Seborrheic dermatitis

Most of the time, when we talk about dermatitis, we mean atopic dermatitis, but this is far from the only dermatitis that exists. We describe it in more detail in the blog. seborrheic dermatitis , what it looks like, how it can be cured, and some tips for care without medication.

Seborrheic dermatitis is a chronic inflammatory skin disorder that manifests as red macules or plaques. These can vary in their flaking and itching. The plaques are oily and not dry like in atopic dermatitis, which is the main difference between the two.

The condition is mostly caused by a reaction to the fungus Malassezia and usually occurs in seborrheic areas where the most sebaceous glands are located (scalp, face, chest, back, armpits, nasolabial folds and eyebrows). Malassezia is a lipid-dependent yeast fungus that only grows in areas of the skin that are rich in sebum. The sebaceous glands are thought to "facilitate" the presence of the fungus, which produces free fatty acids that irritate the skin and cause dermatitis.

Interesting facts about seborrheic dermatitis

It occurs in 10% of adults , and on average it occurs more often in the male population, It most often occurs between the ages of 30 and 40 , but it is also common during puberty.

In winter or when we are under stress, the condition usually worsens, but in the summer months and when we are exposed to the sun, it improves.

Interestingly, not everyone has seborrheic dermatitis, despite the high presence of the Malassezia fungus. It is possible that the dermatitis only occurs if the individual has a compromised immune system. However, 11 gene mutations and protein deficiencies have been identified that are associated with seborrheic dermatitis, meaning that it can be caused by a genetic predisposition.

What about treatment?

Treatment for seborrheic dermatitis focuses on reducing symptoms such as itching. The most common treatments include topical antifungal or anti-inflammatory agents. Our ZincBalm , which we advise you to use Apply to the areas of the outbreak, 1-2 times a day .

AtopicCream It will take on the role of moisturizing the skin. It is intended for extremely sensitive skin and can be used indefinitely, morning and evening, after cleansing the face.

Treatment is not only aimed at reducing the signs of dermatitis, but also aims to restore normal skin function (function and structure).

Corticosteroids

Mild to moderately potent corticosteroids are effective in managing seborrheic dermatitis when topical products fail to provide relief and the condition becomes unmanageable. Topical corticosteroids can be used alone or in combination with antifungal agents. However, prolonged use is not recommended as they have side effects. such as telangiectasias (dilated blood vessels), hypertrichosis (excessive hairiness), skin atrophy (thinning) and perioral dermatitis and the skin's dependence on them.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs

In this case, the drugs work by inhibiting the growth of Malassezia, and also have keratolytic (softening and peeling of the outer layers of the skin) and antioxidant effects. Such treatments are successful and well tolerated by individuals. Side effects are mild and mostly occur in the form of itching, burning or stinging.

Keratolytic agents

A keratolytic is an active ingredient that removes the horny layers of the skin. The most well-known keratolytic is salicylic acid, which, when combined with lipohydroxy acid in shampoo, successfully reduces erythema, itching, and discomfort in individuals with seborrheic dermatitis of the scalp.

Our product is also suitable for scalp care in seborrheic dermatitis. The SHAMPOO , which is extremely gentle, does not contain aggressive foaming agents, so it will not dry out the scalp. The added essential oils will have a soothing effect on itching.

Some active ingredients and their action in seborrheic dermatitis

What cosmetic products should we use if we have seborrheic dermatitis on our face?

It is essential to ensure optimal skin moisture , as this prevents other skin conditions such as peeling and itching. The creams you use should be light in texture, such as light creams, oil-in-water emulsions and gels. If you use the wrong cream, it can worsen the current condition. Protect yourself with a water-based sunscreen and avoid excessive makeup and medications.

Atopic Lotion It contains niacinamide, which has anti-inflammatory properties, and glycyrrhizic acid, which soothes itching and breakouts. It is suitable for both body and face care .

What about sun protection?

Individuals with seborrheic dermatitis are more sensitive to ultraviolet, infrared and visible light. The content of hyaluronic acid in sunscreens is more than welcome, as it has been proven to improve skin condition. However, it is important that the cream contains UVA and UVB filters that cover the entire spectrum of light, is non-irritating and non-comedogenic, is quickly absorbed, mattifies and is water-based.

Skin care

Cleaning

You can use foam or micellar water, which you must rinse off the skin.

You can use shower gel for your body, including ours. Shower Gel It is formulated for this type of skin.

For hair and scalp, our Shampoo is suitable for individuals with sensitive scalps prone to dermatitis and/or itching.

Care

For your face, use a gel or light cream that mattifies.

You can use it for body care AtopicLotion , which has a light texture, but still moisturizes and soothes the skin well.

Sun protection

Use a water-based SPF 50+ that absorbs quickly, can be tinted or untinted, as you prefer.

1. In case of outbreaks, use ZincBalm , but only on the areas where seborrheic dermatitis is present, not on the entire face.
2. Products should also contain antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory ingredients and good moisturizers such as hyaluronic acid, which will further help improve skin condition. Our hyaluronic acid contains AtopicCream . We recommend applying to damp skin. You can moisturize it with immortelle, yarrow hydrosol or thermal water.

Some more natural alternatives…

What about dietary supplements?

Vitamins that are said to have a good effect on seborrheic dermatitis are: A, C, E, D and B (B1, B2, B6, niacinamide and biotin) . In addition, they are also important essential fatty acids and minerals such as zinc, iron and selenium .

What to choose?

Because everyone is different, we have also described several approaches to reducing the symptoms of seborrheic dermatitis in this blog. Some are more natural, others more pharmaceutical, depending on what you want for your skin and what you think is best for you. If you have any further questions about seborrheic dermatitis, our team is always available to answer any questions you may have and to help you find a cosmetic product that suits you.

Literature:

Piquero-Casals, J., Hexsel, D., Mir-Bonafé, JF, & Rozas-Muñoz, E. (2019). Topical Non-Pharmacological Treatment for Facial Seborrheic Dermatitis. Dermatology and Therapy

Borda, LJ, Perper, M., & Keri, JE (2018). Treatment of seborrheic dermatitis: a comprehensive review. Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 1–12