| Seborrheic
dermatitis is a common, chronic, inflammatory
skin disease.
A yeast called Pityrosporum ovale probably
is a causative factor for seborrheic dermatitis, but both genetic and
environmental factors seem to influence the onset and course of the
disease. Role of seborrhea in the pathogenesis of this condition is
debatable. |
|
The oil is produced by oil glands
known as sebaceous glands. These glands are bigger and more active in the
region of the nose than any other areas of the face. This is why the nose
tends to be a trouble area. The pores in this area are also larger, in
order to accomodate the large flow of oil produced. Other areas on the
body where sebaceous glands are most heavily concentrated are the neck,
chest, and back-areas where body acne can be common.
The amount of oil that an individual makes is determined by genetics. It
is affected by hormones and what is called an "end organ
response". The oil gland is considered the end organ because it is
this gland that is acted upon by hormones. Many people have the same level
of hormones, but make different amount of oil because their oil glands
respond differently. During adolescence, a surge in the level of sex
hormones, known as androgens, creates a problem of oily skin where
sometimes there was none. The reason is that androgens enlarge and
stimulate the sebaceous glands, causing them to produce more sebum.
Excessive grease production is an
uncommon reason for referral but many patients with severe acne complain
bitterly of seborrhea. It can persist after the acne has regressed.
Antibiotics and desquamating agents used in the treatment of acne do not
influence the seborrhea but isotretinoin and, to a lesser extent,
antiandrogens, both significantly reduce the sebum excretion rate. |
- Manage stress! It
can trigger dandruff or exacerbate existing symptoms.
- If you tend to have an oily scalp, daily
shampooing to remove the excess oil may help prevent dandruff.
- Cut
back on styling products. Hair sprays, styling gels, mousses
and hair waxes can all build up on your hair and scalp, making them
oilier.
- Sunlight may be
good for dandruff. But because exposure to ultraviolet light damages
your skin and increases your risk of skin cancer, don't sunbathe.
Instead, just spend a little time outdoors.
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