Seborrhoeic dermatitis scalp

Cradle cap is a form of seborrhoeic dermatitis of the scalp affecting babies aged 1-3 months. The condition is not contagious and can be treated by rubbing baby oil into the scalp, leaving it overnight and shampooing afterwards. 

This chapter covers the common scalp conditions that pharmacists are likely to encounter dandruff (pityriasis capitis), seborrhoeic dermatitis, cradle cap, scalp psoriasis and scalp ringworm (tinea capitis). Head lice, another common scalp problem, is covered in Chapter 17. 

Seborrhoeic dermatitis (seborrhoea) is the result of accelerated skin cell growth and sebaceous gland activity on the scalp, face and trunk. The condition may also involve the area in and around the ears, the eyebrows and eyelashes. 

Cradle cap is a form of seborrhoeic dermatitis of the scalp in infants, causing scaling and crusting. 

Selenium sulfide is used to treat dandruff and certain scalp infections (seborrhoeic dermatitis). It reduces itching, irritation and redness of the scalp. It is an anti-infective medication and works by slowing tire growtir of the yeast that causes the infection. Its side effects include skin irritation, dry skin, oily or dry hair or temporary hair loss. Hair discolouration may also occur, but it can be reduced by carefully rinsing tire hair thoroughly after each treatment. 

As a shampoo containing 2% w/w ketoconazole for scalp application in the treatment of dandruff and seborrhoeic dermatitis. Adult dose application to the scalp as a shampoo for 3 to 5 minutes before rinsing off. Repeat every 3 to 4 days for 2 to 4 weeks. 

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