Seborrhea of the scalp is a skin disease that occurs in areas rich in sebaceous glands. It manifests itself in inflammation of the scalp and other areas and can occur in either a mild form or develop to severe forms of dermatitis. Seborrhea occurs during adolescence and is most common in teenagers and older adults. Men are more likely to suffer from seborrhea than women.
Scientists are still debating the reasons for the development of seborrhea. Despite the fact that seborrhea affects the skin on areas of the head rich in sebaceous glands, it is not a disease of these glands. In patients with seborrhea of the head, the microflora of the skin and the balance of bacteria living on it are disturbed. The predominance of certain types of rain fungi that colonize the skin can lead to disruption of the lipid composition of the skin and the development of irritation. Seborrheic dermatitis is not only an aesthetic problem. With dermatitis, the skin becomes inflamed, itchy, and keratinizes faster. The scalp becomes crusty, seborrhea becomes visually visible and requires special treatment.
Seborrheic dermatitis: what contributes to its development
Seborrhea affects the head and other areas of the body more often if there are accompanying conditions:
- increased skin oiliness;
- life with stress;
- lack of sleep;
- evidence of scalp seborrhea in relatives;
- lymphoma, HIV and other diseases that cause a state of immunosuppression;
- diseases of the nervous system;
- psychical deviations.
Seborrhea develops more often in the presence of these factors, but the reasons for the development of the disease are not completely clear. Seborrheic dermatitis is not a disease of the sebaceous glands, although it develops in areas of the head saturated with them.
A significant role in the development of the disease is played by yeast-like fungi of the genus Malassezia (they inhabit the skin of most healthy people, but in some cases can cause rashes and irritation), the composition of lipids on the skin surface, as well as the characteristics of the immune response to Malazessia fungi and their metabolic products. Regardless of the causes of dermatitis, special measures are required for the scalp. The duration of such treatment can be from two months to six months, and after defeating dermatitis, maintenance therapy is needed for the epidermis of the head, which will prevent the re-development of seborrhea in any part of the body or head.
Features of seborrhea
Does seborrheic dermatitis only affect the scalp? No, this disease can occur on different parts of the human body. Treatment methods will differ depending on the location of the areas affecting the head, chest, back or other parts of the body.
Seborrheic dermatitis, which develops on the head or other parts of the body, is characterized by periods of exacerbations and remissions. Its treatment should take place in several stages and include maintenance therapy against seborrhea. The entire treatment regimen should be coordinated with a doctor in order to achieve maximum results and normalize the condition of the scalp in the shortest possible time, as well as prevent the development of seborrhea and dermatitis.
When treating any form of seborrhea, special care products are used, as well as oils or creams to soften the crusts. It is important to stop the itching so that there is no desire to scratch the scalp and thereby further aggravate seborrhea. Scratching can open the door to secondary infection, and the scalp will have to be treated for several diseases at once.
The best anti-dandruff hair shampoos according to FAN
In this rating we have included effective products that help get rid of obsessive white “flakes” on hair roots and clothes. This is evidenced by reviews from customers and beauty bloggers. In it you will find pharmaceutical preparations with clinically proven effects, as well as inexpensive anti-dandruff shampoos from mass market brands.
Nizoral
Pr Scr market.yandex.ru / Yandex
A medicinal composition with the active substance ketoconazole, which allows you to effectively cope with seborrhea and other manifestations of the pathogenic development of fungal microflora. Anti-dandruff shampoo Nizoral has a caring effect and helps normalize the condition of the skin. It is cared for by collagen hydrolysate, urea and fatty acids derived from coconut oil.
Buyers note that the product gets rid of dandruff, and the result is noticeable after the second or third use. Despite the small volume of the bottle, it lasts for a long time, since only 5 ml is needed for one use. The shampoo also has its drawbacks: buyers note that it dries out their hair. Another disadvantage is its high cost compared to analogues from other brands.
The average price is 886 rubles.
Sulsena
Pr Scr market.yandex.ru / Yandex
The product contains two active ingredients. The main component is selenium sulfide, it has an antifungal effect and fights inflammation. Also, Sulsena anti-dandruff shampoo contains salicylic acid, which relieves inflammation, itching and stabilizes the functioning of the sebaceous glands.
According to users, at an affordable price, the product really copes with its task. It washes out skin flakes well, after using it, dandruff becomes noticeably smaller, and as it is used it disappears completely. Helps with itchy scalp and excessive flakes, does not irritate even sensitive skin. Among the disadvantages, they note the difficulty of purchasing - it is not possible to find the product in any pharmacy.
