Seborrheic Dermatitis in Children

Seborrheic dermatitis, which is pronounced “seb-uh-REE-ick dermatitis,” affects parts of the body with a lot of oil glands, such as the scalp, nose, and back. Seborrheic dermatitis, sometimes known as “cradle cap,” typically affects babies’ scalps. Dandruff is the common name for seborrheic dermatitis on the scalp in older children and adults.

Although the precise etiology of seborrheic dermatitis is unknown, it is thought to be a result of several variables, including genes, yeast that naturally exists on the skin, stress, chemical irritants, and/or dry, cold weather that stimulates excessive oil production in the skin. According to studies, the mother’s hormones may contribute to seborrheic dermatitis in babies.

Seborrheic dermatitis, in contrast to other types of eczema, is not brought on by an allergy.

What signs and symptoms do kids have of seborrheic dermatitis?

Seborrheic dermatitis can occasionally affect an infant’s face, particularly the area around the eyes and nose. Additionally, it might show up in a baby’s skin folds and diaper area.

Infantile seborrheic dermatitis normally disappears between the ages of 6 and 12 months. Typically, dandruff lasts throughout adulthood.

Seborrheic dermatitis can manifest itself on the body or scalp in newborns and children as:

• brown crust
• Having white or yellow flakes on top of red skin
• Pink spots that blend with the skin’s red color
• Bruises on the skin

Most of the time, seborrheic dermatitis symptoms don’t concern babies. For more severe cases, it’s crucial to remain alert for any infection-related symptoms, such as hot, fluid-weeping skin or bad-smelling skin. If you think your child may have an infection, call your doctor.

Treatment for children’s seborrheic dermatitis

An over-the-counter topical antifungal cream or medicated shampoo containing ketoconazole, selenium sulfide, coal tar, or zinc pyrithione may be sufficient to treat symptoms if the seborrheic dermatitis is mild. If your child is not in pain, it is acceptable to ignore minor seborrheic dermatitis.

A doctor may use topical steroids or TCIs to reduce inflammation in more serious situations. Antifungal medications taken orally are an option.

Try this natural cure for cradle cap

To remove scales from your baby’s scalp, apply basic mineral oil or petroleum jelly about an hour before bathtime.

Scales can be removed by gently massaging shampoo into the scalp for a few minutes. The best solution is a dandruff shampoo, but if it goes into your eyes, it could sting.

Thoroughly rinse and gently pat dry.