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New Seborrheic Dermatitis Treatment Calms The Skin Condition

It's been said before and it's true: a healthy scalp is key to healthy hair. But for those dealing with pesky and sometimes painful scalp conditions like seborrheic dermatitis, that can be easier said than done. That's why we turned to a top dermatologist for the best seborrheic dermatitis treatment options available today that help calm inflammation, flakes and more to improve skin, scalp and hair health. Plus, one woman shares her journey with seborrheic dermatitis and the treatment that's worked for her to cut down on scalp irritation and regain her confidence.

What is seborrheic dermatitis?

"Seborrheic dermatitis is an inflammatory scalp condition. It is thought to be caused by an inflammatory response to yeast on the scalp," says Heather Woolery-Lloyd, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Miami and founder of DermFriends. "People with seborrheic dermatitis often complain of itching, stinging, burning, flaking and scaling on the scalp." She notes that while seborrheic dermatitis most frequently affects the scalp, "it can also affect areas like the eyebrows, behind the ears, the sides of the nose and the chest."

How does seborrheic dermatitis differ from dandruff?

"Dandruff is flaking or scaling on the scalp and is a common symptom of seborrheic dermatitis, says," Dr. Woolerry-Lloyd. It's also considered a mild form of seborrheic dermatitis as there's less redness and irritation. But what makes the two different is that dandruff only occurs on the scalp, while seborrheic dermatitis can occur in other areas besides the scalp as mentioned above.

How does seborrheic dermatitis affect scalp and hair health?

"People with seborrheic dermatitis often have flaking and scaling on the scalp. Other symptoms include burning, stinging and itching. The inflammation from seborrheic dermatitis causes a disruption of the skin barrier on the scalp," says Dr. Woolerry-Lloyd. "It does not usually affect the hair, but in severe cases, especially when there is severe scratching, it can cause thinning or breakage of the hair."

Seborrheic dermatitis treatment options

There are a number of over-the-counter and prescription seborrheic dermatitis treatments that can help with the condition. Dr. Woolerry-Lloyd breaks them down below.

Over-the-counter seborrheic dermatitis treatments

"Over-the-counter treatments include antifungal shampoos with ingredients like zinc pyrithione, ketoconazole and selenium sulfide," notes Dr. Woolerry-Lloyd. All of these ingredients target and kill yeast on the scalp along with reducing irritation.

Dr. Woolerry-Lloyd says other OTC options include salicylic acid- and tar-infused shampoos. Both salicylic acid and tar gently exfoliate skin to remove a buildup of dead, dry skin cells that can worsen seborrheic dermatitis.

It's important to note that some OTC and at-home seborrheic dermatitis treatments can backfire since they are too harsh on the scalp. "There was a trend where people used apple cider vinegar, which actually can be very irritating on an inflamed scalp and can make things worse," explains Dr. Woolerry-Lloyd. Additionally, "many people with this condition will cycle through different OTC treatments, shampoos, and anecdotal recommendations from friends and family. They may be less likely to see a dermatologist because there is less awareness of prescription treatment options for this condition (compared to acne for example)," she says. "So I would definitely recommend that patients see a dermatologist. There are excellent prescription options that can help to manage this condition."

Prescription seborrheic dermatitis treatments

"Dermatologists have prescribed topical steroids to help reduce the inflammation caused by seborrheic dermatitis," says Dr. Woolerry-Lloyd. The one downside about treatments with steroids is that overuse can lead to side effects, especially on facial skin, such as the thinning of skin, causing veins to be more visible and making you more susceptible to infections.

For a steroid-free option, Dr. Woolerry-Lloyd points to the newest prescription treatment, Zoryve foam. "It is the first FDA-approved treatment for seborrheic dermatitis in 20 years," she says. Some more pros about this seborrheic dermatitis treatment is that it's a lightweight foam that is alcohol-free and quickly absorbs. "It's also safe for color-treated hair and works in all hair types and textures," adds Dr. Woolerry-Lloyd. Best of all, Zoryve can also be used on the face, making it an all-in-one treatment—plus, it only needs to be applied once a day, unlike many other prescriptions that require two daily applications.

