Seborrhoeic dermatitis is a skin disorder affecting the scalp, face and trunk causing scaly, flaky, itchy, red skin. It particularly affects the sebum-gland rich areas of skin. It is thought to be caused by a fungal infection caused by the yeast Malassezia furfur (formerly known as Pityrosporum ovale) in individuals with decreased immunity and increased sebum production. In a normally-functioning individual, the fungus thrives without incident, but in those afflicted with seborrhoeic dermatitis, the body's epidermis responds unfavorably to the infection, becoming inflamed and shedding large scales of skin in a failed attempt to rid itself of the fungus.

Treatments

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Soap may precipitate a flare-up, and a soap-alternative should be used instead.

The dermatologist recommended treatment is ketoconazole creams and/or shampoos. Shampoos containing zinc pyrithione, selenium sulfide or coal tar may also help, as may lotions containing alpha-hydroxy acids.

Topical steroids are reserved for acute flare-ups only as they may precipitate recurrences and dependence.

Alternative therapies

Some nutrients are essential for seborrheic skin. The B vitamins, especially vitamin B6, are needed for protein metabolism, which is essential for healing and repair (if antibiotics are prescribed - extra intake of B-complex vitamins is recommended, also a probiotic Lactobacillus acidophilus supplement to replace the "friendly" bacteria that are destroyed by antibiotics). Fatty acids (primrose and ultimate oil) contain needed linoleic acid. Zinc enchances immunity (use of zinc gluconate lozenges or optizinc yield best absorption). Deficiency of Vitamin A will contribute to seborrhea. Vitamin E will increase oxygen intake and speed healing.

Some afflicted with the condition have also reported that an increased intake of Omega-3 fatty acids, usually fish oil, is effective in reducing the frequency and intensity of the symptoms' recurrence when combined with the traditional shampoos and creams, likely due to the anti-inflammatory effects of Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha (PPARα), antagonized by various Omega-3 fats.

See also

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• Dermatitis
• Dandruff
• Cradle Cap
• Acne vulgaris & Rosacea with which Seborrhoeic dermatitis may be confused

External links

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• Yahoo discussion group for the treatment of seborrheic dermatitis
• NZDermNet seborrhoeic dermatitis article
• Seborrheic Dermatitis FAQS. Provides detailed information about Seborrheic Dermatitis and its treatments. Includes orthodox and alternative treatments.

Dermatology

Seborrhoisches Ekzem | Seborrea | Dermite séborrhéique | דהנת | Seborrhoïsch eczeem | Dermatite seborréica