How To Cure Seborrheic Dermatitis?

Though a common skin condition, seborrheic dermatitis can be bothersome. Constant itchiness, scaling, and, in worst cases, damage to the skin can disrupt regular functioning. In this article, we discuss some ways to keep this condition under control while providing all the necessary information to help you deal with it better

What Is Seborrheic Dermatitis?

Seborrheic is related to the oil glands and dermatitis is skin inflammation. Seborrheic dermatitis or seborrheic eczema is an inflammatory skin concern, especially affecting areas rich in oil glands like the scalp, eyebrows, sides of the nose, ear, neck, back or chest. Mild seborrheic dermatitis is also called dandruff, while experts classify the more severe cases as seborrheic eczema and seborrheic psoriasis. Among infants, it is called cradle cap.

Signs & Symptoms Of Seborrheic Dermatitis 

• You will notice itchy white flakes or scales on the scalp (dandruff). They can also spread to the eyebrow, moustache or beard. These flakes can become loose and fall if you touch or scratch the areas.
• More severe cases have greasy yellow or white scales covering the skin in patches on the scalp, eyebrows, ears, sides of the nose, eyelids (with blepharitis or inflammation of the lids), chest or below breast, back, armpits or groin folds.
• Itchy, red or darker rashes (depending on skin tone) on the affected areas.
• Ring or petal-shaped rashes on the chest

Who Gets Seborrheic Dermatitis?

Seborrheic dermatitis can affect anyone at any age, but it is more common among children below 2 years, adolescents in their teens and adults above 30 years. It is more common in males of these age groups.

It usually clears up on its own in infants, but adults have a relapsing and remitting chronic course for years, which requires continued treatment.

People suffering from immunosuppressive diseases like HIV-AIDS and neurological conditions like Parkinson’s are also prone to seborrheic dermatitis

Causes Of Seborrheic Dermatitis

Here are the contributing factors:

1. Malassezia:

   Overgrowth of this yeast fungus present on our skin.

2. Raised Androgen (male hormone) Levels:

   This can lead to more oil or sebum secretion and inflammation.

3. Inflammation And Altered Lipid Barrier Of The Skin:

   An inflammatory reaction in the top layer of the skin associated with a disturbed lipid barrier of the skin leads to features of scaling and redness.

4. Cold, Dry Climate:

   Seborrheic dermatitis is more pronounced in winter.

5. Genetic Predisposition:

   People with a family history have a higher risk.

6. Certain Health Conditions:

   HIV-AIDS, psoriasis or Parkinson’s disease can contribute to seborrheic dermatitis.

What Does Seborrheic Dermatitis Look Like?

• The main characteristics of seborrheic dermatitis are flaking and scaling.
• In infants, thick white or yellow greasy scales on the scalp or cradle cap is typical.
• In adolescents and adults, it appears as white flaky dandruff in mild cases and yellowish greasy scales in more severe cases in the scalp.
• There may be red patches beside the nose, around the ears, chest or back areas.
• You may notice redness in body creases like armpits or groins.
• Sometimes, you may notice ring or petal shaped scaly lesions on the chest.

Diagnosis Of Seborrheic Dermatitis

A dermatologist will check the lesions on the body and scalp for their characteristic appearance. In rare cases, they may do a biopsy by removing a small part of your skin.

How To Cure Seborrheic Dermatitis?

There are different solutions that can help you manage seborrheic dermatitis. Let us take a look at them:

Infant cradle cap is a benign condition and mostly resolves by itself. For severe and distressing cases, dermatologists may prescribe oils and shampoos.

Adolescent and adult seborrheic dermatitis is usually a long-term disease that comes and goes and does not have a specific cure. Based on the severity and the area affected, dermatologists recommend solutions. They prescribe anti-fungal shampoos and steroid lotions for scalp lesions. For body lesions, they suggest topical creams. Some people may need topical steroids temporarily. For severe cases, they recommend oral immunomodulators.

Must Read: What Causes Dry Skin & How To Get Rid Of It?

Topical And Oral Medications To Treat Seborrheic Dermatitis

As already mentioned, infantile seborrheic dermatitis usually does not need treatment. You can use oils to loosen the scales and gently remove them with a comb for symptomatic relief.
If it is severe then the following options can help:

Scalp Treatment

• Anti-Fungal Shampoos And Lotions:

  Ketoconazole and Ciclopirox are two antifungals in shampoo or lotion form you can apply to the scalp 2-3 times a week. If your condition is severe, you can use it daily. They reduce inflammation and remove scales.

• Other Shampoos:

  Zinc Pyrithione, Selenium Sulfide, coal tar, tea tree oil and salicylic acid are other ingredients in anti-dandruff shampoos with anti-fungal or anti-inflammatory properties. However, these are not effective in severe cases.

• Steroid Lotions And Shampoos:

  These work for severe cases and contain Clobetasol, betamethasone, fluocinolone, etc., which can rapidly control the symptoms and give relief from itching and scaling. However, they also cause side effects, and doctors may not recommend them for the long term.

