Seborrheic dermatitis

Seborrheic dermatitis is a skin condition characterized by scaly red patches. Typically, the condition occurs in the oily regions of your skin. It usually affects your scalp, face, sides of nose, eyebrows, eyelids, ears and chest. When it affects your scalp, it results in dandruff.

What are the causes of seborrheic dermatitis?

The exact cause of seborrheic dermatitis is unclear. The condition is never a result of an allergy. One or a combination of one of the following factors result in seborrheic dermatitis:

•    Stress
•    Genetics
•    Yeast present on your skin
•    Certain medicines or medical conditions
•    Cold and dry weather conditions
•    Response from your immune system

What are the common signs of seborrheic dermatitis?

Typically, the symptoms of seborrheic dermatitis are yellowish, shiny and oily patches over the skin. These patches appear lighter on dark skin and red on lighter skin. The patches appear on the areas that have a lot of sebaceous glands, such as the hairline, the area covered by hair and between the eyebrows. The condition may also occur near the breastbone and spine. In some men it occurs at the genitals, while in women it may be seen in the armpits and below the breast.

How will doctors diagnose the condition?

The symptoms of seborrheic dermatitis overlap other conditions such as psoriasis, eczema, systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) or an allergic reaction. Hence a differential diagnosis is essential. Your doctor may examine you physically and scrape off a flake from the affected region to study under the microscope.

What are the conventional treatment options for seborrheic dermatitis?

Although there is no permanent cure for seborrheic dermatitis, the common approach of treatment involves the use of creams, lotions and shampoos. The doctor may prescribe the following medicines:

•    Corticosteroids such as hydrocortisone, fluocinolone, clobetasol and desonide for application to the affected areas. 

•    Creams or lotions containing the calcineurin inhibitors tacrolimus and pimecrolimus are available. They have fewer side effects but are costly.

•    Depending on the severity of your condition, doctors may prescribe you lotions, creams or shampoos containing anti-fungal ketoconazole [Nizoral cream 2%] and ciclopirox [Loprox Lotion1%].

•    If your condition does not improve with topical treatments, doctors may prescribe oral antifungal medication.

 Can alternative therapies help to control the symptoms of seborrheic dermatitis?

There are some alternative treatment options available that you may try depending on your skin type and sensitivities. You may choose from the following options:

•    Fish-oil supplements that contain mega-3 fatty acids.
•    Aloe vera gel or extracts.
•    Probiotics.
•    Tea tree oil. 

Are home remedies helpful in seborrheic dermatitis?

With proper care, you will be able to control the symptoms of seborrheic dermatitis. However, even if the patches clear up, they may appear again. You may practice the following home remedies:

•    Use shampoo to keep your scalp clean. Gradually reduce the frequency of applying shampoo to wash your hair.
•    Apply olive oil or mineral oil to your scalp and leave it for an hour. You may brush your hair later to remove the flakes and then wash them away.
•    Gently wash your eyebrows and eyelids if they are affected.
•    Wash and shampoo your beard and moustache regularly.
•    Wear smooth and breathable clothes.

What should I avoid if I have seborrheic dermatitis?

While you are treating the condition, strictly avoid the use of hair styling products such as gels and sprays. Avoid using any alcohol-based products.

The condition usually clears on its own. However, sometimes, seborrheic dermatitis stays lifelong and has periodic flares. Talk to your doctor for the best advice and appropriate treatment plan for the condition so that you may control the symptoms.