From the Guidelines
To treat seborrheic dermatitis on the face, use topical antifungal medications to reduce the amount of yeast present and topical anti-inflammatory medications to reduce inflammation and itch. The treatment of seborrheic dermatitis on the face involves a combination of topical therapies and lifestyle modifications.
- Topical antifungal medications, such as ketoconazole, can be used to reduce the amount of Malassezia yeast present on the skin, which contributes to the development of seborrheic dermatitis 1.
- Topical anti-inflammatory medications, such as hydrocortisone, can be used to reduce inflammation and itch associated with seborrheic dermatitis 1. Some key points to consider when treating seborrheic dermatitis on the face include:
- Gentle skin care: washing the face daily with a gentle, non-soap cleanser and warm water can help to reduce irritation and inflammation.
- Moisturizing: applying a light, non-comedogenic moisturizer after washing can help to soothe and protect the skin.
- Avoiding triggers: avoiding triggers such as stress, harsh skincare products, and extreme temperatures can help to prevent flare-ups. It is essential to note that the provided evidence 1 is from a study on acute otitis externa, but it does mention seborrheic dermatitis as a condition that can mimic otitis externa, and provides some general information on its treatment. However, based on the available evidence and general medical knowledge, the use of topical antifungal and anti-inflammatory medications, combined with gentle skin care and lifestyle modifications, is the most appropriate treatment approach for seborrheic dermatitis on the face.
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. The treatment for seborrheic dermatitis on the face is Ketoconazole Cream 2% applied twice daily for four weeks or until clinical clearing 2.
- Key points:
- Apply twice daily
- For four weeks or until clinical clearing
- Ketoconazole Cream 2% is the recommended treatment Note that another option is sulfur for the topical control of seborrheic dermatitis, however the dosage and administration is not specified in the provided label 3.
From the Research
Treatment Options for Seborrheic Dermatitis on the Face
- Various pharmacological treatments are available, including antifungal agents, keratolytics, topical low-potency steroids, and calcineurin inhibitors 4, 5, 6
- Topical non-pharmacological products such as cosmetics or medical devices may improve clinical outcomes, with ingredients like zinc, piroctone olamine, dihydroavenanthramide, biosaccharide gum-2, and stearyl glycyrrhetinate 4, 7
- Specific cleansers, moisturizers, and sunscreens formulated as light creams or gel/creams are recommended for all patients with facial seborrheic dermatitis 4
Topical Treatments
- Antifungal agents like ketoconazole and sertaconazole are effective in treating seborrheic dermatitis 8, 5, 6
- Topical corticosteroids like hydrocortisone can be used for short durations due to possible adverse effects 8, 5
- Calcineurin inhibitors like pimecrolimus and tacrolimus are also effective topical treatments for facial seborrheic dermatitis 6
- Other topical treatments like ciclopirox olamine, lithium gluconate, and lithium succinate are strongly recommended for facial seborrheic dermatitis 6
Non-Steroidal Topical Therapy
- A topical non-steroidal cream containing zinc PCA, piroctone olamine, hydroxyphenyl propamidobenzoic acid, biosaccharide gum-2, and stearyl glycyrrhetinate has been shown to improve symptoms of facial seborrheic dermatitis 7
- This type of therapy can be a suitable alternative to topical steroid therapy for seborrheic dermatitis 8