Treatment of Seborrheic Dermatitis on the Face

First-Line Treatment Options

• The British Medical Journal recommends using hydrocortisone 1% cream for short periods (1-2 weeks) to control inflammation, with the basic principle being to use the least potent preparation required to control symptoms 1
• Gentle, soap-free cleansers should be used instead of regular soaps to avoid removing natural skin lipids 1

Skin Care Recommendations

• The American Academy of Dermatology suggests avoiding known irritants that may worsen symptoms, and minimizing exposure to extreme temperatures 1, 5
• Oil-in-water creams or ointments should be applied as moisturizers, and alcohol-containing lotions or gels should be avoided 2, 3
• Urea- or glycerin-based moisturizers can help with associated dry skin 4

Second-Line Treatment Options

• For significant pruritus, oral antihistamines such as cetirizine, loratadine, or fexofenadine may provide relief, according to the Annals of Oncology 2, 4
• For severe inflammation, short-term oral systemic steroids may be considered in rare cases, as reported in the Annals of Oncology 2