If the thought of wearing black makes you cringe, it's time to get your greasy dandruff under control. Dandruff that is greasy and forms in flaky white or yellow scales on the scalp may be caused by seborrheic dermatitis, a skin condition that is caused by oil overproduction and a buildup of yeast, or malessizia, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center in the article "Seborrheic Dermatitis."
Significance
Seborrheic dermatitis can happen to anyone, but it is commonly hereditary. It may also be triggered by hot or cold weather, stress or obesity. In some cases, seborrheic dermatitis may be associated with HIV or a neurological disorder like Parkinson's disease. Seborrheic dermatitis may affect other parts of the body besides the scalp, including the inside of the ear, notes the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Identification
Symptoms of seborrheic dermatitis include a greasy, crusty scalp, itchiness or soreness of the scalp, flaky pieces of dandruff that fall from the scalp, and white or yellow scales that may become attached to individual strands of the hair, according to MayoClinic.com in the article "Seborrheic Dermatitis."
Prevention
Seborrheic dermatitis is a medical condition that usually requires treatment. Sometimes, you may be able prevent flakes from occurring. Shampooing the hair once a day and reducing your stress level may help prevent seborrheic dermatitis in some individuals. Refrain from scratching the scales on your scalp, because it may make them even worse, notes MayoClinic.com.
Treatment
Over-the-counter medicated shampoos that are formulated for dandruff may help eliminate seborrheic dermatitis. Common active ingredients in over-the-counter shampoos for dandruff include tar, pyrithione zinc, salicylic acid, ketoconazole, ciclopirox and selenium sulfide. Shampoo your hair once a day with the medicated treatment for best results. In more severe cases, your doctor may prescribe a prescription anti-fungal shampoo or cream to apply to the scalp. Contact your doctor for the proper treatment for your particular case and use the medication exactly as directed.
Expert Insight
According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, seborrheic dermatitis may sometimes occur in babies, a condition called cradle cap. To loosen scales on the scalp due to cradle cap, brush the baby's hair and scalp with a clean toothbrush. Do not brush the scalp too hard, however, because it may break the skin and cause an infection. In severe cases, your doctor may prescribe a 2 percent ketoconazole shampoo to treat cradle cap.
