Treatment for seborrheic dermatitis and dandruff
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What is dandruff?
Dandruff is a symptom that results from the skin condition known as seborrheic dermatitis that causes flakes of skin to detach from the scalp and appear on the hair as white shavings.
It can also appear on other hairy areas of the body such as eyebrows, beard and even mustache.
What is seborrheic dermatitis and what causes it?
Dermatitis is a skin disease that is most often seen in oily areas of the skin such as the scalp, its appearance provic inflammation of the skin and the production of scales that are shed around the affected area, these scales are known as dandruff.
The cause of seborrheic dermatitis has not been determined, however, certain factors may help the problem proliferate.
- Irregularity in the functions of the sebaceous glands, these are responsible for purifying the skin and helping its constant lubrication, when this does not happen in the right way dryness can occur.
- Fungi around the sebaceous glands.
- Genetic influence.
- Use of products that damage or change the skin barrier.
- Skin problems such as: excess oil and/or acne.
- Stress or strong emotional situations.
- Sudden changes in the weather.
Symptoms of seborrheic dermatitis or dandruff
You can identify seborrheic dermatitis on your skin when you have the following symptoms:
- Patches, discoloration in specific areas of the skin.
- Redness.
- Oily skin in certain areas.
- Appearance of scales, i.e. white or yellowish dandruff.
- Itchy scalp, also known as pruritus.
Diagnostic process of seborrheic dermatitis
A dermatologist can determine seborrheic dermatitis or dandruff in a patient based on a physical evaluation, assessing the area’s damage and symptoms to determine an effective treatment route.
It’s good to rely on a professional’s opinion when you can’t find a solution in over-the-counter methods in pharmacies or when the situation begins to affect the patient’s confidence and self-esteem.
Another reason to see a dermatologist is to have infectious symptoms such as oozing pus from swollen and painful areas.
Treatment for seborrheic dermatitis or dandruff
Conventional treatment:
The main option to treat dandruff is the use of over-the-counter shampoo in pharmacies that are characterized by having components such as: ketoconazole, zinc, salicylic acid, selenium sulfide, among others recommended to solve seborrheic dermatitis.
In more severe cases, the doctor may prescribe options with a stronger dose of the above components. The presentation of these solutions can be in shampoo or ointments, which will depend on the patient’s preference.
Phototherapy:
It consists of the gradual exposure of UV rays or ultraviolet light that stimulates the healing of the scalp.
It has been proven that exposure to the sun, as well as the changes of seasons, contribute to the improvement of seborrheic dermatitis or dandruff.
Can seborrheic dermatitis be prevented?
Yes, there are lifestyle changes that can help prevent the development of dandruff or seborrheic dermatitis. For example:
Scalp care routine:
This should be focused on the needs of your skin, i.e. whether you have a dry or oily scalp, whether or not your skin is sensitive to products. The key is to get to know and try new products until you find one that keeps your hair cared for, hydrated from skin to hair.
Frequent sunbathing:
UV rays contribute to scalp health, it doesn't have to be too long, ten minutes a day is more than enough. You can use sunscreen on your skin to protect your face as an additional option.
Balanced diet:
Food also influences the body's ability to absorb nutrients, vitamin B and zinc help prevent the onset of dandruff.
Decrease the use of products on the hair:
Chemicals, serum, hairspray, among other items that help with styling. These accumulate and predispose the scalp to irritation and develop seborrheic dermatitis.
At DermoMédica we have a specialized plan
To accompany our patients to eliminate dandruff from their lives.