VM
1
1
Mild severity
· Dermatology
Seborrheic Dermatitis
Dandruff & oily flakes
Yeast on oily skin triggers flaky, itchy patches on scalp, face and chest. Goes through flares and remissions.
At a glance
- Prevalence
- Very common
- Typical age
- Adults, infants
- Outlook
- Manageable
- System
- Skin
Reviewed by a verified Dermatology doctor
What causes it
Causes
- Malassezia yeast overgrowth
- Oily skin, hot humid climate
- Stress and lack of sleep
- Parkinson's, HIV
How it feels
Symptoms & effects
- Itchy white-yellow scales on scalp
- Red flaky patches around nose, ears
- Greasy chest plaques
- Dandruff that flakes onto clothes
- Worse in winter
How it’s treated
Treatment & cure
- Anti-fungal shampoo (ketoconazole, zinc)
- Topical hydrocortisone for face
- Tacrolimus or pimecrolimus on face
- Long-term maintenance washes
- Treat scalp before face
Staying ahead
Prevention
- Wash scalp 2–3×/week with medicated shampoo
- Manage stress and sleep
- Limit oily hair products
- Sunlight in moderation helps
Do’s
- Leave anti-fungal shampoo on 5 mins
- Use a soft cloth on face flares
- Moisturize after washing
- Treat early to prevent flare
Don’ts
- Scratch the scalp
- Use heavy hair oils on active flare
- Stop shampoo after 1 week
- Pick at facial flakes
See a doctor immediately if
Symptoms are sudden or severe, getting worse despite home care, or interfering with sleep, work or daily life. Don’t self-diagnose from the internet — book a verified clinician below.
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Disclaimer ·
This article is educational and reviewed by clinicians, but it cannot replace an in-person assessment.
Medication doses, prevention advice and treatment choices vary by person. Always confirm with a doctor before acting on anything here.