A flaky rash on your scalp, face, or chest can be itchy and disruptive, but understanding what it is may help. It could be simple dandruff and treatable with a simple switch in your shampoo, but it could also be something more serious, such as a condition known as seborrheic dermatitis. While not a household name, seborrheic dermatitis is a common skin condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Understanding this condition is essential, as it can have a significant impact on your quality of life. In this article, we’ll explore more information about this condition, including its prevalence, symptoms, causes, and common treatments.

How prevalent is seborrheic dermatitis?

Seborrheic dermatitis can affect multiple regions of the body, primarily targeting the sebaceous (oil-producing) areas of the skin, such as the scalp, face, and chest. It is estimated that seborrheic dermatitis affects up to 50 million Americans, making it a relatively common skin condition.¹

While seborrheic dermatitis can affect people of all ages, it is most commonly seen in adults between the ages of 30 and 60.² Seborrheic dermatitis can also present itself during infancy, and is referred to as “cradle cap.”

What does seborrheic dermatitis look like?

Seborrheic dermatitis can manifest in several ways, and its appearance varies depending on the affected area. Here’s what it typically looks like on different parts of your body:

• Scalp: On the scalp, seborrheic dermatitis often appears as greasy, yellow or white scales or flakes that may be accompanied by itching. These flakes can resemble regular dandruff but are often thicker and more persistent.
• Face: On the face, seborrheic dermatitis can cause redness and scaling, particularly in the eyebrows, sides of the nose, and around the ears. It may also involve the eyelashes, leading to flaking and redness of the eyelid margins.
• Chest and Back: Seborrheic dermatitis on the chest and back may present as red, scaly patches. These patches can resemble psoriasis or eczema, which is why it is important to be evaluated by a dermatologist familiar with seborrheic dermatitis and its mimickers.

What are the symptoms of seborrheic dermatitis?

In addition to its appearance, seborrheic dermatitis is characterized by a range of symptoms, which may include:

• Itching: One of the hallmark symptoms is itching, which can range from mild to severe. It can be quite bothersome and is a common reason that patients seek treatment.
• Redness: Affected areas often become red or pink due to inflammation.
• Flaking: The skin sheds flakes or scales, which can be especially noticeable on dark clothing or hair.
• Burning Sensation: Some individuals experience a burning sensation in affected areas, particularly when the condition is severe.

What causes seborrheic dermatitis?

The exact cause of seborrheic dermatitis remains unclear, but several factors are thought to contribute to its development:

• Malassezia yeast: Malassezia, a yeast-like fungus that naturally inhabits the skin, is believed to play a significant role in seborrheic dermatitis. An overgrowth of this fungus can trigger an inflammatory response in the skin, leading to the characteristic symptoms. Many common seborrheic dermatitis treatments target this species of yeast.
• Genetics: There is evidence to suggest that genetics may predispose individuals to seborrheic dermatitis. If you have a family history of the condition, you may be at a higher risk of developing it.
• Hormonal Fluctuations: Changes in hormone levels, particularly during puberty, pregnancy, and certain medical conditions, can exacerbate seborrheic dermatitis symptoms.
• Environmental Factors: Cold, dry weather or excessive heat and humidity can worsen symptoms, as can stress and fatigue.

Is there treatment for seborrheic dermatitis?

The good news is that seborrheic dermatitis is a manageable condition, and there are various treatments available to alleviate symptoms. Treatment options often depend on the severity of the condition. A dermatologist can help develop you a customized treatment plan that will treat this condition. Here are some common approaches:

• Topical Antifungal Agents: Prescription shampoos, creams, or ointments containing antifungal agents like ketoconazole or ciclopirox can help reduce the overgrowth of the Malassezia fungus.
• Medicated Shampoos: Specialized shampoos formulated for seborrheic dermatitis can effectively control symptoms on the scalp. They should be used regularly to maintain results.
• Corticosteroids: In more severe cases, your dermatologist may recommend topical corticosteroids to reduce inflammation and itching. These should be used under the supervision of a dermatologist due to potential side effects.
• Lifestyle Adjustments: Managing stress, maintaining good hygiene, and avoiding harsh skincare products can all contribute to symptom relief.

In conclusion, seborrheic dermatitis is a common skin condition that affects a significant portion of the population. While its exact cause remains elusive, understanding the contributing factors can help individuals manage and alleviate its symptoms effectively. Whether you’re dealing with a mild case or more severe symptoms, consulting a dermatologist familiar with seborrheic dermatitis is essential to tailor a treatment plan that best suits your needs.

With the right approach and consistent care, you can manage this condition and enjoy healthier, more comfortable skin. If you think that you or a loved one may have seborrheic dermatitis, please contact Vanguard Skin Specialists at 719-355-1585 or fill out our online appointment request form

Ryan Lawrence, MD is a board-certified dermatologist at Vanguard Skin Specialists. He practices general and surgical dermatology at our Pueblo and Broadmoor office. He has special interest in treating skin cancer, psoriasis, eczema, and many other medical and surgical dermatologic conditions.

Citations:

1. Adalsteinsson JA, Kaushik S, Muzumdar S, Guttman-Yassky E, Ungar J. An update on the microbiology, immunology and genetics of seborrheic dermatitis. Exp Dermatol. 2020;29(5):481-489.
2. Borda LJ, Wikramanayake TC. Seborrheic dermatitis and dandruff: a comprehensive review. J Clin Investig Dermatol. 2015;3(2).

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