General Dermatology
Seborrheic Dermatitis Treatment in Tampa
Seborrheic dermatitis causes stubborn flaking, redness, and itching on the scalp, face, and body. Often mistaken for psoriasis or eczema, it requires targeted treatment to control. Dr. Sergay creates personalized plans that reduce flares and maintain long-term skin health.
Dr. Sergay's Approach
Understanding Seborrheic Dermatitis
Seborrheic dermatitis is a common inflammatory skin condition that affects areas rich in sebaceous (oil) glands — the scalp, face (eyebrows, nose folds, ears), and sometimes the chest and back. It causes greasy scales, flaking, and redness that can be persistent and embarrassing.
The condition is linked to an overgrowth of Malassezia, a yeast that naturally lives on skin. While not contagious or dangerous, seborrheic dermatitis is chronic and tends to flare with stress, cold weather, illness, and hormonal changes. It's different from — but sometimes confused with — psoriasis and eczema.
Dr. Sergay will evaluate the distribution and pattern of your skin findings, confirm the diagnosis, and build a maintenance routine that keeps seborrheic dermatitis under control long-term — not just during flares.
Accurate Diagnosis
Distinguish from psoriasis & eczema
Long-Term Control
Maintenance strategy, not just flare care
Where It Appears
Affected Areas & Presentations
Seborrheic dermatitis can appear in multiple locations simultaneously. Treatment approach varies by site.
Scalp
Most Common- Ranges from fine dandruff to thick, adherent scales
- Itching, often worse in winter months
- Cradle cap is the infant equivalent
- Can affect the hairline, behind ears, and nape of neck
Face
Very Common- Eyebrows, brow ridge, and eyelid margins (blepharitis)
- Nasolabial folds (sides of nose)
- External ear canals and behind ears
- Redness and greasy yellow-white scales
Chest & Back
Less Common- Petaloid (petal-shaped) scaling on central chest
- Interscapular back involvement
- More common in men and in severe cases
- Often coincides with significant scalp involvement
Infants (Cradle Cap)
Pediatric Form- Thick, yellowish, waxy scales on scalp
- Usually appears in first weeks of life
- Often resolves by 12 months without treatment
- Gentle medicated shampoo may speed resolution
Treatment Options
How Dr. Sergay Treats Seborrheic Dermatitis
Treatment combines antifungal agents to address the yeast overgrowth with anti-inflammatory therapies to reduce redness and scaling. The goal is not just clearance but sustained remission.
Antifungal Shampoos
Ketoconazole, selenium sulfide, and zinc pyrithione shampoos reduce Malassezia yeast overgrowth on the scalp. Used 2–3x per week during flares, then maintained weekly. Over-the-counter options are available, but prescription-strength formulations offer faster, more reliable results.
Topical Antifungal Creams
Ketoconazole 2% cream or ciclopirox cream applied to facial and body areas clears scales and redness quickly. Safe for use on the face, nasolabial folds, and behind the ears with proper guidance on frequency and duration.
Low-Potency Topical Steroids
Mild corticosteroid creams or solutions (hydrocortisone, desonide) reduce inflammation and itch during active flares. Used sparingly and short-term on the face to avoid skin thinning. Often combined with an antifungal for a synergistic effect.
Calcineurin Inhibitors
Tacrolimus ointment or pimecrolimus cream are non-steroidal alternatives ideal for the face and skin folds. Particularly useful for maintenance therapy where ongoing steroid use would be inappropriate. Reduce inflammation without the risk of skin thinning.
Oral Antifungals
For widespread or treatment-resistant seborrheic dermatitis, short courses of oral antifungal medications (itraconazole, fluconazole) can provide rapid improvement. Reserved for cases not responding adequately to topical treatments.
Maintenance Regimen
Because seborrheic dermatitis is a chronic condition, a maintenance routine is essential to prevent relapse. Dr. Sergay will design a sustainable schedule — often once or twice weekly antifungal use — to keep the condition under control between flares.
Common Questions
Seborrheic Dermatitis FAQ
Get Control
Tired of the Flaking & Redness?
Seborrheic dermatitis is very treatable. Dr. Sergay will confirm your diagnosis and build a routine that gets it under control — and keeps it that way.