While there are dozens of skin diseases, there is one that is fairly well known, although not necessarily widespread (2 to 5% of the affected population), seborrheic dermatitis. Although benign, it can create real discomfort for those affected. What is seborrhoeic dermatitis, and how to fight against this skin infection?
Seborrhoeic dermatitis: identity card
Behind this barbaric name is a microscopic fungus that causes a skin disease. Also called Malassezia by scientists, it acts in the presence of the sebaceous glands and sebum.
It is related to a cousin of eczema, and can occur in adults and children alike (known as milk crust). This infection is localized on areas of the body with active sebaceous glands, such as the wings of the nose, the scalp (which creates sebum), etc.
Symptoms of dermatitis
Seborrhoeic dermatitis manifests itself in patches that grow in different parts of the body. You may have flare-ups on the face, scalp (these are the most affected areas), or the rest of the body.
In terms of colour, the flare-ups range from red to yellow. These patches cause irritation and unpleasant itching, which leads patients to scratch.
The flare-ups also include flakes, which are small pieces of skin that come off.
Can you get rid of them?
Unfortunately, not really... it is a chronic disease, which can go away for a while and come back when you least expect it. But that doesn't mean you can't limit the flare-ups and reduce the effects of seborrheic dermatitis!
In any case, the causes of the inflammation are still unknown, which doesn't help in finding a suitable remedy to limit the disease. It is known, for example, that in winter, dermatitis expresses itself more on the body.
The first step is of course to limit the outbreaks as much as possible by understanding what causes them. In case of infection, you can however take a corticoid-based treatment prescribed by your doctor, and only very rarely, in case of a very violent outbreak.
Our tips
One of the first points is to accept the disease. Although the irreversible side can be frightening for patients, accepting this skin disease makes it easier to live with it and to accept it in front of others.
Next, it is necessary to create a healthy environment around you, avoiding stress, heavy workloads, etc. Diet can also be a factor: avoid junk food, dairy products, saturated fats, etc.
As seborrheic dermatitis affects the sebaceous glands that produce sebum and oil our skin, excessive perspiration is also a factor that can accelerate the appearance of plaques. After each sports session, take care to wash yourself thoroughly without irritating your skin.
Knowing the exact cause of dermatitis can be complicated. The best way to combat this condition is to study the times when flare-ups occur, in order to identify the cause and limit the factor.
It is also useful to find out more about it in order to understand the problem in depth. I invite you to find out more by visiting the dsinfo site.
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