Seborrheic Dermatitis & Parkinson’s Disease

Written By Courtney Doherty

1. Changes in the nervous system

Parkinson’s disease (PD) affects the autonomic nervous system, which helps regulate things like skin function, oil (sebum) production and immune responses. Normal skin defence and cell turnover can be altered, creating an environment where dermatitis is more likely to develop

  • The skin may produce more oil 

  • Seborrheic dermatitis thrives in oily areas (scalp, eyebrows, nose folds, ears, chest)

  • Increase stress or immune response can also lead to symptoms of dermatitis

2. Overgrowth of normal skin yeast

Seborrheic dermatitis is also linked to a common skin yeast called Malassezia. 

In PD:

  • Increased oil + altered immune responses
    → allows this yeast to grow more than usual

  • → triggers redness, flaking, and itching

3. Reduced facial movement

Some people with PD have less facial movement (hypomimia) than usual. This can lead to:

  • Oil and sweat not being distributed normally

  • Skin staying oilier in certain areas contributing to inflammation and/or scaling

4. Medication role (minor effects)

PD medications are not a primary cause, but in some people they may:

  • Slightly increase sweating or oiliness

  • Reveal pre-existing seborrheic dermatitis

5. Treatment and Prevention

*This is for informative purposes only and should not to replace any recommendations from your general practitioner, dermatologist or neurologist

Gentle cleansing

        • Wash the face once daily with a mild, non-soap cleanser

        • Avoid scrubbing or harsh products or using water that is too hot

Antifungal cream (first line)

        • A light cream like ketoconazole applied once daily for 2–4 weeks

        • This treats the underlying cause, not just the symptoms

Short-term anti-inflammatory cream (if very red or itchy)

        • A low-strength steroid or non-steroid anti-inflammatory cream

        • Used briefly (a few days only) to settle inflammation

        • Not for long-term daily use on the face as it can thin skin

Moisturizer

        • Use a light, fragrance-free moisturizer

        • Helps protect the skin barrier and reduce recurrence

Maintenance

        • Once improved, treatment is often needed only occasionally

        • Flare-ups are common in PD and expected

Courtney Doherty
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