Scalp Dermatitis Treatment in Singapore: Seborrheic Dermatitis & Scalp Eczema Care

Scalp seborrheic dermatitis is a common, chronic skin condition that causes redness, itching and greasy, flaky scales on the scalp. It is linked to excess oil and a sensitivity to Malassezia, a yeast that naturally lives on the skin. It can also affect the eyebrows, sides of the nose and behind the ears.

Not always. “Scalp eczema” is a broad term for an itchy, inflamed scalp, and seborrheic dermatitis (sometimes called seborrheic eczema) is its most common form. Atopic dermatitis is another type, more common in people with a personal or family history of eczema. A doctor can confirm which one you have.

No, but they overlap. Dandruff is usually milder flaking without much redness. Scalp seborrheic dermatitis typically adds redness, inflammation, itching and yellowish, greasy scales, and often keeps returning after anti-dandruff shampoo.

Seborrheic dermatitis is thought to be caused by a combination of excess oil, a sensitive immune reaction to Malassezia yeast, and genetic predisposition. Skin sensitivity and an imbalanced scalp microbiome may also contribute. Some health conditions are associated with it, so see a doctor if symptoms are severe or sudden.

Common triggers include stress, weather changes, harsh hair products, infrequent or incomplete rinsing, and hormonal shifts such as pregnancy or menopause. Triggers vary between people, so your therapist can help you identify patterns after a scalp analysis.

Seborrheic dermatitis is a chronic condition, so it is managed rather than cured. With consistent care, flare-ups can become less frequent and symptoms such as itching, redness and flaking easier to manage.

No. Scalp dermatitis cannot be passed from person to person. The yeast involved is already present on everyone’s skin, and the condition is about how your scalp responds to it.

Some people notice more hair shedding during flare-ups, often linked to inflammation or scratching. If you are concerned about thinning, a scalp analysis can help assess it, and we have hair loss treatments available.

Seborrheic dermatitis usually produces oily, yellowish scales, while scalp psoriasis typically has thicker, silvery scales and may appear on other parts of the body. They can look similar, so a doctor can confirm the diagnosis.

Anti-dandruff shampoos containing zinc pyrithione or selenium sulphide are commonly used. Choose a mild, sulphate-free formula and avoid strong fragrances and alcohol-heavy products. Ask a pharmacist or doctor about medicated options.

Many people with scalp dermatitis wash two to three times a week with a mild shampoo. Washing too little allows oil and yeast to build up, and over-washing can dry the scalp. Your therapist can tailor a routine to your scalp and lifestyle.

TrichoLab Dermatitis Care is a 90-minute scalp treatment in Singapore designed to help calm seborrheic dermatitis and eczema-type irritation. It has three steps: a scalp analysis, a scalp calming mask with steam, and an anti-fungal ampoule with soothing fluid. There is no downtime.

There is no downtime, and you can return to normal activities after your session. The treatment is not suitable if you have hair extensions.

See a doctor if your scalp is very painful, weeping or crusting, if the rash spreads across your face or body, if you notice significant hair shedding, or if symptoms don’t improve. TrichoLab can refer you to a doctor at SL Aesthetic Clinic when more advanced care is needed.