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Is Seborrheic Dermatitis A Fungus

Brief Introduction To Seborrheic Dermatitis

MALASSEZIA FOLLICULITIS/FUNGAL ACNE/SEBORRHEIC DERMATITIS SAFE SKINCARE ROUTINE

For the most part, seborrheic dermatitis is a considered to be a chronic skin condition that is caused by the Malassezia yeast.

The Malassezia are lipid-dependent yeast which are present on the skin of almost all humans . For most people, these yeasts cause absolutely no issues, but in certain susceptible individuals, they are believed to trigger various skin symptoms and conditions one of which is seborrheic dermatitis .

Though seborrheic dermatitis has long been considered to be caused by malassezia, more recent evidence reveals the relationship is a bit more complex. At this time, the following is the best explanation we have:

  • Increased malassezia -> irritant by-products -> skin barrier damage -> irritation & symptoms

Apart from the Malassezia, other factors have also been put forward by researchers:

  • Altered-immune response reduced T-helper cell numbers
  • Difference in malassezia activity in individuals affected by seborrheic dermatitis, they produce select skin irritants which are not seen in non-affected individuals
  • Abnormal oxidative stress a relationship between the oxidative stress index and seborrheic dermatitis severity has been noted
  • Nutritional status lowered vitamin E levels and abnormal fatty acid balance
  • Shift in overall skin microbiota recent evidence suggests that the bacterial flora of the skin has a more direct relationship to seborrheic dermatitis than malassezia

But really, this is just the tip of the iceberg.

Trusting The Healing Process

Our skin in its inflamed and diseased state is equivalent to babies’ sensitive skin. Babies are well known to be sensitive creatures, and we care about what goes on their bodies more than anything. We have to be just as cautious and caring of ourselves when dealing with this very overwhelming ailment. Thankfully, because seborrheic dermatitis is like a baby’s cradles cap, we often see that babies can heal rather quickly when the right products and natural medicinal properties are used for true healing and prevention. When the skin is peeling and flaky, it is a sign of healing rather than the red, inflamed state. The flaking can worsen before it gets better, but the itching and irritation should calm down first as the fungus is being killed.

I went as far as shaving all of my hair off to allow my scalp to breathe and start fresh back in 2018 when I was going through my worst eczema flare ever. Take some pointers from this article and stay medically informed so that you will not have to go through such extremes. Share in the comments your healing journey with scalp eczema or dandruff. Have you used any of the suggestions given?

Questions Your Healthcare Provider May Ask

During your appointment, your provider may ask the following questions to better inform the diagnosis of seborrheic dermatitis:

  • When did you first notice your symptoms?
  • Are you experiencing itching on your scalp?
  • Have you noticed scaly skin or dandruff on your scalp?
  • Have you been under stress lately?
  • Where on your body have you noticed scaling or itching?
  • Have you had a heart attack recently?
  • Do you drink alcohol excessively?
  • Are you taking any vitamins, medications, or supplements?
  • Have you tried any at-home remedies to alleviate symptoms?

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Cause Of Seborrheic Dermatitis

There is no direct cause of seborrheic dermatitis, as this condition often develops in people who are otherwise healthy. Although, there are a few risk factors that may increase a persons chances of developing this chronic condition:

  • Weakened immune system
  • Chronic stress
  • Genetics
  • Pre-existing conditions, including psoriasis, HIV, acne, rosacea, Parkinson disease, depression, alcoholism, eating disorders, recovery from stroke or heart attack

Apple Cider Vinegar For Seborrheic Dermatitis

Seborrheic Dermatitis and Dandruff Treatment

Apple cider vinegar contains malic acid. This unique vinegar is very powerful against various types of yeast and fungus. ACV is rich in vitamins, mineral salts, riboflavin, fibres, potassium and lot more nutrients. The constant application of ACV can do wonders for your irritated skin.

You can use Apple Cider Vinegar in many ways:

  • Apple Cider Vinegar Bath: Add 2 cups of ACV in a warm water. Rinse your scalp in this mixture. Pat dry.
  • Apple Cider Vinegar Tonic: Mix 1-2 tbsp of apple cider vinegar in 16 oz of water. Add honey or maple syrup in it. Stir well and drink thrice daily at least 30 minutes before having meals.
  • Apple Cider Vinegar with Baking Soda: Mix a pinch of baking soda in one glass of water. Shake well and pour it in a spray bottle. Start spraying the mixture in the affected areas.

