Is seborrhoeic dermatitis contagious?

No, it is not a contagious disease.

Is it a chronic condition?

Yes, it alternates between flare-ups and calmer periods.

Is dandruff always caused by this condition?

No, but seborrhoeic dermatitis is a common cause of inflammatory dandruff.

Does stress affect the condition?

Yes, stress is a recognised aggravating factor.

Can it affect the face?

Yes, particularly the sides of the nose, the eyebrows and the beard.

Does treatment need to be continuous?

Maintenance treatment is often necessary.

Are medicated shampoos effective?

Yes, if they are used regularly and correctly.

Does sunlight improve the symptoms?

Often yes, but the effect may be temporary.

Can I use ordinary cosmetics?

No, suitable products are recommended.

Can babies be affected?

Yes, in the form of cradle cap.

Is it linked to hygiene?

No, it is not caused by poor hygiene.

Are recurrences common?

Yes, especially in winter and at times of stress.

Does a beard encourage the condition?

It can help the lesions persist.

Are antifungals essential?

Yes, because they target the main mechanism.

Are corticosteroids dangerous?

Used briefly and correctly, they are safe.

Can flare-ups be prevented?

Yes, with suitable maintenance treatment.

Can the condition get worse?

It can spread without appropriate treatment.

Is dermatological follow-up useful?

Yes, especially for persistent forms.

When should I see a doctor?

As soon as the symptoms become chronic or troublesome.

Dermatology · Inflammatory skin conditions

Seborrhoeic dermatitis

Seborrhoeic dermatitis is a common, chronic inflammatory skin condition that progresses in flare-ups. It affects areas rich in sebaceous glands (scalp, face, folds beside the nose, eyebrows, chest) and causes redness and greasy scales. It results from an inflammatory reaction of the skin to a naturally occurring yeast, Malassezia.

Written by Dr A. Turcarelli, dermatologist and allergist Updated 4 January 2026 6 min read

Book an appointment Frequently asked questions

Introduction

Seborrhoeic dermatitis is a chronic inflammatory skin condition linked to excess sebum production and an inflammatory skin reaction associated with overgrowth of Malassezia yeasts.

Symptoms

Well-defined red patches
White or yellowish scales
Persistent dandruff
Affects the sides of the nose, eyebrows, scalp
Variable itching
Chronic course with flare-ups

Causes

Excessive sebum production
Overgrowth of skin yeasts (Malassezia)
Genetic factors
Stress and tiredness
Changes in climate
Neurological or immune background (in some cases)

Diagnosis

Clinical dermatological diagnosis
Assessment of the typical distribution
Ruling out other inflammatory skin conditions
Further tests rarely needed

Treatments

Topical antifungals
Mild topical corticosteroids in short courses
Medicated shampoos
Suitable dermocosmetic skincare
Medical LED therapy: reduce inflammation
Targeted phototherapy (selected cases)
Skin-rebalancing protocols

Management

Treatment of flare-ups

Long-term maintenance strategy

Personalised dermatological follow-up

Combined medical and dermocosmetic approach

Frequently asked questions

See us about seborrhoeic dermatitis

Consultation with a confirmed diagnosis and a written treatment plan.

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