Is seborrheic dermatitis itchy?

Written by Xie Ming Feng
Dermatology
Updated on May 27, 2025
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Seborrheic dermatitis, also known as seborrheic eczema, is a chronic papular scaly superficial inflammatory skin disease that occurs in areas with excessive sebum secretion. It is common in adults and newborns, often occurring in sebaceous gland-rich areas such as the head, face, and trunk. The causes of the disease may be related to increased sebaceous gland secretion or changes in the chemical composition of the sebum. It is also associated with colonization and infection by Malassezia yeast. Factors such as stress, diet, deficiency in B vitamins, and alcohol consumption can also affect the occurrence and development of this disease to varying degrees. The characteristic rash starts as follicular papules, which gradually enlarge and merge into dark red or yellow-red patches, covered with greasy scales or crusts. Exudation, crusting, and erosion may occur, presenting eczema-like symptoms, and can be accompanied by varying degrees of itching.

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Written by Huang Ling Juan
Dermatology
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How to deal with seborrheic dermatitis?

For seborrheic dermatitis, topical application of some corticosteroid medications like desonide ointment or hydrocortisone butyrate cream can be utilized. However, it is important to avoid prolonged, excessive use on the more delicate facial skin. In cases of oozing or erosion, treatments such as boric acid solution or saline can be used for wet compresses. Additionally, for seborrheic dermatitis, one may also choose calcineurin inhibitors like tacrolimus ointment or pimecrolimus cream. If severe itching occurs with seborrheic dermatitis, symptomatic itch relief should be provided, primarily through oral antihistamines such as desloratadine dispersible tablets or cetirizine hydrochloride tablets. Treatment can also include traditional Chinese medicine based on differential diagnosis.

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Written by Xie Ming Feng
Dermatology
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How to treat infant seborrheic dermatitis

Seborrheic dermatitis, also known as seborrheic eczema, is a chronic papular squamous superficial inflammatory skin disease that occurs in areas of sebum secretion. It is more commonly found in adults and newborns and can be accompanied by varying degrees of itching. In infants, seborrheic dermatitis generally occurs from the 2nd to the 10th week after birth, with common sites being the scalp, face, nasolabial folds, nasal hair area, around the ears, and in skin folds. The rash typically appears as greasy red patches, or may be covered with greasy gray-yellow or brown-yellow thick crusts. In severe cases, there might be erosion and exudation. The condition generally diminishes or even heals within two months, though in very rare cases, the rash may suddenly spread throughout the body, causing diffuse erythema and significant desquamation. This is known as seborrheic erythroderma, which represents a severe stage of the disease. Treatment mainly involves the use of topical medications, focusing on mild, safe, and low-irritant drugs for application. Commonly used medications include zinc oxide oil, antibiotic ointments, traditional Chinese medicine ointments, tacrolimus ointment, and pimecrolimus cream. Additionally, it is important to advise the parents to ensure the baby has a regular lifestyle with sufficient sleep and to avoid various mechanical irritations. It is also recommended to use less hot water and harsh alkaline soaps for bathing.

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Written by Xie Ming Feng
Dermatology
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Why does seborrheic dermatitis keep recurring?

Seborrheic dermatitis, also known as seborrheic eczema, is a chronic, superficial, papular, scaly inflammatory skin disease that occurs in areas where sebum is excessively secreted, and can be accompanied by varying degrees of itching. The causes of the disease are generally believed to be related to an increase in sebum secretion or changes in the chemical composition of sebum, as well as colonization and infection by Malassezia yeast. Additionally, factors such as mental stress, diet, alcohol consumption, deficiency of B vitamins, fatigue, emotional stress, and infections can all affect the occurrence and development of the disease to varying degrees. Due to the complex causes and numerous triggers of seborrheic dermatitis, it has a chronic course and can recur repeatedly.

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Written by Xie Ming Feng
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Can seborrheic dermatitis be cured completely?

Seborrheic dermatitis, also known as seborrheic eczema, is a chronic, superficial inflammatory skin disease characterized by papular and scaly eruptions that occur in areas with excess sebum production. It often causes varying degrees of itching and commonly affects areas rich in sebaceous glands, such as the head, face, and trunk, and is more frequently seen in adults and newborns. The exact cause of this condition is still unclear; it is generally considered to be related to sebum secretion and changes in its chemical composition. Additionally, colonization and infection by Malassezia, as well as several other factors such as stress, diet, deficiency in B vitamins, and alcohol consumption, can also influence the occurrence and development of the disease. Since the causal factors are not well understood and there are many triggering factors, the disease has a chronic course and can recur repeatedly. Although seborrheic dermatitis can be cured, it can still recur.

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Written by Huang Ling Juan
Dermatology
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What is seborrheic dermatitis?

Seborrheic dermatitis refers to a type of inflammatory skin disease that occurs in areas where sebum secretion is abundant, including the face, chest, and back. These areas tend to be oilier and are prone to developing erythema and greasy scales. If the seborrheic dermatitis is of the dry type, it may also be accompanied by symptoms of peeling skin. The condition commonly affects individuals with hyperactive sebaceous glands, typically those with oily skin. Some people have combination skin that is also prone to oiliness, making them susceptible to seborheic dermatitis, often due to improper skin care. Dietary habits, frequent late nights, and consuming overly spicy or greasy foods can also lead to the development of seborrheic dermatitis.