"Seborrheic dermatitis is an inflammatory condition often linked to the proliferation of a microscopic fungus in areas of the body rich in sebaceous glands," says Dr. Nina Roos, dermatologist author of "The skin of my teenager" (Solar ed.).
These are the famous "crusts of milk" that occur in many infants. It also manifests itself in adolescence, when the sebaceous glands become hyperactive.
About 4% of adults are also affected, especially in times of stress or intense fatigue . Cold and pollution are also aggravating factors.
Dermatitis, a chronic condition
This disorder often affects the scalp and is manifested by fat or dry dandruff , or itchy crusts. "Nothing serious or contagious," says Dr. Nina Roos, "but regular use of an anti-dandruff shampoo is necessary." For a good result, it should be applied 3 times a week for 4 to 6 weeks, then once or twice a week in maintenance (Kelual DS of Ducray, Nodé DS of Bioderma or Kerium of La Roche-Posay).
When the dermatitis extends over the face, it sits mainly at the edge of the scalp, near the eyebrows , on the wings of the nose and the region of the beard.
In the push phase, a gentle cleansing and soothing anti-fungal cream (Kelual DS or Crealine DS) is usually enough to fade the lesions in two weeks. For a faster effect, local treatment with weak cortisone is also possible a few days in the attack phase.
How to prevent it?
"People prone to seborrheic dermatitis on the face and body should focus on prevention, rather than waiting for the appearance of new dander and redness, more difficult to treat," said Nina Roos.
A daily long-term treatment - antifungal cream or based on 8% lithium succinate - is therefore essential in order not to multiply recurrences. We can also anticipate outbreaks by intensifying the preventive treatment a few days before a heavy professional or emotional overload.
"You often have to fumble a bit before finding the best products for your skin," says Dr. Roos. If no cream is suitable, you can try natural remedies that are a good alternative in prevention.
Apply morning and evening to the skin a drop of tea - tree essential oil diluted in a pure aloe vera gel.
Good actions (and those to avoid)
It is strongly discouraged to scrape or remove crusts with the nails: you could aggravate the problem by spreading the microscopic mushroom towards unaffected areas of skin.
To minimize the risk of inflammation, do not attack your skin unnecessarily. Avoid irritating soaps and shower gels. Use a soap or scent-free cleansing lotion or a micellar lotion instead. To dry after washing, pat with a towel instead of rubbing, then apply the dermo-cosmetic products with the fingertips, gently.
