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This particular skin condition is actually a quite common, basically harmless, scaling rash that usually itches. When Seborrheic Dermatitis occurs on the scalp it is known as dandruff or pityriasis capitis. Seborrheic Dermatitis sometimes appears on the eyebrows, eye lid edges, outer and inner parts of the ears, along the sides of the nose, under the armpits and the groin area. Seborrheic Dermatitis may also appear on the middle of the chest or on the back denoted by round, scaling patches.
The Cause of Seborrheic Dermatitis:
Though still conjectured, is believed to be due to an abnormal increase of a yeast called, Pityrosporum ovale. This particular substance is regularly found in normal skin. People that have Seborrheic Dermatitis seem to have a reduced resistance to the yeast. This is possibly to be due to a number of factors that may include stress, fatigue, seasonality, or declining health. Though these issues appear to worsen the condition, they are not the cause of Seborrheic Dermatitis. This skin condition is not contagious nor is it caused by a particular diet. Seborrheic Dermatitis can appear at any age, though normally after puberty. Both males and females are susceptible to this condition. The affliction may either occur gradually or suddenly.
The Symptoms of Seborrheic Dermatitis:
Though it is usually charcterized by dry, red, itchy skin that is somewhat inflamed, there are a number of other possible symptoms:
- A red rash probably due to an irritant since it is usually caused by an allergic reaction.
- A number of red, itchy, circular patches of either weeping or scaling encrusted skin. This particular form is most commonly found with older people residing in drier climates.
- Greasy scales, yellow in color, on the scalp and eyebrows, behind the or on the ears, and along the sides of the nose. This is a definite indication of Seborrheic Dermatitis. When this occurs in babies, it is commonly called cradle cap.
- When scaling and ulcerated skin appears on the lower legs or around the ankles, this condition is usually indicative of Stasis Dermatitis.
- An extremely, persistent itchiness or rash may signal the onset of Atopic Dermatitis or eczema.
The Treatment of Seborrheic Dermatitis:
There is no cure for this skin condition. It can be kept under control, however with the usage of certain prescription and non-prescription products. Products that contain certain specific ingredients appear to work the best. These ingredients are: medicated shampoos containing ketoconazole, selenium disulphide, zinc pyrithione, coal tar, and salicylic acid for conditions affecting the scalp, face, ears, chest and back. Steroidal based products also have a positive effect on the condition but may have adverse side effects associated with their use.
The Prevention of Seborrheic Dermatitis:
Though for many people Seborrheic Dermatitis may be the results of heredity, there are some preventative measures that may be taken.
- Using a humidifier at home and at work to lessen dryness.
- When ever possible, wear loose-fitting clothing from natural-fiber, preferably untreated cotton.
- When purchasing jewelry, try to avoid nickel-plated jewelry. Surgical steel or 14-karat gold earring posts are better choices.
- Try not to wear a watchband that presses against your skin for long periods of time, since it can cause rashes.
- Always moisturize your skin after a bath using an unscented, preservative-free lotion or gel.
- Take a nutritional supplement that contains vitamins A, B complex and E, and zinc.
There is good news, however! Seborrheic Dermatitis, though it may last for years, usually disappears by itself.
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