensive Review. J Drugs Dermatol. 2019 Feb 1;18(2):157-163. PMID: 30790104.
* Gupta AK, Madkan VK. Seborrheic Dermatitis. J Cutan Med Surg. 2020 Jan/Feb;24(1):28-34. doi: 10.1177/1203475419875412. Epub 2019 Oct 7. PMID: 31590499.
* Dessinioti C. Seborrheic dermatitis: an updated review. G Ital Dermatol Venereol. 2021 Oct;156(5):541-551. doi: 10.23736/S0392-0488.21.06912-2. Epub 2021 Sep 14. PMID: 34524810.
* Naldi L, Parodi P, Di Leo E, Veraldi S, Velez N. Seborrheic Dermatitis: A Review of Pathogenesis, Diagnosis, and Management. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2023 Apr;16(4):30-36. Epub 2023 Apr 1. PMID: 37192275.
* Sgouros D, Tsagakis I, Markantoni V, Drosos AM, Ziragaki D, Chatzinikolaou I, Liakou AI. Advances in the Understanding of Seborrheic Dermatitis: A Scoping Review. J Clin Med. 2023 Mar 1;12(5):1957. doi: 10.3390/jcm12051957. PMID: 36903254; PMCID: PMC10003050.
Q.
Won’t Go Away? Why Your Baby’s Scalp Is Scaling & Medical Next Steps
A.
Persistent scalp scaling in babies is most often cradle cap, a common and usually harmless form of infantile seborrheic dermatitis that responds to daily gentle shampooing, brief oil softening, and light brushing. There are several factors to consider; see below to understand when lingering or spreading scales, oozing, hair loss, fever, or clear discomfort mean it could be infection or another condition like eczema, psoriasis, or tinea capitis, and the medical next steps including when to seek pediatric care and use medicated treatments safely.
References:
* Borda LJ, Cardenas CA, Keri JE. Seborrheic dermatitis in infants: An update. *J Am Acad Dermatol*. 2023 Aug;89(2):373-374. PMID: 37084931.
* Al Aboud DM, Al Aboud AM. Seborrheic Dermatitis in Infants: Understanding the Pathogenesis and Management. *Dermatol Ther (Heidelb)*. 2022 Dec;12(12):2621-2633. PMID: 36173516.
* Noble RS, Long J. Infant Seborrheic Dermatitis: A Review. *Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol*. 2021 Nov 16;14:1527-1533. PMID: 34824364.
* Thomsen SF. Atopic Dermatitis in Infancy: A Comprehensive Review. *Am J Clin Dermatol*. 2020 Aug;21(4):535-542. PMID: 32770216.
* Clark GW, Gupta AK, Gover MD, et al. Topical treatments for seborrhoeic dermatitis: a systematic review. *Br J Dermatol*. 2018 Sep;179(3):580-592. PMID: 29509890.
Q.
Snowing on Your Shoulders? Why Your Skin is “Molting” and Medically Approved Steps to Clear Seborrheic Dermatitis
A.
Seborrheic dermatitis is a common, noncontagious cause of dandruff-like flakes, red greasy patches, and itching on the scalp and other oily skin areas, and it is usually manageable with consistent care. Evidence-based treatments include antifungal shampoos like ketoconazole, antifungal creams, short courses of mild steroids or non-steroid anti-inflammatories, and gentle skincare with trigger control; how to use them, timelines, maintenance, and when to see a doctor are important details covered below that could influence your next steps.
References:
* Sanders, M., & Schwartz, J. (2020). Seborrheic Dermatitis: A Comprehensive Review. *Journal of Drugs in Dermatology*, *19*(7), 675-679.
* Bukvić, N., & Vujić, G. (2023). Seborrheic Dermatitis: Etiology, Risk Factors, and Pathogenesis. *Journal of Clinical Medicine*, *12*(17), 5707.
* Naldi, L., & Chimenti, M. S. (2021). An update on the treatment of seborrheic dermatitis: a systematic review. *Expert Review of Clinical Pharmacology*, *14*(3), 335-345.
