Seborrheic dermatitis on face

[olia11]

I have been diagnosed with seborrheic dermatitis on my face. I was asked to take sporanox capsules by the doc for a week and consult the doc soon after. The fungal infection subsided within that period but I did not consult the doc after that. The infection has returned once again . I would like to know if I should take the capsules once again for a week and then consult the doc or meet the doc before taking them. Plz give me ur advice cause I study outside and can't make frquent trips to the clinic.

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
There's no treatment that's guaranteed to stop seborrheic dermatitis forever, but treatments can control its signs and symptoms. In case of recurrent seborrheic dermatitis, topical and oral antifungals, immunomodulators such as tacrolimus and pimecrolimus are useful. In addition some lifestyle measures like using antidandruff shampoos daily, avoiding harsh soaps and detergents, wearing cotton clothes and  covering the itchy area with a dressing to prevent itching may also help.
I hope it helps. Take care and regards.

[olia11]

Thank you for the advice. I have been able to control my dandruff using salicyclic acid shampoos but the flaky condition on the skin is still a problem . Once I take those strong steroids the condition subsides but as soon as Im done with it it reappears later again. How do I keep this condition under control . Is it a temporary or a permanent problem?

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
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.