How to treat infantile seborrheic dermatitis?

Written by Yao Li Qin
Pediatrics
Updated on May 11, 2025
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Infantile seborrheic dermatitis is also a type of eczema, which is a common skin condition in children and is categorized as atopic dermatitis. The treatment principles for seborrheic dermatitis are the same as for other types of eczema: first, the affected skin must be cleaned thoroughly, and then a thick layer of moisturizer should be applied.

For severe cases of seborrheic dermatitis, it is recommended to use about 250g of moisturizer per week, so a thick layer should be applied daily to keep the skin moist. Additionally, depending on the situation, medications such as topical creams for treating pediatric eczema, like desonide cream, may be used. In instances where the infantile seborrheic dermatitis has formed a thick, yellow crust, local application of tea oil or olive oil can be helpful. This should be left on the affected area for about an hour before washing off with a shower gel, followed by moisturizing the cleaned area.

With the aforementioned treatments, seborrheic dermatitis can generally be well-controlled. Furthermore, infants who consume formula might need amino acid formula or hydrolyzed protein formula depending on the condition. If the child is breastfed, the mother should avoid dairy, meat, nuts, seafood, and alcoholic beverages.

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The difference between tinea cruris and eczema

Tinea cruris is caused by a fungal infection and its occurrence is generally localized, usually appearing on the upper thigh or buttocks. Eczema, on the other hand, is mainly caused by allergies and can occur in varying locations, possibly on the upper thigh or external genitals, and can even spread across the entire body. The treatments for these two diseases differ; tinea cruris can generally be cured with antifungal creams, whereas the treatment for eczema involves a combination of medications including oral antiallergic drugs and the topical application of steroid creams. Both conditions are relatively treatable, but if they persist for a long time, continuous effort and the adoption of good dietary and lifestyle habits are necessary. Avoid public baths and swimming pools and try to abstain from spicy and irritating foods.

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Symptoms of anal eczema

Anal eczema actually refers to perianal eczema, which mostly affects the skin around the anus and can also extend to the perineum and external genitalia. Depending on the duration of the disease and the condition of the skin lesions, anal eczema can be clinically divided into acute and chronic types. The clinical symptoms mainly manifest as: in the acute phase, the skin around the anus is red and moist, with papules and skin erosions, while in the chronic phase, the local skin is infiltrated and thickened, with fissures, often accompanied by itching and pain.

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What is infantile dry eczema?

Infant dry eczema, also known as fissure eczema, is mainly due to loss of skin moisture, reduced sebum secretion, dryness, and fine cracks in the epidermis and stratum corneum. The skin appears pale red, with cracks being more pronounced and resembling cracked porcelain. It can occur on many parts of the body, mostly seen on the limbs. This condition is commonly seen in winter when the air is dry and secretion decreases, further exacerbated by frequent hot water washing. Infant dry eczema is actually due to irritant contact dermatitis. Treatment can involve the application of emollients, such as petroleum jelly, vitamin E cream, and mineral oil, while also protecting the moisture within the skin. It is best not to use corticosteroids for treatment.

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Eczema is caused by what?

The causes of eczema are relatively complex, often resulting from the interaction of internal and external factors. Internal causes mainly include certain gastrointestinal diseases, insomnia, fatigue, emotional stress, and also include infections, metabolic disorders, and endocrine imbalances. External causes, for example, include food, living environment, and climate changes, all of which can lead to eczema. Additionally, external stimuli such as cold, heat, hot water scalding, cosmetics, and synthetic fibers can also trigger eczema.

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How to cure eczema?

To effectively treat chronic eczema, it is essential first to identify specific triggers and avoid contact to prevent recurrence. Under the guidance of a doctor, oral antihistamines can be administered, commonly options include chlorpheniramine maleate, cetirizine, loratadine, ebastine, and epinastine. In severe cases, infusion therapy might be an option, utilizing calcium gluconate injection or procaine vein blockage. For topical medications, one might choose corticosteroid creams such as desonide ointment or hydrocortisone butyrate cream, or opt for non-steroidal options like Mentholatum Dermacare Cream or Moisture-Removing Anti-Itch Cream. When eczema occurs, it can also be beneficial to combine traditional Chinese medicine and differential diagnosis with Western medicine for better results. Additionally, a light and bland diet is recommended.