How do you get rid of seborrheic dermatitis fast
Natural Treatment for Seborrheic Dermatitis: What Works?
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Seborrheic dermatitis, also known as dandruff, is an inflammatory skin disease.
It most often affects the scalp and causes scaly, red patches to appear. These patches may also appear on the face and upper body. These are areas with many sebaceous glands, which produce oil.
Seborrheic dermatitis is not contagious. Instead, its the result of an allergy or an autoimmune reaction. Its a chronic condition, which means treatment can manage but not cure it.
It may take several rounds of treatment to get rid of symptoms. Conventional treatments are effective, but they can contain strong chemicals.
Home remedies can limit this exposure, with fewer side effects. Used alongside medical treatment, they can help you find relief more quickly.
Psoriasis vs. seborrheic dermatitis: Whats the difference?
Seborrheic dermatitis can result from different factors, depending on your skin type and sensitivities. So theres no catch-all alternative treatment. Your dermatologist can help you find one thats suitable.
Fish oil
Fish oil supplements can help suppress flare-ups of dermatitis that allergies trigger, as well as provide other nutritional benefits. Its omega-3 fatty acids can help boost overall immune and cardiovascular health.
Aloe vera
Aloe vera is a plant with anti-inflammatory properties.
Supplements containing aloe vera gel or extracts can help suppress flare-ups. They can also help lessen the severity of flare-ups that do happen.
Probiotics
Probiotics may help treat different kinds of dermatitis, especially in children. But theres little research to link probiotics to effective results for seborrheic dermatitis.
Still, probiotics can promote a healthier digestive system. This can decrease inflammatory issues throughout your body.
Apple cider vinegar
An apple cider vinegar soak will loosen the scales on your scalp. It may also lessen inflammation in the area of the flare-up.
To use this treatment:
- Wash your hair with shampoo.
- Apply a diluted solution of apple cider vinegar to the area.
- Let the vinegar and water sit on your scalp for a few minutes.
- Rinse well.
Olive oil
Another option for at-home treatment is to coat your scalp with olive oil.
Follow these steps:
- Apply the oil to the scalp.
- Leave the oil on for about an hour.
- Brush thoroughly to remove scales from your scalp.
- Wash and shampoo your hair as usual.
MORE: Seborrheic Dermatitis: Best Shampoos for Treating Your Scalp
Seborrheic dermatitis is not directly linked to any dietary habits. But that doesnt mean your diet has no effect on your flare-ups.
Eat foods that support your immune system and focus on those with anti-inflammatory properties. You may find that your symptoms decrease.
To fight inflammation, eat a diet that includes:
- plenty of green, leafy vegetables
- tomatoes
- olive oil
- fruits that contain antioxidants, such as cherries, strawberries, and blueberries
- foods that are high in vitamin C, such as citrus and bell peppers
- almonds
- sweet potatoes
- foods with plenty of vitamin E, like wheat germ and avocados
Seborrheic dermatitis isnt life threatening, but it is chronic and can be uncomfortable. At times, you may find the scaling, itching, and redness distracting, especially if it happens on your face or upper body.
Talk to your doctor about your symptoms to ensure you get a correct diagnosis. You can connect to a dermatologist in your area using the Healthline FindCare tool.
Also, see your doctor if flare-ups are a persistent concern or if you also have other symptoms.
Your primary care physician may refer you to a dermatologist, who specializes in skin conditions.
They may want to order some tests to further evaluate your situation and talk to you about treatment options complementary to your condition.
Topical treatments are the most commonly recommended solution for seborrheic dermatitis outbreaks.
Corticosteroids. Creams and shampoos containing corticosteroids or hydrocortisone can help reduce severe inflammation. These are only suitable for short-term use, as they can cause side effects.
Keratolytics. Products containing salicylic acid, lactic acid, urea, and propylene glycol can help remove scales.
Antibacterial gels or antifungal creams. These can help in the case of a fungal or bacterial infection.
