Seborrhoeic dermatitis affects 1 in 10 adults — common but persistent. Distinguished from regular dandruff by inflammation: yellowish flakes plus redness plus itching, and often spread to face folds (sides of nose, eyebrows), chest, ears.
Treatment combination
- Anti-fungal shampoo (ketoconazole 2%, zinc pyrithione, or selenium sulfide) — twice weekly maintenance, daily during flares
- Face: ketoconazole 2% gel + topical ciclopirox for inflammation
- Severe scalp: short courses of medium-potency steroid lotion
- Severe / extensive: oral fluconazole short course
- Daily gentle skincare, avoid heavy oils on affected areas
Recurrence is the rule rather than the exception. Maintenance shampooing prevents flares — even after symptoms clear. Book a consultation for a structured plan.
Seb-Derm — Frequently Asked Questions
How is this different from regular dandruff?
Seborrhoeic dermatitis is dandruff plus inflammation — yellowish oily flakes, redness, itch, and often involvement of eyebrows, sides of nose, behind ears, chest. Pure dandruff is just dry flaking.
Is it curable?
No — chronic relapsing condition. With consistent maintenance, most patients have long flare-free periods. Stress, weather change, and sometimes neurological conditions trigger flares.
What treatment works?
Anti-fungal shampoo (ketoconazole 2% twice weekly) + topical anti-inflammatory (ciclopirox, low-potency steroid for face folds). Oral fluconazole for severe flares. Daily gentle skincare.
Why does my face skin flake near nose and eyebrows?
Classic seb-derm distribution. Treat with ketoconazole 2% gel + occasional low-potency hydrocortisone for flares. Avoid heavy oils on these areas.
Can stress trigger flares?
Strongly. Sleep, exercise, mindfulness all reduce flare frequency. Many patients notice flares during exam season, work pressure, illness recovery.
Will antifungal shampoos thin my hair?
No — at recommended frequency (twice weekly, 5 minutes contact time). Used daily without rinsing thoroughly, they can cause dryness.