Scalp before using Zoryve

Scalp after using Zoryve

"In the clinical trials, 77% of patients who were treated with Zoryve were clear or almost clear at the end of the eight-week trial. It's important to note that itch is the most burdensome symptom of seborrheic dermatitis," says Dr. Woolerry-Lloyd. She also notes that in these clinical trials, patients reported a significant improvement in itch was within 48 hours of use. "They also looked at quality of life and noted that patients treated with Zoryve had significant improvements in their quality of life."

One woman's journey with seborrheic dermatitis

Zoryve

Grace's (pictured above) earliest memory of dealing with seborrheic dermatitis was when she was 8 years old. "There was a lice outbreak at my school and I remember very distinctly going to the nurse's office and they were checking hair," she says. "I was getting paranoid and was wondering if there was really a lice outbreak or if they not trying to single me out. But there really was a lice outbreak and they were checking scalps."

Grace recalls when it was her turn that she doesn't remember what exactly the nurse said to her but the physical reaction and sentiment when her scalp was looked at resulted in a note being sent home with her. She was also asked by the nurse "how many times do you wash your hair?" Grace says, "That experience made me an insecure child, teenager and woman…thankfully I'm finally now breaking out of that, but that experience stayed with me and made me realize that something was wrong."

How Grace got diagnosed with seborrheic dermatitis

After that Grace remembers seeing various dermatologists as a kid, saying "at that point I had seborrheic dermatits on other points on my body like on my face, my hairline and my eyebrows. I was in and out of the dermatologist a lot." She says that it wasn't until she was 12 that she got an official diagnosis of seborrheic dermatitis and that she started to get treatment from doctors for the condition. "Those treatments were topical creams or shampoos with different ingredients to help with seborrheic dermatitis."

Chemical relaxing treatments made her seborrheic dermatitis worse

"What I was dealing with was more than dandruff, it was inflammation and redness," says Grace. "It really started to get bad when I got chemical relaxers in my hair, which I've had done since a very young age because it made my hair more manageable." Relaxing treatments are notoriously harsh on hair and the scalp, which Grace notes they aren't meant to touch the scalp but they do inadvertently because you have to start at the roots. "I would get flare-ups [after a treatment]—there was redness, inflammation, and it would literally burn or singe my scalp because my scalp was exposed. It was raw," she says. "I did so many things to prevent that from happening or to mitigate the burn."

Grace says getting relaxing treatments done was the most high maintenance and impactful when she was coming of age. "I was trying to look the way that I thought you should look in the school setting and a professional setting." One of her hairdressers even told her to thoroughly grease her scalp before a treatment so the relaxer wouldn't touch her scalp in order to create a bit of a buffer. And this did help somewhat, but it also exasperated her seborrheic dermatitis.

"It was just like an endless cycle of, you know, preparing my scalp for the chemical relaxer, but then dealing with the burn," says Grace. "I literally had scabs sometimes after I had the relaxer because of what it would do to my scalp." Ultimately she stopped getting relaxers done about 12 years ago. "Around that time there was a lot online about empowering black women about putting down the 'cream and crack' because you also start to learn like maybe it's not the best for us like the things they put in this chemical [treatment]."

Things Grace tried to treat seborrheic dermatitis

At one point Grace would travel with an emergency kit with multiple things to help treat her scalp. "I am used to having a whole arsenal of stuff to deal with seborrheic dermatitis because even though one thing works this week, it might not work the next week," she says. And if she's traveling certain things might work in one climate but not in other climates. Plus, "I think my skin got used to it and I never knew what it would respond to. Whether it's the redness like one thing would treat redness, but not flakiness. One would treat the flakiness but not the inflammation. So I would have something for everything."

Grace says she would even include random things, "it would be like it was a MacGyver-type kit." One item would be a travel-size mouthwash. " I would use that to lift the flakes," she says. "If I saw a flake here, I would use it and a Q-tip to lift it so that I wasn't scraping it and irritating it." The reason for being prepared for anything was because she says that "sometimes creams just didn't work but ointments were better but it also made me look greasy. The ointments were better for my scalp but also heavy on my hair and skin."

