Seborrheic Dermatitis: Causes, Symptoms, and Effective Treatments

Date: 04 Jun 2025

Seborrheic dermatitis is a chronic, relapsing inflammatory skin condition that primarily affects areas of the body rich in sebaceous (oil) glands, such as the scalp, face, chest, and upper back. It is a common condition that causes redness, scaling, and dandruff, and although it’s not contagious or life-threatening, it can be uncomfortable and cosmetically distressing.

This guide explains everything you need to know about seborrheic dermatitis, including its causes, signs, risk factors, and most importantly, how to manage it effectively with treatments available at Pharmily.

 

What Is Seborrheic Dermatitis?

Seborrheic dermatitis is a chronic skin disorder that leads to scaly patches, redness, and stubborn dandruff. It is often confused with dry skin, eczema, or psoriasis. It tends to flare periodically, especially in cold, dry seasons or during times of stress.

In infants, this condition is referred to as cradle cap, which typically affects the scalp and resolves on its own within the first year of life. In adults, seborrheic dermatitis is more persistent and may require ongoing management.

 

What Causes Seborrheic Dermatitis?

The exact cause is not fully understood, but several contributing factors include:

• Overgrowth of Malassezia yeast, which thrives in oily areas of the skin
   
• Excess sebum (oil) production
   
• Genetic predisposition
   
• Weakened immune system
   
• Environmental triggers, such as dry weather or pollution
   
• Stress and fatigue
   
• Certain medical conditions like Parkinson’s disease, HIV/AIDS, and depression
   

Seborrheic dermatitis is not caused by poor hygiene, and it is not contagious.

 

Signs and Symptoms of Seborrheic Dermatitis

Symptoms vary depending on the area affected, but typical features include:

✅ Scalp:

• Persistent dandruff (white or yellow flakes)
   
• Red, inflamed patches
   
• Greasy or oily feel
   
• Itching or burning sensation
   

✅ Face and Ears:

• Red, scaly patches around the nose, eyebrows, eyelids, or behind the ears
   
• White or yellow greasy scales
   
• Itchiness and occasional discomfort
   

✅ Chest and Back:

• Scaly, red plaques on the upper chest or between the shoulder blades
   
• Greasy texture or crusted patches
   

✅ Body Folds:

• Redness and irritation in the armpits, under the breasts, groin, or around the navel
   
• May resemble intertrigo or fungal infections
   

✅ In Infants (Cradle Cap):

• Thick, yellowish, crusty patches on the scalp
   
• Usually non-itchy and painless
   
• Self-limiting and clears within a few months.
   

 

Who Is at Risk?

Seborrheic dermatitis can affect anyone, but certain factors increase susceptibility, such as:

• Adults aged 30 to 60
   
• Infants under 3 months
   
• People with oily skin
   
• Individuals with weakened immune systems
   
• Those suffering from chronic stress or fatigue
   
• People with neurological disorders (e.g., Parkinson’s disease)
   
• Patients with HIV/AIDS
   

 

Diagnosis

Most diagnoses are based on physical examination and medical history. A dermatologist may inspect the appearance and location of the rash. In rare cases, a skin biopsy or fungal culture may be performed to rule out other conditions like psoriasis, eczema, or tinea infections.

 

How Is Seborrheic Dermatitis Diagnosed?

A diagnosis is typically made based on physical examination and medical history. Your healthcare provider may examine affected skin and rule out other conditions such as psoriasis, eczema, or fungal infections.

In rare cases, a skin biopsy may be required for confirmation.

 

Treatment and Management of Seborrheic Dermatitis

Although seborrheic dermatitis cannot be cured permanently, it can be managed effectively with a combination of medicated shampoos, creams, lifestyle changes, and proper skincare.

1. Medicated Shampoos (for scalp involvement)

At Pharmily, we offer several antifungal and anti-inflammatory shampoos that are effective in managing seborrheic dermatitis:

Ketoconazole 2% Shampoo

• Antifungal that targets Malassezia yeast
   
• Reduces inflammation and scaling
   
• Use 2–3 times per week initially, then once weekly for maintenance.
   

Selenium Sulfide Shampoo

• Reduces scalp flaking and fungal growth
   
• Helps normalize shedding of skin cells
   
• Alternate with ketoconazole for better control
   

Zinc Pyrithione Shampoo

• Gentle and effective for mild cases
   
• Reduces yeast and relieves itchiness
   
• Suitable for regular use
   

 

2. Topical Antifungal and Steroid Creams

These are essential for treating seborrheic dermatitis on the face, ears, chest, and body folds.

Clotrimazole Cream

• Available at Pharmily
   
• Antifungal that reduces yeast and inflammation
   
• Apply twice daily to the affected area.s
   

Hydrocortisone 1% Cream

• Mild steroid for reducing redness and itching
   
• Use sparingly for short durations (no more than 1–2 weeks)
   

⚠️ Note: Avoid long-term use of topical steroids on the face to prevent skin thinning and other side effects.

3. Skin Care and Hygiene Tips

• Wash your face with gentle, fragrance-free cleansers
   
• Avoid harsh soaps and hot water.
   
• Use non-comedogenic moisturizers to prevent skin drying.g
   
• Shampoo your scalp regularly with medicated products.
   
• Avoid scratching or picking at scaly patches.s
   
• Minimize stress through adequate sleep and relaxation techniques.
   

4. Lifestyle and Dietary Considerations

Although not a cure, lifestyle changes can help reduce flare-ups:

• Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 fatty acids
   
• Limit alcohol and sugary foods.
   
• Get regular exercise to boost circulation and immunity.
   
• Avoid prolonged exposure to heat and humidity.y
   

 

Pharmily Products That Help Manage Seborrheic Dermatitis

You can find the following effective treatments at Pharmily:

Product	Use	Benefits
Ketoconazole 2% Shampoo	Scalp	Antifungal, reduces scaling and dandruff
Selenium Sulfide Shampoo	Scalp	Fights yeast, reduces oiliness
Clotrimazole Cream	Face & body	Topical antifungal for yeast control
Hydrocortisone Cream 1%	Red, itchy areas	Short-term inflammation relief
Zinc Pyrithione Shampoo	Mild dandruff	Daily maintenance and gentle care

🛒 Visit Pharmily to order genuine, affordable treatments and get them delivered conveniently to your home anywhere in Kenya.

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is seborrheic dermatitis the same as dandruff?

Dandruff is a mild form of seborrheic dermatitis that only affects the scalp. When symptoms extend to other parts of the body, like the face or chest, it is considered seborrheic dermatitis.

2. Is seborrheic dermatitis contagious?

No, it is not contagious. You cannot catch it from someone else, even through direct skin contact.

3. Can seborrheic dermatitis be cured permanently?

Unfortunately, no. It is a chronic condition, but symptoms can be controlled with consistent treatment and lifestyle adjustments.

4. How often should I use medicated shampoo for seborrheic dermatitis?

Start by using it 2–3 times a week. Once symptoms improve, reduce to once weekly for maintenance.

5. Can stress worsen seborrheic dermatitis?

Yes. Stress is a known trigger for flare-ups. Managing stress through adequate rest, exercise, and mindfulness can reduce the frequency of symptoms.