Body And Face Treatment

• Anti-Fungal Creams And Lotions:

  Similar to the scalp, applying topical anti-fungals once or twice a day can also help treat body lesions.

• Steroid Creams And Lotions:

  Clobetasol, Desonide, Betamethasone creams and lotions are the first choice for treating face and body lesions. But you should use it under supervision as they may cause side effects like atrophy.

• Others

  For persistent lesions, experts suggest calcineurin inhibitors like tacrolimus creams, ointments or lotions as they are free from the side effects of steroids.

For severe cases, experts will recommend an oral anti-fungal course of medications like Itraconazole or Fluconazole.

Seborrheic Dermatitis Home Remedies

Here are some home remedies that can help keep your seborrheic dermatitis under control:

1. Proper Skin And Hair Care

   Keeping your hair and skin clean and moisturised will prevent the accumulation of dirt or fungus, keeping seborrheic dermatitis in control.

2. Apple Cider Vinegar

   Diluting apple cider vinegar with water and applying it to the scalp will help soften the scales, which can be washed off with the appropriate shampoo.

3. Omega-3 Fatty Acids

   Fish oil and Omega-3 fatty acid supplements have anti-inflammatory properties and including them in the diet can reduce flares of seborrheic dermatitis.

4. Aloe Vera

   Aloe vera supplements and topical application of aloe vera gel, both have soothing, anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce symptoms of seborrheic dermatitis.

5. Essential Oils

   Tea tree oil applied topically with a carrier oil like olive oil or coconut oil for 1-2 hours before shampoo can also help reduce scaling and itching. Other essential oils, like evening primrose oil and black seed oil, can also help.

6. Antioxidants

   Including plenty of antioxidants like vitamins E and C can reduce the body’s natural inflammatory tendencies.

Seborrheic Dermatitis Diet

While there is no specific diet that can treat seborrheic dermatitis, certain dietary habits can help manage it and prevent it from worsening:  

• Avoid foods made of yeast, such as breads and other complex carbohydrates, and alcoholic drinks like beer.
• Take probiotic supplements to repopulate the gut with helpful bacteria.
• Take an anti-inflammatory or Mediterranean diet.
• Take Omega 3 fatty acids through foods like fatty fish or supplements.
• Take biotin supplements.

It is best to consult an expert dermatologist before making changes to your diet to avoid any other health complications. They will direct you to a nutritionist who can offer professional meal advice.

When To Visit A Dermatologist?

You should visit a dermatologist if

• Your baby’s cradle cap is not resolving on its own or causing severe discomfort.
• Your lesions are not resolving within a week with self-care, home remedies and diet.
• Your lesions cover a large part of face or body.
• Your lesions are severe and/or painful.
• Your lesions are extremely red, crusted or leaking pus.
• Your lesions are causing you significant discomfort and need medical attention.

Dermatologists advise treating seborrheic dermatitis early to prevent further complications like dark spots and infection.

Must Read: How To Take Care Of Dehydrated Skin?

Seborrheic Dermatitis Vs Psoriasis 

Feature	Psoriasis	Seborrheic Dermatitis
Body Lesions	More commonly on the extensor surface (e.g., elbows, knees)	Concentrated on areas rich in oil glands (e.g., face, chest, back, ears, body folds like armpits or groin)
Scalp Lesions	Well-defined, circular lesions with a red erythematous base and adherent white scales	Diffuse lesions covered with yellowish greasy scales
Diagnostic Approach	Biopsy may be necessary to differentiate from seborrheic dermatitis	Biopsy may be necessary if clinical differentiation is not possible; examining a small piece of skin under a microscope for analysis

Seborrheic Dermatitis Vs Dandruff 

Dandruff is a milder version of seborrheic dermatitis where it is limited to the scalp and presents with fine white powdery scales. There is not much inflammation.

On the other hand, seborrheic dermatitis is inflammatory and appears as yellowish-white, larger greasy scales. It can spread outside the scalp to face, back, and behind the ears.

How To Prevent Seborrheic Dermatitis?

A healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet and exercise, avoiding too much sun exposure, getting adequate rest and avoiding stress are general measures that can help prevent seborrheic dermatitis. It is best to consult an experienced dermatologist and diligently follow their advice to keep seborrheic dermatitis under control.

Conclusion

Seborrheic dermatitis can worsen if you do not follow proper self-care and the necessary precautions. If it is persistent, we suggest you book an appointment with an expert dermatologist as soon as possible.

Frequently Asked Questions

• How Long Does Seborrheic Dermatitis Last?

  Seborrheic dermatitis can last for months to years with intermittent remissions and flare-ups.

• Does Seborrheic Dermatitis Ever Go Away?

  This is only a possibility. Seborrheic dermatitis can last many years.

• Is Seborrheic Dermatitis Contagious?

  No, it is not. Seborrheic dermatitis is produced by fungus on the skin.

• Is Seborrheic Dermatitis Curable?

  No, it is not, but you can keep it under control using anti-yeast treatments.

• What Is The Main Cause Of Seborrheic Dermatitis?

  The exact cause of seborrheic dermatitis is not known. The main contributory factor is an overgrowth of a fungus called Malassezia, which is also present on our skin.

