The most common treatment for dermatitis of the scalp, scientifically known as seborrheic dermatitis, is practicing good hygiene. Frequently washing the scalp goes a long way toward preventing the buildup of substances that can cause inflammation and flaking of the skin. There are also a variety of over-the-counter shampoos which help reduce itchy, flaky skin on the scalp. If store-bought shampoos don't do the trick, a dermatologist may be able to prescribe extra-strength shampoos or lotions that contain steroids. Infants with dermatitis of the scalp should be treated with milder shampoos, or by regularly brushing the hair to break up flakes.
Practicing good hygiene is the best defense against dermatitis of the scalp. Washing the scalp and hair frequently is the best way to prevent fungus, oils and bacteria from building up. If allowed to build up, such elements can agitate the skin enough to cause noticeable rashes. Those rashes aren't only painful, they tend to cause flaking of the skin. Skin flakes that get trapped in hair can be quite noticeable, resulting in dandruff—an unpleasant ordeal for those affected by it.
There are many over-the-counter shampoos able to successfully treat dermatitis of the scalp. Compared with ordinary shampoos, dermatitis-treating shampoos contain different ingredients, such as zinc pyrithione, selenium sulfide, salicylic acid and coal tar. These ingredients work on the scalp to reduce the itchy and flaky skin symptoms of dermatitis. Such shampoos are only meant to be used 2-3 times a week. When using the shampoo, it's important to leave it on the scalp for 3-5 minutes before rinsing, in order to give a sufficient amount of time for the treatment to work.
If over-the-counter shampoos fail to alleviate the condition, dermatologists can prescribe skin products that contain steroids. Such products are powerful skin treatments that offer the best guarantee for treating dermatitis of the scalp. If by chance the dermatitis still lingers, a dermatologist may OK the combined use of over-the-counter and prescription treatments. If the condition still persists, there may be something more than dermatitis at play, such as eczema, a more chronic skin condition that also results in itchy, inflamed skin.
Infants who develop dermatitis of the scalp are said to have cradle cap. Young babies are particularly vulnerable for getting dermatitis. Their soft, new skin is highly susceptible to developing rashes and flakes. Fortunately, cradle cap is generally easy to prevent and treat. Simply going through the hair with a soft brush is often enough to break up flakes and maintain healthy skin. Mild, baby-safe shampoos are also available to help prevent cradle cap.