Seborrheic Dermatitis Treatment in Montgomery, PA
Dermatitis is a general term used to describe inflammation of the skin. Considered a chronic form of eczema, seborrheic dermatitis affects the areas of the body that are prone to oil-production (such as the face, the upper chest and the back), causing scaly patches and reddened skin. The condition is perhaps better known to affect the scalp, oftentimes resulting in stubborn dandruff. Moreover, as the condition causes scaly patches, and itchy and reddening skin, related conditions such as atopic dermatitis and psoriasis are often mistakenly diagnosed in its place.
Because of its proneness for misdiagnosis, such as dandruff being misidentified as the sole source of scalp flaking when it might in fact be a symptom of seborrheic dermatitis of the scalp, it is important to meet with a healthcare provider trained to accurately assess your skin's condition, as well as to diagnose and recommend appropriate treatment options. To schedule a consultation with a qualified healthcare provider in Montgomery that specializes in seborrheic dermatitis treatment, call (570) 354-0420 or contact BNG Aesthetics Skin & Laser Center online.
Seborrheic Dermatitis Symptoms
Seborrheic dermatitis commonly affects the scalp, causing skin flakes (dandruff) to appear on the scalp, hair, eyebrows, beard or mustache. Additionally, seborrheic dermatitis may cause reddening skin on the face, upper chest and back, as well as redness or crusting of the eyelids (blepharitis). Patches of greasy skin covered by white flakes or yellow scales or crust may also appear on the scalp, ears, face, chest, armpits, scrotum or other parts of the body. Itching or stinging, finally, is usually associated with seborrheic dermatitis.
Seborrheic Dermatitis Causes
The exact origin of seborrheic dermatitis has not yet been identified; however, possible seborrheic dermatitis causes may be related to:
- A reaction to a yeast (fungus) called malassezia which is contained in the oil secretion of the skin
- An inflammatory response relating to psoriasis
- A reaction to the changing of seasons (episodes tend to worsen in early spring and winter)
- Hormonal changes or illness
- A reaction to harsh detergents, solvents, chemicals or soap
- A stress-related reaction
It is believed that a weakened immune system as well as some endocrine diseases leading to obesity (such as diabetes) and certain neurological and psychiatric conditions (such as Parkinson's disease and dementia) may also increase your risk of developing seborrheic dermatitis.
Seborrheic Dermatitis Scalp Treatment
Diagnosis of seborrheic dermatitis will start with a physical examination. Your healthcare provider may choose to scrape off skin cells for closer examination (biopsy) to rule out other conditions presenting similar symptoms to seborrheic dermatitis, such as psoriasis, atopic dermatitis (eczema) and rosacea . Seborrheic dermatitis scalp treatment will vary depending on the severity and location of the symptoms. Your treatment plan could include an anti-fungal seborrheic dermatitis shampoo to decrease the associated symptoms affecting your scalp. On the other hand, prescribed medications might be recommended for cases related to the immune system, while skin creams may be prescribed to clear up the associated rash.
It is important to discuss with your healthcare provider at-home remedies, as some of these can improve your situation while others may be ineffective. Over-the-counter treatments, for example, may not be effective for every skin type and could worsen your symptoms. However, some alternative remedies may prove fruitful. Tea-tree oil, for example, may be added to shampoo and may help soothe your skin. Fish oil supplements, which contain omega-3 fatty acids, may also help ease your symptoms, while aloe vera has also been recorded to help in some cases.
If you experience symptoms relating to seborrheic dermatitis, it is important to meet with a healthcare provider who can assess your skin's condition and recommend the best treatment plan. To schedule a consultation with a qualified healthcare provider in Montgomery that specializes in seborrheic dermatitis treatment, call (570) 354-0420 or contact BNG Aesthetics Skin & Laser Center online.
BNG Aesthetics Skin & Laser Center
Address
24 W Fourth StWilliamsport, PA 17701
(570) 354-0420
www.bngaesthetics.com
Hours
Mon:
9:00 am - 5:00 pm
Tue:
9:00 am - 5:00 pm
Wed:
9:00 am - 5:00 pm
Thu:
9:00 am - 5:00 pm
Fri:
9:00 am - 5:00 pm
Sat:
By Appointment Only
Sun:
Closed