If on face or chest, apply medicated lotion twice per day.
For infants with cradle cap:
• Massage your baby's scalp gently with your fingers or a soft brush to loosen the scales and improve scalp circulation.
• Give your child daily, gentle shampoos with a mild soap while scales are present. After scales have disappeared, you may reduce shampoos to twice weekly.
• Be sure to rinse off all soap.
• Brush your child's hair with a clean, soft brush after each shampoo and several times during the day.
• If the scales continue to be a problem or concern, or if you child seems uncomfortable or scratches his scalp, contact your physician. He may prescribe a cream or lotion to apply to your baby's scalp several times a day.
Seborrheic dermatitis is thought to be due to a combination of an over production of skin oil and irritation from a yeast called malessizia.
Seborrheic dermatitis appears to run in families. Stress, fatigue, weather extremes, oily skin, infrequent shampoos or skin cleaning, use of lotions that contain alcohol, skin disorders (such as acne), or obesity may increase the risk.
Neurologic conditions, including Parkinson's disease, head injury, and stroke may be associated with seborrheic dermatitis. Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) has also been linked to increased cases of seborrheic dermatitis.
The diagnosis is based on the appearance and location of the skin lesions.
Seborrheic dermatitis is a chronic (life-long) condition that can be controlled with treatment. It often has extended inactive periods followed by flare-ups. Seborrheic dermatitis may improve in the summer, especially after outdoor activities.