Topical Calcineurin Inhibitors
While seborrheic dermatitis cannot be treated permanently, the good news is that there are treatments available that can help lessen the symptoms and improve overall skin conditions. One such treatment is topical calcineurin inhibitors (TCIs).
Topical calcineurin inhibitors are immunosuppressants that work by inhibiting the activity of an enzyme called calcineurin. This enzyme plays a role in the body’s inflammatory response, and by inhibiting its activity, TCIs help to reduce inflammation. Topical calcineurin inhibitors are available as creams, gels, or foams and are applied directly to the skin’s affected area(s).
There are two main types of topical calcineurin inhibitors: tacrolimus and pimecrolimus. Both medications are FDA-approved for treating seborrheic dermatitis in adults and children two years of age and older. In clinical trials, tacrolimus and pimecrolimus effectively improved seborrheic dermatitis symptoms like itching, redness, scaling, and burning.
Topical calcineurin inhibitors are usually well-tolerated, but side effects can include burning, stinging, itching, and redness at the application site. These side effects are typically mild and go away on their own within a few days.
