Dandruff
(Seborrhea)
Medical Author: Alan Rockoff, MD
Medical Editor: William C. Shiel Jr., MD, FACP, FACR
What is dandruff (seborrhea)?
Seborrhea is not just skin dryness. Actually, the word "seborrhea" means
"too much oil." Seborrhea is also known as seborrheic dermatitis or common dandruff.
Seborrhea can present as a variety of
conditions such as dandruff, thick scales on the scalp,
redness on the face or in the armpits, or raw, red patches
below the breasts. Although some of these conditions may
feel "dry," moisturizing only makes them redder. In other
cases the skin may seem oily or even oily and dry at the
same time.
Seborrhea (dandruff) is a skin disorder that results from neither
too little moisture nor too much oil. It is a form of skin
inflammation (dermatitis) which has no known cause. This
condition can appear at any time from infancy to old age,
and can come and go more or less at random. Treatment of seborrhea (dandruff) is directed at fighting the skin inflammation.
This is done either directly, by using cortisone-based
creams and lotions (which reduce inflammation), or by
reducing the yeast that builds up on scaly areas and adds
to the problem. Note, though, that dandruff is not a yeast
infection.
Next: What doesn't help dandruff (seborrhea)? »
 |
 |
From the Doctors at MedicineNet.com  |
 |
 |
- Eczema - Get information about eczema causes, skin symptoms, diagnosis and treatment. Types include dyshidrotic, atopic dermatitis, nummular, varicose and seborrheic eczema. Source:MedicineNet
- Head Lice Infestation (Pediculosis) - Get the facts on head lice (pediculosis) infection symptoms, signs, prevention, treatment and information on home remedies, and learn what head lice (and nits) look like. Source:MedicineNet
- Sty (Stye) - Read about styes (hordeloa), bacterial infections of the eyelid. Learn sty causes, symptoms and treatment (OTC medication, ointment). A chalazion is often confused with a sty. Source:MedicineNet
- Read 32 more Seborrhea related articles ...
|
| |
 |
Last Editorial Review: 4/24/2002