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During an especially chaotic time in my life, my skin started to change.
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I initially brushed it off as a simple case ofdry skin.
After all, I had just moved to Chicago and was experiencing its harsh winters for the first time.
I slathered it with Vaseline and Aquaphoronly to have the irritation spread to myscalp, chin, and underarms.
It was painful and beyond frustrating.
My underarms felt like they were on fire every time Id put on deodorant.
My face was flaky and cracking and no amount ofmoisturizercould soothe it.
At this point, I thought my rash could bepsoriasis.
I got that diagnosis from TikTok.
It was short-lived because I decided to visit my dermatologist.
I wasnt about to rely on my FYP for my treatment options.
Within seconds, he identified my issue as seborrheic dermatitis.
Id never heard of it until then, but it turns out that the condition is pretty common.
According to a2020 study, anywhere from 3 to 10 out of 100 people experience it at some point.
So why was this the first time Id heard of it?
Ahead, experts weigh in on my elusive diagnosis.
What exactly is seborrheic dermatitis?
It can also be accompanied by scaliness,redness, or greasy patches on your skin.
These ring-like patches often manifest as pink or hypopigmented rashes on the face, scalp, and hairline.
What triggers seborrheic dermatitis?
Seborrheic dermatitis has various triggers.
Our experts highlight the following.
How do I know if I have seborrheic dermatitis?
Truth be told, its hard to discern between seborrheic dermatitis and other skin conditions.
It can look a lot like eczema (a.k.a., atopic dermatitis).
Seborrheic dermatitis may not itch but can still feel painful or uncomfortable.
Its possible, unfortunately, to have both conditions, says Dr. Desai.
To get an accurate diagnosis, you will want to visit a dermatologist.
Its a vicious cycle and one that likely can be skipped with an hour-long appointment.
How to treat seborrheic dermatitis
You visited your dermatologist to confirm you have it, right?
Dr. Elrashidy recommends DermaZinc Shampoo, which contains zinc pyrithione.
Plus, it lathers beautifully without leaving myhairfeeling too dry.
She suggests limiting your routine to just your prescriptions,cleanser, moisturizer, and anSPFevery two hours.
What products should I avoid?
You shouldnt be using old prescriptions to treat your current skin condition.
We dont want to do anything to thin the skin or promoteacne, Dr. Kundu says.
If exfoliation is necessary, she suggests opting for lactic acid, which is gentler.
She also recommends being careful not to overdo it with store-bought hydrocortisone even though it can provide temporary relief.
Is seborrheic dermatitis curable?
Dr. Jaliman recommends deep breathwork practices and listening to soothing music.
Dr. Desai says she wishes she could prescribe a vacation, but anything that brings you joy will help.
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