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Best Natural Medicated: Jason Dandruff Relief Treatment Shampoo

  • Free of parabens, sulfates, and phthalates

  • Doesnt lather well and may leave hair greasy

Sometimes the best way to go back to nature is by making sure your products are chemical free. Jason Dandruff Relief Treatment Shampoo relies on natures botanicals to bring you a natural shampoo free of parabens, phthalates, and sulfate. Instead, this shampoo uses a combination of sulfur and salicylic acid to treat mild psoriasis and dermatitis, which ultimately eliminates flakes and itchiness. Added in to soothe and moisturize the scalp are plant-based healers like rosemary, olive, and jojoba oils. If you use this shampoo at least three times a week, the occurrence of flaking, scaling, and itching should be significantly reduced.

Active Ingredients: Salicylic acid 2.2%, Sulfur 2.4% | Uses: Mild psoriasis and dermatitis

Shampoos With Pyrithione Zinc

Pyrithione zinc has antimicrobial and antifungal properties that help relieve itching and inflammation. Shampoos like Head & Shoulders Dry Scalp Care or Selsun Blue Dandruff Shampoo with pyrithione zinc can help relieve symptoms of seborrheic dermatitis. Some side effects that may occur include stinging or burning of the scalp, skin peeling, or skin irritation.

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Causes Of Seborrheic Dermatitis

Similar to dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis is a harsh reaction to fungi that naturally lives on all humans. This is common in infants and referred to as a cradle cap. Whereas in adults, stress, hormonal changes, and dry weather can cause flare-ups. Diseases like Parkinsons, psoriasis and HIV can cause seborrheic dermatitis.

Living With Seborrheic Dermatitis

Shampoo for seborrheic dermatitis scalp treatment

Seborrheic dermatitis is considered chronic. Also, it is a life-long condition. It comes and goes, and it can be controlled with treatment. The negative effects of living with the condition are additional fungal infections and emotional distress. Most people who live with seborrheic dermatitis feel embarrassed and have low self-esteem.

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Why Seborrheic Dermatitis Affects The Ears

The skin environment differs throughout the body some areas are moist, others are dry, and a select few are oily. The ears fall into the oily category. Here the number of sebaceous glands is fairly high ad the skin depends on a lipid-rich environment for adequate protection from the outside environment.

Since Malassezia yeast thrive in such a lipid-rich environment, the ears become a susceptible area. And chances are, that if your ears are affected, so is your scalp, nasal region, eyebrows, forehead, chin, and even possibly your lower back.

Yeast And Seborrheic Dermatitis

Seborrheic Dermatitis or Cradle Cap in babies, is a types of eczema that affects the head area but can affect the chest, underarms, thighs in more severe cases. It is one of the most common types of yeast skin infection that affects all ages and its course is characterized by spontaneous remissions and exacerbations.

Latest research shows that Malassezia Yeast plays a major role in this condition. it seems that many patients with seborrheic dermatitis have enormous growth of a normal skin yeast called as in the affected areas. Whether one causes the other or vice versa is just a secondary phenomenon remains to be determined.

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Topical Antifungals Used For Treatment Of Seborrheic Dermatitis

Sundeep Chowdhry,

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Department of Dermatology, ESI PGIMSR, India

Correspondence: Sundeep Chowdhry, Senior Specialist and Assistant Professor, Department of Dermatology, ESI PGIMSR, Basaidarapur, New Delhi, India, Tel 919910084482

Citation: Chowdhry S, Gupta S, Dsouza P. Topical antifungals used for treatment of seborrheic dermatitis. J Bacteriol Mycol Open Access. 2017 4:1-7. DOI: 10.15406/jbmoa.2017.04.00076

Enhancing Healthcare Team Outcomes

Seborrheic Dermatitis

SD is a difficult condition to manage in the adult, and its management is best by an interprofessional team.

