Why Do I Have Seborrheic Dermatitis?
Many people suffer from seborrheic dermatitis, a condition that causes scaly, itchy patches on the skin. While the exact cause of seborrheic dermatitis is unknown, there are several possible explanations:
One theory is that seborrheic dermatitis is caused by a yeast called Malassezia. This yeast is found naturally on the skin, but some people may be more prone to developing an overgrowth. An overgrowth of yeast can lead to inflammation and the characteristic symptoms of seborrheic dermatitis.
Another possibility is that seborrheic dermatitis is an autoimmune reaction. In this case, the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the skin, leading to inflammation and flaking.
It’s also possible that seborrheic dermatitis is linked to hormones. This theory is supported by the fact that the condition often improves during pregnancy (when hormone levels are high) and worsens during times of stress (when hormone levels are low).
Regardless of its exact cause, seborrheic dermatitis is a treatable condition. If you’re struggling with symptoms, talk to your doctor about your treatment options.
One theory is that seborrheic dermatitis is caused by an overgrowth of a type of yeast called Malassezia. This yeast is found on the skin of most people, but it can sometimes grow out of control and cause irritation.
Another theory is that seborrheic dermatitis is linked to an underlying medical condition such as psoriasis or eczema. It's also possible that it's simply a matter of genetics, and some people are simply more prone to the condition than others.
There are a few things that can trigger or worsen seborrheic dermatitis flares, including stress, weather changes, certain medications, and certain health conditions. If you think one of these might be the cause of your flare-ups, talk to your doctor about possible treatments or lifestyle changes.
- An overgrowth of a type of yeast that normally lives on your skin
- An imbalance in the natural oils produced by your skin
- A reaction to certain drugs or cosmetics
- A reaction to stress
- A weakened immune system
Seborrheic dermatitis can occur at any age, but it is most common in infants and young children. It is also more common in men than in women. Seborrheic dermatitis is not contagious.