Dermatitis - What will happen?

For many people, seborrhoeic dermatitis and dandruff come and go over time.

Treatment can help get rid of seborrhoeic dermatitis or dandruff, although they often come back.[1] You may need to have more treatment from time to time, or use your anti-dandruff shampoo again when your symptoms flare up. Some treatments can be used regularly, to help stop dermatitis or dandruff coming back. You can ask your doctor or pharmacist how often you should be using your treatment.

Some people find their dermatitis gets worse in winter, or when they're feeling stressed. It may start to clear up in the summer. This might be because getting more sunlight helps with dermatitis.[2]

When babies get dermatitis on their scalp (called cradle cap), it usually goes away before they reach 1 year of age. To read more, see Cradle cap.

References

Gupta AK, Bluhm R, Cooper EA et al. Seborrheic dermatitis. Dermatology. 2004; 208: 89-93.
Mayo Clinic. Dandruff. November 2006. Available at http://www.mayoclinic.com (accessed on 11 February 2008).

This information does not replace medical advice. If you are concerned you might have a medical problem please ask your Boots pharmacy team in your local Boots store, or see your doctor.