  • Consider the impact of SD on psychosocial functioning and quality-of-life and remember that SD may accompany neurological or psychiatric disease.
  • The dermatologist and pharmacist can help to promote the appropriate use of topical corticosteroids and employ steroid-sparing alternatives.
  • New evidence suggests diet may play a role in SD, with a high fruit intake associated with a 25% lower risk of SD, whereas a Western diet was associated with a 47% increased risk of SD.
  • Atopic dermatitis and ISD frequently coexist, whereas psoriasis often occurs in adults with SD, but there is usually no history of atopic dermatitis
  • Review the diagnosis in recalcitrant cases of SD and consider immunodeficiency in sudden, severe cases
  • Topical antifungals have an anti-inflammatory effect which contributes significantly to their efficacy and is a convenient steroid-sparing strategy

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What Questions Should I Ask My Healthcare Provider

  • Do my symptoms indicate seborrheic dermatitis, eczema, atopic dermatitis or psoriasis?
  • What over-the-counter treatment or combination of treatments would work best for me?
  • Is there a specific brand of dandruff shampoo, cream or lotion that you recommend?
  • Is there a prescription shampoo, cream or lotion you can prescribe?
  • How often should I see a dermatologist regarding this condition?
  • What should I do if I have an allergic reaction to a shampoo/cream/lotion?
  • Is my acne treatment covered by my insurance?

Although seborrheic dermatitis is itchy and uncomfortable, it does not harm your health. The condition can be managed with treatment. Itchy skin and white flakes on your black shirts shouldnt be a normal part of your day!

Connecting The Dots Between Seborrheic Dermatitis And Candida W/ Dr Alan Dattner Full Transcript

Jennifer: Hi everyone and welcome back. Today I have with me a very special guest who’s actually returning for his second interview and we’re going to be talking about something that we have not touched on yet here at the Healthy Skin Show. You may remember a Dr. Alan Dattner. He is a board certified dermatologist practicing holistic and integrative dermatology for nearly 40 years helping patients who have failed conventional care. He uses nutrition, herbal medicine, supplements, functional medicine, applied kinesiology, psychosomatics and more to heal the underlying causes of skin disorders. He has a background in immunology, having worked in six different immunology laboratories with renowned scientists, culminating in studies of cross-reactive immune recognition as a visiting scientist at the National Institutes of Health, and that is pretty cool. The research led him to understand the scientific validity of digestive issues as a cause of inflammation in the skin. Well, thank you so much for joining us again, Dr Dattner. Today, let’s talk about Seborrheic Dermatitis. This is the first time ever we have discussed this topic here on the Healthy Skin Show. Why don’t we start out by having you just describe very briefly what exactly this condition is.

Jennifer: So I guess I’m asking you a question just cause you said that, based off of my thoughts: Are you implying that this process could be somewhat autoimmune in nature?

Jennifer: Oh my goodness.

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How Is Seborrhoeic Dermatitis Diagnosed

Seborrhoeic dermatitis is diagnosed by its clinical appearance and behaviour. As malassezia are a normal component of skin flora, their presence on microscopy of skin scrapings is not diagnostic.

Skin biopsy may be helpful but is rarely indicated. Histological findings specific to seborrhoeic dermatitis are superficial perivascular and perifollicular inflammatory infiltrates, psoriasiformhyperplasia, and parakeratosis around follicular openings.

Is Seborrheic Dermatitis Treatable

Yeast Overgrowth Overview (+Seborrheic Dermatitis)

The condition itself is not treatable. Because seborrheic dermatitis is a chronic disease, it is likely to persist as a lifelong condition. Flare-ups may occur seasonally, or when a person experiences periods of stress.

Although, the symptoms of this condition are treatable and hair can grow back. Over-the-counter medications and topical medications are available to cure the fungal infection on the skin to effectively treat the symptoms caused by the infection.

Hair will grow back once the source of this symptom is treated, by way of antifungal medications and anti-inflammatory treatments.

The right treatment for each patient will depend on the patients lifestyle preferences, specific symptoms, and the severity of their condition. Its important to consider the potential risks and side effects of each treatment method before deciding on a treatment option.

If you are experiencing the symptoms of seborrheic dermatitis, our dermatologists will work with you to create a personalized treatment plan that treats the source of your condition to effectively alleviate the associated symptoms.

Throughout all of our UCF Health Services, its our goal to help you achieve your greatest quality of life. You shouldnt have to live with irritated, flaking skin. Our Orlando dermatologists are here to help you weigh your options and decide on a treatment that reverses hair loss and cures the source of the condition.

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Treatment Of Dandruff And Seborrheic Dermatitis

You can try several products to see if they help dandruffor seborrheic dermatitis. Since both affect the scalp, there are severalshampoos you may find beneficial.

