Seborrheic Keratosis

Seborrheic keratoses often begin to appear on your skin with age and are harmless to your health. If you want one of the growths removed for cosmetic purposes, the expert dermatologists use several effective removal methods at Shady Grove Dermatology in Rockville, Maryland. Book an appointment online or over the phone today.

What are the symptoms of seborrheic dermatitis?

Seborrheic dermatitis is a type of rash that primarily develops on your scalp. These rashes can also appear on other areas, such as your eyebrows, forehead, or ears. On lighter skin tones, the rash appears pink in color. People with darker skin tones tend to see a purple rash or one a few shades lighter than their natural skin tones. 

Dandruff, or a flaky scalp, is a mild form of seborrheic dermatitis. In babies, the same condition is called cradle cap. In addition to a scaly or flaky rash, you might experience scalp irritation, itching, and burning because of seborrheic dermatitis. 

Allergies don’t cause seborrheic dermatitis, nor is it caused by unclean skin or an unclean scalp. 

What causes seborrheic dermatitis?

Seborrheic dermatitis isn’t well understood, but experts suspect that the yeast that naturally lives on your skin might have something to do with it. Seborrheic dermatitis might be your skin’s negative reaction to that yeast. That’s because minimizing the yeast can also minimize symptoms. Sebum, the oil your skin produces, may also play a role. 

While anyone can develop seborrheic dermatitis, known risk factors include:

• Neurological conditions like Parkinson’s disease
• HIV infection
• Rosacea
• Psoriasis
• Heavy alcohol consumption
• Down syndrome
• Lymphoma
• Mood disorders like depression
• Organ transplants
• Certain medications

People of all ages can get seborrheic dermatitis, especially infants, adolescents, and adults over 50.

How is seborrheic dermatitis treated?

Professional treatment from a dermatologist can help control your seborrheic dermatitis symptoms. After closely evaluating your skin, your dermatologist at Shady Grove Dermatology creates an individualized treatment plan. Your initial evaluation might involve a scalp biopsy to confirm the cause of your symptoms. 

• Dandruff shampoo
• Corticosteroid cream
• Antifungal cream
• Oral antifungal medications
• Topical calcineurin inhibitors

Your dermatologist gives you a few home care recommendations to supplement your seborrheic dermatitis treatment. You may be able to control symptoms more effectively by washing your hair and skin regularly, using gentle hair and skin products, or applying oils to your scalp to soften the scales. 

Call Shady Grove Dermatology or book an appointment online for seborrheic dermatitis evaluation and treatment today.