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Your clients with irritated, flaky scalps may have more than dandruff—it could be a skin condition that requires medical treatment.

LEARN TO SPOT THE SIGNS OF SEBORRHEIC DERMATITIS ("SEB DERM")

What is seb derm?

  • Seb derm is a chronic inflammatory condition that affects oily areas of the skin.
  • The exact cause is not known, but it is related to a combination of skin barrier disruption, oil gland activity, and yeast.
  • Often mistaken for dandruff, it usually appears on the scalp, ears, eyebrows, nose, face, neck, back, or chest.
  • Seb derm tends to come and go over time with flare-ups.
  • Stress, changes in hormones, and cold, dry weather can all trigger seb derm.
Over 10 million people in the US are living with seb derm

Be on the lookout for these symptoms:

Image of flakes symptom

Greasy or powdery flakes that may look like dandruff on the scalp, face, or chest.*

Image of redness symptom

Redness or discoloration, often pink on lighter skin tones or purple-gray on darker skin tones*

Image of scaling symptom

Scaling or buildup along the scalp or hairline*

Image of itchiness symptom

Itchiness, which can range from mild to intense

Image of irritatin symptom

Discoloration or irritation behind the ears or around the eyebrows or nose*

*Real patients with seb derm.

If your clients have one or more of these symptoms, encourage them to

take the 60-second scalp check

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Have them scan the QR code

What to know about over-the-counter treatments

Some of your clients may turn to medicated shampoos or other over-the-counter options to try to find relief, but they can cause dryness or damage hair color. Or you might have clients with hair textures or styles that make frequent shampooing impractical.

Outline graphic showing shampoo bottles
Group of women working in a salon
Group of women working in a salon

How can you help as a salon professional or barber?

You're in a unique position to recognize the signs of seb derm and confidently support clients who may be struggling with scalp irritation or flaking.

Download the Seb Derm Stylist Guide for:

  • Education on what seb derm is and how it appears on the scalp and face
  • Conversation tips to approach the topic with empathy and professionalism
  • Actionable guidance on when to recommend dermatologist evaluation
Download
Portrait of Jennifer Grim

“When someone’s sitting in my chair, they know they can ask me about anything. They trust that I’ll listen without judgment.”

– Jennifer Grim, co-owner of Solutions Studio and Spa in New York