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Seborrheic Dermatitis

It is the term used for an inflammation of the skin. It is not contagious or life threatening. Scaling, thickening, flaking, crusting, redness, itching and sometimes burning, blistering, swelling, and oozing of the skin, characterize it. There are several types of Dermatitis.

Contact Dermatitis is the term used to describe allergic reactions of the skin resulting from surface contact with outside agents. The condition is sometimes is characterized by a rash and may be triggered by sensitivity to cosmetics, plants, metal, detergents, and wool. It can also be caused by extreme heat or cold, friction, and sensitivity to various medicines. It is accompanied by itching at the site of the rash.

Stasis occurs in people with various deficiencies and is characterized by a rash and scaling at the feet and ankles.

Pomphylox is a condition that affects the hands and ankles. It is characterized by deep-seated blisters, redness and scaling.

Id Reaction is an itchy rash caused by an allergic reaction to severe inflammation somewhere in the body for instance a fungal infection.

Cradle Cap is normally present in infants and is characterized by greasy scales on the scalp, hairline, and neck.

Lichen Simplex Chronicus is a rash caused by continued scratching that resulted in a thick and leathery skin.

Diaper Rash is caused by prolonged exposure to wetness of the bums.

Atopic Dermatitis is sometimes caused by proliferation of toxins in the intestines due to the dysfunction of the digestive system. It is inherited and prevalent under children with a family history of asthma.

Discoid Eczema can be triggered by an injury to skin, resulting in round itchy patches on the skin. The condition may disappear after a few months.

Eczema is an allergic reaction that produces itching, redness, crusting, swelling, blistering, oozing and scaling of the skin. It is more common among children and young adults. It may sometimes cover the whole body, although it is usually limited to folds in the skin, inside the elbows and knees, neck and face. Unlike Contact Dermatitis it is likely caused by an allergy to a food, pollen or dust.

Dermatitis Herpitiformis is a chronic inflammatory complaint that produces small and bulky blisters that are red and raised. Severe burning and itching accompany it. It appears suddenly and may stay for a long period. It is associated with a digestive disorder called Celiac disease.

Diagnosis and Treatment
It is diagnosed through visual inspection of the skin, review of the family history and if needed through a skin biopsy. It is difficult to determine the type of Dermatitis. Treatment includes cortisone creams and lotions, immunosuppressants, supplements, saltwater baths, antibiotics and herbal lotions such as chamomile, grindelia, and bentonite clay packs.

Nutrition and natural remedies

Follow a low fat diet but increase intake of essential fatty acids found in cold pressed virgin vegetable oils.

Lactobacillus Acidophilus

This bacterium helps to prevent the proliferation of toxins in the intestines.

Omega-3

Omega-3 fatty acids reduce itching and scaling of the skin. It is found in flaxseed, olive, corn and soy oils.

Folic Acid

People who suffer from eczema normally have low levels of folic acid in their systems. It is found in brewer’s yeast and green leafy vegetables.

Zinc

It improves circulation and keeps the skin moisturized.

Combination of Vitamin E and Selenium

They are both antioxidants that help to keep the skin healthy, and support the metabolic processes. Selenium is found in broccoli, onions, whole grain food, celery, and cabbage. Vitamin E is found in cold pressed virgin vegetable oils, seeds, soybeans and raw nuts.

Vitamin B-complex

Deficiency in this vitamin can trigger the condition. It keeps the skin healthy and supports the nervous system. It is found in whole grain food, pumpkin, sesame seed, and brewer’s yeast.

Avoid the following food:

1. Gluten that can be found in bread, rye and wheat products
2. Dairy and meat products contain arachidonic acid that contributes to inflammation of the skin.
3. Refined white sugar

Prevention is the best treatment for Dermatitis outbreaks. Wear clothes that allow enough ventilation, avoid hot baths, extreme heat or cold, and prevent dry skin. Avoid food and substances that cause allergic reactions. Supplement your diet with essential vitamins such as B complex and vitamin E.