Eczema & Dermatitis
Seborrheic Dermatitis of the Body
Seb derm
Common on the chest, back, and skin folds
No — you cannot catch it or spread it to others
Not permanently, but it is very manageable long-term
What Is It?
Seborrheic dermatitis can also appear on the trunk and in skin folds — most often the center of the chest, upper back, armpits, and groin. Like other forms, it is chronic, with flare-ups followed by calmer periods.
Signs & Symptoms
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Red or pink patches, sometimes with greasy yellow scale
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Round or oval patches on the chest or upper back
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Itching or soreness, especially in skin folds
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In folds, skin may look smooth and red with less obvious scale
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Patches that slowly expand or come and go over weeks
Why Does It Happen?
The same yeast (Malassezia), combined with natural skin oil, drives inflammation and faster skin turnover. Areas with more oil glands or trapped heat and moisture are more prone to flares. Triggers include heat, sweat, and tight clothing — NOT poor hygiene.
Treatment Options
Treatment aims to reduce yeast and calm inflammation, with gentler options used in skin folds where the skin is more delicate.
ANTIFUNGAL CREAM/WASH
Ketoconazole cream or a medicated wash used like a body wash on affected areas.
TOPICAL ANTI-INFLAMMATORY
Short course on the chest or back to calm active flares.
FOLD-SAFE OPTIONS
Gentler antifungal or steroid-free creams for sensitive fold areas.
MAINTENANCE WASH
Used 1–2 times weekly even after clearing to help prevent flares.
Tips for Managing It at Home
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Keep skin folds clean and dry; pat (don't rub) dry after showering
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Wear loose, breathable clothing to reduce sweating and friction
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Use a gentle, fragrance-free soap or wash
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Shower promptly after heavy sweating or exercise
When to Call Your Provider
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No improvement after 6–8 weeks of consistent treatment
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Signs of infection: increasing pain, warmth, swelling, or pus
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The rash spreads widely or becomes much more severe
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New symptoms elsewhere on the body that concern you
Sources & further reading
The information in this handout is based on general dermatology guidance from the reputable organizations below. These links are provided for patients who wish to read more from trusted sources.
American Academy of Dermatology (AAD). Seborrheic Dermatitis: Overview. https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/a-z/seborrheic-dermatitis-overview
Canadian Dermatology Association (CDA). Dandruff. https://dermatology.ca/public-patients/diseases-conditions/hair-conditions/dandruff/
DermNet. Seborrhoeic Dermatitis. https://dermnetnz.org/topics/seborrhoeic-dermatitis
MSD/Merck Manual. Seborrheic Dermatitis. https://www.msdmanuals.com/professional/dermatologic-disorders/dermatitis/seborrheic-dermatitis
This handout is for general education and does not replace advice from your own provider. Always follow your provider’s specific instructions.
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