Eczema & Dermatitis
Seborrheic Dermatitis of the Face
Seb derm; facial dandruff
Common — flares up in oil-rich areas of the face
No — you cannot catch it or spread it to others
Not permanently, but it is very manageable long-term
What Is It?
This is the same condition as scalp seborrheic dermatitis, but on the face — most often the eyebrows, sides of the nose, hairline, ears, and eyelids. It is chronic, with flare-ups followed by calmer periods when skin looks and feels normal.
Signs & Symptoms
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Red, slightly greasy or scaly patches on the face
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Flaking in the eyebrows or around the nose
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Itching or mild stinging, especially in cold weather
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Crusting or flaking along the eyelid margins (blepharitis)
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Symptoms that flare and then improve over weeks
Why Does It Happen?
The yeast Malassezia, present on everyone's skin, reacts with natural facial oil and triggers inflammation in people prone to this condition. Cold weather, stress, fatigue, and some skin products can trigger flares. It is NOT caused by poor hygiene.
Treatment Options
Facial skin is thinner and more sensitive than scalp skin, so treatment is gentler and used carefully, especially near the eyes.
ANTIFUNGAL CREAMS
Low-strength ketoconazole or similar, applied directly to affected areas.
MILD ANTI-INFLAMMATORY
Low-potency, short course only — face skin is thin and sensitive.
CALCINEURIN INHIBITORS
Tacrolimus/pimecrolimus — a steroid-free option safe for longer-term use.
GENTLE EYELID CARE
Warm compresses and gentle lid cleansing if eyelids are affected.
Tips for Managing It at Home
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Use a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser and lukewarm water
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Avoid heavy oils, alcohol-based toners, and scrubbing
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Protect skin from cold, dry air when possible
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Manage stress and prioritize adequate sleep
When to Call Your Provider
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No improvement after 6–8 weeks of consistent treatment
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Eye pain, irritation, or vision changes (if eyelids affected)
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Signs of infection: increasing pain, swelling, or pus
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The rash spreads or becomes much more severe
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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