Seborrhoeic dermatitis
For dose, refer to product literature.
Apply according to product information
Apply according to product information
For treatment of seborrhoeic dermatitis and dandruff apply twice weekly for 2-4 weeks.
Apply as required.
Prescribing Notes:
- Treatment depends on the severity of the condition. Shampoo formulations are preferred for moderate scaly scalp conditions whereas more severe conditions may require an ointment.
- Ketoconazole shampoo is often helpful for seborrhoeic dermatitis of the scalp.
- Use emollients for dry flaky skin. See Dermatitis – contact treatment with emollients pathways for choices.
- Mild potency steroid, topical antifungal, or a combination product with both may be used for mild disease affecting the face. For choices see Eczema ‘Treatment with mild topical corticosteroids’ and ‘Treatment with topical corticosteroids combined with antimicrobials’ pathways.
History Notes
17/12/2024
Neutrogena T/Gel Therapeutic shampoo (Coal tar extract 2% shampoo) discontinued from Feb 2025.
15/12/2021
East Region Formulary content agreed.
For dose, refer to product literature.
For dose, refer to BNF for children.
For dose, refer to BNF for children.
For dose, refer to BNF for children.
For dose, refer to BNF for children.
Prescribing Notes:
- Treatment depends on the severity of the condition. Shampoo formulations are preferred for moderate scaly scalp conditions whereas more severe conditions may require an ointment.
- Ketoconazole shampoo is often helpful for seborrhoeic dermatitis of the scalp.
- Use emollients for dry flaky skin. See Dermatitis – contact treatment with emollients pathways for choices.
- Mild potency steroid, topical antifungal, or a combination product with both may be used for mild disease affecting the face. For choices see Eczema ‘Treatment with mild topical corticosteroids’ and ‘Treatment with topical corticosteroids combined with antimicrobials’ pathways.
History Notes
17/12/2024
Neutrogena T/Gel Therapeutic shampoo (Coal tar extract 2% shampoo) discontinued from Feb 2025.
31/05/2024
East Region Formulary content agreed.
Dose according to age and product licence.
Dose according to age and product licence.
Dose according to age and product licence.
Dose according to age and product licence.
Prescribing Notes:
- Treatment depends on the severity of the condition. Shampoo formulations are preferred for moderate scaly scalp conditions whereas more severe conditions may require an ointment.
- Ketoconazole shampoo is often helpful for seborrhoeic dermatitis of the scalp.
- Frequent shampooing (unless medicated) and harsh brushing should be avoided.
- Cradle cap requires no specific treatment and usually clears up on its own after a number of weeks or months. Cradle cap in infants can be treated with olive oil. Advise parent to gently massage a small amount of olive oil into the scalp at night to help to soften and loosen the scales. In the morning use a soft baby brush or cloth to gently remove any loose particles and then wash the hair with a baby shampoo. It's important not to pick at the scales because it may cause an infection.
History Notes
19/12/2024
Olive oil liquid removed, content agreed ERFC Dec 2024
05/04/2023
Removing 'Selenium sulfide 2.5% shampoo' to align with Pharmacy First list.
27/10/2020
Content migrated from ‘East Region Formulary: Pharmacy First - supporting minor ailments’ document.