If your skin is itchy, red, or inflamed, you may have dermatitis. The board-certified dermatologists at Northstar Dermatology in North Richland Hills, Texas, take the time to identify the cause of your dermatitis so they can customize an effective treatment plan to give you relief. Don’t scratch your dermatitis or use potentially irritating home remedies. Call the office or book an appointment online today.
Seborrheic dermatitis is a common, chronic skin condition that affects both children and adults. It causes scaly patches and pink to yellow skin in areas rich in oil glands, primarily on the scalp, but it can also appear on the ears, central face, upper chest, and back. Severity can range from mild dandruff on the scalp to more noticeable scaly red patches on the skin. In darker skin tones, some affected areas may appear lighter in color.
Consider using over-the-counter shampoos containing ketoconazole, selenium sulfide, 2% pyrithione zinc, salicylic acid, or coal tar. Rotating or alternating between two different shampoos every other day may also be helpful. Try shampooing more frequently or allowing for a longer lather time; a helpful tip is to lather the shampoo before you shower and leave it on for 10 minutes before rinsing. For thicker scales, consider removing them first with mineral oil before shampooing.
While seborrheic dermatitis has no cure, the good news is that it can typically be managed with treatment. If you experience persistent or severe flare-ups, consulting a dermatologist can help you explore ways to control symptoms, including prescription treatments.