Best Ways to Manage Seborrhoeic Dermatitis

1. What is seborrhoeic dermatitis?
2. Who gets seborrhoeic dermatitis?
3. What are the symptoms of seborrhoeic dermatitis?
4. Seborrhoeic dermatitis treatment
5. Lifestyle changes required
6. When to see a doctor?

Scalp issues aren’t as rare as you think. While some people suffer from an oily scalp, others deal with a dry scalp. One such condition that is quite common and needs specialised care is seborrhoeic dermatitis. Read on to know more about what it is and effective seborrhoeic dermatitis treatment techniques that can help you deal with this hair care woe.

Seborrhoeic dermatitis is not a difficult condition to treat, but it’s always safer to nip things in the bud. We’ve done all the research to help you identify early signs of the condition and the ways to treat it.

Seborrhoeic dermatitis is a chronic form of eczema that affects that part of the body where there are a lot of sebaceous glands, such as the scalp, nose, and upper back. When the condition affects the scalp, it causes scaly patches, red skin, and stubborn dandruff. Seborrhoeic dermatitis is also known as seborrhoeic eczema and seborrhoeic psoriasis. Even infants are vulnerable to this scalp condition; it is called cradle cap in infants and causes crusty, scaly patches to appear on the scalp. 

Though the exact causes of seborrhoeic dermatitis remain unexplained, the following clinical factors are related to the condition:

• It occurs as an inflammatory response when the yeast (fungus) Malassezia, which is already present on your scalp reacts to the sebum produced by sebaceous glands
• This scalp condition can also occur due to irregular response of the immune system
• Genetics or a family history of psoriasis or seborrhoeic dermatitis can also trigger this condition
• Certain neurological and psychiatric conditions like Parkinson’s disease, depression, facial nerve palsy, spinal cord injury, etc. are also some of the co-related co-morbidities

Some commonly known triggers of seborrhoeic dermatitis include:

• Stress
• Hormonal changes
• Cold, dry weather
• Harsh detergents, chemicals, and soaps
• Certain medications

This scalp condition can affect anyone but is more common in babies, and adults aged between 30 and 60. Plus, the condition is more common among men. In case of infants affected by seborrhoeic dermatitis, it tends to clear on its own and there is typically no relapse. However, when it comes to adults, this scalp condition has a specific pattern marked by frequent flare-ups and disappearing, which can last for years.

Seborrhoeic dermatitis symptoms and those of dandruff tend to overlap. The common symptoms include:

• Flakes
• Redness
• Itching
• Irritation

Since both conditions are quite similar in how they affect you, it is important to note the differences between the two to seek the right seborrhoeic dermatitis scalp treatment.   

Seborrhoeic dermatitis is an extreme form of dandruff, which means that the symptoms would be more severe as well. Its specific symptoms include:
• Presence of inflamed areas on the scalp
• Severe flakes (scaling) on the scalp
• Yellowish flakes that appear oily

Though this scalp condition can feel a bit overwhelming, we are here to help you. Just like dandruff, seborrhoeic dermatitis needs the use of a medicated shampoo. The shampoos that are used for seborrhoeic dermatitis treatment have different active ingredients that are used to control the symptoms. These are:

• Coal tar
• Salicylic acid
• Selenium sulphide
• Pyrithione zinc

Finding the right seborrhoeic dermatitis scalp treatment depends on choosing the right active ingredient. All these active ingredients provide relief from the symptoms of seborrhoeic dermatitis, but the ideal shampoo contains actives that work on the root cause of this scalp condition and keeps it at bay. Numerous clinical studies suggest that shampoos that contain zinc pyrithione are proven to work. However, if they don’t offer you relief, you can always try Head & Shoulders Clinically Proven Solutions.

Head & Shoulders Clinically Proven Solutions Scalp Relief Shampoo is formulated using selenium sulphide that targets the cause of severe dandruff. This shampoo is clinically proven to control itching and flaking, and fights dryness and tight scalp. The gentle formula makes this shampoo ideal for everyday use, and the moisturisers give you healthy-looking, great-smelling hair.

Head & Shoulders Clinically Proven Solutions Anti-Dandruff Shampoo is designed to specifically take on severe dandruff. It is tough on flakes, but gentle enough for daily use. This shampoo is formulated using selenium sulphide that works on severe dandruff and gives you relief from itching and flaking. The gentle moisturisers in the shampoo nourish your hair and its fresh scent leaves your hair looking and feeling great. 

In addition to the use of hair products as a form of seborrhoeic dermatitis treatment, making some lifestyle changes can also help keep this condition in check. Here’s what you can do:

• Reduce the use of styling products. Avoid using hair sprays, gels, and other styling products while undergoing treatment for this condition. Plus, refrain from using any heat styling appliances for a while

• Eat foods that strengthen your immune system. To fight the inflammation caused by seborrhoeic dermatitis, include foods such as green leafy vegetables, tomatoes, strawberries, citrus and bell peppers, sweet potatoes, and foods rich in vitamin E, such as avocados and wheat germ

• Wear loose, cotton clothes that help in keeping air circulating around your skin. This reduces irritation

Seborrhoeic dermatitis is not a serious condition, but it causes discomfort. It’s advisable to consult a dermatologist if the flare-ups and the symptoms continue to worsen despite using the right shampoo. 

Seborrhoeic dermatitis is a chronic condition and living with it won’t be easy. However, with the right hair products and some conscious lifestyle changes from your end, the condition becomes manageable. In the meantime, do not give in to the urge to scratch your scalp!