"I can't tell you how many dermatologists I've seen or talked to in my lifetime," says Grace. "I feel like many of them didn't really entertain my concerns about hair. I would even say 'oh that dries my hair out' and they're like 'well that's what works.'" She says she finally found 'the right doctor to talk to about it and she entertained my questions about hair and my social concerns and took it seriously. She even told me that she has a light version of [seborrheic dermatitis] herself so she helped to destigmatize it for me." And through that doctor, she was introduced to a seborrheic dermatitis treatment that made a huge difference.

The seborrheic dermatitis treatment that worked for her

As mentioned above, over the years Grace has tried many seborrheic dermatitis treatments, but now she's been using the Zoryve foam and is singing its praises. Her ah-ha moment of using this prescription foam came after she got a blowout and was nervous to apply the medication to her hair, worrying it would cause her strands to become frizzy, But to her surprise, it absorbed into her skin immediately and left her blowout intact. "I was like woah, this is a game-changer."

Besides working well to manage her seborrheic dermatitis, Grace says "one of the biggest difference makers with Zoryve is that it's just one thing and unlike any other topical treatment that I've tried," she says. And while she still keeps an emergency kit handy, she's not reaching for it as often now that she's found a treatment that works and in turn has helped her regain her confidence.

Photo of skin before seborrheic dermatitis treatment

Photo after using a seborrheic dermatitis treatment

"I'm on a journey to feel more comfortable in my skin and learn from other people who've dealt with it [seborrheic dermatitis]," says Grace. "There's also freedom in talking about it and finding people who are on the same journey. There's no shame in having seborrheic dermatitis. I have to still remind myself I didn't do anything wrong here."

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Powerful Itchy Scalp Fixes For Lasting Relief To Try Now

Understanding scalp irritation fundamentals

Recent dermatological insights reveal that scalp irritation is a common issue with multiple contributing factors, ranging from environmental conditions to the use of unsuitable products. This discomfort can manifest in various ways, including itchiness, flakiness, and sensitivity. Understanding these triggers is essential to finding effective, long-term relief and maintaining scalp health.

Environmental stressors, such as pollution, harsh weather conditions, and prolonged sun exposure, are significant contributors to scalp irritation. These elements can strip the scalp of its natural oils, leading to dryness and discomfort. Additionally, frequent use of harsh shampoos, styling products, or chemical treatments can exacerbate irritation, disrupting the scalp's delicate balance.

Other factors, such as stress, hormonal fluctuations, and dietary habits, also play a crucial role in scalp health. Stress can trigger conditions like seborrheic dermatitis, while diets lacking essential nutrients may weaken the scalp's natural defenses. Recognizing these interconnected influences is the first step toward a comprehensive solution.

Identifying key treatment approaches

Addressing scalp irritation requires a multi-faceted approach tailored to individual needs. A successful treatment plan combines the right products, techniques, and lifestyle adjustments to target specific concerns effectively. Selecting appropriate treatments begins with evaluating the intensity of the irritation and identifying potential triggers.

Treatment should be gradual to avoid overwhelming the scalp, particularly for individuals with heightened sensitivity. Experts recommend starting with mild, hydrating products to soothe irritation before introducing stronger, targeted solutions. The frequency of product use also matters; overuse can cause further imbalance, negating the benefits of even the most effective treatments.

Products containing active ingredients like zinc pyrithione, salicylic acid, and ketoconazole are frequently recommended for issues such as dandruff and inflammation. These ingredients address underlying problems while promoting scalp health. For dryness, natural oils like argan or coconut provide hydration and nourishment without causing buildup.

Expert-recommended solutions

Dermatologists emphasize the importance of using products backed by science for lasting results. Formulations designed to restore the scalp's natural balance are particularly effective in managing irritation. Ingredients that promote a healthy scalp microbiome, such as probiotics and prebiotics, have gained attention for their ability to reduce inflammation and support overall scalp health.

Combining therapeutic treatments with soothing agents enhances their effectiveness. For instance, a medicated shampoo targeting dandruff can be followed by a hydrating mask to replenish moisture. This dual approach ensures the scalp remains healthy while addressing the root cause of discomfort.

