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DermatitisSeborrhoea dermatitis is a skin disorder affecting the scalp, face and trunk causing scaly, flaky, itchy, red skin . It particularly affects the sebum-gland rich areas of skin .Etiology
The cause of seborrhoea dermatitis remains unknown, although many factors have been implicated. The ubiquitous yeast, Malassezia furfur (formerly known as Pityrosporum ovale), is involved, as well as genetic, environmental, hormonal, and immune-system factors. Those afflicted with seborrheic dermatitis have an unfavourable epidemic response to the infection, with the skin becoming inflamed and flaking. Hair Loss Side effects to inflammation may include temporary hair loss. Note that if severe outbreaks go untreated for long periods of time, permanent hair loss may result due to damaged hair follicles. Expect two to six months before hair growth may resume. Treatments Among dermatologist recommended treatments are shampoos containing coal tar, ciclopiroxolamine ketoconazole, selenium sulfide, or zinc pyrithione. For severe disease, keratolytics such as salicylic acid or coal tar preparations may be used to remove dense scale. Topical terbinafine solution (1%) has also been shown to be effective in the treatment of scalp seborrhoea, as may lotions containing alpha hydroxy acids or corticosteroids. Pimecrolimus topical lotion is also sometimes prescribed. Chronic treatment with topical corticosteroids may lead to permanent skin changes, such as atrophy and telangiectasia. UV-A and UV-B light inhibit the growth of M. furfur, although caution should be taken to avoid sun damage. Those with seborrhoea dermatitis might benefit from biotin supplements. Eczema is a form of dermatitis, or inflammation of the upper layers of the skin . The term "eczema" is broadly applied to a range of persistent or recurring skin rashes characterized by redness, skin edema, itching and dryness, with possible crusting, flaking, blistering, cracking, oozing, or bleeding. The diagnosis is generally based on the appearance of inflamed, itchy skin in certain sensitive areas such as face, chest and other skin crease areas. Given the many possible reasons for flare ups, a doctor is likely to ascertain a number of other things before making a judgment: An insight into family history Dietary habits Lifestyle habits Allergic tendencies Any prescribed drug intake Any chemical or material exposure at home or workplace There are many types of treatment for Dermatitis which include the use of moistening agents e.g. 'emollients', corticosteroid steroid ointments, creams or lotions, anti-itch drugs, such as antihistamine, antibiotics and light therapy using ultraviolet light. Doctors will sometimes advise avoiding any scented products and over washing of the skin . Diets and nutrition can also be investigated.. Other than direct treatments of the symptoms, no cure is presently known for most types of dermatitis; even cortisone treatments and immunomodulation may often have only minor effects on what may be a complex problem. As the condition is often related to family history of allergies (and thus heredity), it is probable that gene therapy or genetic engineering might help. Non-conventional medical approaches include traditional herbal medicine, aromatherapy and others. Lavender oil has a multitude of uses, one of which is in relation to the skin where it is reputed to be calming, soothing, and can help in the treatment of conditions such as acne and eczema. Lavender is reputed to have a generally calming effect which can benefit an eczema sufferer especially when the cause is emotional or stress related. Chamomile Roman essential oil is one of the most helpful oils in the great majority of cases although Melissa is an alternative which suits some people better. Juniper has been used since ancient times and has come to be considered one of the best oils for use in skin conditions. Eczema, dermatitis and psoriasis are amongst these conditions especially if the eczema is weepy. It combines wonderfully with other oils and the addition of Sandalwood with its reputed benefits for dry and dehydrated skin and Cypress which again is widely used in skin care. |
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