For dandruff, there are many product options. Zincpyrithione as found in Head & Shoulders, Pert, and Zincon shampoosis a good ingredient to try. Follow all label directions for use.Selenium sulfide as found in Selsun Blue is an alternative that ishelpful. Salicylic acid helps dandruff and is found in Ionil Plus,Scalpicin Scalp Liquid, T/Sal, and Denorex Extra Strength.

A product called Nizoral A-D shampoo containsketoconazole, a medication that attacks the fungus that can contributeto dandruff in some patients. It is worth a trial to see if the funguscan be controlled in your case.

Seborrheic dermatitis responds to all of the medicationslisted above except Nizoral A-D. Any may be beneficial. You may also trya trial of nonprescription hydrocortisone for seborrheic dermatitis,using a product such as Cortaid.

If your condition fails to respond to these interventions,you may need to visit a physician for a prescription medication such asketoconazole cream. Applied once daily, it may effectively prevent theseborrheic dermatitis symptoms. Your physician can also check to seewhether the condition is a more severe problem.

Remember, if you have questions, Consult Your Pharmacist.

REFERENCES

Connecting The Dots Between Seborrheic Dermatitis And Candida W/ Dr Alan Dattner

Or, listen on your favorite app: iTunes | Spotify | Stitcher | TuneIn |

My guest today is actually a returning guest, Dr. Alan Dattner. He is a board-certified dermatologist practicing holistic and integrative dermatology for nearly 40 years, helping patients who have failed conventional care.

He uses nutrition, herbal medicine, supplements, functional medicine, applied kinesiology, psychosomatics and more to heal the underlying causes of skin disorders.

Dr. Dattner has a background in immunology, having worked in six different immunology laboratories with renowned scientists, culminating in studies of cross-reactive immune recognition as a visiting scientist at the National Institutes of Health, and that is pretty cool. The research led him to understand the scientific validity of digestive issues as a cause of inflammation in the skin.

Join us as we talk about the relationship between seborrheic dermatitis and candida.

Has your seborrheic dermatitis improved with treatment for candida albicans? Tell me about it in the comments!

  • Why aren’t current treatments helping people see massive improvement?
  • How is yeast involved in seborrheic dermatitis?
  • How to control seborrheic dermatitis
  • Can addressing yeast help with seborrheic dermatitis?

Quotes

Seborrheic dermatitis is the condition that underlies the common condition we know as dandruff. But seborrheic dermatitis can be more extensive than just scaling in the scalp.

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Best Medicated: Nioxin Scalp Recovery System

  • Formulated with green tea extract

  • Pleasant smell

  • Expensive

Formulated with one percent pyrithione zinc and green tea extracts, this shampoo is ideal for relieving the itchiness and flakiness associated with seborrheic dermatitis. It helps restore the scalp to its natural balance and provides soothing protection. For the best results, use it at least three days a week. Whats extra nice about this particular shampoo is that it doesnt have the unpleasant smell of medicated dandruff shampoos, but is light and soothing.

Active Ingredients: Pyrithione zinc 1 % | Uses: Flaking and itching of the scalp associated with dermatitis

  • Small bottle

  • Contains sodium laureth sulfate

The Body Shop Ginger Scalp Care Shampoo may be small and its ingredients light, but dont let that fool you because this shampoo is mighty. Made with a blend of ginger essential oil, birch bark, white willow, and honey, this shampoo perfectly calms the scalp by relieving irritation, itchiness, and boosting moisture. Its just as effective as more traditionally formulated shampoos and definitely smells a lot better with its spicy scent. As long as you massage it into wet hair and use it as needed, your scalp should feel clean and healthy again.

Active Ingredients: None | Uses: Flaking and dryness of the scalp associated with dermatitis

What Is The Best Medication For Seborrheic Dermatitis

Seborrheic Dermatitis: Causes and Risk Factors

The best medication for seborrheic dermatitis depends on the patients medical condition, medical history, and medications they may already be taking that could interact with seborrheic dermatitis medication as well as the patients response to treatment.

This table will act as a comparison chart for the most commonly prescribed seborrheic dermatitis medications.

Seborrheic dermatitis shampoos and medications
Drug name
Apply a thin layer to the affected region Rash, itching, redness

Dosage is determined by your doctor based on your medical condition, response to treatment, and age. Other possible side effects exist.

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