Light therapy. Exposing the affected area to ultraviolet light may help soothe the skin and reduce itching and redness.
Coal tar. Coal tar cream can help slow the process of skin cells dying and falling off. Apply it to scaling areas, leave for several hours, and shampoo later to remove it.
Medicated shampoos. Use a product containing ketoconazole, ciclopirox, selenium sulfide, zinc pyrithione, coal tar, and salicylic acid, twice a week for a month or longer. If necessary, you can use them indefinitely.
Supplementing these treatments with an alternative or natural treatment can help decrease side effects over the long term.
Although its unclear what causes seborrheic dermatitis, there appear to be some common triggers.
Stress can aggravate flare-ups for many skin conditions, including seborrheic dermatitis. Try to be mindful of what triggers you in particular.
Know your triggers
Its possible that your flare-ups are connected to an allergic reaction, so try to document if theres anything unusual or new to your environment when a flare-up happens.
To keep from triggering a flare-up, avoid wearing wool caps and sweaters. Instead, opt for fabrics like cotton and silk.
Self-care measures
The following may help
- Wash affected areas regularly with a mild shampoo.
- Avoid styling gels and hair sprays during a flare.
- Avoid alcohol-based products, as they may trigger a reaction.
Support your immune system
A weakened immune system can also contribute to how severe your symptoms are. Take care of yourself and make sure to eat a diet rich in vitamins E, C, and K.
Dandruff: What your itchy scalp is trying to tell you
Ways of managing seborrheic dermatitis include at-home treatments and topical creams.
With the help of a dermatologist, you can find a treatment that works for you.
A variety of alternative treatment methods can help you avoid possible long-term side effects of prescription and over-the-counter creams.
Self-Care Tips for Seborrheic Dermatitis
Read on to learn more about self-care tips and home remedies for seborrheic dermatitis.
Wash with fragrance-free cleanser
When washing your face or showering, use a fragrance-free cleanser. Fragranced products can cause further skin irritation.
Your dermatologist may also recommend a cleanser containing pyrithione zinc. This has
Medicated soaps and shampoos containing the following ingredients may also be beneficial:
- selenium sulfide
- ketoconazole
- sulfur
- salicylic acid
- tar
Learn about skincare for sensitive skin.
If you experience seborrheic dermatitis on the scalp, your doctor may recommend using certain shampoos.
You may need to shampoo your hair twice per week to help prevent growth of the Malassezia yeast. An antifungal dandruff shampoo containing 1% or 2% ketoconazole may help with this.
Other shampoo ingredients that may help to alleviate your symptoms include:
- pyrithione zinc
- salicylic acid
- selenium sulfide
- tar
Learn more about medicated shampoos.
Scalp treatments may help to reduce inflammation and scales. This involves using antifungal shampoos as a treatment rather than a hair wash.
Apply the antifungal shampoo to your hair and leave it in for 510 minutes. Then rinse the shampoo out of your hair.
If you have a beard or mustache, treating these with the shampoo may also help.
Using antifungal shampoos too frequently can cause further irritation. You may wish to contact your doctor for advice on how often to wash and treat your hair.
Apply fragrance-free moisturizer
Apply a thick, fragrance-free moisturizer to your skin after washing or whenever your skin feels dry. This helps lock in moisture. Keeping your skin hydrated may help to reduce flare-ups.
Discover more skincare strategies for eczema.
Use alcohol-free skincare products
Choose skincare products that are alcohol free. Products containing alcohol can irritate the skin and may cause or worsen a flare-up of symptoms.
Wear noncomedogenic beauty products
Clogged pores contain oil, which can worsen symptoms of seborrheic dermatitis. If you wear makeup, choose noncomedogenic products.
Noncomedogenic cosmetics do not block the pores. This helps to reduce the amount of oil that might otherwise become clogged in the pores.
