Seborrheic dermatitis, find out how to recognize it and how to fight it

Seborrheic dermatitis is an inflammation that mainly affects the scalp: find out what it looks like, possible causes and remedies.

Seborrheic dermatitis is a fairly common condition that mainly affects the scalp (but not only). Like other variants of dermatitis, it is characterized by redness and itching caused by inflammation . This condition is often confused with dandruff because of their similarity. However, these are two completely different ailments. In the article we will find out how it manifests itself, what are the possible causes and how to combat it .

Seborrheic dermatitis, what does it look like?

Seborrheic dermatitis is caused by a parasitic fungus , Malassezia furfur , which prefers the scalp as it is rich in sebaceous glands . The presence of this parasite causes the skin to become inflamed and irritated . As a result, those who suffer from this disorder will experience itching and the affected area will turn red.

Usually, the reddened area is covered by oily scales , actually dead skin cells following the action of the fungus, which have a yellowish color and which could detach themselves, going to get stuck in the hair. The appearance is very similar to that of dandruff (which can be fought with different natural methods ), which however is of a more white color.

Causes of inflammation in the scalp

The causes that lead to the development of seborrheic dermatitis are uncertain . This uncertainty is common to all types of dermatitis. However, there are some factors that are suspected of causing this condition.

As stated earlier, this ailment is caused by a parasitic fungus, the Malassezia furfur . But what brings this mushroom to colonize our scalp? The first suspect lies in hormonal imbalances , which may have been accentuated by a change of season. Other possible causes could also be the use of particular drugs , stress or genetic factors.

How to cure seborrheic dermatitis

Suffering from seborrheic dermatitis is certainly not pleasant. For this reason, many shampoos or hair products containing active ingredients were born that inhibit the growth and proliferation of the parasite responsible for the disorder.

Under medical advice, it is possible to take antifungal drugs , which will fight the presence of the fungus in the scalp and with it also dermatitis.