Seborrheic Dermatitis (Cradle Cap) on Forehead

Can You Get Seborrheic Dermatitis On Your Forehead?

Seborrheic dermatitis is a common skin condition that causes redness, flaking, irritation, and itching of the scalp and skin. Though similar to dandruff, it has a greater turnover rate of skin cells which causes its characteristic scaling and patches. While dandruff symptoms are most often found on the scalp, seborrheic dermatitis can also appear on the forehead.

Cradle Cap On Baby’s Face

When seborrheic dermatitis is experienced by babies, it is classified as cradle cap. It causes thick, greasy, crusty patches and scales. Cradle cap is usually thought to appear on the baby’s scalp. But the truth is it can appear anywhere on the baby’s body.

And if you are wondering if it can appear on their face, then yes, it can. Babies experience cradle cap on the face, eyebrows, forehead, and behind the ears. It causes crusty, yellow scales that look similar to a honeycomb. 

What Does Seborrheic Dermatitis On The Forehead Look Like?

Seborrheic dermatitis, whether it appears on the forehead or anywhere else on the body, it manifests similar symptoms, which include.

• Patchy scales
• Greasy, crusty scales
• White or yellow flakes
• Mild itching
• Irritated skin
• Redness

The crusting and scaling associated with seborrheic dermatitis and cradle cap may look bothersome, but remember never to scratch or pick on them. It can worsen the condition.

Is It Seborrheic Dermatitis Or Something Else?

Cradle cap and seborrheic dermatitis appear as scaly, flaky, irritated skin, which is why it is often confused with other common skin conditions that have similar symptoms. Some of the most common conditions are eczema, psoriasis, and rosacea. 

You can differentiate seborrheic dermatitis from these conditions by conducting a physical examination of the skin. The flakes and scales caused by seborrheic dermatitis and cradle cap are oily and greasy and do not easily come off from the skin. If you are still unsure about anything, consult your primary care provider.

How is Seborrheic Dermatitis on the Forehead Diagnosed?

Diagnosis of seborrheic dermatitis or cradle cap on the forehead may be tricky as the condition can resemble other common skin conditions such as eczema or psoriasis. A simple physical examination and family history are often all that’s needed, though your doctor may wish to take a sample of the skin to rule out a fungal infection. 

Babies often exhibit the hallmark symptoms of cradle cap on the forehead, with crusty patches covering the scalp and forehead as though wearing an actual cap.

While a seborrheic dermatitis flare-up on the forehead is no cause for panic, it’s still a good idea to get a correct diagnosis so that you may take proactive measures to treat the symptoms.

Seborrheic Dermatitis (Cradle Cap) Treatment

Though there is no cure, there are shampoos and body washes made to ease symptoms of seborrheic dermatitis on the forehead during flare-ups and prevent future irritation. 

Cradle Cap Shampoo

A cradle cap shampoo and body wash with an active ingredient is a leading choice among doctors to help reduce irritation, loosen the scales, and relieve itching on the forehead. 

Use a seborrheic dermatitis shampoo to cleanse the scalp or affected area gently. Use the shampoo daily when the seborrheic dermatitis flare-ups and taper the use to 2 to 3 times a week once the scaling and flaking is reduced.

The active ingredient, pyrithione zinc, is a gentle and effective means to encourage reduction of the symptoms associated with seborrheic dermatitis. However, until now, children had little choice but to use a pyrithione zinc formula made for adults.  Licensed pediatrician Dr. Eddie Valenzuela set out to change all that. And created a cradle cap shampoo, especially for sensitive young skin.

Massage Gently

While you are applying medicated shampoo, gently massage it on the affected area. This helps in loosening up the scales and exfoliating. Use a washcloth, your fingertips, or a cradle cap brush to massage.

Seborrheic Dermatitis Shampoo For Kids And Adults

Dr. Eddie’s Happy Cappy Medicated Shampoo & Body Wash is the only cradle cap shampoo made especially for children. Created by a licensed pediatrician and formulated with young, sensitive skin in mind, it is made free of dyes, sulfates, fragrances, and alcohol. 

Made with 95% natural, plant-based ingredients, including Licorice Root extract to soothe redness and provitamin B5 to moisturize hair and skin, Dr. Eddie’s unique formula has been nationally recognized as a ground-breaking solution for children of all ages. Try the “Pediatrician’s Solution” for relief of skin and scalp itching, irritation, redness, flaking, and scaling associated with seborrheic dermatitis.

Additional Resources on Seborrheic Dermatitis on Forehead

1. org, Seborrheic Dermatitis, https://dermnetnz.org/topics/seborrhoeic-dermatitis/
2. org, Seborrheic Dermatitis, https://nationaleczema.org/eczema/types-of-eczema/seborrheic-dermatitis/

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Dr. Eddie Valenzuela

Dr. Eddie Valenzuela is an award winning pediatrician and the founder and CEO of Pediatric Solutions, LLC.

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