Is your scalp constantly plagued by redness, scaly patches with a white or yellowish color, and persistent dandruff? Have you noticed these issues on your face, eyebrows, eyelids, nose, ears, or other areas that tend to be oily? If so, you may be suffering from a common skin condition known as seborrheic dermatitis.

Seborrheic dermatitis, also known as dandruff, is a type of rash that can go away without treatments. However, many people find that professional care is needed to effectively treat the issue. In some cases, seborrheic dermatitis may reoccur, prompting further treatment.

What Causes Seborrheic Dermatitis?

While seborrheic dermatitis is a common issue, its exact cause is not yet known and research is still being performed. What research has shown is that poor personal hygiene is not a factor in the development of seborrheic dermatitis and the issue does not appear to be an allergic reaction.

Possible causes of seborrheic dermatitis include the spread of a particular type of yeast known as malassezia, which can be found in the oil secreted by the skin. Another potential cause may be an issue with the immune system that is creating this irregular response. Various medications, stress, genetics, and dry weather are all additional potential causes.

While seborrheic dermatitis can affect people of all different skin colors and ages, this issue most commonly affects infants younger than three months old and adults between the ages of 30 and 60.

Other factors that can increase your risk of developing seborrheic dermatitis include:

• Alcoholism
• Eating disorders
• Rosacea
• Epilepsy
• HIV
• Heart attacks
• Strokes
• Depression
• Parkinson’s disease
• Acne
• Psoriasis

What Can I Do About My Seborrheic Dermatitis?

The first step to is to have board-certified dermatologist Dr. Gregory Houck diagnose the issue as seborrheic dermatitis in order to ensure that the treatment is appropriate for the condition. Dr. Houck will determine this by examining the affected areas of the skin and going over your complete medical history.

Once the condition is diagnosed, treatment will be determined by the severity of the issue and other influencing factors. Some common treatment options include medicated shampoos (either over the counter or prescription), creams, medicated cleansers, and other topical products designed to specifically treat seborrheic dermatitis.

Many of these products are prescription strength and should be used only as instructed. Anti-fungal and anti-yeast topical medications may also be prescribed depending on the exact areas that are in need of treatment.

Schedule a Consultation Today

If you believe you are suffering from seborrheic dermatitis or if you have been diagnosed with the issue and are in need of dermatological care from a skilled and experienced professional, contact Houck Dermatology today to schedule a consultation.

Dr. Houck will take the time to thoroughly examine any affected areas in order to determine the severity of the issue. This will allow him to formulate a treatment plan that is personalized to your specific case. Our goal is to provide all of our patients with treatments that provide them with the results and relief they need.