Ear itchiness and redness

I had visited a dermatologist for my not so severe pimples problem and mild dandruff. He prescribed me Scalp shampoo for the dandruff. I have used it once or twice since then and has good results. However, today morning when i got up i saw my outer ears had turned red and it hurts when i touch them. Also the ear lobe and the entire ear  has thickened/ This had happened some time ago when I used Danfite for the dandruff. Please tell me if its due to the shampoo or is it something serious?

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
It can be due to seborrheic dermatitis. Seborrheic dermatitis is a common skin condition that causes flaky, dry, white to yellowish scales to form on oily areas esp under the nose or anywhere on face, neck, scalp or upper trunk.

Topical antifungals and mild steroids are the usual treatment and combination of the two can be used to treat stubborn patches. Oral antifungal drugs and immunomodulators such as tacrolimus and pimecrolimus are used in very severe cases. The other possibilities are of eczema or dermatitis. Best would be to consult a dermatologist to confirm the diagnosis.

I sincerely hope that helps. Take care.