No one knows exactly what causes seborrheic dermatitis, but it may have to do with a fungal infection that affects oil secretion in your skin or an abnormal response from your immune system.
And when you have this flaky skin condition in adulthood, your bothersome symptoms can seem to last and last.
While seborrheic dermatitis isn’t dangerous, you shouldn’t have to live with the discomfort. Thankfully, we offer hope and effective treatments.
At Northstar Dermatology in North Richland Hills, Texas, our expert team of board-certified dermatologists has successfully treated this chronic condition in adults.
Keep reading to learn more about seborrheic dermatitis, including several smart ways to manage it.
Seborrheic dermatitis symptoms
Seborrheic dermatitis is also known as dandruff, but really, the flakes that fall from your scalp or face are merely one symptom.
Other signs include:
- A burning sensation on your skin
- Greasy skin patches covered with flaky white or yellow scales
- Red skin patches
- Itchy skin patches
Your symptoms may also affect your armpits, chest, under-breast area, or groin. And they’re more likely if you have acne, HIV, rosacea, psoriasis, depression, an eating disorder, or alcoholism.
4 ways to manage seborrheic dermatitis
For infants affected by seborrheic dermatitis, symptoms usually disappear on their own within 12 months. If you develop symptoms during adulthood, we may recommend these steps:
- Take a prescribed antifungal medication
- Apply a topical medication or cream
- Wash your hair and scalp regularly using a dandruff shampoo
- Remove scales from your hair after softening them with mineral or olive oil for about 60 minutes
We may also recommend that you stop using hair styling products, such as hairspray, when your symptoms are active or being treated. Avoiding hair and skin products containing alcohol may also help prevent a flare-up.
For comfort, wear soft, loose clothing. When your skin is irritated, choose smooth-textured, cotton clothes instead of stiff or rough materials, which can increase pain and itchiness.
When to see a professional for seborrheic dermatitis
Whenever seborrheic dermatitis symptoms crop up, consult an experienced professional, like the members of our Northstar Dermatology team. In particular, call our office if:
- Your symptoms become unbearable
- The discomfort leads you to lose sleep or function poorly
- You feel deeply embarrassed or self-conscious about your symptoms
- Your DIY home care steps haven’t helped
To learn more about seborrheic dermatitis or to get the skin care you need, call our office or request an appointment through our website link today.
