Seborrheic Dandruff, a white flake which develops on the scalp, is typically perceived as harmless yet can become quite an embarrassing and serious condition over time. There are many over the counter products marketed to quell the effects of this scalp condition, but few are effective. Fortunately, Advanced Dermatology has successful treatment options for those suffering from the irritating condition.
Seborrheic Dandruff
This extreme type of dandruff is most commonly experienced by men, but women and children also suffer from it. Seborrheic dandruff, or cradle cap may be a result of neurological conditions, oily skin or immune deficiencies and requires treatment from a qualified dermatologist. Since this category of dandruff roots from yeast, there are dangers related to leaving it untreated. Individuals may experience fungal growth, irritating rashes, skin lesions and even hair loss without proper treatment of seborrheic dermatitis.
Areas Seborrheic Dermatitis Affects:
- Scalp
- Face
- Creases around: nose, ears, eyebrows
- Neck
- Chest
- Back
Optimal Treatments
Depending on the severity of your dandruff, we recommend treatment with a sensitive baby shampoo. Gently shampooing the scalp will lift scales, soothe the skin and work to soften the dandruff. For more serious cases, we offer the following formulations:
Treatment Options:
Depending on the severity of your condition, we may utilize Keratolytics to remove scale when necessary. Measured doses of salicylic acid, lactic acid, urea, propylene glycol are recommended to offset irritating effects caused by dandruff.
- To reduce fungal growth, topical antifungal agents such as: ketoconazole, or ciclopirox shampoo or and/or cream are prescribed. Certain strains of fungi are resistant to azole antifungals. In these instances, we utilize zing zinc pyrithione or selenium sulphide.
- To minimize flares and rashes, we evaluate your skin and prescribe mild topical corticosteroids for a short period.
- For more sensitive facial skin, we recommend topical calcineurin inhibitors such as: pimecrolimus cream, tacrolimus ointment to clear your skin without irritating it.
Scalp Treatment:
We prescribe medicated shampoos formulated with selenium sulfide, zinc, sulfur, antifungal products and sulfacetamide with a regimen of twice a week for one month, or longer. Tar cream may be massaged onto scaled areas and removed later, providing soothing effects for the skin. Proper treatment utilizing an anti-fungal and yeast shampoo is successful at treating dandruff for most of our patients.
Phototherapy/Light Therapy: Dandruff treatment with Ultraviolet light is often preferred over creams and corticosteroids because it’s less messy and infrequent. The safe laser session helps reduce inflammation, calm symptoms and alleviate dandruff for lengthened periods of time. Your dermatologist can help determine which treatment option is best for your condition.
Why Choose Advanced Dermatology for your Dandruff Treatment
If you suffer from dandruff, please don’t wait until it gets bad. If your flaky scalp doesn’t clear up in two weeks, it’s time to consult with a dermatologist. Our dermatological specialists are here to help you during every step of your treatment process. We will evaluate your condition and prescribe a tailored treatment method designed to alleviate symptoms and preserve the health of your skin. If you’re interested in learning more about Dandruff Solutions, please contact our office today for your complimentary consultation.