SEBORRHOEIC DERMATITIS · PERTH
Seborrhoeic Dermatitis: Scalp Signs and Assessment
Seborrhoeic dermatitis is a common, recurring inflammatory skin condition that can cause scalp flaking, greasy scale and irritation. Carmen assesses your scalp and history in Perth to help you understand the signs and appropriate next steps.
Flaking deserves a closer look.
It can be frustrating when symptoms keep returning. Similar-looking scalp changes can need different care.
✓ Scalp and hair assessment ✓ Practical next steps ✓ Perth CBD
SIGNS YOU MAY NOTICE
Look at the symptoms as well as the flakes.
Dry or greasy flakes in your hair or on your clothing.
Scale around the hairline or ears.
Itching or irritation that keeps returning.
Similar flaking around the eyebrows or sides of the nose.
Red or differently coloured patches on the scalp.
Symptoms that settle for a time, then flare again.
UNDERSTANDING SEBORRHOEIC DERMATITIS
What the signs may mean, and what helps.
These points explain the condition and its management. A symptom checklist cannot confirm the cause of your own scalp changes.
1
A response involving skin yeast
The exact cause is not fully understood. A response to Malassezia yeast, which normally lives on the skin, and scalp oils may play a part.
2
Dandruff and inflammation
Dandruff is a milder scalp presentation, usually with flaking and little visible inflammation. More inflamed or persistent symptoms need closer assessment.
3
Individual flare-up patterns
Stress and cold, dry weather can coincide with flare-ups. What affects one person may not affect another, so noting changes can be useful.
4
Other causes of scalp scaling
Psoriasis, contact dermatitis and scalp infection can also cause scaling. Hair loss or broken hairs should not automatically be blamed on seborrhoeic dermatitis.
5
Care chosen for your circumstances
Medicated shampoos and prescribed topical treatments can help control symptoms. The choice depends on the affected area and your circumstances; a pharmacist, GP or dermatologist can advise.
6
Ongoing control and review
Adult seborrhoeic dermatitis often comes and goes. A clinician may recommend maintenance care after a flare settles; reassessment matters if the plan is not helping.
See a GP promptly for scalp pain, spreading redness, pus, sudden patchy hair loss or broken hairs. Seek urgent medical care if redness spreads quickly, pain is severe or you develop a fever. Persistent or worsening symptoms also need medical review. You can see your GP directly; a trichology appointment is not a prerequisite.
WHAT CARMEN ASSESSES
The scalp, timing and your care routine.
1
Understand the history
I would ask when the flaking or irritation started, whether it comes and goes, and which products or treatments you have used. Your health and medication history are also relevant.
2
Look closely at the scalp
I would look at the distribution of scale, skin changes and hair condition. Trichoscopy may provide a magnified view where appropriate, alongside your symptoms and history.
3
Discuss the appropriate pathway
We discuss suitable scalp care and monitoring. If medical diagnosis, testing or prescription treatment is needed, I would guide you towards a GP or dermatologist.
Prepare for a useful scalp assessment.
Note when symptoms began, which areas are affected and whether they come and go. Bring the names of shampoos, scalp products and treatments you have tried, including how your scalp responded.
Tell Carmen about any shedding, broken hairs, health changes or medicines. Continue prescribed treatment unless your clinician advises otherwise; you do not need to stop it for an appointment.
RELATED INFORMATION AND COMMON QUESTIONS