Home Remedies for Seborrheic Dermatitis

The causes seborrheic dermatitis are unknown, but is related to a hormonal disorder, nervous system problems, a lack in some nutrients or having a weakened immune system and in some cases it may be hereditary. There are also some risk factors that make it more likely for you to suffer from this condition such as:

• Having HIV
• Acne problems
• Obesity
• Stress
• Skin irritation due to a Malassezia yeast infection
• Poor hygiene
• Extreme climate
• Neurological problems
• Using lotions that contain alcohol

The following natural remedies for seborrheic dermatitis are ones that you can use on any affected area except the scalp.

• Marigold: this plant has anti-inflammatory and disinfectant properties as well as helping wounds to heal. It has a painkiller effect that will help reduce itchiness. Make an infusion with a teaspoon of petals in a cup of water and wash the affected area with this.

• Cucumber: its water content helps to moisturise the skin deeply as well as restoring the freshness that has been lost due to flakiness. Make a paste by grinding up two cucumbers in a blender and applying them to your skin.

• Oats: relieves itching and redness, in addition to being the main ingredient in many personal care items due to the nutrients that they contain. Put half a cup of oats into one litre of water, strain the end mix and apply it as a cold compress.

• Aloe vera: also known as aloe is one of the most versatile plants that exists and it has endless uses for treating skin problems thanks to its moisturising and anti-inflammatory properties. Apply aloe vera gel to the affected area.

• Lukewarm water and baking soda: apply a mixture made up of 1 diluted tablespoon of baking soda per 500ml of water. This natural remedy will remove any dead cells and soften your skin.

Melissa, chamomile and rose essential oils are also great for treating seborrheic dermatitis. Always remember to dilute them in water (two drops of essential oil per cup of water).

What these home remedies will do is detox your body from any built-up toxins, that lead the body to produce more oil that causes these flakes to form.

• Horsetail: regenerating your skin and restoring your hair's shine and vitality. Make an infusion with a teaspoon of dried horsetail leaves in a cup of water. Drink it once a day.

• Sarsaparilla: its purifying powers makes it ideal for treating skin problems caused by excessive toxins. Place 2 tablespoons of this dried root in a pint of water and let soak for 12 hours. Then heat this mixture for 20 minutes and have two glasses a day.

• Dandelion: this is high in potassium hence its diuretic properties. You can have it as an infusion, applying plasters onto the affected areas with mashed-up leaves or add its leaves to your meals.

Here we give you some natural rinses that you can apply to your scalp:

• Liquorice: this helps reduce oil secretion. Make a liquorice infusion and mix with ¼ cup vinegar. Wash your hair and rub the mixture onto the area of your scalp area that is affected. Leave it on for 10 minutes and rinse again.

• Bay leaf: this regenerates the scalp and prevents your hair from falling out. Rub a little bay leaf essential oil onto your scalp when you get up and before going to bed. You can also make an infusion with a handful of bay leaves in a pint of water and then wash your hair, rub this mixture on your hair and leave on for an hour. Rinse again.

Although seborrheic dermatitis can be treated effectively through a dermatological treatment or home remedies, it is necessary to pay attention to these measures to ensure that the condition doesn't get worse:

• Moisturise your skin with creams containing ingredients that soothe the dermatitis
• Dry your skin thoroughly after showering
• Avoid stress by doing some relaxation exercises
• Clean your skin with products that don't contain alcohol
• Include foods rich in omega 3 in your diet
• If you have acne problems visit your dermatologist for proper treatment
• Wash your hands before touching the affected areas
• Limit your intake of fatty meats, dairy products, oils and pastries

You might also be interested in natural remedies for dermatitis in general.

This article is merely informative, oneHOWTO does not have the authority to prescribe any medical treatments or create a diagnosis. We invite you to visit your doctor if you have any type of condition or pain.

If you want to read similar articles to Home Remedies for Seborrheic Dermatitis, we recommend you visit our Diseases & secondary effects category.