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Are there any prescription treatments for seborrhea?

Seborrhea, or seborrheic dermatitis, is a common skin condition that causes flaking or scaling, with or without itching. The scalp, face, and chest are most often affected. Mild forms of seborrhea on the scalp or body usually clear up with nonprescription dandruff shampoos. Nonprescription hydrocortisone creams can also help itching. If your condition doesn't improve or worsens when using these products, see your doctor. He or she may prescribe stronger medications. You should also consult your doctor if the problem spreads to areas around the eyes or ears, which are especially sensitive and difficult to treat.

Your doctor may recommend a prescription-strength shampoo. Several containing selenium sulfide 2.5 percent are available (brand names Exsel and Selsun). Medicines containing ketoconazole 2 percent (>Nizoral shampoo or cream) are usually effective in treating even the most stubborn areas. Steroid creams or lotions, such as triamcinolone (>Kenalog) or betamethasone (>Diprosone), help with persistent itching or inflammation. If your skin becomes cracked and infected, your doctor may also prescribe an antibiotic.

Sources:
Goroll, A.H. Primary Care Medicine. Lippincott-Ravin Publishers, 1995.
Habif, Thomas. Clinical Dermatology. Mosby-Year Book, Inc., 1996.
Diseases and conditions, "Dermatitis/eczema."http:www.mayoclinic.com. Mayo Clinic Health. Last accessed 1/2/2007.

This answer prepared 7/17/2000.
This information updated 1/2/2007.