Seborrheic Dermatitis: What It Is, Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments
Seborrheic dermatitis is a very common skin condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Although it is not contagious or a serious health risk, it can cause discomfort, impact self-esteem, and, in many cases, require ongoing care. The good news is that there are effective treatments that help control symptoms and improve the quality of life for those living with the condition.
What is Seborrheic Dermatitis?
Seborrheic dermatitis is a chronic skin inflammation that mainly affects areas with a higher concentration of sebaceous glands, such as the scalp, eyebrows, sides of the nose, ears, and the central chest area. The condition causes flaking, redness, and itching. In babies, it is known as cradle cap and usually goes away on its own. In adults, it tends to recur, with periods of improvement and flare-ups.
Causes and Triggering Factors
The exact causes of seborrheic dermatitis are not fully understood, but several factors are known to contribute to its development:
excessive sebum production (skin oiliness)
growth of the fungus Malassezia, which feeds on sebum and may irritate the skin
genetic predisposition
hormonal changes
emotional stress
climate changes, especially cold and dry weather
use of inappropriate or harsh cosmetic products
Additionally, certain medical conditions, such as HIV and Parkinson’s disease, are associated with a higher incidence of seborrheic dermatitis.
Main Symptoms
The symptoms of seborrheic dermatitis vary depending on the severity of the condition and the affected area. The most common include:
white or yellowish flaking, especially on the scalp
itching, which can be mild or intense
redness in the affected areas
excessive oiliness
in more severe cases, thick crusts or plaques
On the scalp, it may be mistaken for common dandruff. On the face, it may resemble irritation or an allergy. In babies, cradle cap appears as thick plaques on the scalp but is usually harmless.
Differences from Other Skin Conditions
Seborrheic dermatitis is often confused with other dermatological conditions, such as psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, and fungal infections. Psoriasis also causes flaking but forms thicker plaques, usually with well-defined borders. Atopic dermatitis more commonly affects body folds and is linked to allergies. Fungal infections tend to have raised edges and localized itching. Therefore, a correct diagnosis should be made by a dermatologist, who can recommend the most appropriate treatment.
Available Treatments
Although seborrheic dermatitis has no definitive cure, it can be managed with specific treatments and changes in skincare routines. The main treatments include:
Antifungal Shampoos and Creams
Products containing ketoconazole, ciclopirox, zinc pyrithione, or selenium sulfide are effective in controlling the Malassezia fungus and help reduce inflammation. They can be used on the scalp and other affected areas of the skin.
Topical Corticosteroids
Recommended for more intense cases, corticosteroids help control inflammation and itching. They should be used under medical supervision and for a limited time, as prolonged use may cause side effects such as skin thinning.
Keratolytic Products
Substances such as salicylic acid and coal tar help remove flaking and reduce irritation. These ingredients are found in specific shampoos and ointments.
Daily Care
Maintaining a gentle hygiene routine is essential. Avoid harsh soaps, oily products, and excessive makeup. Wash your face with lukewarm water, use light, non-comedogenic moisturizers, and apply sunscreen daily.
Lifestyle
Stress and poor diet can worsen the condition. Relaxation practices such as yoga and meditation, along with a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and anti-inflammatory foods, can positively contribute to managing the disease.
Is Prevention Possible?
There is no way to completely prevent the onset of seborrheic dermatitis, but it is possible to reduce the frequency and intensity of flare-ups with some care:
wash the scalp regularly with suitable shampoos
avoid excessive use of oily or creamy products
manage emotional stress
maintain good skin and facial hygiene
keep the skin properly moisturized, especially in dry climates
When to See a Dermatologist?
If the flaking or itching is causing discomfort, if there are sores on the scalp, or if the symptoms persist, it’s best to see a dermatologist. The professional will be able to determine whether it is indeed seborrheic dermatitis or another similar condition, and recommend the most effective treatment for your case.
What About Blepharitis? Eyelid Inflammation May Be Related
Blepharitis is an inflammation of the eyelid margins, which may occur alone or in association with other skin conditions, such as seborrheic dermatitis. It is characterized by redness, swelling, a gritty sensation in the eyes, itching, and the formation of crusts or flakes on the eyelashes. In many cases, it can also cause dry eyes and sensitivity to light.
This condition is chronic and tends to manifest in cycles, with periods of improvement and worsening. The main factors associated with blepharitis include bacterial infections, excess oiliness, dysfunction of the Meibomian glands, and, as mentioned, skin diseases such as rosacea and seborrheic dermatitis.
In an interview with our blog, ophthalmologist Dr. Tatiane Rae emphasized the importance of proper eye hygiene as a fundamental part of blepharitis treatment. According to her, a simple, safe, and effective tip is the daily cleaning of the eyelids with baby shampoo, such as Johnson’s. The application should be done gently, using a cotton swab or gauze, to remove debris and flakes accumulated at the base of the eyelashes.
In addition to cleaning, in some cases lubricating eye drops, antibiotic ointments, or anti-inflammatories may be necessary, always under medical supervision. Maintaining this hygiene routine helps control symptoms, prevent secondary infections, and avoid disease recurrence.
Conclusion
Seborrheic dermatitis is a chronic and recurrent condition, but it can be well controlled with the treatments currently available. With the support of a dermatologist and regular skin care, it is possible to live comfortably even with the condition. Knowing individual triggers and maintaining an appropriate care routine are key allies in keeping the skin healthy.
