To get an correct analysis, it would be best to go to a dermatologist. The time you carve out to see one is properly definitely worth the stress the appointment will prevent in the long term. Give it some thought: Misdiagnosing seborrheic dermatitis could make it worse and result in much more stress as I skilled, which might imply extra flare-ups and finally extra trial and error. It’s a vicious cycle and one which seemingly will be skipped with an hour-long appointment.
Tips on how to deal with seborrheic dermatitis
You visited your dermatologist to substantiate you may have it, proper? Nice. With that out of the best way, listed here are some expert-recommended methods and over-the-counter cures you may strive at residence.
For scalp-related seborrheic dermatitis
To your scalp, the primary line of protection needs to be anti-yeast or antifungal medicines like ciclopirox or ketoconazole shampoo, which your dermatologist can prescribe at your appointment. “I often inform my sufferers to scrub their scalp with the prescription shampoo two to 3 instances every week, go away the shampoo in for five to 10 minutes, after which observe it with their common shampoo and conditioner,” Dr. Elrashidy says.
When looking for over-the-counter shampoos, search for antifungal components like zinc pyrithione and selenium sulfide to fight malassezia overgrowth. Dr. Elrashidy recommends DermaZinc Shampoo, which comprises zinc pyrithione. I swear by my dermatologist’s suggestion, Selsun Blue Every day Care, for its potent mixture of zinc pyrithione, selenium sulfide, and salicylic acid—the last word trifecta. Plus, it lathers fantastically with out leaving my hair feeling too dry.
However keep away from utilizing prescription and over-the-counter dandruff shampoos concurrently. “If you happen to’re utilizing the ciclopirox shampoo, you don’t need to additionally use Head & Shoulders as a result of that’s going to be too drying in your scalp,” Dr. Elrashidy says.
Exfoliating components like salicylic acid may also assist take away scales, however it could possibly’t be the first therapy, says Dr. Gohara. She recommends Neutrogena T/Sal Scalp Construct-Up Management Therapeutic Shampoo, which comprises 3% salicylic acid and relieves flaking with out irritation. Attract editors additionally just like the Briogeo MegaStrength+ Dandruff Aid Shampoo, which might go away the scalp feeling squeaky clear. Senior editor Jesa Marie Calaor, who has seborrheic dermatitis, makes use of it when her scalp flares up and is further flaky.
For facial seborrheic dermatitis
In case you are prescribed a topical remedy for facial seborrheic dermatitis, like ketoconazole or steroid cream, ensure to use it to scrub, dry pores and skin earlier than layering on different skin-care merchandise. Dr. Elrashidy recommends maintaining the remainder of your routine easy as a result of too many merchandise can intervene along with your remedy’s effectiveness and irritate your already delicate pores and skin. She suggests limiting your routine to simply your prescriptions, cleanser, moisturizer, and an SPF each two hours. “When issues aren’t flaring, then you may strive different merchandise, however I don’t suppose you want a 15-step skin-care routine.”
What merchandise ought to I keep away from?
Initially, resist the urge to seize simply any steroid cream you might need in your medication cupboard. You shouldn’t be utilizing previous prescriptions to deal with your present pores and skin situation. “We don’t need to do something to skinny the pores and skin or promote acne,” Dr. Kundu says. Your dermatologist will prescribe a efficiency and the period of use for any remedy that’s particular to your wants, so it’s necessary to observe their therapy directions.
