How is seborrheic dermatitis treated?
Aug 24, 2020
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Wan
Introduction
How is seborrheic dermatitis treated?
1. Oral medication: For severe pruritus, antipruritic and sedative agents—such as ketotifen, chlorpheniramine, or cetirizine—may be administered orally.
2. Topical medication: The treatment principle is to reduce inflammation, kill bacteria, and relieve itching. Commonly used agents include topical corticosteroids; however, prolonged use—especially on the face—is not recommended.
3. Daily care: Patients with seborrheic dermatitis must avoid alcohol consumption.
Seborrheic dermatitis is a chronic inflammatory skin disorder that commonly occurs in areas with abundant sebaceous glands—such as the scalp, face, upper chest, and axillae. It results from hyperactivity of the sebaceous glands, leading to accumulation and mixing of sebum and dust particles. This manifests clinically as erythematous plaques, scaling, and crusting in sebum-rich areas. So, how is seborrheic dermatitis treated? The following addresses this question.
How Is Seborrheic Dermatitis Treated?
1. Systemic Medication
For severe pruritus, oral antipruritic and sedative agents—such as ketotifen, chlorpheniramine, or cetirizine—may be prescribed. In cases with extensive rash and prominent inflammation, short-term oral administration of tripterygium glycosides may be indicated; combination with low-dose glucocorticoids often enhances therapeutic efficacy. Additionally, antibiotics may be used, as bacterial infection frequently coexists in severely inflamed lesions—sometimes presenting as pustules or cervical lymphadenopathy. B-complex vitamins—including vitamin B2, vitamin B6, and multivitamin B supplements—may also be beneficial. However, all medications must be taken strictly under physician supervision.
2. Topical Therapy
The principles of topical treatment include anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antipruritic effects. Commonly used agents include topical glucocorticoids; however, prolonged use—especially on the face—is discouraged. Low-potency corticosteroids (e.g., hydrocortisone preparations) are milder and suitable for infants and young children. Antifungal agents—particularly imidazole derivatives—are also effective. Furthermore, sulfur- or salicylic acid–containing cleansers and formulations exert antibacterial and keratolytic effects and demonstrate therapeutic benefit in seborrheic dermatitis.
3. Daily Skin Care
Patients with seborrheic dermatitis should avoid alcohol consumption, as disease onset is associated with gastrointestinal dysfunction, excessive intake of sugar and fat, and consumption of spicy or irritating foods. Therefore, patients must refrain from spicy and irritant foods. Maintaining regular daily routines and ensuring adequate sleep is essential. Scratching should be strictly avoided, as it may trigger secondary skin inflammation. Patients with severe or refractory disease are advised to seek timely medical evaluation and treatment.
The above outlines current approaches to treating seborrheic dermatitis. We hope this information is helpful to you.
