Know About Seborrheic Dermatitis: That Itchy, Flaky Skin Condition

• Itching in the scalp
• Scales on the scalp that are dry or oily 
• Redness on the scalp, face, or other affected areas 
• A red or yellow scaly rash along the hairline, the ear canal, the back of the ears, on the eyebrows, around the nose, the folds of the arms, legs, or groin, and/or on the chest
• Red, swollen, and flaky eyelids (blepharitis)
• Crusty yellow scales on the head of infants (cradle cap) 

• Infancy: It can be seen in children 2 to 12 months of age. Because of its distinctively scaly scalp, the condition is often known as cradle cap in neonates. But the cradle cap can also appear in the diaper area, folds of their skin, back, and chest. In this age group, seborrheic dermatitis typically goes away on its own in the first year.
• Middle age: At this age, seborrheic dermatitis typically manifests as dandruff. The condition is usually intermittent.
• Old age: Seborrheic dermatitis is typically more sporadic when it occurs at this age; however, after the age of sixty it becomes less prevalent.

Causes of Seborrheic Dermatitis

• Family history
• Excess oil production
• Overgrowth of Malassezia yeast, which is naturally present on the skin, can overgrow and trigger an inflammatory response 
• Prolonged stress
• Weakened immune system like organ transplant recipients
• Contact with chemicals like strong detergents, solvents, and soap
• Recovery following a traumatic life event, such as a heart attack or the death of a loved one 
• Ongoing illness or hormonal changes 
• Weather changes like a shift in the season, cold, or dry weather
• Certain drugs, such as lithium, psoralen, and interferon
• Medical conditions like Parkinson's disease and HIV

• Medicated shampoos: Prescription or over-the-counter shampoos with active components including ketoconazole, selenium sulfide, or coal tar can help control scalp symptoms.
• Topical ointments and creams: For more severe cases or when other parts of the body are impacted, prescription-strength topical therapies with corticosteroids or antifungal drugs could be advised. 
• Antifungal drugs: Oral antifungal drugs may be recommended when yeast overgrowth is a major contributing cause. 
• Lifestyle changes: Symptoms can be managed by avoiding triggers like high levels of stress, harsh skincare products, and severe weather conditions.