Lifestyle adjustments complement these treatments, providing a holistic path to relief. Stress management techniques, such as mindfulness and regular exercise, can mitigate flare-ups. Incorporating nutrient-rich foods, like salmon, avocados, and leafy greens, supports the scalp from within.

Product selection guidance

Selecting the right products for scalp care can feel overwhelming due to the vast array of options. However, understanding product categories and their benefits simplifies the process. Medicated shampoos are ideal for targeting specific issues like dandruff or psoriasis, while scalp serums deliver concentrated nutrients directly to problem areas.

Exfoliating treatments can also play a role in improving scalp health by removing buildup and dead skin cells. This ensures other products penetrate effectively, maximizing their benefits. Experts advise opting for products free from sulfates, parabens, and artificial fragrances, as these can irritate sensitive scalps.

Consulting a dermatologist is highly recommended before starting a new treatment regimen. A professional evaluation ensures the chosen products align with individual needs, preventing unnecessary trial and error.

Maintaining scalp health

Once scalp irritation is under control, maintaining long-term results requires consistency and attention to preventive measures. A regular care routine that includes gentle cleansing, hydration, and occasional deep treatments helps sustain scalp health.

Environmental adjustments can further enhance results. Using a humidifier in dry conditions or protecting the scalp from harsh weather ensures it remains balanced and resilient. Regularly washing hair after exposure to pollutants or sweat prevents buildup, reducing the risk of irritation.

Dietary habits also play a significant role in maintaining a healthy scalp. Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, zinc, and vitamins E and C contribute to scalp hydration and elasticity. Staying hydrated by drinking adequate water supports the scalp's overall health, keeping it nourished from within.

The path to relief

Achieving lasting relief from scalp irritation is a journey that begins with understanding its causes and implementing effective solutions. By combining expert advice, thoughtful product selection, and consistent care, individuals can regain control over their scalp health and enjoy lasting comfort.

Scalp care is more than just a cosmetic concern; it is an essential aspect of overall well-being. With the right approach, anyone can address persistent scalp discomfort and maintain a healthy, balanced scalp for years to come.

What To Know About Seborrheic Dermatitis

Seborrheic dermatitis is a form of eczema that can cause dandruff and other symptoms. Treatment can include home remedies and prescriptions, depending on the severity.

Seborrheic dermatitis (pronounced "seh-bah-ree-ick der-muh-tie-tis") is a common skin condition that causes skin discoloration, scaly patches, and dandruff.

It is a chronic form of eczema that most often affects the scalp. It can also develop on oily areas of the body, like your face, upper chest, and back.

When infants develop this condition, doctors call it cradle cap. This typically develops within the first few weeks of birth and gradually disappears over several weeks or months.

In this article, we'll discuss seborrheic dermatitis, its symptoms, and how to manage it.

Doctors don't know the exact cause of seborrheic dermatitis, but they believe two main factors contribute to its development.

One factor is the overproduction of oil. An excess amount of oil in the skin might act as an irritant, causing your skin to become red or discolored and greasy. This may relate to hormone production.

Another contributing factor is Malassezia, a type of yeast that naturally occurs in the skin's oils. It can sometimes multiply more than usual, causing an inflammatory response in the skin. This triggers increased oil production, and excessive oil can lead to seborrheic dermatitis.

Cradle cap can develop in infants due to hormonal changes that occur in the birthing parent during pregnancy. In adults, seborrheic dermatitis can also develop with psoriasis, which is called sebopsoriasis.

Doctors aren't sure why some people develop seborrheic dermatitis while others don't. But it does appear that your chance of developing the condition increases if a close family member has it.

obesity

inconsistent skin care

stress

environmental factors, like pollution

the presence of other skin issues, like acne

the use of certain skin care products, particularly those containing alcohol

certain medical conditions, like HIV or Parkinson's disease

harsh detergents, soaps, and chemicals

cold, dry weather

medications, including psoralen, interferon, and lithium

hormonal changes

What makes seborrheic dermatitis flare?

Seborrheic dermatitis may flare up more due to those factors listed as well as stress, change of seasons, and alcohol misuse.

The types of symptoms that develop can vary from person to person and can also occur in different parts of the body.

