Everything You Need To Know About Seborrheic Dermatitis

Everything You Need To Know About Seborrheic Dermatitis

Seborrhoeic Dermatitis
December 16, 2017 , Last updated: July 2, 2024

Seborrheic dermatitis is a severe form of dandruff that affects the scalp. Causing an unsightly and flaky rash, seborrheic dermatitis can occur at any age. A normal anti-dandruff shampoo is not always enough to treat this scalp condition which can worsen and cause severe itching and discomfort. Let’s understand important facts on this scalp condition.

Explore Seborrheic Dermatitis Treatment

Symptoms of Seborrheic Dermatitis

Seborrheic dermatitis is generally worse in the winters due to dry weather. While occurring mainly on the scalp, it is not limited to that region. Seborrheic dermatitis can also show up on the face, behind the ears, in the underarm folds, under the breasts, and in the genital area. The main symptoms are:

  • Dandruff-like scaling of skin on the scalp
  • Red, scaly patches of skin
  • Severe itching in affected areas
  • Associated hair loss leading to baldness

Understanding the Causes

Contrary to popular belief, seborrheic dermatitis is not caused by an unclean scalp or by an allergy. Here are the main causes of this scalp condition:

  • A yeast (Malassezia) leads to this fungal infection
  • Genetic predisposition plays a major role
  • Individuals suffering from medical condition such as Parkinson’s disease, epilepsy, and HIV/AIDS are at a higher risk due to weakened immune systems
  • Environmental factors such as cold weather and chronic stress also cause an autoimmune reaction in the body which can lead to seborrheic dermatitis.

The Emotional Impact

Studies have shown that individuals affected by scalp and skin conditions often end up suffering from depression. Cosmetic damage to the body greatly affects one’s self-esteem. Seborrheic dermatitis causes severe itching and leaves flaky skin as residue on the shoulders and clothing. This can make a person feel unconfident and even unattractive to the opposite sex. It might make a person hesitant to socialize or even approach new opportunities in life for fear of facing rejection.

While treating skin and scalp conditions such as seborrheic dermatitis, ringworm, and psoriasis, it is extremely important that a doctor address the emotional impact as well. This is especially important as healing from seborrheic dermatitis is a slow process that requires patience and perseverance. A patient might feel disheartened and wish to stop treatment if he/she does not see results immediately. This is especially the case with younger patients.

Are you suffering from any of the Symptoms get the Solution now

Homeopathy and Seborrheic Dermatitis Treatment

Homeopathy offers lasting and effective solutions for seborrheic dermatitis cure. Studies have shown that conventional treatment options for this scalp condition – involving shampoos and steroids – often have harmful side-effects on the patient. Side-effects of steroids can include lower libido, weight gain, and a lack of appetite. Steroids are also not recommended for younger patients suffering seborrheic dermatitis.

Homeopathic medicines do not have any side-effects. The treatment does not focus on instant results but rather on lasting ones. Moreover, homeopathic medicines are painless. This makes it an especially great option for those suffering from seborrheic dermatitis due to other health issues. Homeopathic healing focuses on strengthening the immune system so that your body can fight diseases on its own. Modern lifestyle and food habits often render our immunity weak. Homeopathy seeks to overcome this ill-effect through its natural and comprehensive treatment techniques.

Book an appointment

Tips To Manage Scalp Health With Seborrheic Dermatitis

Seborrheic dermatitis is a condition that needs to be managed regularly for effective healing. Alongside prescription and medication, following certain lifestyle tips will help increase efficacy of cure. Here are some easy tips to follow.

  1. Avoid alcohol based hair products as these dry out the scalp and worsen the intensity of flakes. If you are unsure if a product is safe to use, check with your doctor.
  2. Do not pull at dry flakes. If you must remove them, apply oil on affected areas and gently brush the flakes after an hour when they have softened.
  3. Shaving affected areas always helps. If you develop seborrheic dermatitis around your chin, do shave your beard to help heal faster.
  4. Avoid changing skin care products while under treatment for seborrheic dermatitis.
  5. Wear comfortable cotton clothing especially if you have developed the rash on your body. Synthetic fibres are a complete no-no.
  6. Avoid hair styling products for at least a couple of months after you have healed. These include gels, hair mousse, sprays, and pomades.
  7. Follow your doctor’s advice completely for best results. Each person’s severity of the scalp condition is different. While some may need to shampoo every alternate day, others may need to shampoo just once a week. Follow your unique prescription for best results.
Dr. SAHA PIYALI
Authored By

Dr. SAHA PIYALI

BHMS

Consult a Hair expert now

I understand and accept the terms and conditions