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24 years
Seborrheic dermatitis. . any treatment apart from steroids?
Aug 22, 2014
2nd opinion

Dr. Rania Mousa General Medicine
There are a variety of conditions which can lead to scalp scabs. Most scabs in this region do not come from a condition itself, but from scratching. When the skin is scratched regularly, it may break and a lesion is formed. As this lesion heals a scab is the result.

Common conditions of the scalp which may lead to itching and irritation, and thus scratching, include psoriasis, dandruff or sebarrhoec dermatitis , eczema, and sunburn.

To prevent scalp scabs from appearing in the first place, it is important to resist the urge to scratch. If an underlying skin condition is to blame for severe itching, it is a good idea to see a dermatologist for proper treatment. Creams, gels, and specialized shampoos can often be prescribed to help alleviate the symptoms until healing takes place.

If scratching has already occurred and scalp scabs have become a problem, it is important not to pull or pick at the scabs, as this could lead to additional bleeding and prolong the healing process. Scabs form as the body’s immune system sends platelets to the injury site to plug the wound, prevent bacteria from entering and to clot the flow of blood. By pulling off these scabs one may reopen partially healed wounds and cause additional soreness and scabbing

usually a long-term condition. You may need many repeated treatments before the symptoms go away. And they may return later. You may be able to manage flare-ups by recognizing seborrheic dermatitis symptoms and using a combination of self-care steps and medications.

Treatment options may include :

Topical corticosteroids may hasten recurrences, may foster dependence because of a rebound effect, and are DISCOURAGED except for short-term use.

- a shampoo containing ketoconazole 2% (such as Nizoral) should be used with selenium sulphide shampoo (such as Selsun) as an alternative. If these are unacceptable, shampoos containing zinc pyrithione (eg, head & shoulders), coal tar or salicylic acid may be used.
Shampoos are used twice a week for at least a month, after which the frequency may be reduced.

Steroid scalp applications reduce itching. Intermittent use for a few consecutive days may be helpful. Avoid continuous use. if used for many weeks or months without a break, they can cause side effects, such as thinning skin or skin showing streaks or lines.

-Antifungal medication you take as a pill like the medicine the doctor gives you
-Use of hair spray or hair pomades should be stopped.
check with your dermatologist for the appropriate treatment for you

So you can take the mentioned measures if failed or so you can check with a dermatologist for more intensive prescription treatment .
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