What is Seborrheic Dermatitis?

Seborrheic dermatitis is a noncontagious inflammation of the upper layers of the skin. Most common in infants younger than three months and among adults ages 30 and older, seborrheic dermatitis is slightly more common in men than in women. Symptoms include red, itchy, inflamed skin covered by scales that may appear white, yellowish or gray. When skin starts reproducing itself faster than normal, the extra skin cells build up and flakes (dandruff) appear. This condition often appears on the scalp, near the nose and eyebrows, and around the ears, breastbone, groin and armpits. 

How to Manage Seborrheic Dermatitis

Although there is no cure for seborrheic dermatitis (and you can’t prevent it), the symptoms can be kept under control. Treatment depends on the severity and location of the condition. Using medicated, antidandruff shampoos can help control the skin build-up and flaking in mild cases. Mild-to-severe cases can be treated with medicated shampoos containing steroids. Lotions containing steroids are also used for the face and other body parts.