Seborrheic eczema, also known as seborrheic dermatitis, is an inflammatory skin condition that produces red or yellow flaky patches on the face, scalp, or occasionally, on other parts of the body. While the cause of seborrheic eczema is unknown, it is thought to be hereditary, and can be aggravated by stress, hormonal changes, diet, and weather. The at-home and alternative treatments below are not designed to be a cure for seborrheic dermatitis, but rather to ease symptoms and prevent flare-ups. With proper skin care and overall good health, seborrheic eczema can be kept under control and no longer cause embarrassment or discomfort.
Proper face washing: The foundation for good skin
If you have visited a doctor or dermatologist to treat this condition, he or she may have prescribed a cortisol cream, or recommended an over-the-counter treatment such as Cetaphil. Even with the addition of alternative treatments, you should continue to use a lotion or cream to reduce swelling and irritation. Before applying the cream, it is important to start with a clean foundation. Wash your face in warm — not hot– water for at least 30 seconds with a mild cleanser. Never use hand or body soap, as these will dry out your skin. I recommend using DHC’s Mild Soap or Olive Oil soap — their facial cleansers are all-natural and fragrance-free, and remove excess dirt and oil from the face without over-drying. After washing, rinse thoroughly for the same amount of time, taking care to remove all traces of cleanser from around the hairline, where seborrheic dermatitis tends to break out. Gently pat skin dry with a towel, and apply cream or medicated ointment before moisturizing.
Moisturizers
Depending on the climate and time of day, the best choice for moisturizer may vary — use a lotion with a sunscreen in the morning, and at night apply a richer hydrating cream such as . In warm, humid climates, avoid oily moisturizers, which may block sweat glands. In the winter when skin is dry and flaky, it may be best to use an oil-based product, like DHC’s Olive Oil lotion. All-natural products such as this work with your skin and don’t contain any irritants that may make your condition worse.
Make-Up
For many women with seborrheic eczema, applying makeup can be difficult — liquid foundation can irritate sensitive skin and peel off over flaky patches, and powder can magify the problem areas you are attempting to hide. I avoid these problems by using Bare Essentials mineral makeup. Their line of foundations, blushes, lipsticks and eyeshadows are especially suited to problem skin, and the minerals hide patchy and discolored areas without flaking off. Keep in mind, however, that when you are using any makeup that is applied with a brush, it is extremely important to keep these brushes clean — bacteria that builds up in the bristles can make your eczema worse. Wash all brushes in warm, soapy water at least once every two months, and lay flat to dry.
Reiki
Reiki is a form of energy healing based on a centuries-old Japanese technique. Though I have not personally tried Reiki as a treatment for my seborrheic eczema, a friend has done so with impressive results. She also suffers from painful psoriasis on her arms and legs, and this treatment, which releases toxins and negative energy, has improved that ailment as well.
Diet, Exercise, and Stress
Any kind of stress, whether from a new job or a traumatic event, can cause an eczema flare-up. While exercise does not directly control the symptoms, it does release stress and contribute to your overall well-being. Participating in regular exercise, and incorporating stress-reducing activities such as yoga, meditation, and tai-chi will go a long way toward preventing stress-related outbreaks. Watching your diet and intake of alcohol is very important as well. Many herbalists, healers, and holistic medical practitioners believe that inflammatory skin diseases such as eczema and psoriasis begin with a buildup of toxins in the liver. Overconsumtion of alcohol exacerbates this problem, as does eating unhealthy foods. Healthy food choices boost your immune system as well, and help your body cope with symptoms of dermatitis. Broccoli; fruits high in antioxidants such as berries, grapefruit, and oranges; garlic and onions are all good for the liver. Also recommended for detoxification: a freshly squeezed lemon in a cup of hot water.
