From the Guidelines
Seborrheic dermatitis is treated with a combination of topical antifungal and anti-inflammatory medications. The treatment approach involves reducing the amount of yeast present and decreasing inflammation and itch 1.
Key Treatment Components
- Topical antifungal medications to reduce yeast
- Topical anti-inflammatory medications to reduce inflammation and itch
Treatment Options
- For mild cases, gentle skin care and application of emollients can be beneficial
- Topical corticosteroids and other antipruritics may be used to manage symptoms
- In cases where seborrheic dermatitis is more pronounced, such as in patients with Down syndrome, HIV infection, and Parkinson's disease, treatment should be tailored to address the underlying condition 1
Important Considerations
- Avoiding triggers like stress and harsh skin products
- Maintaining good skin hygiene without over-washing to prevent disruption of the skin barrier
- Using topical antifungal medications and anti-inflammatory medications as prescribed to manage symptoms and reduce the risk of complications 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 seborrhic dermatitis includes:
- Applying Ketoconazole Cream 2% to the affected area twice daily for four weeks or until clinical clearing 2
- Using hydrocortisone to temporarily relieve itching associated with seborrheic dermatitis 3
From the Research
Treatment Options for Seborrhic Dermatitis
The treatment for seborrhic dermatitis aims at yeast elimination and inflammation control, as the exact pathogenesis of the disease is unknown, but colonization of the lipophilic yeast, Malasezzia furfur, and an inflammatory reaction to this yeast seem to play a role in disease etiology 4.
- Medicated Shampoos: Several treatment modalities are available, including shampoos that contain active ingredients related to antimycotic or anti-inflammatory effects, and surfactant ingredients that allow these shampoos to replace regular shampoos in affected patients 4.
- Antifungal Agents: The azoles represent the largest class of antifungals used in the treatment of seborrheic dermatitis, and some azoles have demonstrated anti-inflammatory activity, which may be beneficial in alleviating symptoms 5.
- Topical Treatments: Topical antifungal agents, such as the allylamines (terbinafine), benzylamines (butenafine), hydroxypyridones (ciclopirox), and immunomodulators (pimecrolimus and tacrolimus), have also been effective in treating seborrheic dermatitis 5.
- Oral Therapy: In cases where seborrheic dermatitis is widespread, the use of an oral therapy, such as ketoconazole, itraconazole, and terbinafine, may be preferred 5.
- Fluconazole: Fluconazole has been shown to be effective in treating seborrheic dermatitis, with 85% of patients in one study being clinically cured after treatment 6.
- Ketoconazole Shampoo: Ketoconazole shampoo has been found to be effective in treating seborrhoeic dermatitis of the scalp, with 89% of patients becoming free of lesions or improved after treatment 7.
Commonly Used Treatments
Some commonly used treatments for seborrheic dermatitis include:
- Selenium sulfide, pyrithione zinc or ketoconazole-containing shampoos
- Topical ketoconazole cream or terbinafine solution
- Topical sodium sulfacetamide and topical corticosteroids 8