If severe outbreaks are untreated
for extended intervals, permanent
hair loss may result, because of damage to
hair follicles.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Seborrhoeic_dermatitis
Soaps and detergents such as sodium laureate sulfate may precipitate a flare-up, as they strip moisture from the top layers of the skin, and the drying property of these can cause flare-ups and may worsen the condition. Accordingly a suitable alternative should be used instead.