Hair loss is a serious problem. Although hair loss due to seborrheic dermatitis is temporary, it can still be very embarrassing for the person experiencing it. This article gives you information about what causes seborrheic dermatitis as well as ways to treat it.
Seborrheic dermatitis is a condition that affects the skin and the scalp, causing irritation, inflammation, and flaking in these areas due to excessive oil production. Most of the time, this condition resolves on its own, and all its symptoms such as redness, itchiness, and dandruff go away after some time. Still, in some cases, this condition may become severe. It may lead to infection in the scalp and also result in loss of hair. Below are the reasons why hair loss occurs, followed by the treatment for the same.
Causes
It is still not clear why this inflammatory skin disorder develops in some people. Some researches claim that ‘malassezia’, a yeast that grows on the scalp, causes seborrheic dermatitis. Some of the other causes are excess oil production by the oil glands, due to reasons such as hormonal imbalance, stress, extreme hot or cold weather conditions, weakened immune system, Parkinson’s disease, certain neurological conditions, and an unclean scalp.
Treatment
Medicated Shampoos
This condition can be prevented by keeping the scalp clean and shampooing with an effective anti-dandruff shampoo. This will help in removing the oil and dirt from the scalp, thus preventing bacteria and fungus from developing and causing inflammation. There are certain antifungal shampoos, which contain ingredients such as sulfur, zinc, and salicylic acid, which are especially useful in this condition. So, they should be used for washing and keeping the scalp and hair clean and bacteria free.
Topical Cortisone Creams
Topical cortisone creams or solutions help in minimizing the symptoms of this disorder, such as inflammation and itchiness. There are certain creams that are especially recommended, which are available on prescription. So, a doctor should be consulted before using the cream.
Diet
Garlic is known for its antiseptic properties and thus, its consumption can minimize the fungal infection on the scalp. For getting rid of the inflammation, foods rich in antioxidants and beta-carotene should be consumed, such as oranges, apples, and spinach. Antifungal foods such as ginger, turmeric, radish, coconut oil, oregano, and olive oil should be included in the daily diet, which help in controlling the yeast growth.
Massage
Massage the scalp with a mixture of apple cider vinegar and a little bit of hydrogen peroxide, and then wash your hair with a mild shampoo. This certainly helps in relieving itchiness and curing dandruff. Massaging the hair and scalp regularly with hot olive oil and coconut oil and then taking out the dandruff flakes with a comb, is another way of getting rid of the dandruff.
Tea Tree Oil and Aloe Vera
One of the most effective remedies is to apply a mixture prepared from aloe vera gel and tea tree oil on the hair and scalp, leave it on for half an hour, and then wash off with an herbal or some mild shampoo.
Seborrheic dermatitis can be cured at home itself with the above mentioned treatments. Once all its symptoms go away, your hair will start growing again. A person at that point should take preventive measures, such as avoiding direct sunlight, eating a healthy diet, drinking lots of water, and leading a stress-free life to prevent the disorder from developing again.
Disclaimer: This HealthHearty article is for informative purposes only, and should not be used as a replacement for expert medical advice.
