Treatment of seborrhoeic dermatitis

Yeasts play an important role in the development of seborrhoeic dermatitis but the exact mechanism is not known. Control of the yeasts improves symptoms.

Scalp disease

Mild disease

Use an antidandruff shampoo containing zinc pyrithione (e.g. Head and Shoulders and similar products).

Moderate and severe disease

Ketoconazole shampoo

• Use twice a week
• See section 13.9 Shampoos and other preparations for scalp and hair conditions

For more severe erythema and flaking on the scalp add

Betamethasone scalp application

• Apply to dry hair morning and evening and allow to dry
• See Corticosteroids (topical)

Disease affecting face and body

Ketoconazole cream

• Apply once or twice a day until resolution then reduce frequency to daily or alternate daily use.
• See section 13.10 Anti-infective skin preparations

For inflamed skin

Daktacort® (hydrocortisone 1%, miconazole nitrate 2%)

• Apply once or twice a day until resolution then reduce frequency to intermittent use as required
• See Corticosteroids (topical)

 

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