• Stick to your treatment plan and schedule to get the most out of your seborrheic dermatitis treatments.
• Use over-the-counter products as needed to accompany prescription treatments.
• Talk to your doctor before stopping or changing treatments.

Topical treatments are one of the most effective ways to control the symptoms of seborrheic dermatitis on the face and body, and there are steps you can take to ensure you get the most bang for your buck. (If you have seborrheic dermatitis on the scalp, read this article that discusses antifungal shampoos, over-the-counter dandruff shampoos, and other scalp treatments.)

Seborrheic dermatitis is a form of eczema. It’s a common skin condition caused by a combination of environmental and genetic factors. In seborrheic dermatitis, the immune system responds to an overgrowth of yeast known as Malassezia yeast or pityrosporum. Seborrheic dermatitis can affect people of any age. In babies, it’s called cradle cap.

Dermatologists often prescribe topical treatments to alleviate seborrheic dermatitis symptoms, which can include flaking skin, greasy scales, and a rash that may or may not itch. Topical treatments for seborrheic dermatitis include antifungals, topical calcineurin inhibitors (TCIs), corticosteroids, and phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE4) inhibitors. Apply them to the affected areas as directed by your dermatologist.

Topical antifungals such as ketoconazole, ciclopirox, and sertaconazole may help reduce levels of Malassezia yeast on the skin. These topicals are available as creams, foams, gels, lotions, and shampoos.

TCIs such as tacrolimus (Protopic) and pimecrolimus (Elidel) help block the inflammatory response caused by Malassezia yeast. They are available as creams and ointments.

PDE4 inhibitors also work to address inflammation and include roflumilast (Zoryve) foam.

Topical corticosteroids such as hydrocortisone, desonide (Verdeso), fluocinolone (Synalar), and clobetasol help reduce inflammation. They are available as creams, ointments, lotions, oils, solutions, and foams. Long-term use of topical steroids can cause adverse side effects, so although they are effective and easy to use, your doctor will likely only prescribe them for short-term or periodic use.

When it comes to these treatments, here are five tips for getting the most out of them.

1. Understand Your Treatment Plan

When your dermatologist prescribes topical treatments for seborrheic dermatitis, it might seem like applying a lotion, cream, or gel to the affected skin can’t be that complicated. But you might be surprised.

Some topical corticosteroids, for example, are too potent for skin folds or areas of the body where the skin is thinner, like the face, armpits, and backs of the hands. Some medicated shampoos, which you might assume are only for the scalp, can be used for the face.

Before leaving your dermatology appointment, be sure you understand when, how, and where to use your topical treatments. Don’t assume you can Google the information later if you have questions, as instructions vary by diagnosis.

Here are some questions to ask your dermatologist:

• How often should I apply this medication?
• Is there a specific time of day that works best, like before bed?
• Where on my body should I use it?
• Are there parts of the body where I should not apply it?
• When should I expect to see results?
• Are there any side effects I should know about?
• Should I use it until it runs out? Or stop after a certain amount of time?

Consider taking a pen and notebook to your next medical appointment or recording the conversation on your phone (with your doctor’s permission). Having notes can help you adhere to the plan because you will have something to refer back to later. The most effective treatment plan for seborrheic dermatitis will only work if you understand it and follow it as directed.

2. Be Consistent

It can be tempting to skip a scheduled treatment if you’re running late for work or want to crawl into bed after a long day, but using treatments consistently is essential for managing seborrheic dermatitis and other forms of eczema.

In a study of people with atopic dermatitis — the most common form of eczema — participants said when they strayed from their prescribed treatment plan, it was often because it was inconvenient, they were frustrated with the medication’s lack of effectiveness, and they were concerned about potential side effects.

Here are some tips for being consistent with your seborrheic dermatitis treatment:

• Set reminder alarms on your cell phone or watch.
• Write your schedule on a wall calendar and hang it where you will see it.
• Put reminder notes on your bathroom mirror, refrigerator, or bedside table.

Also, remind yourself why applying your medication is important to you. Write notes about your treatment goals and post them where you will see them. For example, “Clear skin!” “Wearing short sleeves this summer!” “No more itching!”

Living with a chronic skin condition can be frustrating and inconvenient. However, following your treatment plan consistently and as prescribed is the best way to alleviate symptoms. If you’re having trouble staying on schedule, ask your doctor for help.

3. Ask Your Doctor about Incorporating Over-the-Counter Products

Over-the-counter skin care products like dandruff shampoos and moisturizers with salicylic acid can support your prescription treatment plan. Talk to your health care provider before adding new products to your skin care regimen. This may help reduce the likelihood of medication interference or an allergic reaction.

When considering over-the-counter products, look for zinc pyrithione, selenium sulfide, coal tar, or salicylic acid in the active ingredients list.

Topical corticosteroids like hydrocortisone and antifungals such as ketoconazole are available over the counter at reduced strengths.

Hydrated skin is less likely to flare, so apply alcohol-free and fragrance-free moisturizers after showering or bathing.

Find out what others are using by visiting MySebDermTeam. Here are a few recommendations:

• “I mostly use Gold Bond Diabetics’ Lotion. It’s thick and really makes a difference on my flaky legs.”
• “I use pyrithione zinc soap bars.”
• “I’ve used a CeraVe face cream for a few months now, and it seems to help my dry, itchy skin.”
• “I use an over-the-counter moisturizer called Bag Balm.”

Remember, what works for someone else may not work for you. And always talk to your health care provider before adding over-the-counter products to your treatment plan.

4. Consider Lifestyle Changes

Although seborrheic dermatitis is not a preventable skin disease, lifestyle changes may help reduce the frequency and severity of flare-ups and increase the effectiveness of your topical treatments. You likely already know that stress, diet, and exercise impact your health and well-being. But those and other factors can also influence seborrheic dermatitis, atopic dermatitis, rosacea, and other common skin conditions.

Here are some ways to support good skin health:

• Staying hydrated by drinking water throughout the day
• Rinsing your skin thoroughly after bathing
• Moisturizing your skin after every shower or bath
• Getting plenty of sleep
• Reducing stress through therapy, meditation, or yoga
• Exercising regularly
• Quitting smoking

5. Talk to Your Doctor

If you think your treatment plan isn’t working, or if you’ve read about something new you want to try, schedule an appointment with your doctor or dermatologist. Make a list beforehand to gather your thoughts, and include any other topics you want to discuss, like side effects, self-care tips, home remedies, and treatment goals. During the appointment, share your concerns and ask for suggestions.

The treatment of seborrheic dermatitis can be a puzzle, and your health care provider should be a valuable resource and partner. If you ever feel like they aren’t listening, or if they seem to have run out of treatment options, consider getting a second or third opinion. Seborrheic dermatitis is easily manageable in most cases, but you may need to deal with it throughout your life. Finding a doctor who not only specializes in dermatology but also answers your questions and makes you feel heard can make all the difference.

Talk With Others Who Understand

On MySebDermTeam, the social network for people with seborrheic dermatitis and their loved ones, more than 7,000 members come together to ask questions, give advice, and share their stories with others who understand life with seborrheic dermatitis.

Do you have tips for getting the most out of topical seborrheic dermatitis treatments? Share your experience in the comments below, or start a conversation by posting on your Activities page.