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. It is thought to be caused by a fungal infection caused by the
Yeast ''
Malassezia Furfur '' (formerly known as ''Pityrosporum ovale'') in individuals with decreased immunity and increased sebum production. In a normally-functioning individual, the fungus thrives without incident, but in those afflicted with seborrhoeic dermatitis, the body's epidermis responds unfavorably to the infection, becoming inflamed and shedding large scales of skin in a failed attempt to rid itself of the fungus.
The recommended treatment is
Ketoconazole creams and/or shampoos. Topical steroids should be reserved for acute flare-ups only as they may precipitate recurrences and dependence. Shampoos containing
Zinc Pyrithione ,
Selenium Sulfide or
Coal Tar may also help, as may lotions containing
Alpha-hydroxy Acids . Some afflicted with the condition have also reported that an increased intake of
Omega-3 fatty acids, usually
Fish Oil , is effective in reducing the frequency and intensity of the symptoms' recurrence when combined with the traditional shampoos and creams, likely due to the anti-inflammatory effects of
Peroxisome Proliferator-activated Receptor alpha (PPAR), antagonized by various
Omega-3 fats.
Soap may precipitate a flare-up, and a soap-alternative should be used instead.
