Seborrheic dermatitis (SD) is a non-contagious chronic inflammatory skin disease characterized by erythema, pruritus, scaling, and impaired skin barrier function. Its pathogenesis involves the interplay of increased sebum production, overgrowth of yeasts of the genus Malassezia, altered immune response, and weakened protective skin function. As the disease significantly affects patients' quality of life, appropriate daily skin and scalp care using properly formulated cosmetic products plays an important role alongside therapeutic treatment. For this purpose, an analysis of 44 cosmetic products intended for use on skin affected by seborrheic dermatitis and available on the Slovenian market at the time of the review was conducted. Based on their intended use, the products were divided into three groups: skincare products, skin cleansing products, and hair and scalp products. We identified thirteen most commonly represented active ingredients targeting individual pathophysiological mechanisms of SD. Pyroctone olamine emerged as the most prevalent ingredient, included in 26 products (59.1 %), followed by D-panthenol, alpha-bisabolol, allantoin, climbazole, lactic acid, salicylic acid, zinc pyrrolidone carboxylate (zinc PCA), Lactobacillus ferment, and various plant extracts. Among the active ingredients, those with soothing and anti-inflammatory effects predominated, whereas ingredients with antifungal activity against Malassezia yeasts were less frequently represented. Analysis of excipients revealed that preservatives and fragrances were most commonly present in the products, colorants were less frequently used, while none of the analyzed products contained UV-filters. Toxicological assessment of the most frequently represented ingredients confirmed their safety when used at permitted concentrations, as no significant concerns regarding genotoxicity, carcinogenicity, phototoxicity, or teratogenicity were identified. Nevertheless, certain fragrance components, preservatives, and colorants may cause irritation or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals, requiring a certain degree of caution when selecting products. Based on the findings, the analyzed products were compliant with the requirements of European legislation and appropriately formulated from a safety perspective. Comprehensive analysis of their composition, active ingredients, and safety aspects thus contributes to a better understanding of their suitability for use in SD and can facilitate the selection of appropriate dermocosmetic products for patients and other users.
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