From the Research
Treatment Options for Seborrheic Dermatitis of the Scalp
- The treatment for seborrheic dermatitis of the scalp includes the use of antifungal shampoos, such as selenium sulfide, imidazoles, or ciclopirox olamine, which help reduce the Malassezia scalp reservoirs 1, 2, 3, 4
- Over-the-counter shampoos are available for treatment of seborrheic dermatitis of the scalp, and patients should be directed to initiate therapy with one of these agents 2
- Topical corticosteroids can be used as second-line agents for treatment of scalp seborrheic dermatitis, but should be used only for short durations due to possible adverse effects 2, 5, 3
- Combination therapy of topical steroid or topical tacrolimus, and zinc pyrithione is recommended to treat seborrheic dermatitis of the scalp 5
- Ciclopirox gel is a hydroxypyridone, broad-spectrum antifungal agent proven effective against the yeast M. furfur, and is safe and effective in the treatment of seborrheic dermatitis of the scalp 4
Shampoo Ingredients
- Salicylic acid, tar, selenium, sulfur, and zinc are effective in shampoos and may be alternated 1
- Zinc pyrithione shampoo is effective in treating seborrheic dermatitis of the scalp, and provides prolonged remission 5, 3
- Ketoconazole shampoo is an option for treating seborrheic dermatitis of the scalp 3
Treatment Duration and Frequency
- Treatment with antifungal agents should be long-term to reduce the Malassezia scalp reservoirs 1, 2
- Topical corticosteroids should be used only for short durations due to possible adverse effects 2, 5, 3
- Combination therapy of topical steroid or topical tacrolimus, and zinc pyrithione can provide prolonged remission 5