Is aloe vera gel good for seborrheic dermatitis
4 Benefits of Aloe Vera in Seborrheic Dermatitis [Science Backed]
Seborrhoeic dermatitis is a skin disease characterized by a red, itchy and scaly scalp.
These allergic reactions may also appear on the body apart from the scalp. Dandruff is also a type of this condition but without any red rashes.
Sebaceous glands of the skin are more prone to be attacked by this disease.
It can be caused by a variety of reasons some of which include genetics, cold weather, as a side effect of certain medications, fungal infections most common yeast infections, weak immune system and a diet devoid of essential nutrients.
It may also be caused by the aggravation of sex hormones like testosterone and dihydrotestosterone.
The most common method of management of seborrhoeic dermatitis is the application of antifungal agents and medications like antihistamines to deal with allergic reactions.
Researchers have found that Aloe Vera plays an essential role in the management of this medical condition.
Being safe for use and a natural source it can be very beneficial for patients suffering from seborrheic dermatitis.
Aloe Vera has miraculous properties providing benefits in the agricultural, cosmetic and medicinal field since a thousand centuries.
It is a plant species commonly found in tropical climates.
It is popularly known as the wonder plant due to the numerous properties it possesses. We will discuss in this article how aloe vera can help inSeborrhoeic dermatitis.
Please feel free to use the Table of Contents below to jump to the relevant section.
4 Benefits of Aloe Vera for Seborrheic Dermatitis
Aloe veras potent anti-inflammatory properties that can be helpful in treating inflammatory conditions like seborrheic dermatitis amongst other beneficial properties.
1. It is effective in curing seborrheic dermatitis
Seborrhoeic dermatitis is an inflammatory skin disorder. Aloe Vera has been found to be effective in its treatment.
A study conducted in 2012 investigated the benefits of aloe vera cream on diaper dermatitis and reported that it contains anti-inflammatory properties that can treat red rashes effectively.
It was regarded as a natural and safe therapy by the researchers for the treatment of dermatitis conditions.
Clinical trials conducted by Vardy et al. in 2008 on 44 patients suffering from seborrheic dermatitis demonstrated that emulsion prepared from extracts of aloe vera significantly reduced scaliness, itchiness and red rashes on treatment as compared to the control group.
The study concluded that aloe vera could be used as an effective therapy for this condition.
A study published in Journal of Food Science and Technology in 2011 mentioned that aloe vera is a rich source of essential vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, proteins, polysaccharides, and folic acids that add to a nutritious diet.
Including aloe vera in the food you eat can reduce the risk of developing seborrheic dermatitis.
What does this mean? Aloe vera is highly nutritious and can prevent the development of such a condition in the first place. Aloe Vera has found to be effective in the treatment of symptoms associated with seborrheic dermatitis.
2. It has anti-fungal activity
Fungal infections especially those caused by yeast on the skin is a major cause of seborrhoeic dermatitis.
A study reported that aloe vera has great antibacterial and antifungal properties and thus is s potential agent for preventing dandruff. It has been found to control a variety of other fungal infections.
A study published in Fetoterapia in 2007 demonstrated the effects aloe vera against fungal species.
The dose of aloe vera in inhibiting the fungal species was found to be between 80 to 100 micro L/ml, indicating its positive effect at low doses too.
The application of aloe vera gel on skin affected by Candida albicans has been found to effective in the treatment of the infection in a study conducted by Heggers et al. in 1979.
What does this mean? The anti-fungal property of aloe vera makes it a potential candidate for use in drugs available for managing seborrheic dermatitis. It is effective in treating dandruff in the scalp too which is a common cause of seborrhoeic dermatitis.
3. It stimulates the immune system
Patients with a weak immune system are more vulnerable to seborrhoeic dermatitis, and it is thus very important to strengthen the immune system to ward off such infectious diseases.
A study demonstrated the immunomodulatory activity of Aloe Vera gel and reported that it modulates the immune system by inhibiting the production of cytokines mediating inflammation.
Another study reported that Aloe Vera contains alprogen which inhibits the release of histamine and leukotriene from mast cells. It also stimulates the synthesis of tumour necrosis factors from macrophages that enhance the defense activities of the immune system.
