Skip to main content
Login to MyChart

Help us elevate and expand our care, make breakthroughs in biomedical science and improve community health and wellness.

Donate today

Search UVM Health

Healthwise

Seborrheic dermatitis

Seborrheic dermatitis is a skin condition that causes a rash with greasy, flaky skin patches. It often occurs on the scalp and face. The rash may also appear on other parts of the body, such as the ears and the genital area.

This condition can affect people of all ages. In babies, it's called cradle cap, and it usually goes away without treatment.

In teens and adults, seborrheic dermatitis is usually treated with antifungal shampoos and medicines that are put on the skin. Treatment doesn't cure this dermatitis, but it can help control the symptoms.

This is often a long-term (chronic) condition, with symptoms that come and go. Stress can make symptoms worse. So can weather that's cold and dry.

Current as of: May 1, 2025

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Ignite Healthwise, LLC education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Ignite Healthwise, LLC, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.

© 2024-2026 Ignite Healthwise, LLC.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Ignite Healthwise, LLC, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.

844-UVM-HEALTH

Give to a Healthier Future

Help us elevate and expand our care, make breakthroughs in biomedical science and improve community health and wellness.

Healthier communities. Healthiest lives. Together.

University of Vermont Medical Center

111 Colchester Ave
Burlington, VT 05401

802-847-0000

Golisano Children's Hospital

111 Colchester Ave
Burlington, VT 05401

802-847-0000

Central Vermont Medical Center

130 Fisher Road
Berlin, VT 05602

802-371-4100

Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital

75 Beekman Street
Plattsburgh, NY 12901

518-561-2000

Elizabethtown Community Hospital

75 Park Street
Elizabethtown, NY 12932

518-873-6377

Alice Hyde Medical Center

133 Park Street
Malone, NY 12953

518-483-3000

Porter Medical Center

115 Porter Drive
Middlebury, VT 05753

802-388-4701

Home Health & Hospice

1110 Prim Road
Colchester, VT 05446

802-658-1900

© 2026 University of Vermont Health
Jump back to top