Treating seborrheic dermatitis (seb derm) on the scalp requires 2-3 different scalp treatments that can be a combination of prescription and over-the-counter options. Prescription treatments often contain steroids to reduce inflammation or ketoconazole, a powerful antifungal medication that targets the yeast linked to seb derm. For a more natural approach, products with sulfur can help exfoliate the scalp and reduce yeast growth. Over-the-counter shampoos like Head & Shoulders use zinc pyrithione, which is effective at calming irritation and slowing yeast production, while Selsun Blue contains selenium sulfide, which directly kills the Malassezia yeast believed to worsen seb derm. The brand CLn uses sodium hypochlorite to reduce inflammation and kill yeast.

Rotating between different dandruff shampoos with varying active ingredients—such as one with sulfur, another with sodium hypochlorite, and a third with ketoconazole—can yield the best results, as each targets different aspects of the condition. This multi-pronged approach can help you achieve flake-free scalp faster than using only one treatment product.

Once the flakes and irritation from seborrheic dermatitis on your face and scalp have cleared up, it's important to maintain a regular treatment routine to prevent recurrence.

Using a dandruff shampoo containing selenium sulfide, ketoconazole, or zinc pyrithione once every 3-4 weeks can help keep the yeast that triggers seb derm in check. These ingredients work by reducing yeast levels and preventing inflammation, ensuring your skin stays flake-free and healthy long-term. Regular maintenance helps avoid future flare-ups, so your scalp and skin remain clear and comfortable.

Sulfur is an effective treatment for dandruff due to its dual action as an anti-inflammatory agent and an antifungal. It works by reducing inflammation through its ability to block the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines—chemical messengers that trigger inflammation in the skin. By doing so, sulfur helps calm redness, itching, and irritation commonly associated with seborrheic dermatitis.

Additionally, sulfur kills the Malassezia yeast, the microorganism responsible for dandruff, by disrupting its cellular structure, effectively reducing yeast overgrowth on the scalp. This combination of anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties makes sulfur an excellent option for treating and managing dandruff.

Flaking on the face and scalp is caused by dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis (seb derm). These terms mean the same thing. Dandruff is the common name and seborrheic dermatitis is the medical name for the same condition. Both result from an overgrowth of Malassezia yeast, leading to itching, inflammation, and skin shedding.