From the Guidelines
To treat seborrheic dermatitis, the most effective approach is to use a combination of topical antifungal medications and anti-inflammatory agents, as supported by the clinical practice guideline 1. The treatment of seborrheic dermatitis involves reducing the amount of yeast present on the skin and alleviating inflammation and itch.
- Topical antifungal medications, such as ketoconazole, can be used to reduce the amount of Malassezia yeast present on the skin, which is associated with seborrheic dermatitis 1.
- Topical anti-inflammatory medications, such as corticosteroids, can be used to reduce inflammation and itch, providing relief from symptoms 1. It is essential to note that seborrheic dermatitis is a chronic condition, and long-term management is necessary to prevent recurrence.
- Regular use of medicated shampoos and topical treatments, as well as moisturizing with a non-comedogenic lotion, can help manage symptoms and prevent flare-ups 1. In cases where seborrheic dermatitis is more pronounced, such as in patients with Down syndrome, HIV infection, or Parkinson's disease, closer monitoring and adjustment of treatment may be necessary 1.
From the FDA Drug Label
Seborrheic dermatitis: Ketoconazole Cream 2% should be applied to the affected area twice daily for four weeks or until clinical clearing. temporarily relieves itching associated with minor skin irritations, inflammation, and rashes due to: ... seborrheic dermatitis The treatment for seborrheic dermatitis is:
- Ketoconazole Cream 2% applied twice daily for four weeks or until clinical clearing 2
- Hydrocortisone for temporary relief of itching associated with seborrheic dermatitis 3
From the Research
Treatment Options for Seborrheic Dermatitis
- Topical corticosteroids, such as hydrocortisone 1% cream, are commonly used to treat seborrheic dermatitis 4, 5, 6
- Antifungal creams, such as ketoconazole 2% cream, can also be effective in treating seborrheic dermatitis 6, 7
- Sertaconazole 2% cream has been shown to be a suitable alternative to topical corticosteroids, with similar efficacy and fewer adverse events 4, 5
- Pimecrolimus 1% cream is another treatment option, with comparable efficacy to topical corticosteroids and antimycotics 8
- Other treatment options include selenium sulfide, pyrithione zinc, or ketoconazole-containing shampoos, as well as topical sodium sulfacetamide and terbinafine solution 7
Efficacy of Treatment Options
- Studies have shown that topical corticosteroids and antifungal creams can significantly improve symptoms of seborrheic dermatitis 4, 5, 6
- Sertaconazole 2% cream has been shown to have a higher cure rate compared to hydrocortisone 1% cream in some studies 5
- Pimecrolimus 1% cream has been shown to be well-tolerated and effective in treating seborrheic dermatitis, with comparable efficacy to standard treatments 8
Safety and Tolerability
- Topical corticosteroids and antifungal creams are generally well-tolerated, with a low incidence of side effects 4, 6
- Sertaconazole 2% cream has been shown to have fewer adverse events compared to topical corticosteroids 4
- Pimecrolimus 1% cream has been shown to be well-tolerated, with a low incidence of side effects 8