What is this dry, flaky stuff on my face?

I have dry, flaky skin around the creases of my nose and a spot of it above an eyebrow.  It's a little red, not itchy, just peels off and then reappears.  Anyone know what this is and how I can get rid of it?

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
Your symptoms are suggestive of 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. You can treat flaking and dryness with over-the-counter dandruff or medicated shampoos. Shampoo the hair vigorously and frequently (preferably daily). Active ingredients in these shampoos include salicylic acid, coal tar, zinc, resorcin, ketoconazole, or selenium.

If the symptoms persist, then it would be best to get it confirmed from a dermatologist.

I hope it helps. Take care and please do keep me posted in case you have any additional doubts. Kind regards.

[Nancy957]

What can I use on my face?

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
Topical steroids have to be used on the face in seborrheic dermatitis but they should be used only after a dermatologist’s prescription. Hope it helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing or if you have any additional doubts. Kind regards.