Itching, peeling, white flakes on clothes or sebaceous accumulations on the scalp are the main symptoms of dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis. They often develop unexpectedly and cause significant discomfort. These conditions not only spoil the appearance, but also cause unpleasant and even painful sensations, if you do not pay attention to their treatment in time.
In this material, we will talk about the difference between dandruff, seborrhea and seborrheic dermatitis, how they are related to each other and, most importantly, what means will help to effectively, safely and quickly cope with the problem.
Signs of diseases
Dandruff is characterized by the formation of scales of the stratum corneum of the scalp, which have the appearance of small white flakes. These scales can be dry and easily removed from the surface of the skin, but sometimes they acquire a white-yellow tint and become greasy.
Seborrhea is manifested by increased secretion of sebaceous glands, and lipophilic saprophyte fungi Malassezia Globosa feed on this secretion. As a result of their vital activity, products are released, including fatty acids. Including oleic acid. The latter becomes the cause of the development of the inflammatory process and further progression of the disease with the “capture” of new areas of the skin, which are characterized by a high production of sebum. This is how seborrheic dermatitis develops, which can appear on the face, in the area of the eyebrows, ears, nasolabial triangle, neck and even the upper part of the body. Seborrheic dermatitis, unlike dandruff, is accompanied by the accumulation of exclusively sebaceous scales of a yellowish hue.
The reasons for the development of problems
It is difficult to accurately determine the cause of dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis. Usually, the problem arises due to several factors at once. The Malassezia fungus, which is the causative agent of the disease, belongs to opportunistic microorganisms that are normally present on human skin. A pathological condition occurs when the fungus begins to multiply excessively. This is often associated with increased production of sebum by the sebaceous glands, which are especially active in the scalp. An excessive amount of sebum creates favorable conditions for the growth of Malassezia, which leads to inflammation, peeling and itching.
The fungus can multiply excessively due to stress, overwork, lack of vitamins and certain minerals in the body, hormonal disorders, some neurological diseases, genetic predisposition. Another common reason is the wrong choice of shampoo and cosmetic products for hair. For example, alkaline shampoos often cause dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis.
What is important to know
Dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis are associated with the activity of the Malassezia fungus. However, for dandruff, its share in the microflora of the scalp is about 74%, while for seborrheic dermatitis it can reach 83%. This suggests that even “harmless” dandruff at first glance needs attention. If the problem is ignored, it can worsen, which will lead to the development of inflammation and the transition to a more complex form – seborrheic dermatitis.
Treatment
To get rid of dandruff, you need to contact a trichologist-dermatologist. He is a doctor who treats diseases of the scalp.
Attempts at self-treatment can provoke a prolonged exacerbation of the disease, the appearance of secondary infection, the formation of boils and abscesses. Sometimes it can lead to partial or complete baldness.
Special shampoos and cosmetics are used to treat dandruff. They must:
- Have an antifungal effect;
- Remove exfoliated skin particles;
- Eliminate itching;
- Remove inflammation;
- Warn possible exacerbations.
Shampoos and other products for the treatment of dandruff can be purchased in our online store. Medicinal cosmetics are considered the most effective. In addition to the correct choice of cosmetic products, it is necessary to eliminate factors that can provoke the appearance of dandruff. Therefore, treatment should also include:
- Fight against nervous tension, stress;
- Taking vitamin supplements;
- Proper nutrition;
- Using scalp care products that are right for you;
- Treatment of neurological diseases (if any).
Use of cosmetology products to combat diseases
As part of the therapy of dandruff and seborrhea, cosmetic products are used:
- Cleansing zinc-containing creams, gels, balms. Zinc reduces the secretory function of sebaceous glands, fat synthesis.
- Tonics, which may include hyaluronic acid to moisturize the skin, lysates of bacteria to form the correct microflora of the scalp, salicylic acid to reduce oiliness of the skin.
- Moisturizing preparations, which normalize the composition of the water-lipid mantle.
Everything you need for the treatment and prevention of dandruff, seborrhea and seborrheic dermatitis is available in our online store. If you need professional advice, write to us in messenger or call the contact number.
