Managing Your Condition
Living with seborrheic dermatitis can be frustrating. And you're not alone if you have tried a variety of treatments - medicated shampoos and creams, as well as prescription steroid treatments - with mixed success.
It's important to remember that seborrheic dermatitis is a chronic (life-long) condition which can be managed, but not cured. Learning more about your condition can help you identify your personal outbreak zones, triggers and treatment options.
Know your trouble spots
You already know to pay extra attention to areas of your skin that flare up regularly. These are usually areas rich in natural oil glands. The most common outbreak zones include:
- scalp
- eyebrows
- ears
- sides of nose
- upper chest or back
- underarms
- groin area
Minimizing outbreaks
Here are some steps you can take that may help minimize the appearance of your seborrheic dermatitis:
- Keep your scalp, face, and chest clean - washing these areas frequently with a mild soap helps remove surface skin oils.2
- Avoid using heavy lotions - if you do use lotion or moisturizer, read labels and look for sunscreen and other products that are oil free or non-comedogenic (won't block pores). 2
- Switch your blade - if your condition makes shaving painful, some men find electric razors less irritating than blades.7
Consult your dermatologist; he or she can confirm your diagnosis and help manage your treatment. You may need a medicated shampoo and prescription medication to get relief.
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2 National Eczema Association Web site:Seborrheic Dermatitis. Available at: http://www.nationaleczema.org/lwe/seborrheic.html
Accessed March 12, 2008.
7. Seborrheic Dermatitis FAQs. Available at: http://www.geocities.com/mall_lago/html/sebderm1.html
Accessed March 12, 2008.
8. Center for the Advancement of Health (2007, July 20). Coaching For Doctor Office Visits Helps Patients Ask Right Questions. Available at: http://www.hbns.org/getDocument.cfm?documentID=1549
Accessed March 6, 2008.
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