What is seborrhoeic dermatitis?

Seborrhoeic dermatitis (also spelled seborrhoeic dermatitis) is a form of skin inflammation. It usually occurs on the scalp, face or torso (body), on or around areas that naturally produce an oily substance known as sebum.

Seborrhoeic dermatitis is also called seborrhoeic eczema and can lead to dandruff. If it happens on the scalp (skin on the head) of infants, it is called cradle cap.

What are the symptoms of seborrhoeic dermatitis?

Seborrhoeic dermatitis looks like patches of oily, flaking or scaly skin. Crusting yellow sores may develop on the scalp, particularly in infants with cradle cap. Affected areas may also be red and itchy or may sting.

What causes seborrhoeic dermatitis?

Seborrhoeic dermatitis may be caused by an immune reaction to a microscopic fungus called Malassezia.

Malassezia is normally present on healthy skin, around the areas that produce oil. Some people develop an immune reaction to Malassezia for reasons that are not clear. It is not contagious, and not a sign of poor hygiene.

When should I see my doctor?

You should see your doctor if your symptoms:

• don't get better on their own
• suddenly get worse
• cause anxiety or embarrassment
• interfere with your daily routine

Your doctor may refer you to a dermatologist (a skin doctor) if your case is more severe.

How is seborrhoeic dermatitis diagnosed?

Your doctor will diagnose seborrhoeic dermatitis by asking you questions about your symptoms and examining you. Usually, you won't need any medical tests.

How is seborrhoeic dermatitis treated?

In infants, seborrhoeic dermatitis and cradle cap usually clear naturally and without treatment within 6 to 12 months.

Seborrhoeic dermatitis that appears during adolescence or adulthood can be a long-term condition. It may flare up from time to time.

You can often effectively manage seborrhoeic dermatitis at home with over-the-counter treatments. If your scalp is affected, you can treat it with an anti-dandruff shampoo.

If you have crusting yellow sores (for example, if your baby has cradle cap) you can remove them by softening with baby shampoo or baby oil and warm water, and then gently wiping with a cotton bud, soft toothbrush or cloth.

For other areas, anti-fungal or corticosteroid creams may relieve symptoms. An exfoliating body or face wash containing salicylic acid may also help remove flaking skin. You may need to repeat this treatment often at first, and then occasionally when symptoms reappear.

Ask your pharmacist to recommend an antifungal that suits your age and health condition.

Can seborrhoeic dermatitis be prevented?

You can't prevent seborrhoeic dermatitis from happening, but you can help prevent flare-ups with the appropriate treatment. Your doctor can advise you on how to prevent flare-ups.

Complications of seborrhoeic dermatitis

Sometimes the skin underneath the cradle cap can become infected. If the cradle cap isn't getting better or spreads to other parts of the body, speak to your doctor, local pharmacist or maternal and child health nurse. Your baby may need treatment with antibiotics to manage the skin infection.

Resources and support

For more information about the symptoms, cause and treatment of cradle cap see the Royal Children's Hospital website.

For more information about the symptoms, cause, diagnosis and management of seborrhoeic dermatitis, see The Australasian College of Dermatologists website.

Call healthdirect on 1800 022 222 at any time to speak to a registered nurse (known as NURSE-ON-CALL in Victoria) for more information and advice.

Call Pregnancy, Birth and Baby to speak to a maternal child health nurse on 1800 882 436 or video call. Available from 7 am to midnight (AET), 7 days a week (including public holidays).