Seborrhoeic dermatitis is a common condition that is characterized by red, flaky skin. It usually affects the scalp and is commonly called dandruff. In babies, it is known as cradle cap. Seborrhoeic dermatitis can also affect the skin on other parts of the body, such as the face and chest, and the creases of the arms, legs and groin.
Causes
While the exact cause of this condition is not known, it is thought that the most likely mechanism is an inflammatory reaction to yeasts that live naturally on our skins. The candidate organism is thought to be malassezia, which produce toxins that can irritate the skin. Some people are more sensitive to these toxins than others.
There is a sub group of sufferers who also at have rosacea. They usually have a ‘Celtic’ skin type that is very fair, flushes/blushes and easily sunburns.
Common exacerbating factors are alcohol and spicy foods.
Seborrhoeic dermatitis can be exacerbated by stress, illness and seasonal changes. Very rarely, immune problems such as HIV infection can worsen the condition.
Symptoms:
The classic picture of a seborrhoeic dermatitis sufferer is someone who has a scaly scalp, eyebrows and red dry patches in the folds of skin by the nose and cheeks. Sometimes, the rash can appear on the centre of the chest, upper back, groin and armpits.
Treatment:
There are 2 main strategies to improve seborrhoeic dermatitis. The first part of therapy is to reduce the number of yeasts on the skin by applying an antifungal cream or facewash (usually a shampoo containing ketoconazole 2%).
The second part is to reduce the inflammation within the skin by applying a light moisturizer and an active anti-inflammatory cream such as a mild steroid (hydrocortisone 1%) or a calcineurin inhibitor (pimecrolimus or tacrolimus) for a short period of time. This should be done under the supervision of a dermatologist or family doctor.
Do's and Dont's
- Do wash with a mild soap every day
- Do use a moisturiser
- Do ask for help from your specialist
- Don’t use abrasive cleansers
- Don’t allow yourself to become dehydrated
- Don’t worry. It is a controllable condition
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