Where it appears
Scalp and beard
White flakes, itch or inflamed skin with thicker scale and crusting.
Face and ears
Often affects the eyebrows, sides of the nose, eyelids and skin in or behind the ears.
Chest and back
Round or petal-shaped patches with fine or greasy scale.
Skin folds
Shiny, inflamed patches under the breasts, in armpits, the groin or other folds.
Why it happens
It is linked to Malassezia, a yeast that normally lives on the skin, and the way your skin reacts to it. It is not caused by poor hygiene and is not contagious. Stress, tiredness and cold, dry weather can trigger flares.
Everyday skin care
- Wash with a gentle, soap-free cleanser and use a light moisturiser.
- Choose non-comedogenic skin care and make-up.
- For flaky eyelids, gently clean along the lash line with warm water twice a day.
Treatment options
Treatment usually combines an antifungal with a short anti-inflammatory course for flares. Your doctor will choose what suits the area affected and your medical history.
Ingredient-based treatment options
Ketoconazole 2% shampoo and cream
A first-line antifungal option for the scalp, face, ears or body. Shampoo is usually used for 2–4 weeks, then less often for maintenance.
Clotrimazole 1% and miconazole 2% creams
Alternative antifungal creams for the face, ears or body when ketoconazole is not suitable.
Selenium sulfide, zinc pyrithione and salicylic acid shampoos
Scalp options that reduce yeast or help loosen scale. Your doctor can advise which is most suitable.
Hydrocortisone 1% cream
A mild steroid used briefly alongside antifungal treatment to settle inflamed areas.
Betamethasone valerate 0.1% or mometasone furoate 0.1%
Stronger scalp applications that may be considered for a short course when itch and inflammation are more severe. They are not for the face or beard.
Tacrolimus 0.03% and pimecrolimus 1%
Steroid-free facial options your doctor may consider from the first review, particularly for recurring areas where skin thinning is a concern.
Treatment and pregnancy guidance
- Use each treatment only on the area and for the duration in your plan; steroid treatment is for short courses.
- Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, trying to conceive or breastfeeding. Your assessment can continue and suitable options will be chosen.
- Ketoconazole cream and shampoo can be used in pregnancy and while breastfeeding.
Your online assessment
- 1
Tell us about your skin
Share the areas affected, symptoms, previous treatments, medicines, allergies and pregnancy or breastfeeding information.
- 2
Upload clear photos
Add close-ups of each affected area and one wider photo in good light.
- 3
Doctor reviews your case
A doctor checks your answers and photos, considers look-alikes and messages you if more information is needed.
- 4
Receive your plan
Get a personalised care plan and a prescription if treatment is clinically appropriate.
Complete care. One simple price.
£24.99
Includes clinician review, live doctor chat & prescription
One payment. No subscription. Any prescription depends on clinical suitability.
Start your consultationKeeping it under control
- Once clear, using an antifungal shampoo or cream less often can help prevent another flare.
- Use steroid treatments only for the short course in your plan.
- Repeat treatment is always doctor-reviewed, never automatic.
Frequently asked questions
How is seborrhoeic dermatitis treated?
Usually with an antifungal shampoo or cream, such as ketoconazole 2%. A short course of a mild steroid may settle a flare. Less frequent antifungal use can help prevent symptoms returning.
How do I use ketoconazole shampoo?
Massage it into the scalp, leave it on for about 5 minutes, then rinse. It is usually used twice weekly for 2–4 weeks, then once every 1–2 weeks for maintenance when advised.
How do I treat seborrhoeic dermatitis on my face?
Antifungal creams can reduce the yeast linked to the rash. A mild steroid may be added briefly for a flare, while tacrolimus or pimecrolimus are steroid-free options your doctor may consider.
Is there a prescription treatment for dandruff?
Many cases improve with anti-dandruff shampoo. If symptoms persist, your scalp is inflamed or other areas are affected, a doctor can review your photos and prescribe treatment when suitable.
What is the difference between dandruff and seborrhoeic dermatitis?
Dandruff is the mild scalp form, usually with white flakes and little inflammation. Seborrhoeic dermatitis can cause inflamed or discoloured patches with greasy scale on the scalp, face, ears, chest and folds.
Is seborrheic dermatitis the same as seborrhoeic dermatitis?
Yes. Seborrheic is the American spelling and seborrhoeic the British spelling. It is also called seborrhoeic eczema.
Can seborrhoeic dermatitis be cured?
There is no permanent cure, but treatment can clear or greatly improve it. Maintenance antifungal treatment can help reduce repeat flares.
What triggers seborrhoeic dermatitis flares?
Common triggers include stress, tiredness and cold, dry weather. Flares are often worse in winter.
Can I use treatments if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?
Often, yes. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, trying to conceive or breastfeeding so they can choose suitable treatment. Ketoconazole cream and shampoo can be used in pregnancy and while breastfeeding.
Related conditions
Get urgent help if…
Call 999 or go to A&E
Skin becomes inflamed or changes colour over most of your body, especially with shivering or feeling very unwell; a red eye with sight changes or pain in bright light; severe infection with confusion or dizziness; or swelling of the mouth, throat or tongue or difficulty breathing.
Call NHS 111
Skin becomes painful, hot and swollen, crusting or oozing, redness is spreading, or an eye is very painful and red or vision is blurred.
Do not wait for an online reply. ChatDoc is not an emergency service.
General medical information, not a substitute for individual medical advice.