The average price is 300 rubles.
Vichy Dercos Anti-Dandruff
Pr Scr market.yandex.ru / Yandex
The product is intended for the care and restoration of dry hair prone to dandruff. Does not contain aggressive detergent surfactants, due to which it is gentle on the skin and gently cleanses the strands. Vichy Dercos anti-dandruff shampoo is effective against pathogenic microflora; its active component is the antimicrobial agent piroctone olamine, which suppresses fungal microorganisms. It also has an antipruritic effect, and salicylic acid, thermal water and glycerin eliminate discomfort and care for strands.
Users note that dandruff quickly disappears when using this product. It is suitable for frequent use and does not dry out the strands. Copes with pain due to redness and irritation of the epidermis. Economical, consumed slowly, although it costs more than most shampoos of similar effect. Among the shortcomings, there is an intrusive smell; not all customers like it.
The average price is 862 rubles.
Clear Men Fresh energy
Pr Scr market.yandex.ru / Yandex
The composition, developed specifically for men, takes into account the physiological characteristics of the male scalp. More dense, more prone to sebum production, it requires high-quality cleansing and at the same time reacts more sharply to aggressive surfactants and drying agents. Clear anti-dandruff shampoo contains a complex of medicinal ingredients: zinc pyrithione to suppress fungal microflora, amino acids to nourish the epidermis, lemon juice and green tea extract to tone and restore the natural protective barrier.
Buyers point out the pleasant smell of the composition, its ability to perfectly cleanse the skin and give freshness to the hair. With regular use, dandruff does not appear. The shampoo lasts for a long time, since the bottle is large. But it’s not suitable for everyone as a treatment: some buyers note that flakes still remain in their hair and are forced to turn to other shampoos.
The average price is 190 rubles.
Head & Shoulders Menthol
Pr Scr market.yandex.ru / Yandex
The line of this manufacturer includes a whole range of anti-dandruff shampoos. Head Shoulders with menthol has a refreshing effect, it can be recommended as a preventive remedy, as well as to combat excessive dryness of the epidermis. Contains two active forms of zinc to normalize skin oiliness and have an antifungal effect. Available in bottles of 200-900 ml.
User opinions about this tool are often contradictory. Some note that only this shampoo helps them escape from dandruff. Others point out that it seriously dries out the strands, is unable to wash out oily hair at the roots and, on the contrary, increases the amount of flakes in the hair. Obviously, the reason for such different opinions is the individual reaction of the scalp to the composition. Nevertheless, it remains in demand among buyers, including due to its affordable price.
The average price is 237 rubles.
Sebozol
Pr Scr market.yandex.ru / Yandex
Development of a Russian cosmetology company. Contains the active component ketoconazole, which suppresses the development of fungal microflora. The manufacturer recommends using the treatment twice a week for a month, and then once a week to maintain the effect.
According to users, the product copes with the main task: dandruff disappears for a long time. Eliminates itching, reduces oiliness of the epidermis, allows hair to stay fresh longer. Among the shortcomings, only cost is indicated: a small bottle of 100 ml is much more expensive than products from the mass market. However, among pharmaceutical products, anti-dandruff shampoo Sebozol is not the most expensive.
The average price is 339 rubles.
Zhumaysynba
Pr Scr market.yandex.ru / Yandex
The product is positioned as the optimal choice for men, as it helps cope with oiliness, dandruff, and gives hair smoothness and shine. His advertisement about a guy who couldn’t say hello to his “bros” because of dandruff has already turned into a meme, but the content is quite serious. The main component of Zhumaysynba anti-dandruff shampoo is zinc pyrithione, which suppresses the development of pathogenic fungal flora. Also added to the composition are arctic burdock extract, menthol and shea butter. The manufacturer notes the limited series and the presence of an individual number on each bottle to protect against counterfeiting.
There are still few reviews about the effectiveness of the composition, since it has recently appeared on the market. But, obviously, the series was too limited, since the main dissatisfaction of buyers is the inability to freely purchase the product even in online stores.
The average price is 699 rubles.
Alerana Pharma Care Freshness Formula
Pr Scr market.yandex.ru / Yandex
The composition includes only natural ingredients that stabilize the functioning of the sebaceous glands. Alerana anti-dandruff shampoo is designed for men. It will cope with the task if the hairstyle remains fresh just a few hours after washing, it will improve the quality of the hair and accelerate its growth. Active ingredients: fireweed extract, which reduces sebum production activity by 90% within 15 days, witch hazel extract to nourish the epidermis and AnaGain phytonutrient complex to nourish hair follicles.
