Seborrheic Eczema
(Also called: Seborrheic Dermatitis)
Symptoms
Seborrheic Eczema is a skin condition which causes scaly patches and red skin. It tends to develop in oily areas of the body, mainly on the scalp.
Common symptoms of Seborrheic Eczema include:
- Dryness
- Flakiness & peeling (Dandruff)
- Rashes and itching
- Redness
- Burning
This skin condition is not contagious. If you see these symptoms please go see a dermatologist.
Diagnosis
Your doctor will likely be able to determine whether you have seborrheic eczema by examining your skin. They may scrape off skin cells for examination (biopsy) to rule out conditions with symptoms similar to seborrheic eczema
Causes of Seborrheic Eczema
Seborrheic Eczema is more common to people with oily skin, which is caused by the overproduction of oil in their body. The exact causes of Seborrheic Eczema are unknown but it seems to be a combination of factors, including:
- Stress
- Genes and hormonal changes
- Fungi
- Cold/weather
Treatment
This condition is a long-term skin condition which means it is a lifelong issues that comes and goes. It will usually clear up by itself. It can be controlled with good skin care and medications such as:
- Prescription shampoo & ointments- there are antidandruff shampoos that can be bought and also prescribed. The shampoo and ointments will contain hydrocortisone, fluocinolone, and desonide.
- Anti-fungal Medication- Doctors will may prescribe an anti-fungal medication to help control the symptoms and treat the condition. The medication usually contains terbinafine.
- Metronidazole- This medication can be used to relieve symptoms by fighting bacteria
- Doctors can also use a combination of psoralen and light therapy to relieve symptoms. Psoralen can be taken by the mouth or applied to the skin.
Picture of a person’s scalp with Seborrheic eczema. It shows redness and severe dandruff on the scalp.
Picture of someone with seborrheic eczema on the face. Shows redness and scaly patches.
How the skin is affected to have seborrheic eczema