Seborrhoeic Dermatitis of the Scalp: Why Flaking Keeps Returning
Seborrhoeic dermatitis of the scalp can cause recurring flakes, irritation and patches of inflamed skin. It tends to settle and flare again, so a shampoo that helped once may not keep the symptoms away. The useful first step is to check what is happening on the scalp, because several conditions can look similar through the hair.
What is seborrhoeic dermatitis?
Seborrhoeic dermatitis is a common inflammatory skin condition that often affects oily areas, including the scalp, eyebrows, ears and sides of the nose. On the scalp it may cause fine or greasy scale, itching and visible inflammation. Some people notice symptoms in more than one area.
The cause is not fully understood. A yeast called Malassezia, which normally lives on the skin, is one factor associated with the inflammation. Your skin's response and barrier also matter. It is not simply a sign that you have failed to wash your hair properly.
Is it dandruff or dry scalp?
Dandruff is often considered the less inflamed scalp form of seborrhoeic dermatitis. Dry scalp can also flake, but irritation from products, contact dermatitis, psoriasis and other conditions may look similar. The appearance of the scale, the skin beneath it, the areas affected and the pattern over time all help.
I would ask whether the flakes are loose or attached, whether the scalp feels oily or tight, and whether the skin is red, tender or sore. I would also ask about recent hair colour, new products and changes to the washing routine. An itchy scalp has several possible explanations, so a symptom alone does not confirm the cause.
Why does it keep coming back?
Seborrhoeic dermatitis commonly follows a relapsing course. A flare can improve, then return later. Weather, stress, changes to the skin or a routine that irritates the scalp may influence symptoms in some people. The exact pattern differs from person to person.
Repeatedly layering oils, exfoliants and serums can make it harder to tell what is helping. If a product burns or increases the irritation, stop using it and seek advice. I discuss that problem in more detail in my article on scalp serums, oils and scalp cycling.
What would I look for in an assessment?
I would look at the distribution of the scale and inflammation, check the hairline and nearby skin, and ask when the symptoms started and how they have changed. I would review products and previous shampoos, then look more closely with trichoscopy where useful.
Whether scale is fine, greasy, thick or firmly attached
Whether there is redness, tenderness, crusting or pustules
Whether the eyebrows, ears or face are affected too
Whether there is hair shedding or a change in density
What has already been tried and how the scalp responded
These findings help guide the next step. A trichology assessment can describe the visible pattern and possible contributors; a GP or dermatologist may be needed for medical diagnosis or prescription care. The clinic's scalp conditions page explains the assessment in more detail.
Can it cause hair loss?
Flaking alone does not prove that seborrhoeic dermatitis is the cause of hair loss. Some people notice more hair coming away while an inflamed scalp is uncomfortable, but shedding or thinning can also have a separate cause. I would assess the hair pattern as well as the scalp rather than assume one explains the other.
What care is usually discussed?
Appropriate washing and medicated anti-dandruff or antifungal shampoos are common parts of care. The best option depends on the scalp, hair type, severity and whether another condition is present. A GP or dermatologist may advise anti-inflammatory or prescription treatment when needed. Avoid using several new treatments at once if you are trying to understand what is helping or irritating the skin.
If you have persistent symptoms despite appropriate care, marked pain, spreading redness, oozing, pustules or patchy hair loss, seek medical advice. Those signs deserve a closer look.
Frequently asked questions
Is seborrhoeic dermatitis contagious?
No. It is an inflammatory skin condition and is not passed from person to person through ordinary contact.
Why do flakes return after a shampoo helps?
The condition often relapses. Symptoms may need ongoing management, and returning flakes can also mean the original problem was not fully identified. An assessment can check whether another scalp condition is present.
Should I put oil on a flaky scalp?
Oil is not a reliable answer for every flaky scalp. Some products may add build-up or irritation. I would first check the scalp and your routine before recommending another product.
Final Thoughts
Recurring scalp flakes can be uncomfortable, but they are worth assessing calmly and carefully. I would look at the skin, the scale, the hair and the history before deciding which next step makes sense.
If your symptoms keep returning, you can arrange a scalp assessment with Carmen Du Preez Trichology in Perth. If medical care is needed, I can guide you towards your GP or a dermatologist.
To book a consultation with Carmen Du Preez Trichology in Perth, visit: www.carmendupreeztrichology.com
About the author
Written by: Carmen Du Preez, IAT Certified Trichologist.
Carmen Du Preez is a Perth-based Certified Trichologist and member of the International Association of Trichologists. She provides trichology consultations for hair loss, hair shedding, thinning hair, and scalp conditions at Carmen Du Preez Trichology in Trinity Arcade, Perth.
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Last updated: 18 October 2026
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