Seborrheic Dermatitis: Causes, Triggers, and How to Manage It

When your scalp flakes like snow in winter, or your nose gets red and oily, you might be dealing with seborrheic dermatitis, a common skin condition that causes scaly, itchy patches on oily areas of the body. Also known as dandruff when it’s mild and limited to the scalp, it’s not caused by poor hygiene, and it’s not contagious. It’s driven by an overgrowth of a yeast called Malassezia, a naturally occurring fungus on human skin that can trigger inflammation in some people, combined with your body’s immune response and excess oil production.

This condition often shows up where sebaceous glands are most active—scalp, eyebrows, sides of the nose, ears, and chest. It’s more common in babies (as cradle cap), teenagers, and adults over 30. Stress, cold weather, and certain medications can make it worse. People with neurological conditions like Parkinson’s or weakened immune systems are also more likely to get it. It’s not just a cosmetic issue; the itching and redness can disrupt sleep, lower confidence, and even lead to skin infections if scratched too much. Antifungal creams, topical treatments that target the yeast overgrowth are often the first line of defense. But they don’t work the same for everyone. Some need daily use, others only weekly. And while dandruff shampoos help, many people don’t use them long enough or correctly.

What you’ll find here aren’t just general tips. These are real, practical posts from people who’ve lived with this, tried dozens of treatments, and figured out what actually works. You’ll learn how scalp dermatitis, a form of seborrheic dermatitis focused on the scalp can be confused with psoriasis or eczema—and why getting the diagnosis right matters. You’ll see how skin inflammation, the underlying immune reaction that makes seborrheic dermatitis flare can be worsened by everyday products like shampoos, lotions, or even stress. And you’ll find no-nonsense advice on what to avoid: alcohol-based toners, heavy oils, and overwashing. These posts don’t promise miracles. They give you the facts: what reduces flaking, what soothes redness, and when it’s time to see a doctor instead of reaching for another bottle of shampoo.