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How to Manage Seborrheic Dermatitis

Seborrheic dermatitis occurs when the skin regeneration process is shortened, leading to more rapid shedding of stratum corneum cells, causing them to stick together to form visible scales.

How to Manage Seborrheic Dermatitis

2/21/2024 3:21:40 PM

What is seborrheic dermatitis? 

Seborrheic dermatitis is a common inflammatory skin condition linked to the activity of sebaceous glands, often recurring and affecting both children and adults, including infants under three months with a condition known as cradle cap. 

Symptoms and Signs of Seborrheic Dermatitis 

Seborrheic dermatitis occurs when the skin regeneration process is shortened, leading to more rapid shedding of stratum corneum cells, causing them to stick together to form visible scales. 

Currently, the exact cause of seborrheic dermatitis has not been determined. However, it can be explained that increased sebum activity, Malassezia fungus, weather changes, and the patient's sensitivity are the causes of skin inflammation. 

  • Newborns may develop seborrheic dermatitis with a thick, yellow, crusted scalp lesion (cradle cap); fissuring and yellow scaling behind the ears; red facial papules; and stubborn diaper rash. 

  • Older children and adults may develop thick, tenacious, scaly plaques on the scalp that may measure 1 to 2 cm in diameter. 

Some factors related to seborrheic dermatitis: 

Due to the condition of oily skin and excessive oil secretion, there is a relationship between seborrheic dermatitis and the amount of sebum, clearly shown in adolescents and young people (due to a sharp increase in sebaceous gland activity). The lesion distribution is the sebum secretion area. 

  • Hormones also affect the development of the disease: Seborrheic dermatitis is more common in men than women, which proves the influence of androgens on the seborrheic follicle unit. 

  • Genetic factors also cause the disease: If someone in the family has seborrheic dermatitis or psoriasis, the possibility of the next generation having this disease is very high... 

  • Factors that promote seborrheic dermatitis: Physical or mental stress, Parkinson's disease, mental illness. 

Diagnosis of Seborrheic Dermatitis 

Seborrheic dermatitis occurs when the skin regeneration process is shortened, leading to more rapid shedding of stratum corneum cells, causing them to stick together to form visible scales. 

Currently, the exact cause of seborrheic dermatitis has not been determined. However, it can be explained that increased sebum activity, Malassezia fungus, weather changes, and the patient's sensitivity are the causes of skin inflammation. 

Some factors related to seborrheic dermatitis: 

  • Due to the condition of oily skin and excessive oil secretion, there is a relationship between seborrheic dermatitis and the amount of sebum, clearly shown in adolescents and young people (due to a sharp increase in sebaceous gland activity). The lesion distribution is the sebum secretion area. 

  • Genetic factors also cause the disease: If someone in the family has seborrheic dermatitis or psoriasis, the possibility of the next generation having this disease is very high... 

  • Hormonal changes, improper nutrition, alcohol consumption, body fatigue, obesity, and immunodeficiency, such as HIV infection are factors that increase the risk of disease. 

Treatment of Seborrheic Dermatitis 

Treatment varies by age and affected areas. Doctors will prescribe different treatments and advise on care: 

  • In children, skin-softening products can help remove surface scales. Children who need unique products should consult a doctor. 

  • Seborrheic dermatitis in adults can use shampoo containing ingredients such as selenium sulfide, zinc parathion, and ketoconazole 2%... to reduce symptoms. 

  • Use topical medications as directed by your doctor 

  • Avoid exposure to direct sunlight and dust 

  • Avoid scratching the damaged area because it will cause scratches and infection. 

  • Eat a diet full of nutrients, limit alcohol use, and avoid smoking or exposure to cigarette smoke. 

  • Having a reasonable exercise and exercise regimen also improves the symptoms of seborrheic dermatitis. 

Seborrheic dermatitis can be confused with other skin diseases, such as allergic contact dermatitis, atopic dermatitis, and psoriasis...so when you have skin symptoms that make you uncomfortable, go to your doctor for advice. Be examined specifically. After the doctor explains the mechanism of the disease, you will understand information about the disease, thereby being more proactive in the care and treatment process and preventing recurrence. 

(Source: MSD Manual; Mayo Clinic)  

If you have any symptoms, contact us for consultations with our dermatologists via free hotline 1800 6116.  

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