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What causes seborrheic dermatitis?

Although the exact cause of seborrheic dermatitis is unknown, an immune reaction to the Malassezia fungal yeast family is thought to be involved. It is normal for these yeasts to live in the skin's natural oil without problem, along with bacteria and other organisms. In certain individuals, though, these yeasts may produce toxic substances, resulting in skin irritation and inflammation.

FAQ Frequently asked questions

What is seborrheic dermatitis?

Seborrheic dermatitis is a skin condition that causes greasy scales, mainly on the scalp, ears, face and upper body. These areas are all rich in oil glands, also known as the sebaceous glands.

What increases the risk of developing seborrheic dermatitis?

Seborrheic dermatitis most commonly occurs in young adults and is more common in men than women. Other factors that increase the likelihood of seborrheic dermatitis include obesity, poor hygiene and cleaning habits, exposure to …

What does seborrheic dermatitis look like?

Seborrheic dermatitis usually appears where the skin is oily or greasy. Common symptoms include greasy scales on the scalp, ears, face or upper body, and dandruff in hair, eyebrows, moustache or beard. When the condition develops on a baby's …

Who gets seborrheic dermatitis?

Although seborrheic dermatitis can appear at any age, it most commonly occurs in young adults and is more common in men than women. In adults, seborrheic dermatitis of the scalp produces dandruff. When it occurs on a baby's scalp, the condition is called …

How is seborrheic dermatitis treated?

As there is no cure for seborrheic dermatitis, one or more treatments may be prescribed by a doctor with the aim of managing symptoms and preventing flare-ups of symptoms. The treatment plan will most likely depend on how severe the symptoms are and …

Can seborrheic dermatitis be prevented?

Seborrheic dermatitis cannot be prevented from occurring in the first place. However, once symptoms have been cleared with treatment, future flare-ups can be prevented by maintaining good washing habits to clean oil and any traces of fungus from the …

Is seborrheic dermatitis contagious?

Although the Malassezia family of fungal yeasts is thought to be involved in causing seborrheic dermatitis, the condition is not considered to be an infection in its own right, and cannot be passed on from one person to another.

Are seborrheic dermatitis and cradle cap the same thing?

When seborrheic dermatitis occurs on a baby's scalp, it is called cradle cap.

What is the connection between seborrheic dermatitis and dandruff?

In adults, seborrheic dermatitis of the scalp produces white or yellow skin flakes, known as dandruff. The skin may also flake off in other areas where hair grows, such as in the eyebrows, moustache or beard.

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About this article

Author: Lauren Donley BSc (Hons)
First answered: 18 Sep 2014
Last reviewed: 19 May 2018
Rating: 4.5 out of 5
Votes: 594 (Click smiley face below to rate)
Category: Acne

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