Dermatologists are typically thought to be concerned solely with skin disorders, such as acne and skin cancer, two of the most common skin problems today. For that reason, it may seem strange to learn that dermatologists clinics often treat dandruff and other problems of the scalp, including hair loss. In certain cases, dandruff may be a symptom of a relatively common skin problem called seborrheic dermatitis, which is characterized by scaly patches and red skin, typically on the scalp, face, chest and back. While not a threat to a person’s overall health, seborrheic dermatitis can be extremely uncomfortable and embarrassing, causing many people to visit dermatologist specialists for seborrheic dermatitis treatments.
First Steps
If you suspect you have seborrheic dermatitis, doctors typically recommend that you try a number of basic care methods to attempt to reduce your symptoms before seeking out help from a dermatologist. If the affected area is on your skin, for example, a nonprescription anti-fungal or anti-itch cream may help reduce your discomfort. Likewise, if your scalp is affected, an antifungal shampoo may be helpful. You should also try to avoid itching or picking at the rash, as aggravating seborrheic dermatitis increases your chances of infection. If you try these basic care techniques for several weeks and notice no positive improvement, you should then schedule an appointment at a local dermatologist clinic to discuss your skin condition.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Once you see a dermatologist, they will most likely begin the process by officially diagnosing your skin condition. Because the symptoms of seborrheic dermatitis are extremely similar to psoriasis, eczema and rosacea, this is the best way to ensure you will receive an effective treatment. If you are diagnosed with seborrheic dermatitis, your dermatologist will most likely prescribe a variety of antifungal treatments, such as creams, shampoos, ointments or pills; in some cases, you may receive a biologic, bacteria-fighting medication similar to a popular treatment for psoriasis. In serious cases, however, seborrheic dermatitis treatments will include medications that affect your immune system, or different forms of light therapy. One type, called PUVA treatments, combines psoralen and ultraviolet radiation to treat especially prevalent cases, but may not work on patients with thick hair.
Out of the many different skin conditions a person can develop over the course of their lives, seborrheic dermatitis is relatively minor, but can still be extremely irritating and embarrassing. For that reason, it is important to seek out seborrheic dermatitis treatments to get your skin disorder under control as quickly as possible. For that reason, consider trying some antifungal topical treatments and scheduling an appointment with a local dermatologist today!
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