Seborrheic Dermatitis

Scalp with flakes
Photo: Vitalinka/Shutterstock
Q: I sometimes get seborrheic dermatitis. This just makes my head itch and the scalp look pink, but I don't get scaly patches or dandruff. I use Neutrogena T Gel shampoo and that helps a bit.
 
Can having seborrheic dermatitis damage the hair roots? I also get spots on my scalp sometimes occasional at the back of the neck or near the temples. Can these spots cause permanent damage to hair follicles?
 
A: According to the Mayo Clinic, seborrheic dermatitis is a common skin disorder that mainly affects the scalp (but can be present on other areas of the body). It is neither harmful nor contagious, but can be uncomfortable and unsightly.
 
There's no indication that seborrheic dermatitis in any way damages the hair follicles. However, if the dermatitis becomes so uncomfortable that you lose sleep or are distracted from your daily routines, if it becomes painful, or if you see signs of the skin in these areas becoming infected, you should consult your doctor immediately.
 
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See also:
 
Dandruff
 
Hair problems
 
Scalp problems
 
Hair diseases