Seborrheic dermatitis is a skin condition characterized by the appearance of redness, scales, and dandruff in oily areas such as the scalp, eyebrows, and sides of the nose. Even though this condition is not dangerous, proper treatment is needed to avoid symptoms that interfere with daily activities.
Seborrheic dermatitis may appear similar to psoriasis, eczema, or an allergic reaction. Seborrheic dermatitis may return, although it often goes away on its own. Seborrheic dermatitis can occur in anyone, but is more common in babies before the age of 3 months and adults aged 30-60 years. In babies, this condition is known as cradle cap .
Also read: Recognize Psoriasis, Chronic Skin Inflammation Due to Autoimmune
Although seborrheic dermatitis is not dangerous, it can still be a lifelong problem. However, this disease does not cause serious damage to the body or hair, and is not contagious. So, what are the symptoms, causes, and what is the solution?
Causes of Seborrheic Dermatitis
The actual cause of seborrheic dermatitis is still not known for certain. However, there are suggestions that this condition can be caused by the growth of the Malassezia fungus which is triggered by excess oil production in the skin. In addition, the possibility of seborrheic dermatitis is also related to an abnormal response from the immune system.
The following are several risk factors that can increase a person's chances of experiencing seborrheic dermatitis:
- Weak immune system, such as in patients who have recently undergone organ transplants, sufferers of HIV/AIDS , or cancer sufferers.
- The recovery stage from a serious illness, such as a patient who has just had a heart attack.
- Mental or nervous disorders, such as Parkinson's or depression.
- Use of certain medications.
- Exposure to extreme weather, such as cold and dry weather.
Seborrheic Dermatitis Symptoms
The symptoms experienced by seborrheic dermatitis sufferers vary depending on the severity. Some common symptoms include:
- Itchy feeling.
- The appearance of a ring-shaped rash in the petaloid type of seborrheic dermatitis.
- Red skin.
- Oily yellowish-white scales on the scalp, eyebrows, eyelashes or armpits.
- Clear fluid comes out of the ear if seborrheic dermatitis occurs in the ear.
These symptoms are usually localized to the scalp and can worsen when the sufferer experiences stress. In certain cases, seborrheic dermatitis can also be associated with other health problems such as acne, excess hair growth (hirsutism), and baldness, which is known as SAHA syndrome ( Seborrhoea, Acne, Hirsutism and Alopecia) .
How treatment
In most cases, seborrheic dermatitis can go away on its own. However, if the symptoms continue to bother you, your doctor may prescribe several types of medication to treat the condition, such as:
1. Antifungal Drugs
The doctor will prescribe antifungal medication for seborrheic dermatitis sufferers in the form of gel, cream, or shampoo.
2. Topical Corticosteroids
Your doctor may prescribe shampoo, cream, or ointment that contains corticosteroids . This drug will work by inhibiting inflammation in the affected skin.
3. Calcineurin Inhibitors
Calcineurin inhibitors are non-steroidal drugs used to treat redness and inflammation of the skin.
4. Other Treatment
Apart from medication, self-care at home is also important, such as maintaining skin cleanliness, avoiding scratching the skin, using moisturizer, choosing soft clothing, and choosing appropriate beauty products.
It is very important for patients suffering from seborrheic dermatitis to take appropriate measures to treat their condition. Getting the right care and understanding the self-care required can help them reduce symptoms and improve their quality of life.
Article written by dr. Adelia Wulandari, Sp.DVE, FINSDV (Specialist in Dermatology and Venereology at EMC Sentul Hospital).