What is Seborrheic Dermatitis?

Seborrheic dermatitis is a scalp disease that causes itching, irritation and greasy, oily scales that eventually flake off, resulting in what we commonly call "dandruff."

Seborrheic dermatitis is common in adults 30 to 60 years old. It's more common in men than in women. Unfortunately, it's a chronic condition, but there are a variety of treatments available to soothe and control flare-ups.

What Causes Seborrheic Dermatitis ?

There are lots of different theories about the cause of seborrheic dermatitis. It's possible that it's related to your body's hormones because it often disappears before puberty but may return when you're older. It may even be caused by a fungus that normally lives on the skin.

How do I Know if I Have Seborrheic Dermatitis?

Seborrheic dermatitis and scalp psoriasis are often mistaken for one another. The key is the appearance. With scalp psoriasis, the scales look very dry and powdery and even appear silvery in color. With scalp eczema, the scales look oily or greasy and may even be yellowish in color. And with eczema, the itching can be downright unbearable.

Symptoms of scalp eczema may include:

• Greasy-looking scales on the skin
• Yellowish, oily scales that may turn white and flake off
• Scales or greasy patches behind ears and on eyebrows
• Intensely itchy scalp
• Red, inflamed scalp

If you suspect you have scalp psoriasis or scalp dermatitis, call your doctor or dermatologist as soon as possible for an evaluation.

What Can I do?

Your doctor or dermatologist may prescribe a seborrheic dermatitis scalp treatment or treatments. And there are things you can do to help control flare-ups:

• If your flaking is mild and you're not bothered by other symptoms, an over-the-counter dandruff shampoo may do the trick.
• Gently wash your hair daily, using warm, not hot, water.

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