Flaky, Itchy Scalp This Winter? Let’s Decode Seborrheic Dermatitis Together

Winter brings pleasant weather, cosy clothing, and warm drinks—but for many people, it also brings an itchy, flaky scalp that can be uncomfortable and embarrassing. If you notice white or yellowish flakes, redness, or persistent itching on your scalp during winter, you might be dealing with seborrheic dermatitis.

At Dr. Divya Sharma’s Skin & Hair Clinic in Bangalore, we frequently see patients who confuse seborrheic dermatitis with simple dandruff. While they may look similar, seborrheic dermatitis is a chronic skin condition that needs proper dermatological care.

Let’s understand what it is, why it worsens in winter, and how it can be effectively managed.

What Is Seborrheic Dermatitis?

Seborrheic dermatitis is a common inflammatory skin condition that mainly affects areas rich in oil (sebaceous) glands, such as:

Scalp

Eyebrows

Sides of the nose

Behind the ears

Chest

On the scalp, it appears as persistent dandruff with redness, itching, and greasy flakes. Unlike regular dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis may extend beyond the scalp and often keeps coming back if not treated properly.

Why Does Seborrheic Dermatitis Get Worse in Winter?

Winter can trigger or worsen seborrheic dermatitis due to several reasons:

Dry weather reduces skin moisture, weakening the scalp barrier

Cold temperatures slow down skin repair

Less sun exposure, which normally helps control inflammation

Stress and lifestyle changes during winter months

Overuse of hot water for hair washing

These factors create the perfect environment for yeast (Malassezia) on the scalp to multiply, leading to inflammation and flaking.

Common Symptoms to Watch Out For

Seborrheic dermatitis can vary from mild to severe. Common signs include:

White or yellow flakes on the scalp

Persistent itching

Red or inflamed scalp

Greasy or oily patches

Flakes falling on shoulders

Burning or discomfort in severe cases

If symptoms last for weeks or keep returning, it’s important to consult a dermatologist instead of relying only on over-the-counter shampoos.

Is Seborrheic Dermatitis Contagious?

No. Seborrheic dermatitis is not contagious and is not caused by poor hygiene. It is linked to:

Skin sensitivity

Excess oil production

Yeast overgrowth

Genetic and immune factors

Proper diagnosis helps in controlling it effectively.

How Is Seborrheic Dermatitis Treated?

Treatment depends on the severity and scalp condition. At Dr. Divya Sharma’s Skin & Hair Clinic, Bangalore, treatment is customised for each patient and may include:

Medicated anti-fungal shampoos

Anti-inflammatory lotions or serums

Short-term medicated solutions for flare-ups

Gentle scalp care routines

With the right treatment plan, symptoms can be controlled, and flare-ups can be reduced significantly.

Winter Scalp Care Tips to Manage Seborrheic Dermatitis

Here are some dermatologist-approved tips to keep your scalp healthy in winter:

Use only prescribed medicated shampoos

Avoid scratching the scalp

Do not use very hot water for hair wash

Limit the use of styling products

Maintain a balanced diet and manage stress

Avoid oiling the scalp unless advised by your doctor

Consistency is key—seborrheic dermatitis improves with regular care, not overnight fixes.

When Should You See a Dermatologist?

You should consult a dermatologist if:

Dandruff does not improve with regular shampoos

Itching or redness is severe

Flakes spread to face or ears

Hair fall increases due to scalp inflammation

Early treatment helps prevent complications and improves comfort.

Expert Care at Dr. Divya Sharma – Skin & Hair Clinic, Bangalore

At Dr. Divya Sharma’s Skin & Hair Clinic, we focus on accurate diagnosis, root-cause treatment, and long-term scalp health. With personalised care and evidence-based treatments, we help patients manage seborrheic dermatitis effectively—especially during challenging winter months.

If your scalp is itchy, flaky, or uncomfortable this winter, don’t ignore it. Professional care can make all the difference.

📍 Location: Bangalore
📞 Book a consultation today for expert scalp and skin care