How to prepare for a video visit about Dandruff (Seborrheic Dermatitis)

Audience: adult

Dandruff, medically known as seborrheic dermatitis, is a common skin condition that causes flaky, itchy scalp skin. It often appears as white or yellowish flakes and can sometimes affect other oily areas of the body. Preparing for a video visit with a healthcare provider can help you get the most from your appointment. During the visit, you can discuss your symptoms, show affected areas on camera, and receive advice on managing your condition. Telemedicine can be a convenient way to get support for dandruff, especially if your symptoms are mild or typical. However, if you notice severe symptoms or signs of infection, you should seek in-person care. This guide will help you prepare for your video visit, understand what telemedicine can and cannot address, and know when to seek urgent care.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Severe redness, swelling, or pain on the scalp — seek in-person medical care promptly.
• Pus, oozing, or signs of infection on the scalp — urgent evaluation needed.
• Sudden hair loss or large patches of scalp affected — consult a healthcare provider soon.

What telemedicine can do

• Mild to moderate dandruff symptoms.
• Initial evaluation and advice on over-the-counter treatments.
• Follow-up visits to monitor treatment response.
• Education about skin care and symptom management.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Severe scalp infections or abscesses.
• Symptoms suggesting other serious skin conditions.
• Need for laboratory tests or skin biopsies.
• Emergency symptoms like intense pain or sudden hair loss.

What is Dandruff (Seborrheic Dermatitis)?

Dandruff is a skin condition that causes flakes on your scalp and sometimes redness or itching. It happens when the skin produces extra oil and skin cells that shed more quickly than usual. This can lead to white or yellow flakes that you might see in your hair or on your clothes. It can also affect areas like your eyebrows, sides of your nose, and behind your ears. While dandruff is common and not contagious, it can be uncomfortable and sometimes embarrassing.

How Telemedicine Can Help with Dandruff

Through a video visit, you can show your healthcare provider the affected areas and describe your symptoms. They can help determine if your condition looks like typical dandruff or if it might be something else. Providers can suggest treatments such as medicated shampoos, creams, or lifestyle changes. Telemedicine is convenient for follow-up visits or if you have mild symptoms that do not require physical examination or tests.

When Telemedicine May Not Be Enough

If your dandruff is severe, spreading quickly, or accompanied by pain, swelling, or signs of infection (like pus), telemedicine may not be enough. In these cases, an in-person visit is important to get a thorough examination and possibly lab tests or stronger treatments. Also, if you have other skin conditions or your symptoms do not improve with treatment, you may need to see a healthcare provider face-to-face.

Preparing for Your Video Visit

To get ready for your video visit:

What to Expect During the Video Visit

During the visit, your provider will ask about your symptoms and medical history. They may ask you to show your scalp and other affected areas on camera. They will discuss possible causes and suggest treatment options. You can ask questions about how to use treatments and what to expect. Your provider may recommend follow-up visits if needed.

After Your Video Visit

After the visit, follow the treatment plan your provider gives you. Use medicated shampoos or creams as directed. Keep track of any changes in your symptoms. If your condition worsens or you develop new symptoms, contact your healthcare provider. Schedule follow-up appointments if recommended.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Choose a quiet, well-lit area for your video visit.
• Ensure your device is charged and internet connection is stable.
• Remove any hats, scarves, or hair products covering your scalp.
• Prepare to show affected scalp areas clearly on camera.
• Write down your symptoms, their duration, and any treatments tried.
• List any other health conditions and medications you are taking.
• Prepare questions or concerns to discuss with your provider.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the treatment plan and use medications as directed.
• Monitor your symptoms for improvement or worsening.
• Avoid scratching or irritating the scalp further.
• Maintain scalp hygiene with recommended shampoos or cleansers.
• Contact your healthcare provider if symptoms worsen or new symptoms develop.
• Schedule follow-up visits if advised by your provider.

FAQs

What causes dandruff (seborrheic dermatitis)?

Dandruff is caused by a combination of factors including excess oil production, irritation from a yeast that lives on the skin, and rapid skin cell turnover. It is not caused by poor hygiene and is not contagious.

Can I treat dandruff at home?

Yes, many cases of dandruff improve with over-the-counter medicated shampoos containing ingredients like zinc pyrithione, selenium sulfide, or ketoconazole. It's important to follow the instructions and be consistent with treatment.

When should I see a healthcare provider?

If your dandruff is severe, does not improve with home treatment, causes significant itching or discomfort, or if you notice redness, swelling, or signs of infection, you should seek medical advice.

Is dandruff related to other skin conditions?

Yes, seborrheic dermatitis can be related to other skin conditions like psoriasis or eczema. Sometimes, what looks like dandruff may be another condition, so a healthcare provider can help with diagnosis.

Can stress affect dandruff?

Stress may worsen dandruff symptoms in some people, possibly by affecting the immune system or skin health. Managing stress can be part of overall care.

Sources

1. Seborrheic Dermatitis — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Seborrheic Dermatitis — Mayo Clinic.
3. Seborrheic Dermatitis: Overview and Treatment — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
4. Seborrheic Dermatitis — Merck Manuals Consumer Version.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional in-person medical care. If you have urgent or severe symptoms, please seek immediate medical attention.