Seborrhoeic Dermatitis

Seborrhoeic Dermatitis

This is an inflammatory condition affecting the sebaceous glands, which produce natural oils and sebum for the skin. It tends to affects areas that contain a lot of sebaceous glands, such as the scalp, nasolabial folds, and eyebrows.

It's characterised by Erythema, Dermatitis, and Crusted dry skin.

Seborrhoeic Dermatitis of the Scalp

This presents with flaky, itchy skin on the scalp. When non-inflamed, it leads to Dandruff, which are just the small flakes of dead skin that fall off.

It's managed with:

• Ketoconazole shampoo is 1st line

• Mild topical corticosteroid can be added

Infantile Seborrhoeic Dermatitis

It presents as Cradle Cap, which is characterised by diffuse, yellow, greasy scales, classically without any underlying erythema. The condition is self-limiting and usually resolves by 4 months of age.

It's managed with:

• Emollients 1st line (baby, vegetable or olive oil) to soften skin, gently brush the scalp, and then wash it off

• Topical antifungal (e.g. Clotrimazole or Miconazole) or corticosteroid can be added