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Real members of MySebDermTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.
A MySebDermTeam Member asked a question 💭

When I use shampoo, my hair dries out and starts to itch. Then it gets oily and itchy again; it feels oily but dry. Then when I wash it, it's very dry again. I have no idea what to do.
1- What should I use?

2- How should I moisturize?

3- Should I do a night treatment?

Please help if you have any information.

December 24, 2025
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A MySebDermTeam Member

Seborrheic dermatitis is often associated with an overgrowth of a genus of fungus known as Malassezia. It is a yeast that naturally occurs on the skin. This type of yeast requires fat for nourishment, which is why it is commonly found near the sebaceous glands. When something causes an overgrowth of the yeast, it can trigger an inflammatory response. Dry or cold weather can lead to flares of dandruff symptoms. So can hormonal shifts, a buildup of hairstyling products or the warm and humid microclimate created by wearing a hat or wig.

Treatment of seborrheic dermatitis on the scalp has two main targets. One is to reduce the colonization of the Malassezia yeast. The other is to manage any symptoms of inflammation that are making the person uncomfortable. When the sebaceous glands of the scalp are overactive, they produce an abundance of sebum. This, in turn, can encourage the growth of the Malassezia yeast associated with dandruff symptoms. When this occurs, modulating sebum production is also an important part of managing the condition.

The shampoo that you have been advised to use contains an antifungal agent that is designed to slow or stop the growth of the yeast. However, because it does not completely eradicate the yeast, ongoing use of the shampoo is necessary to manage the fungal infection. Because reducing sebum production is also one of the goals of treatment, these products can lead to dry hair, as you have experienced. Dandruff shampoos also contain ingredients to ease itchiness and reduce flaking. These shampoos come in a variety of formulas, with different added ingredients. With a bit of trial and error, you can find the brand of shampoo that works best for your specific situation. Some people find using a rotation of different products can be helpful.

Listen to your doctors instructions. He is there to guide you through treatments, and it’s a hit and miss a lot of time. Work with them.

December 27, 2025 (edited)
A MySebDermTeam Member

Factors to consider when choosing a conditioner
When choosing a conditioner for seborrheic dermatitis, there are several factors to consider to ensure that you select the best product for your needs. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

Ingredients: Look for conditioners that contain natural ingredients such as tea tree oil, aloe vera, and chamomile. These ingredients can help soothe the scalp and reduce inflammation. Avoid conditioners that contain oils that may aggravate seb derm, sulfates, parabens, or synthetic fragrances as these can irritate the scalp and worsen seborrheic dermatitis.
Moisturizing: Seborrheic dermatitis can cause dryness and flakiness of the scalp. Therefore, it’s important to choose a conditioner that is moisturizing and can help hydrate the scalp. Look for conditioners that contain ingredients such as shea butter or jojoba oil, which can help moisturize the scalp and hair.
Anti-fungal properties: Seborrheic dermatitis is caused by an overgrowth of Malassezia yeast on the scalp. It would be great if your conditioner has anti-fungal properties but it’s not the end of the world if it doesn’t. I assume you’re already using an anti-fungal shampoo and maybe even anti-fungal scalp serums.
PH balance: The PH of the conditioner is important as it can affect your scalp micro-environment. Look for conditioners that have a PH balance of around 5.5, which is similar to the natural PH balance of the scalp.

December 27, 2025
MySebDermTeam

How can you manage hair that feels both oily and dry with seborrheic dermatitis?

That oily-yet-dry feeling is frustrating, but you're not alone in experiencing it. Here's what might help:

What to use:

Consider trying medicated shampoos designed for seborrheic dermatitis. Some options include
* Shampoos with ketoconazole Show Full Answer

How can you manage hair that feels both oily and dry with seborrheic dermatitis?

That oily-yet-dry feeling is frustrating, but you're not alone in experiencing it. Here's what might help:

What to use:

Consider trying medicated shampoos designed for seborrheic dermatitis. Some options include:
* Shampoos with ketoconazole (1% available over-the-counter)
* Salicylic acid shampoos (around 3%)
* Dandruff shampoos with antifungal or anti-inflammatory ingredients

A MySebDermTeam member shared success with rotating between at least two different dandruff shampoos to improve effectiveness and prevent your scalp from becoming tolerant to one ingredient.

When using medicated shampoos, massage them thoroughly into your scalp and leave for 5-10 minutes before rinsing to help the medication absorb.

How to moisturize:

After washing, apply a fragrance-free moisturizer while your skin is still warm and damp to lock in hydration. Look for alcohol-free products, as alcohol can dry out your skin and scalp further.

If you use antifungal treatments that dry out your hair, consider using them just once weekly with a moisturizing conditioner.

Night treatments:

Some MySebDermTeam members have found success leaving certain products on overnight, though this depends on the specific product. Check the instructions or ask your dermatologist for guidance.

Other helpful tips include rinsing with cool water after shampooing and trying an apple cider vinegar rinse to calm itchiness.

December 24, 2025

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