The condition is related to the overproduction of a yeast known as malassezia, which is naturally found on the skin, but in certain babies, develops excessively.
Infantile seborrheic dermatitis tends to present in areas of the body where there are a lot of sebaceous (oil-producing) glands, such as the scalp, nose and back, but in babies, it may also occur in the nappy area or in the folds of the skin.
While infantile seborrheic dermatitis may look very red and scaly, and can cause the developing hair to fall out, parents can be reassured that the condition doesn’t usually bother the baby. In the vast majority of cases, infantile seborrheic dermatitis usually resolves before the baby’s first birthday, on average at about 6 months old.
In some cases, infantile seborrheic dermatitis can develop into atopic eczema, and this may need further treatment a GP will be able to diagnose and treat this.
Treatment for infantile seborrheic dermatitis are available over the counter from the chemist, but if parents stop using them when they see results, the condition may recur. It’s typical to see the patches change colour and appear to match the surrounding skin after treatment, but when treatment is discontinued, the skin will once again become discoloured as patches redevelop over the course of several weeks.
In older children and adults, seborrheic dermatitis on the scalp is usually just called dandruff, and in contrast to other forms of eczema, seborrheic dermatitis is not an allergy.
Infantile Seborrheic Dermatitis
Treatment for infantile seborrheic dermatitis are available over the counter from the chemist, but if parents stop using them when they see results, the condition may recur.
It’s typical to see the patches change colour and appear to match the surrounding skin after treatment, but when treatment is discontinued, the skin will once again become discoloured as patches redevelop over the course of several weeks.
Symptoms of Infantile Seborrheic Dermatitis
The symptoms of infantile seborrheic dermatitis are;
- Discolouration and a different texture compared to the rest of the baby’s skin, for example, a yellow crust;
- Red skin that has white or yellow flaky scales or lesions;
- Areas of the skin that are blotchy and pink, and join up with the red skin;
- Areas of the skin that are swollen.
It should be reassuring to parents that the majority of babies are not bothered by the symptoms of infantile seborrheic dermatitis.
There are 3 different areas that can present with symptoms of infantile seborrheic dermatitis, and they are;
On the scalp
In the diaper area
In the folds of the skin
In more severe cases of infantile seborrheic dermatitis, parents should monitor the baby’s skin for signs of infection, for example;
- Areas of the skin that feel hot to the touch;
- Areas of the skin that weeps fluid;
- A noticeable change in odour of the skin.
If your baby does have an infection, visit the GP so that treatment can be prescribed.
Causes of Infantile Seborrheic Dermatitis
The exact cause of infantile seborrheic dermatitis is unknown, but it is linked to the sebaceous glands and believed to be a combination of factors.
These factors include;
- The overproduction of a naturally-occurring yeast that lives on the skin;
- Genetic factors, such as a family history of seborrheic dermatitis;
- Stress;
- Exposure to certain chemicals that are irritants;
- Dry or cold weather conditions that cause the skin to overproduce oil;
- Residual hormones associated with pregnancy that are present in the mother.
Treatment of Infantile Seborrheic Dermatitis at Derma
The appointment will begin with an examination of the infant’s skin (also called a skin check) and the parents’ medical histories, which will allow the dermatologist to rule out any underlying or co-occurring condition.
Together with the dermatologist, you will be able to discuss the latest and most effective treatments and explain all potential side-effects, enabling you to select the best option for your child.
Most cases of infantile seborrheic dermatitis can be managed using topical treatments available from chemists, but prescription creams may be helpful in more severe cases.
Whatever your baby’s needs, you can rest assured that Derma will provide the very best care for their sensitive skin, with access to the latest research and treatment methods.
Related Specialists at Derma
Dr Rima Clayton
Consultant Dermatologist
Dr Rima Clayton is a UK trained Consultant Dermatologist who practises in Reading and Oxford. She is fully trained in both paediatric and adult dermatology.
Dr Inge Kreuser-Genis
Consultant Dermatologist
Dr Kreuser-Genis is a UK trained Consultant Dermatologist who practices in Reading and Oxford. She is fully trained in both paediatric and adult dermatology.