Seborrheic Dermatitis

What is Seborrheic Dermatitis?

Seborrheic dermatitis is a common skin condition that affects people of all ages.  It usually presents itself as a red, scaly, itchy rash and mainly occurs on the scalp, face, ears, and chest. Less often, the rash may also appear under the arms, creases of the breasts, groin, and buttocks. The condition affects more men than women.

Causes of Seborrheic Dermatitis

There is not one specific “cause” of seborrheic dermatitis, but doctors believe a yeast-like organism plays a significant part. It is natural for the skin to inhabit yeast organisms. However, when other contributing factors are added in, the yeast grows and causes inflammation of the skin. When seborrheic dermatitis appears in infancy, it tends to come and go and is mostly present on the face and scalp. In teens and adults, it is more common to occur in the scalp (dandruff). As the skin ages, it starts to break down leaving the skin more vulnerable to developing seborrheic dermatitis. This usually occurs in more than one area such as the scalp, in the ears, in and around the eyebrows, along the scalp line, and on the chest.

Other contributing factors of seborrheic dermatitis are family history of seborrheic dermatitis, oily skin or hair, history and presence of other skin conditions, and even colder climates where the colder temperatures can worsen seborrheic dermatitis.

Treatment

Diagnosis and treatment of seborrheic dermatologist is fairly simple. Rarely people do not respond to treatment, however, seborrheic dermatitis is a chronic condition, meaning there is no cure for the condition and it does have a tendency to recur, so a maintenance program is important.

At Georgia Dermatology Center, Dr. Gross will examine the affected areas, confirm the diagnosis and develop a treatment plan that best fits your needs. Your treatment plan will be dependent on the location of the affected area and age of the patient. Typically treatment will entail the use of prescription shampoo, topical ointments, sprays or foams, and possibly oral medications.

Dr. Alexander Gross is well known throughout Atlanta and the North Georgia community for his expertise and experience in diagnosing and treating skin disorders in children and adults. If you live in Alpharetta, Roswell, Johns Creek, Milton, Buford, Gainesville, or Sandy Springs you are always welcome at Georgia Dermatology Center in Cumming, GA.