Self-Care Guidelines
Most cases of seborrheic dermatitis are easy to control with non-prescription home measures. These include the following:
- Frequent (daily) shampooing or a longer lather time.
- Consider using shampoos containing ketoconazole, selenium sulfide, 2% pyrithione zinc, or salicylic acid or tar-based shampoos. Sometimes one will work well for a time and then become less helpful; then, it may help to switch to a different type.
- Eyelid changes (blepharitis) can often be managed by gentle cleaning of the edges of the eyelids, by the lashes, with Q-tips® and baby shampoo.
Scale on the scalp can be removed. Apply warm oil (be careful not to apply oil that is too hot for your baby's skin) to the scalp for a few hours. Before bathing your baby, gently rub his/her scalp with a soft bristle baby brush, and then wash hair with a shampoo listed above. Be careful not to get it in the baby's eyes.
Some over-the-counter creams will help if the medicated shampoo is not quite good enough. These can be added to the shampoo; use until you notice improvement, and then use should be discontinued. These include:
- Creams that reduce the Pityrosporum yeast (clotrimazole, miconazole, terbinafine)
- Hydrocortisone cream may work rapidly but may be less helpful if used for a long time.
When to Seek Medical Care
See your child's doctor or a dermatologist if there is no response to self-care measures.
Signs and Symptoms
