Seborrhoeic dermatitis is essentially a more severe form of dandruff, but what’s behind it? Find out what causes seborrhoeic dermatitis and how you can keep it under control.
Like dandruff, seborrhoeic dermatitis is caused by a naturally occurring microbe called Malassezia globosathat’s found on everybody’s scalp.
Your scalp produces natural oils called sebum, and Malassezia globosa breaks it down into an irritant – oleic acid.
The scalp’s natural reaction is to rapidly increase the production of new skin cells, which build up in clumps on the scalp and becomevisible flakes.
Seborrhoeic dermatitis can’t be cured – it’s what we call a recurring condition – but usually it can be easily and effectively managedwith the right products and routine.
WHY ARE SOME PEOPLE MORE PRONE TO SEBORRHEIC DERMATITIS THAN OTHERS?
It’s mostly down to genetics…
Some of us are simply more likely to have scalp problems if it’s in our genes to be more sensitive to the oleic acid produced by Malassezia.
People with particularly high oil production might be more likely to suffer from seborrhoeic dermatitis too, as more oleic acid isproduced from the sebum.
DON’T FORGET HORMONES…
Dandruff and seborrhoeic dermatitis can also flare up during hormonal changes, for example during adolescence or at particularlystressful times.
SO HOW CAN YOU GET RID OF IT?
Since seborrheic dermatitis and dandruff have the same cause, you should start by ruling out dandruff.
And if you’ve tried our anti-dandruff shampoo and that didn’t work, then try moving up to our Clinically Proven Solutions Shampoo.
It contains selenium sulphide - different active ingredient than our other dandruff shampoos - that is designed for stubborn dandruff.
Use it regularly for a month and you should be able to treat your signs.
If it doesn’t work, it’s best to consult your doctor or dermatologist to diagnose for other conditions like seborrheic dermatitis or scalp psoriasis.
More about severe dandruff
More about seborrhoeic dermatitis