What does this mean? Aloe Vera strengthens the immune system making the body capable of acting against infections that cause seborrheic dermatitis.
4. It improves skin health
Seborrhoeic dermatitis degrades skin quality and even after its treatment the marks, dryness, and scars can affect the quality of life of the individual.
It is important to consume a healthy diet rich in nutrients to keep the skin healthy so that it can recover quickly from the damage caused by this skin disease.
A study reported that aloe vera is rich in polysaccharides that promote skin healing and growth. Polysaccharides promote the production of collagen providing strength to the damaged or injured skin.
It has found to be effective as a wound healing agent. It is safe for application and removes scars caused by wounds.
Another study evaluating the properties of aloe vera mentioned that it has an anti-acne effect. Aloe vera stimulates the production of fibroblasts that make the elastic and strengthens it.
It also contains amino acids that soften skin cells having a moisturizing effect and can treat the dry skin improving its integrity.
Aloe vera was also regarded as an official skin protectant by the U.S. Pharmacopoeia in 1820.
What does this mean? The inclusion of aloe vera in the diet adds tremendous amounts of essential nutrients that can help maintain as well as improve skin health. It can heal the skin and provide strength preventing its further damage or risk of infections.
Dosage
There is no specific dosage of aloe vera for this particular condition.
The dietary dosage of aloe vera and its topical application both are considered safe for use.
The plant can be grown in your own house, or aloe vera supplements are also available in the market.
For topical application on affected areas of the skin, one must scrape the Aloe Vera gel off the leaf and apply it directly to the affected joints or skin to relieve pain, itchiness, scaly patches and red rashes.
This aloe vera gel can be applied to the affected area up to 3 times a day until the wound is healed. If you do not have a plant at home, aloe vera gel is available in the market at cosmetic or medical stores
Aloe Vera gel can be consumed in the form of juice and can be consumed 2-3 times a day to reduce the occurrence of the red rashes.
This is because aloe vera gel contains plant sterols which are known to exhibit similar effects as those shown by steroidal drugs on inflammation.
Since there is no specific recommended dosage, it is best to consult a doctor before opting for aloe vera products like juices, creams or capsules to avoid any allergic reactions.
Pregnant and lactating women and children are not advised to consume aloe vera in any form.
For those opting for aloe vera supplements or those who are suffering from any medical conditions like cancer or bleeding disorders, consult a health practitioner before opting for its consumption.
Precautions
Aloe vera is considered safe and effective when consumed or topically applied, however, it may induce certain side effects in rare conditions, so it is best to consider certain general precautions before opting for its inclusion in the diet.
It may cause redness, burning, stinging sensation and in rare cases even worsen dermatitis if it does not suit your skin on when topically applied.
Allergic reactions are mainly caused due to the presence of anthraquinone derivatives (organic compounds found in the plant) in Aloe Vera.
Thus one must test for allergic reaction by doing a small patch test on the skin.
Aloe vera juice may also lead to side effects like diarrhoea, abdominal cramps, constipation, and hepatitis.
The juice can lower the blood glucose levels and may interact with medications if an appropriate gap is not maintained between the intake of the two.
Its intake for a longer duration can increase the risk of colorectal cancer, and the laxative present in it can cause electrolyte imbalance.
One should stop drinking aloe vera juice if any of these side effects are observed.
To avoid interactions with drugs maintain a 3-4 hour gap between the medications and aloe vera consumption.
However, it is recommended that those on medications or suffering from any medical conditions must consult a doctor before consumption of Aloe vera on a daily basis.
Pregnant women should avoid intake of aloe vera as it may cause uterine contractions and in lactating women, it can lead to gastrointestinal problems in the infant.
Conclusion
Aloe Vera appears to be extremely preventative and curative for seborrhoeic dermatitis.
It is effective and safe at the same time with mild side effects as compared to other synthetic drugs.
It is a natural source packed full of nutrients, and its inclusion in the diet can help maintain a balanced and healthy lifestyle and strong immunity that can keep infections like these at bay.
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.
