Dermatology, by video or in person
Dandruff and Seborrhoeic Dermatitis
The signs, the danger signs that mean hospital now, and how to see a doctor by video from anywhere in Nigeria.
Signs to look for
Dandruff and Seborrhoeic Dermatitis
- White or yellow flakes on the scalp, in the hair or on clothes
- An itchy scalp
- Flaky, greasy patches on the eyebrows, sides of the nose, behind the ears or on the chest
- Patches that look lighter or darker than the surrounding skin
- Flaking in the beard area
Seborrhoeic dermatitis is a common, long-term skin condition that causes flaky, itchy patches on oily areas: the scalp, eyebrows, sides of the nose, behind the ears and on the chest. Mild seborrhoeic dermatitis of the scalp is dandruff. It is linked to a yeast that normally lives on the skin, and it flares with stress, tiredness and cold, dry weather. On dark skin the patches may look lighter or darker than the surrounding skin rather than red. In babies it shows as cradle cap. It is not contagious and is not caused by poor hygiene. It cannot be cured, but it is easily controlled.
Medically reviewed by Dr Debo Odulana, Founder and Chief Executive, Mezo. Last reviewed . This page is general information, not a diagnosis. Care is decided with you after an examination.
Symptoms
- White or yellow flakes on the scalp, in the hair or on clothes
- An itchy scalp
- Flaky, greasy patches on the eyebrows, sides of the nose, behind the ears or on the chest
- Patches that look lighter or darker than the surrounding skin
- Flaking in the beard area
- Crusty yellow scales on a baby's scalp (cradle cap)
When to See a Doctor
This is rarely urgent. Go to a hospital or see a doctor urgently if a rash spreads quickly, blisters, or comes with a fever or feeling very unwell. See a dermatologist if medicated shampoos have not helped after a month, if there is hair loss, a sore or weeping scalp, or patches on the face that are not settling, or if it appeared suddenly and severely, which can be a sign of another illness.
Treatment options
- Antifungal shampoo, such as ketoconazole, used twice a week and then once a week to prevent flares
- Other medicated shampoos containing zinc pyrithione, selenium or coal tar
- Antifungal creams for the face and body
- A mild steroid cream or lotion for a short time during a flare
- Washing heavy hair oils and pomades out regularly, as they can make flaking worse
- Baby oil or emollient and gentle brushing for cradle cap
Common Questions
Is dandruff caused by a dry scalp?
Usually not. Dandruff is mostly a mild form of seborrhoeic dermatitis, linked to a yeast on the skin. Oiling the scalp heavily can make it worse, while antifungal shampoo helps.
How often should I wash with medicated shampoo if I have natural hair?
Washing less often is fine. Apply the shampoo to the scalp, leave it for a few minutes and rinse well, then follow with your usual conditioner. A dermatologist can suggest a routine that suits your hair.
Can a doctor diagnose this by video?
Usually, yes. Seborrhoeic dermatitis has a typical look and spread that a dermatologist can see on camera.
Need Help?
A skin specialist on a video call, who looks at the skin on camera, plans treatment and tells you if it needs to be seen in person.
See a dermatologist by videoIf any of the danger signs on this page applies, go to the nearest hospital now instead.
Find a verified dermatology specialist near you.
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