Seborrhoeic Dermatitis - Treatments

Treatments

Proper scalp hygiene is primary in treating seborrheic dermatitis. Dermatologists recommend topical treatments such as shampoos, cleansers or creams/lotions that contain antifungal, anti-inflammatory, sebo-suppressive or keratolytic ingredients:

One combination approach combines a dandruff shampoo, antifungal agent and topical steroid. If a class III steroid is unsuccessful, short-term "pulse fashion" use of a more potent topical steroid in combination with a dandruff shampoo and antifungal agent may put some resistant patients into remission and actually decrease total steroid exposure. Therapeutic choices include a nonfluorinated class III steroid such as mometasone furoate (Elocon) or an extra-potent class I or class II topical steroid such as clobetasol propionate (Temovate) or fluocinonide (Lidex). The more potent agents may be applied once or twice per day, even on the face, but must be stopped after two weeks because of the increased frequency of side effects. If the patient responds before the two-week limit, the agent should be stopped immediately. Some prescription creams such as topical cortisone may be effective in minimizing inflammation and itchiness. Antihistamines are used primarily to reduce itching, if present. However, research studies suggest that some antihistamines have anti-inflammatory properties.