The skin develops scaly white or yellowish patches that flake off. This is commonly known as dandruff and can occur in the scalp, hair, eyebrows, or beard.

The skin develops erythematous plaques, which are solid patches of thick-crusted skin. They may turn yellow and greasy and occur in severe cases.

The skin in the affected area tends to be greasy and oily.

The skin in the affected area may be discolored or hypopigmented, particularly in people with darker skin tones.

The skin in the affected area may be itchy.

Hair loss may occur in the affected area.

Areas affected

Seborrheic dermatitis tends to develop in oily areas of the body. It most often affects the scalp, but it can also occur in the following areas:

in and around the ears

on the eyebrows

on the nose

on the back

on the upper portion of the chest

Seborrheic dermatitis on the scalp

Seborrheic dermatitis commonly affects the scalp and hairline, with symptoms ranging from mild dandruff to thick, dense patches of dried skin.

Dandruff can appear as fine, powdery pieces of dead skin. It might be visible in your hair or on dark clothing.

If you have more severe seborrheic dermatitis, you may experience erythematous plaques. These are raised, solid patches of thick-crusted skin on and around the scalp.

If left untreated, the plaque could thicken and become yellow and greasy, causing a secondary infection.

Seborrheic dermatitis is a long-term skin condition that requires ongoing treatment. But you can manage the condition effectively by:

working with a doctor to develop a treatment plan

developing a good skin care routine

learning to recognize and eliminate triggers

Home remedies for seborrheic dermatitis

Your doctor will likely recommend trying some home remedies before considering medical treatments.

People frequently use dandruff shampoos to treat seborrheic dermatitis on the scalp. Daily use is often necessary for optimal results. Make sure to carefully follow all instructions on the bottle.

Other home treatments that may help you manage seborrheic dermatitis include:

using over-the-counter (OTC) antifungal and anti-itch creams

using hypoallergenic soap and detergent

thoroughly rinsing soap and shampoo off the skin and scalp

shaving off a mustache or beard

wearing loose cotton clothing to avoid skin irritation

Medications

If your symptoms don't improve with these home remedies, talk with your doctor about trying the following treatments:

Prescription-strength shampoos and ointments: These typically contain hydrocortisone, fluocinolone, or desonide.

Antifungal medication: Your doctor might sometimes prescribe antifungal medication, such as topical ketoconazole and metronidazole or oral itraconazole and terbinafine.

Ultraviolet B (UVB) light therapy: Your doctor can use this type of light therapy to help manage your seborrheic dermatitis symptoms. They'll expose the affected skin area to ultraviolet light for a short period over several sessions a week for as long as 2 months.

A caution about skin cream use for infants

Check with your child's doctor before using OTC hydrocortisone or antifungal creams. Some can be toxic for infants after absorption through the skin. Dandruff shampoos containing salicylic acid aren't always safe for infants, so speak with your pediatrician before trying any treatment for cradle cap.

To make an accurate diagnosis, your doctor will perform a physical examination and carefully inspect the affected areas. They'll also ask you about your symptoms, including when they started and how often you experience them.

Your doctor may want to perform a biopsy before making a diagnosis. During this procedure, your doctor will remove skin cells from the affected area.

They will then send the samples to a laboratory for analysis. The results will help to rule out other conditions that may be causing your symptoms.

The symptoms of seborrheic dermatitis are similar to those of other skin conditions, including rosacea and psoriasis.

In general, you should reach out to your doctor if:

you don't get relief from a regular dandruff shampoo

some areas are extremely red

some areas are very painful

an area has pus, fluid, or crusting

you experience significant discomfort and believe you may need medical treatment

You should also contact your child's doctor if cradle cap symptoms are severe or persist. They may recommend certain medicated shampoos or lotions.

Seborrheic dermatitis is a chronic condition, so you may need to manage it on some level throughout your life. You may go through extended periods where there are little to no symptoms. You'll also likely experience flare-ups, which are episodes when symptoms become more severe.

Over time, you can find a skin care routine that works for you and minimizes the effect of the condition. Recognizing and eliminating triggers can help you manage seborrheic dermatitis effectively. It doesn't lead to serious medical conditions or complications.

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