Natural Ways to Treat Seborrheic Dermatitis
Seborrheic dermatitis is a kind of eczema (one of common chronic skin disorders). Typically, it affects the oily, greasy, and hairy skin – such as scalp, chest, or eyebrows. And like most things in eczema, it can cause red, itchy, and scaly skin. Many times, it also causes stubborn dandruff. The problem is chronic, but it is manageable and there are several natural ways and home remedies you can explore to treat it.
Does it only affect adults?
No, it does not! It can affect people of all ages. Even it can occur in infants (may times people call this condition as cradle cap).
The exact cause of this skin problem is unclear yet, however there are some risk factors you need to concern.
Risk factors mean the factors /conditions that can have effect in increasing your risk of having this dandruff. The following are some of these risk factors [1]:
- Having some certain conditions particularly immune system disorders such as HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) and neurological problems such as stroke, Parkinson’s disease, or head injury.
- Obesity.
- Fatigue and stress. Both may have an effect in triggering an episode or may worsen the problem /symptoms through mechanisms that are unclear yet. It seems that the role of stress and neurological problems may work together in affecting nervous system.
- Changes in season – weather extremes.
- Poor skin care (poor skin cleaning, or infrequent shampoos).
- Too much using lotions containing high alcohol.
Additionally, experts also believe that the role of irritation triggered by fungus /yeast called Malassezia may have a significant contribution in some cases of seborrheic dermatitis.
What are the conventional medications?
Typically, the treatment plan is based on the symptoms and where the problem affects your skin. For instance, the treatment approach for seborrheic dermatitis that affects the scalp can be different when it affects the chest.
In general, most treatment are used topically or applied on the skin /scalp topically. The active ingredients in the lotion, cream, or shampoos play a key role on what they are used for.
For instance, while lotions /shampoos containing corticosteroids are usually not needed for mild case of seborrheic dermatitis, it can be prescribed by doctor in severe case. Consult more with your GP /dermatologist for more advice!
Natural ways and home remedies that can help
It doesn’t affect the overall health of sufferer. Typically, it doesn’t cause a serious health problem and cannot spread to others (non-contagious condition).
However, it can lead to embarrassment and can be very bothersome. Therefore, many sufferers (particularly children) need emotional support. This support is also important to help deal with stress (another thing that can worsen the symptom or may trigger the flare-up).
Fortunately, it is manageable condition in most cases – as noted before. Typically, the flare-up of the problem can be prevented by lifestyle approaches and other appropriate steps.
Along with the treatment plan prescribed by your doctor or with over-the counter (prescription /non-prescription) medications, the following are some home remedies that can help improve & manage the problem [2]:
