Dandruff causes embarrassment. White flakes in your hair or on your shoulders are never a welcome sight, but the condition is common and treatable with shampoo. When those flakes appear greasy, however, you may have seborrheic dandruff. Seborrheic dandruff is a different condition than typical dandruff and requires specific treatment.
Characteristics
Seborrheic dandruff, also called seborrheic dermatitis, usually occurs on the scalp but it may also occur on the chest, face or creases of the arms, legs and groin. The American Academy of Dermatology describes seborrheic dandruff as a red, scaly, itchy rash. Seborrhea causes oily skin, particularly on the scalp and face. People with seborrhea may go on to develop seborrheic dermatitis, which includes the red and scaling skin that produces the dandruff. The condition is common and most often affects men ages 30 to 60. Babies younger than 3 months are also commonly affected. In babies, seborrheic dandruff is called cradle cap.
Causes
The exact cause of seborrheic dermatitis is unknown, explains the American Academy of Family Physicians. Overgrowth of the fungus malassezia, which is commonly found on the skin in small quantities, may cause seborrheic dandruff. The condition also may have a genetic component, as it tends to run in families. Hormones are believed to play a role; seborrheic dandruff in children often vanishes after puberty. The condition has also been linked to neurologic disorders, such as Parkinson's disease, although the connection isn't well understood.
Treatments
Specialized shampoos containing salicylic acid, selenium sulfide, zinc pyrithione or coal tar control seborrheic dandruff. Shampoos are used daily until the dandruff is under control, then they're used twice or three times weekly. Massage the shampoo into the scalp and leave it on for five minutes before rinsing. If the shampoo is ineffective, a physician may prescribe a lotion containing corticosteroids.
Cradle Cap
Cradle cap in infants is common and usually disappears by 8 to 12 months of age, says the American Academy of Dermatology. In children who develop cradle cap after infancy, the condition may reappear periodically. The American Academy of Family Physicians suggests treating cradle cap in infants with mild, nonmedicated shampoo formulated for babies. Massage the baby's scalp with a soft brush to remove the flakes. Your health care provider may prescribe medicated shampoo if the cradle cap persists.
Considerations
See your health care provider if medicated shampoos fail to control your seborrheic dandruff, advises the Cleveland Clinic. Consult a health care professional if your scalp becomes red or painful, if your skin develops a crust or if fluid or pus drains from your skin.