Protect your skin from the cold
You
Wear loose-fitting clothing
Wearing loose-fitting clothing may help you manage seborrheic dermatitis. Tighter clothing can rub against the skin and cause irritation.
Certain materials may be kinder to your skin than others. Polyester and wool may worsen symptoms. The National Eczema Society recommends clothing made from breathable materials such as cotton, bamboo, and silk.
Use hair products sparingly
Certain hair products may worsen symptoms. These products include:
Using these sparingly may help to prevent worsening symptoms.
Avoiding these common triggers may reduce the frequency of seborrheic dermatitis flare-ups:
- stress
- harsh soaps, detergents, and solvents
- cold, dry weather
- certain medications, such as interferon, lithium, and psoralen
Contact your doctor for advice if you have concerns about seborrheic dermatitis triggers.
Learn more about seborrheic dermatitis causes and triggers.
Because stress may trigger seborrheic dermatitis, managing stress may help to reduce the frequency of flare-ups. The National Eczema Association recommends the following techniques to relieve stress:
- performing light exercise, such as walking or yoga
- practicing breathwork, breathing exercises
- spending time outdoors
- keeping a journal to record your feelings
Learn more about managing stress.
Seborrheic dermatitis in infants
A pediatrician can advise you on ways to soothe symptoms of seborrheic dermatitis in infants.
Cradle cap, or infantile seborrheic dermatitis, is a type of seborrheic dermatitis. Cradle cap affects about 10% of infants within the first 3 months of life. It typically resolves on its own by the age of 12 months.
You can try these home remedies to soothe the infants scalp and encourage healing:
- use a gentle shampoo to wash the infants hair
- massage baby oil into the scalp
- use a baby comb or soft toothbrush to gently remove scales
Learn more about cradle cap.
Seborrheic dermatitis may develop in the diaper area. If symptoms occur, contact a doctor for an accurate diagnosis. Seborrheic dermatitis may resemble other types of eczema, psoriasis, or an allergic reaction.
You can treat seborrheic dermatitis in the diaper area by:
- using superabsorbent diapers
- frequently changing diapers
- using a gentle soap to wash the diaper area
- avoiding wipes, soaps, or other products that contain alcohol
Contact your doctor as soon as you have concerns about seborrheic dermatitis. They will confirm the diagnosis and advise you on medical treatments and home remedies to help manage symptoms.
You may also wish to contact your doctor if you presently have seborrheic dermatitis but feel that your current treatment plan is not working as it should.
Our eczema appointment guide can help you prepare for your appointment.
Debra Sullivan, Ph.D., MSN, R.N., CNE, COI, reviewed the answers to these frequently asked questions about seborrheic dermatitis.
How do you get rid of seborrheic dermatitis fast?
Developing a skincare routine for seborrheic dermatitis can help you manage symptoms and reduce flare-ups. This routine includes using gentle skincare products and treating the scalp with antifungal shampoo.
What can worsen seborrheic dermatitis?
Certain triggers can worsen seborrheic dermatitis. These include stress, harsh chemicals, and fragranced soaps.
What should I avoid if I have seborrheic dermatitis?
If you have seborrheic dermatitis, avoid skincare products that are fragranced or contain alcohol. These can worsen symptoms.
Can seborrheic dermatitis be cured by itself?
Seborrheic dermatitis is not curable. However, following your treatment plan and practicing self-care can help you manage symptoms and reduce the severity and frequency of flare-ups.
Seborrheic dermatitis causes scaly skin to develop on the scalp, face, and other oily areas. Your doctor may recommend self-care tips and home remedies alongside medical treatments to help you manage the condition.
Treatments can include using antifungal shampoos, washing with gentle cleanser, and applying moisturizer after bathing. Using beauty products that are kinder to the skin and wearing loose-fitting, breathable clothing may also help.
Contact your doctor for advice if you have concerns about seborrheic dermatitis. They will confirm the diagnosis and advise you on suitable treatments. They can also help you adjust your existing treatment plan if it is not currently working as it should.
