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Suggest Treatment For A Seborrheic Dermatitis On The Scalp
Question: I have been diagnosed with seborrheic dermatitis on my scalp. I was prescribed a steroid (chlobetasol) but don't like using steroids. I have had this problem for over three years. I am hypothyroid and take Levoxyl if that has anything to do with it. I have tried over 20 shampoos, used essential oils, olive oil, apple cider vinegar and my scalp feels tight as a drum and I have constant flaking. The only thing that helps at all is Head and Shoulders shampoo for itchy scalp. I think I'm treating symptoms and not the source. Please help.
Brief Answer:
Use a topical cream or shampoo with antifungal
Detailed Answer:
Hello,
Thank you for using HCM to post your health query.
I read carefully your question and I understand your concern.
Unfortunately, there is no known permanent cure for seborrheic dermatitis.
The goal of the treatment is to control acute flares and maintain remission for mild seborrheic dermatitis of scalp.
Keratolytic shampoos that contain salicylic acid, zinc pyrithione, or coal tar, or selenium (Selsun) shampoo appear to reduce scaling, and are commonly advised as first-line options for mild symptoms.
Also, tea tree oil 5% shampoo also appears to reduce but not eliminate dandruff.
For more severe symptoms of scalp it is recommended topical anti-fungal treatments like ketoconazole 1% or 2% shampoo twice weekly initially, then every 1-2 weeks for maintenance or ciclopirox 1% cream once or twice daily appears as effective as topical ketoconazole. That is why the head and shoulder shampoo works because it has a component of antifungal but not enough. Take one of the shampoos recommended above and you will see great results.
The steroids are included as an add-on to these above mentioned ones, when the dermatitis is very severe but long term use is associated with adverse effects.
Hope this is helpful.
Let me know if you need more clarifications.
Regards,
Dr. Papaqako
Use a topical cream or shampoo with antifungal
Detailed Answer:
Hello,
Thank you for using HCM to post your health query.
I read carefully your question and I understand your concern.
Unfortunately, there is no known permanent cure for seborrheic dermatitis.
The goal of the treatment is to control acute flares and maintain remission for mild seborrheic dermatitis of scalp.
Keratolytic shampoos that contain salicylic acid, zinc pyrithione, or coal tar, or selenium (Selsun) shampoo appear to reduce scaling, and are commonly advised as first-line options for mild symptoms.
Also, tea tree oil 5% shampoo also appears to reduce but not eliminate dandruff.
For more severe symptoms of scalp it is recommended topical anti-fungal treatments like ketoconazole 1% or 2% shampoo twice weekly initially, then every 1-2 weeks for maintenance or ciclopirox 1% cream once or twice daily appears as effective as topical ketoconazole. That is why the head and shoulder shampoo works because it has a component of antifungal but not enough. Take one of the shampoos recommended above and you will see great results.
The steroids are included as an add-on to these above mentioned ones, when the dermatitis is very severe but long term use is associated with adverse effects.
Hope this is helpful.
Let me know if you need more clarifications.
Regards,
Dr. Papaqako
Note: Hope the answers resolves your concerns, however for further guidance of skin related queries consult our Dermatologist.Click here to book a consultation
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Arnab Banerjee
Answered by
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