Author: Abtin Zaker
What Seborrheic Dermatitis Is
Seborrheic dermatitis (SD) is a common skin condition that mostly affects the scalp and areas of the body with the most oil gland activity: face, sides of the nose, eyelids, and chest [1]. The term ‘seborrheic’ refers to the sebaceous (oil) glands, while ‘derm’ means skin. It can cause dandruff and eczema [1]. This condition is also known as cradle cap for infants, which causes scaly patches on the scalp [1].
Most Common Targets
About 11% of the population has SD; however, it primarily affects infants younger than three months and adults between 30-60 of age [2]. Moreover, people with naturally oily skin are prone to get this type of skin condition [3].
A history of psoriasis in your family also plays a part in the occurrence of SD [4]. Some disorders and diseases worsen the chances of someone developing seborrheic dermatitis, such as immunosuppressive diseases (e.g. HIV and organ transplant recipients), psychiatric disorders (e.g. depression), neurological diseases (e.g. epilepsy), and congenital disorders (e.g. Down syndrome) [3].
Causes
A variety of factors may contribute to developing SD; however, and while researchers are unsure of the exact reasons, we are aware of some common factors [1]. One factor includes one’s regional weather; a dry, cold region does not cause seborrheic dermatitis, but may worsen the condition [3]. Stress may additionally trigger seborrheic dermatitis [3], and exposure to a yeast (fungus) from the family Malassezia can aggravate symptoms [4].
A common misconception about SD is that food influences its occurrence [1]. Although there are theories out there, experts have not found any connection between diet and SD onset [1].
Symptoms
The symptoms of this condition are skin flakes on the scalp (dandruff), eyebrows, beard, and mustache [1]. Other symptoms include red or scaly skin on the edges of your eyelids, chest, in the folds of your genitals, armpits, and beneath your breasts [2].
Diagnosis
Seborrheic dermatitis is a common and easy-to-diagnosis condition because of the location it appears on the body and its appearance on the affected skin [3]. No other urine, blood, or allergy tests are needed [3]. If your seborrheic dermatitis does not respond to treatment, a skin biopsy may be prescribed by your dermatologist to rule out any other diseases [3].
Treatment
SD does not disappear on its own without treatment, especially in teenagers and adults [1]. The area of the body affected dictates the type of treatment and the severity of the condition [1]. The goal of treatment is to reduce the visibility of the redness, cradle cap, and itchiness [4]. Some of these treatments may include over-the-counter products; however, if the condition is too severe, your dermatologist may prescribe topical antifungals, calcineurin inhibitors, corticosteroids, or a combination of these treatments [3].
Prevention
Little can be done to prevent seborrheic dermatitis [1]; however, the risk of getting seborrheic dermatitis and aggravating its symptoms can be reduced by doing simple tasks such as getting plenty of rest, maintaining hygiene, controlling stress, and exposing oneself to minutes of sunshine (UV light; excluding midday sun) [1].
Editors
Milica Rstovski, Rhea Verma
Designer
Web design by Zakaria Kandid and Majd-Alarg
Additional Credits
Photo by Oana Cristina on Unsplash
References
- Seborrheic dermatitis: Overview [Internet]. [cited 2021 Aug 29]. Available from: https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/a-z/seborrheic-dermatitis-overview
- 2. Seborrheic dermatitis: What is it, diagnosis & treatment [Internet]. [cited 2021 Aug 29]. Available from: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/14403-seborrheic-dermatitis
- 3. Seborrheic dermatitis – Symptoms and causes – Mayo Clinic [Internet]. [cited 2021 Aug 29]. Available from: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/seborrheic-dermatitis/symptoms-causes/syc-20352710
- 4. Types of eczema: Seborrheic dermatitis – National Eczema Association [Internet]. [cited 2021 Aug 29]. Available from: https://nationaleczema.org/eczema/types-of-eczema/seborrheic-dermatitis/
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