* Wang, W., Li, J., Gao, M., Yang, S., & Li, R. (2023). An update on seborrheic dermatitis treatment: A review. *Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology*, *22*(8), 2465-2473.
* Borda, L. J., & Perper, M. (2023). Clinical manifestations and diagnosis of seborrheic dermatitis: a comprehensive review. *JAAD International*, *4*, 141-152.
Q.
Seborrheic Dermatitis: A Woman's 30-45 Guide to Relief & Next Steps
A.
Seborrheic dermatitis in women 30 to 45 often shows up as persistent dandruff and red, flaky patches around the hairline, brows, and nose, driven by yeast overgrowth, oil, hormones, stress, and cold weather; effective relief usually comes from medicated shampoos, antifungal creams, brief low-potency steroids or nonsteroid options, plus gentle skin care and stress management. There are several factors to consider, including look-alike conditions and clear signs to see a doctor like spreading rash, thick crusts, infection symptoms, or hair loss; for step-by-step next actions, product choices, and personalized tips, see the complete details below.
References:
* Clark GW, Pope SM, Jaboori AZ. Seborrheic Dermatitis: A Comprehensive Review. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2021 May;14(5 Suppl 1):S7-S14. PMID: 34188622.
* Borda LJ, Perper M, Keri JE. Treatment of seborrheic dermatitis: an updated review. G Ital Dermatol Venereol. 2023 Feb;158(1):3-11. doi: 10.23736/S0392-0488.22.07223-9. Epub 2022 Aug 19. PMID: 35984400.
* Zeng K, Zhong M, Yang M, Jiang X, Fan Y. Seborrheic dermatitis and hormonal regulation: The possible underlying mechanism. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2022 Nov;21(11):5446-5452. doi: 10.1111/jocd.15286. Epub 2022 Jul 25. PMID: 35876547.
* Okokon EO, Verter F, Opadeyi A, Obot OS. Seborrheic Dermatitis: Pathogenesis, Clinical Manifestations, and Management. Dermatol Clin. 2019 Jul;37(3):289-301. doi: 10.1016/j.det.2019.02.001. Epub 2019 Mar 26. PMID: 31097282.
* Papakonstantinou A, Zampeli V, Kyriakou A, Gaitanis G, Bassukas ID. Seborrheic dermatitis. Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol. 2017 Mar 21;10:83-93. doi: 10.2147/CCID.S119420. eCollection 2017. PMID: 28352101.
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https://www.medrxiv.org/content/10.1101/2024.08.29.24312810v1References
Clark GW, Pope SM, Jaboori KA. Diagnosis and treatment of seborrheic dermatitis. Am Fam Physician. 2015 Feb 1;91(3):185-90. PMID: 25822272.
https://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2015/0201/p185.htmlElgash M, Dlova N, Ogunleye T, Taylor SC. Seborrheic Dermatitis in Skin of Color: Clinical Considerations. J Drugs Dermatol. 2019 Jan 1;18(1):24-27. PMID: 30681789.
https://jddonline.com/articles/seborrheic-dermatitis-in-skin-of-color-clinical-considerations-S1545961619P0024X/Dessinioti C, Katsambas A. Seborrheic dermatitis: etiology, risk factors, and treatments: facts and controversies. Clin Dermatol. 2013 Jul-Aug;31(4):343-351. doi: 10.1016/j.clindermatol.2013.01.001. PMID: 23806151.
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0738081X13000023?via%3DihubSanders MGH, Pardo LM, Ginger RS, Kiefte-de Jong JC, Nijsten T. Association between Diet and Seborrheic Dermatitis: A Cross-Sectional Study. J Invest Dermatol. 2019 Jan;139(1):108-114. doi: 10.1016/j.jid.2018.07.027. Epub 2018 Aug 18. PMID: 30130619.
https://www.jidonline.org/article/S0022-202X(18)32480-1/fulltext