DEAR DR. GOTT:
My husband has been diagnosed with seborrheic dermatitis. It’s our understanding that this condition can be controlled, but not cured. Medication has been very ineffective. We have been using Neosporin and antiseptic powder on the open areas and aloe vera on his chest. These have helped some. Do you or your readers have any other suggestions?
DEAR READER:
Seborrheic dermatitis is a common chronic skin condition that causes white or yellowish flaky scales. These form on oily areas of the skin such as the scalp, inside of or behind the ear, creases of the nose, eyebrows or lids, along skin folds in the middle of the body and lips. It may also cause the skin to redden (mildly) in those areas. It can have long inactive periods between flare-ups but can generally be controlled with treatment.
Seborrheic dermatitis appears to run in families. Oily skin, infrequent shampooing or skin cleaning, stress, fatigue, obesity, use of lotions with alcohol, weather extremes and skin disorders, such as acne, can worsen symptoms and may increase the risk of developing this condition. It can also be associated with Parkinson’s disease, head injuries and strokes. It is a common cause of dandruff and infants and children (up to age 3) can develop a temporary version called cradle cap.
Diagnosis is reached through physical examination of the lesions as well as their location. A dermatologist is best choice for diagnosis and treatment of this disorder.
There are several at home treatment options. For lesions in the scalp, over-the-counter medicated or dandruff shampoo is often effective. It should be used daily and vigorously scrubbed in for five minutes then rinsed. The shampoo may also be effective when rubbed into the lesions on other areas of the body. Look for shampoos that contain salicylic acid, coal tar, zinc, resorcin, or ketoconazole. Because of its similarity to psoriasis, some of my readers have tried Vicks VapoRub with success. Others have had success rubbing a banana peel onto the affected area once or twice a day.
If the affected area(s) drain fluid or pus, become painful or very red or form crusts, call your physician. This can be a sign of infection that may need antibiotic treatment.
Close attention to skin and hair care and reducing risk factors can aid in prevention of outbreaks. If over-the-counter or home treatments do not work, a visit to a dermatologist for further advice or prescription medications may be appropriate.
To give you related information, I am sending you a copy of my Health Report “Eczema and Psoriasis”. Other readers who would like a copy should send a self-addressed, stamped number 10 envelope and $2 to Newsletter, PO Box 167, Wickliffe, OH 44092. Be sure to mention the title.