Users note that if you use the composition as recommended by the manufacturer and leave it on the hair for at least 3 minutes, the effect is noticeable quickly: dandruff disappears, itching is much less disturbing, and oil content is noticeably reduced. Among the disadvantages are the liquid consistency of the product and the small volume of the bottle.
The average price is 239 rubles.
Mirrolla Sulsen Forte
Pr Scr market.yandex.ru / Yandex
The product based on selenium sulfide is enriched with plant components and conditioning additives. Mirrolla anti-dandruff shampoo suppresses the activity of fungal microflora and heals the skin. Licorice extract nourishes the epidermis, and conditioning components give hair shine and smoothness.
According to customer reviews, the product rinses well, and you don’t have to wait long for the result - it is noticeable after the second use. Disadvantages include an unpleasant scent, as well as the return of the problem if the product is excluded from daily care. Suitable for the prevention and control of oily seborrhea. The volume of the bottle is large and lasts a long time.
The average price is 511 rubles.
Head and hair care products as a treatment for dermatitis
Skin care products for the scalp, body, and hair for seborrhea should solve the following problems:
- relieve itching and soothe the scalp;
- suppress the growth of fungal flora on the head;
- provide a gentle, gentle cleansing of the scalp.
In some cases, treatment is supplemented with oral agents - antifungal drugs and others. Treatment using topical corticosteroids is also possible, but this treatment is used for a short time and only as prescribed by a doctor.
What can cause seborrhea of the scalp in children
Seborrhea in newborns is considered a natural physiological process, caused by increased activity of the sebaceous glands. But, if bleeding, redness and itching of the skin occurs or if the disease lasts for a long time (more than 14 months), you should immediately consult a doctor.
Seborrhea of the scalp in children over one year old can be caused by:
- improper nutrition of the mother (if the child is breastfed) or the child;
- unfavorable temperature conditions - if the room is too hot or the child is dressed too warmly;
- allergies to food or hygiene products;
- failure to comply with hygiene rules;
- taking antibiotics or other medications;
- metabolic disorders;
- decreased immunity and hypovitaminosis;
- stress;
- hormonal disorders;
- diseases of the endocrine system.
Diagnosis of dermatitis
In the An-Tek Laboratory, before treatment of skin dermatitis, the patient undergoes diagnostics. A trichologist will evaluate the condition of the skin on the head, the features of its scalp, and use a trichoscope to study the structure of the hair, its thickness and other characteristics. With seborrhea, a clinical picture is enough to make a diagnosis: when prescribing treatment, the doctor will make sure that the patient really has seborrhea, and not other diseases with similar symptoms - rosacea, lichen, psoriasis, eczema and others.
The first recommendation to the patient is to use a special shampoo for the head, indicated for the treatment of seborrhea and dermatitis. However, this remedy alone may not be enough to return the skin to its normal state. In this case, the doctor will resort to active general treatment. Seborrhea responds well to the use of local remedies, but an integrated approach is always more effective.
Scalp care for seborrhea
What rules should be followed during the treatment of seborrhea? The doctor always gives individual recommendations for scalp care, but the general list can include:
- adherence to the principles of healthy eating not only during the period of exacerbation of seborrhea, treatment or during the period of remission of seborrhea, but also on an ongoing basis;
- daily use of skin and hair gel to reduce oiliness and remove dead particles;
- cleansing dry scalp three times a week;
- ensuring optimal humidity and air temperature in the apartment.
At the An-Tek Laboratory, seborrheic dermatitis is treated by specialized doctors - trichologists, who are well acquainted with the peculiarities of seborrhea, its forms and the nuances of treatment.
We use effective topical medications and offer patients advanced treatment methods. Back to list of articles
Causes of seborrhea of the scalp in adults
Human skin is the first protective barrier against adverse external influences. Therefore, disturbances in the functioning of the sebaceous glands can be the result of both internal malfunctions in the functioning of organs and systems, and external factors - unfavorable environmental conditions, employment in enterprises with hazardous working conditions, improper care of hair and scalp.
The most common causes of seborrhea in adults are:
- hormonal changes;
- hormonal imbalances;
- hereditary predisposition;
- immunodeficiency states;
- mental disorders;
- chronic fatigue, poor nutrition and vitamin deficiency;
- long-term use of hormonal or anabolic drugs.
