Seborrheic Dermatitis

What Is Seborrheic Dermatitis?

Seborrheic dermatitis is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that causes redness, itching, and flaky or greasy scales. It most commonly affects areas rich in oil glands, including the scalp (dandruff), eyebrows, sides of the nose, ears, beard area, and chest.

Seborrheic dermatitis is not contagious and is not caused by poor hygiene. It tends to flare and improve over time, but with proper treatment it can be well controlled.

Why Seborrheic Dermatitis Happens

This condition develops due to a combination of skin sensitivity, oil production, and inflammation.

1. Yeast Overgrowth

A naturally occurring yeast on the skin (Malassezia) can overgrow in oily areas. In susceptible individuals, this triggers inflammation and scaling.

2. Excess Oil Production

Seborrheic dermatitis occurs more often in areas with active oil glands, which create an environment where yeast can thrive.

3. Inflammatory Immune Response

The immune system overreacts to yeast and oil, leading to redness, itching, and flaking.

4. Skin Barrier Dysfunction

A weakened skin barrier allows irritation and inflammation to persist.

5. Triggers & Internal Factors

Stress, cold or dry weather, illness, fatigue, and certain neurological or immune conditions can worsen symptoms.

How Seborrheic Dermatitis Is Treated

Treatment focuses on controlling yeast, reducing inflammation, and restoring the skin barrier.

Medicated Topical Treatments

Antifungal shampoos or creams to reduce yeast levels
Anti-inflammatory medications to calm redness and itching
Short-term topical steroids may be used during flares
Non-steroid anti-inflammatory creams for maintenance

Scalp-Specific Care

Use medicated shampoos as directed (often 2–3 times weekly during flares)
Allow shampoos to sit on the scalp for several minutes before rinsing
Rotate products to prevent resistance and maintain control

In-Office Support (When Needed)

Prescription-strength treatments for resistant cases
Evaluation for overlapping conditions such as psoriasis

Lifestyle & Functional Medicine Support

Daily habits play a key role in managing flares.

Stress Management

Stress is a common trigger
Sleep optimization and stress-reduction techniques help reduce flare frequency

Gentle Skincare & Haircare

Avoid harsh soaps, scrubs, and fragranced products
Use lukewarm water instead of hot
Cleanse regularly but avoid over-washing

Nutrition & Inflammation Control

Anti-inflammatory diets may help reduce severity
Limiting alcohol and highly processed foods may improve symptoms
Support gut health and immune balance

Weather & Environmental Protection

Cold, dry air can worsen symptoms
Use moisturizers to support the skin barrier

What to Expect

Seborrheic dermatitis is chronic but manageable
Flares may recur, especially during stress or seasonal changes
Consistent maintenance therapy keeps symptoms under control

Our Approach

We take a control-and-maintain strategy—calming active flares quickly while building a long-term plan to reduce recurrence. By combining medical treatments, targeted skincare, and lifestyle guidance, we help you keep your skin comfortable, clear, and confident.

With the right plan, seborrheic dermatitis does not have to control your life.