Formulary

Treatment of seborrhoeic dermatitis

First Line
Second Line
Specialist
Hospital Only

Yeasts play an important role in the development of seborrhoeic dermatitis but the exact mechanism is not known. Control of the yeasts improves symptoms.

Toggle all

Mild disease

Use an antidandruff shampoo containing zinc pyrithione (e.g. Head and Shoulders and similar products).

Moderate and severe disease

Ketoconazole shampoo

  • Use twice a week
For more severe erythema and flaking on the scalp add

Betamethasone scalp application

  • Apply to dry hair morning and evening and allow to dry

Ketoconazole cream

  • Apply once or twice a day until resolution then reduce frequency to daily or alternate daily use.

For inflamed skin

Canesten HC (hydrocortisone 1%, clotrimazole 1%)

  • Apply thinly once or twice daily