• What Deficiency Causes Seborrheic Dermatitis?

  Any specific deficiency does not cause seborrheic dermatitis. However, low levels of essential vitamins like Vitamin D, biotin or Vitamin B6 can contribute to it.

• Can Seborrheic Dermatitis Cause Hair Loss?

  Yes, seborrheic dermatitis can cause temporary hair loss due to inflammation at the roots.

• How To Stop Hair Loss From Seborrheic Dermatitis?

  You can stop hair loss from seborrheic dermatitis by controlling the scalp inflammation. You can opt for shampoos with ketoconazole.

• Does The Weather Make Seborrheic Dermatitis Worse?

  Yes, seborrheic dermatitis flares up mostly in cold, dry climates, during winter and spring. It may decrease in hot humid summers.

• Do Certain Foods Trigger Or Reduce Seborrheic Dermatitis? Should I Avoid Any Foods For Seborrheic Dermatitis? 

  Food does not have a direct relationship with seborrheic dermatitis. Taking Omega-3 fatty acids or biotin may reduce symptoms, though it does not work for everyone. Some propose avoiding baked products.

• Is Seborrheic Dermatitis Related To Acne?

  They are often mistaken to be one another, but there is no direct relationship between seborrheic dermatitis and acne. They are both associated with excessive oil gland secretion and appear in areas rich in oil glands.

• Is Seborrheic Dermatitis A Fungal Disease?

  It is not purely a fungal disease, but the fungus Malassezia significantly contributes to seborrheic dermatitis.

• Is Seborrheic Dermatitis An Allergy?

  No, seborrheic dermatitis is not an allergy.

• Does Seborrheic Dermatitis Affect Oily Or Dry Skin?

  It affects oily areas of the skin such as the scalp, face, and chest, which have relatively more sebaceous glands.

• Is Sunlight Good For Seborrheic Dermatitis?

  While moderate sun exposure can be beneficial as the UV rays may reduce inflammation and kill the yeast, excessive exposure can worsen the symptoms. So, you must exercise caution.

• Can Seborrheic Dermatitis Affect Lips?

  Yes, seborrheic dermatitis can affect lips as they contain oil glands.

• How Can Stop The Itching From Seborrheic Dermatitis? 

  Anti-fungal shampoos can help reduce itching. Clean your scalp regularly with shampoos containing zinc pyrithione and selenium sulphide. Check with a dermatologist who can prescribe effective anti-fungal creams.

• Should I Wash My Hair Every Day If I Have Seborrheic Dermatitis?

  It helps to wash your hair 2-3 times a week if you have seborrheic dermatitis. If you wish to wash your hair daily, then it is best to use a mild shampoo.

• Can Seborrheic Dermatitis Spread To The Face?

  Yes, seborrheic dermatitis can spread to the face. Common areas are the forehead, cheeks, sides of the nose and ears.

• What Organ Causes Seborrheic Dermatitis?

  Inflammation in the sebaceous glands on the skin results in seborrheic dermatitis.

• What Should I Avoid If I Have Seborrheic Dermatitis?

  Avoid wearing tight-fitting clothes, using skin and hair products that contain alcohol, fragrance, or ingredients that can trigger irritation, and using hair sprays, hair gels, etc., as these can aggravate the concern. Also, limit oiling your scalp as much as you can.

• Are Oils Bad For Seborrheic Dermatitis?

  Yes, excessive  oil application can worsen seborrheic dermatitis, however, the application of certain essential oils can reduce inflammation.

• Can Coconut Oil Help With Seborrheic Dermatitis?

  Do not use coconut oil on the scalp if you have seborrheic dermatitis. You can apply it on the ends of your hair if you like.

• Can Curd Cure Seborrheic Dermatitis?

  While some claim that curd can reduce inflammation, there is no evidence that it can reduce seborrheic dermatitis.

• Is Aloe Vera Gel Good For Seborrheic Dermatitis? 

  Yes, aloe vera gel can soothe irritated scalp and occasional application may help reduce scaling.

• Is Banana Good For Seborrheic Dermatitis?

  There is no direct role of bananas in treating seborrheic dermatitis. However, eating bananas as a part of daily diet rich in antioxidants can help reduce inflammation in the body.

• Should You Put Vaseline On Seborrheic Dermatitis?

  No. Vaseline can trap and occlude oil and increase inflammation.

• Is Lemon Good For Seborrheic Dermatitis?

  While some claim applying lemon juice to the scalp before shampooing can reduce symptoms of seborrheic dermatitis, there is not enough research establishing its efficacy.

• What Is The Best Shampoo For Dermatitis?

  Anti-fungal shampoos with Ketoconazole are often the first line treatment for seborrheic dermatitis.

• What Is The Best Anti-fungal Cream For Seborrheic Dermatitis?

  Ketoconazole and creams containing Ciclopirox can help reduce seborrheic dermatitis lesions.

• Is Ice Good For Seborrheic Dermatitis?

  No, experts do not recommend using ice as cold temperatures can flare up seborrheic dermatitis.