When your physician diagnoses seborrheic dermatitis, he or she will choose the most appropriate treatment based on the stage and location of the condition. There are a multitude of treatments available to healthcare professionals, including both medicinal treatments (which may require a medical prescription) and dermo-cosmetic products.
Summary
There are three objectives in treating seborrheic dermatitis:
All seborrheic dermatitis treatments are very effective in treating the symptoms, i.e. during flare-ups. However, to date, there is no treatment that can definitively cure seborrheic dermatitis. It is a chronic and recurrent condition, with relapses occurring almost systematically. Treatments must be therefore be used again and again, as often as necessary.
The chronic nature of seborrheic dermatitis means patients have to learn how to accept and live with it. Getting to know the disease, recognizing the symptoms, understanding and complying with the treatment recommended by your physician is not easy but is crucial for optimal treatment.
Several alternatives exist to treat seborrheic dermatitis. When a medicinal treatment is initiated, it is essential that a dermo-cosmetic product is provided alongside it to avoid possible early relapses.
These same dermo-cosmetic products may sometimes be sufficient on their own, depending on the severity of the condition and its location.
There are various treatments for seborrheic dermatitis. Choice of treatment depends on the location of the symptoms and severity of the condition:
There are several different families of medications:
Antifungals are usually prescribed as a first-line treatment. They are initially prescribed as an intensive treatment during the flare-up phase, then as a so-called maintenance treatment with reduced frequency of application to limit the risk of recurrence as far as possible.
They act locally by reducing the concentration of Malassezia yeasts in the lesions. There are two main types of antifungal agents:
Selenium sulfide can also be used to treat seborrheic dermatitis on the scalp for its action on yeasts.
Topical corticosteroids are cortisone-based creams used for their anti-inflammatory effect on the skin. They are applied in a thin layer with a light massage to facilitate absorption.
They are often prescribed alongside an anti-fungal treatment. Over a short period of time, they help to soothe inflammation, redness and itching.
Lithium gluconate is also indicated in the treatment of seborrheic dermatitis on the face. It is prescribed for its anti-inflammatory action, and also acts on yeasts of the Malassezia genus.
In addition to medicinal treatments for seborrheic dermatitis, many dermo-cosmetic products are available in pharmacies. They can be recommended by your physician as a monotherapy but also as a complement or follow-up to a medical treatment.
There are various different types:
As a complement to the medical or dermo-cosmetic treatment recommended by your physician and in order to optimize its efficacy and improve the condition of your skin, it is recommended to adopt a few simple hygiene practices on a daily basis.
It is advisable:
