It May Be More Than Dandruff: What Is Seborrheic Dermatitis?
Seborrheic dermatitis is a chronic and recurrent type of eczema that develops in areas where the skin’s oil production is more active. It is most commonly seen on the scalp, between the eyebrows, around the sides of the nose, around the ears, in the middle of the chest and on the upper back.
This condition may appear only as dandruff, or it may become more noticeable with redness, oily scaling, itching, crusting and skin sensitivity. While it can be seen as “cradle cap” in babies, in adults it may continue for many years with periodic flare-ups.
At Dr. Seher Arı Dermatology Clinic in Göktürk, Istanbul, seborrheic dermatitis is evaluated by considering the affected area, the severity of symptoms, the frequency of recurrence and the person’s skin structure.
Why Are the Scalp, Sides of the Nose and Eyebrow Area Commonly Affected?
Seborrheic dermatitis tends to affect areas where the sebaceous glands are more active. For this reason, it may appear as dandruff on the scalp, scaling between the eyebrows, redness around the sides of the nose, crusting behind the ears or a rash in the middle of the chest.
The oily structure of the skin, the proliferation of certain microorganisms and the immune system’s response may play a role in the development of seborrheic dermatitis. However, this condition is not related to poor hygiene and is not contagious.
Seborrheic dermatitis may become milder at certain times; stress, seasonal changes, cold weather, fatigue or weakening of the skin barrier may trigger flare-ups again.
Oily and Scaly Signals from the Skin
The symptoms of seborrheic dermatitis may vary from person to person. In some people, only dandruff on the scalp is seen, while in others, redness and scaling may also occur on the face and body.
Common symptoms of seborrheic dermatitis include:
- Dandruff on the scalp
- Redness between the eyebrows and around the sides of the nose
- Yellowish scaling with an oily appearance
- Itching of the skin
- Crusting around the ears
- Rash in the middle of the chest or on the upper back
- Skin sensitivity and a burning sensation
These symptoms may be confused with eczema, psoriasis, fungal infections or allergic skin reactions. Therefore, a dermatological examination is important for an accurate diagnosis.
What Causes Seborrheic Dermatitis?
Although the exact cause of seborrheic dermatitis is not fully known, it is thought to be associated with a type of yeast called Malassezia found in oily areas of the skin, sensitivity of the skin barrier and the immune system’s response.
Factors that may increase seborrheic dermatitis include:
- Stress
- Cold and dry weather
- Seasonal transitions
- Fatigue and irregular sleep
- Weakening of the skin barrier
- Oily skin structure
- Use of unsuitable cosmetic products
- Some systemic diseases or immune-related conditions
Seborrheic dermatitis is not caused by poor cleansing habits. For this reason, excessive washing, harsh exfoliation or intense drying products may worsen the complaints.
The Goal of Treatment Is Not to Silence the Skin, but to Restore Balance
The aim of seborrheic dermatitis treatment is to control redness, itching, scaling and dandruff, reduce flare-up periods and support the skin barrier.
The treatment plan may vary depending on the affected area and the severity of the symptoms. Specially formulated shampoos may be recommended for people with scalp involvement, while creams, lotions or different topical treatments considered appropriate by the dermatologist may be used for face or body involvement.
Approaches that may be considered in seborrheic dermatitis treatment include:
- Medically formulated shampoos
- Products containing antifungal ingredients
- Topical treatments for redness and itching
- Skin care products that support the skin barrier
- Reducing triggers
- A personalized skin care routine
Uncontrolled use of cortisone-containing creams may increase skin sensitivity, especially on the face. Therefore, seborrheic dermatitis treatment should be planned with the recommendation of a dermatology specialist.
What Should Daily Care Be Like to Reduce Flare-Ups?
Seborrheic dermatitis is a skin condition that may recur. Therefore, an approach that does not irritate the skin and supports the barrier is important not only during flare-ups, but also in the daily care process.
Points to consider include:
- Avoid washing the skin with very hot water
- Avoid harsh exfoliation and irritating products
- Use the recommended shampoo for the scalp regularly
- Choose fragrance-free products suitable for sensitive skin for the facial area
- Avoid excessive drying of the skin
- Keep in mind that stress and irregular sleep may increase flare-ups
- Do not postpone dermatology check-ups if symptoms recur
Frequently Asked Questions About Seborrheic Dermatitis
Is seborrheic dermatitis contagious?
No. Seborrheic dermatitis is not contagious. It does not spread from person to person through contact.
Does seborrheic dermatitis go away completely?
Seborrheic dermatitis may be chronic and recurrent. With appropriate treatment and regular care, symptoms can be kept under control.
Does seborrheic dermatitis cause dandruff?
Yes. Seborrheic dermatitis on the scalp may cause dandruff, itching and crusting.
Is seborrheic dermatitis an allergy?
Seborrheic dermatitis is not directly an allergy. It is a type of dermatitis associated with the skin barrier, oil production, yeast species and immune response.
Which shampoo should be used for seborrheic dermatitis?
Shampoo selection should be made according to the condition of the scalp and the severity of the symptoms. A dermatology specialist can determine a medically formulated shampoo or care plan suitable for the individual.
Seborrheic Dermatitis Evaluation in Göktürk, Istanbul
Seborrheic dermatitis is a skin condition that can be controlled with an accurate diagnosis and a regular care approach. Since not every dandruff or redness complaint is seborrheic dermatitis, a dermatological examination is important.
At Dr. Seher Arı Dermatology Clinic in Göktürk, Istanbul, seborrheic dermatitis, scalp eczema, facial redness and scaling complaints are evaluated individually. For patients and clients from Turkey and abroad, the process is carried out with a dermatological examination and a personalized treatment plan.
For dandruff on the scalp, facial redness, scaling around the sides of the nose or seborrheic dermatitis complaints, you can contact Dr. Seher Arı Clinic.