Effective Natural Remedies for Seborrheic Dermatitis

Treatment for seborrheic dermatitis requires following medical recommendations and, additionally, applying certain skin care measures, such as washing the skin with a mild soap and applying moisturizer.

Seborrheic dermatitis, commonly known as seborrhea, is a chronic condition of the skin. We don’t yet know the exact cause but some believe it could be due to Malassezia, a type of fungus.

Other possible causes are the use of certain drugs, stress, immune system disorders, and certain neurological disorders like Parkinson’s.

Seborrheic dermatitis can afflict people of any age. In fact, when it occurs in babies, it’s known as “cradle cap.” It causes dry and scaly patches on the scalp.

Natural remedies to treat seborrheic dermatitis

Below, we’ll tell you about some natural ingredients that can help relieve the discomfort of seborrheic dermatitis and complement medical treatment.

1. Oats are the best when it comes to relieving seborrheic dermatitis

You can make homemade oatmeal masks and compresses to relieve itching, swelling, and redness.

2. Coconut oil

Coconut oil may help soothe scalp discomfort in the event of a seborrheic dermatitis outbreak.

You just have to apply a few drops and massage the area gently for an hour and then brush your hair carefully and finally wash it with warm water and the products the dermatologist recommended (mild shampoos, such as those made for babies or the products without alcohol).

Mayo Clinic experts note that you could also use olive oil for this very purpose. When applied to the scalp, it would help to soften and more easily remove the scales from the hair, without damaging the skin.

3. Aloe vera

The aloe vera plant is used in many skin and hair treatments. The natural gel of the plant has astringent components that tend to dry the skin and hydrate it at the same time, avoiding loss of water. In addition, it helps cleanse the skin, relieve inflammation, and promotes cell regeneration.

What should you do?

• For seborrheic dermatitis, extract the gel from an aloe leaf and process it to make it easier to apply
• Use the gel to massage the problem area and leave on for 20 minutes
• After the indicated time, rinse the skin with warm water

4. Apple cider vinegar vs oatmeal

Apple cider vinegar is often included in several home remedies, because it’s believed that its malic acid content gives it antimicrobial properties that would help balance the skin’s pH and deter infections.

However, dermatologists don’t recommend using it, as it actually causes irritation and can worsen the outbreak.

Instead of apple cider vinegar, use an oatmeal drink as a facial toner, as this cereal has anti-inflammatory properties that provide relief and soothe irritation, itching, and redness.

5. Honey

Due to its pleasant texture, honey can help relieve mild seborrheic dermatitis flare-ups. In addition, it can help to moisturize the skin and, thus, relieve irritation and itching.

To make a home remedy with honey, you can use egg whites as a second ingredient, or simply water.

Ingredients

• 1 c. of boiled water (250 ml.)
• 2 tbsp. of honey (50 g.)

What should you do?

• In a container, pour the boiled water, add the honey, and mix well
• Then, massage onto the affected areas and leave on for two hours
• Rinse with lukewarm water

It’s one of the preferred remedies and you can administer it once every two days.

What else can you do against seborrheic dermatitis?

To take care of your skin correctly once diagnosed with seborrheic dermatitis, it’s important for you to go to a dermatologist and follow all their recommendations. This is because the professional will know what’s best for your skin, according to your characteristics and needs.

Finally, maintain a healthy lifestyle that includes the use of effective skin care products and proper hydration.