Seborrheic Dermatitis
What is Seborrheic Dermatitis ?
Seborrheic (seb-o-REE-ik) dermatitis is a common skin condition that mainly affects your scalp. It causes scaly patches, inflamed skin and stubborn dandruff. It usually affects oily areas of the body, such as the face, sides of the nose, eyebrows, ears, eyelids and chest. This condition can be irritating but it’s not contagious, and it doesn’t cause permanent hair loss.
Seborrheic dermatitis may go away without treatment. Or you may need to use medicated shampoo or other products long term to clear up symptoms and prevent flare-ups. Seborrheic dermatitis is also called dandruff, seborrheic eczema and seborrheic psoriasis. When it occurs in infants, it’s called cradle cap.
Symptoms
- Flaking skin
- Patches of greasy skin
- Rash that may look darker or lighter
- Ring-shaped (annular) rash
- Itchiness
- A burning sensation
- Red scales on your skin
- Crusty yellow scales on infants’ heads
- Blepharitis
- Pinkish plaques on face
- Flaky patches on your chest
- Inflamed hair follicles
Cause
Researchers aren’t sure of the exact cause of seborrheic dermatitis. They think there may be many causes. Factors that are thought to play a role include a type of yeast called Malassezia, which is present on everyone’s skin, but overgrow in some people. An increased level of androgens (a hormone). An increased level of skin lipids. An inflammatory reaction. Family history (dermatitis runs in the family). Other factors that trigger or worsen seborrheic dermatitis include Stress. Cold and dry climate. Oily skin. Using alcohol-based lotions. History of other skin disorders, including rosacea, psoriasis and acne.
Risk Factors
Risk factors for seborrheic dermatitis include Stress. Fatigue. A change of season. Nervous system conditions, such as Parkinson’s disease. Having a mental health condition, such as depression. Immune system disorders, such as HIV infection. Recovery from stressful medical conditions, such as a heart attack.
When to see a Doctor
See your doctor if you’re so uncomfortable that you’re losing sleep or being distracted from your daily routines, your condition is causing embarrassment and anxiety, you suspect your skin is infected, you have tried self-care steps without success.