How to Handle Scalp Inflammation Due to Dandruff?

Flaky scalp, itching, and redness are all symptoms of scalp dermatitis and inflammation of the scalp with as many causes as symptoms. Seborrheic dermatitis is a common papulosquamous skin disease that is most prevalent in infancy and middle age, and it usually presents differently in these two age groups. This activity will help to identify the different presentations of seborrheic dermatitis and illustrate how each may influence management decision-making that leads to improved treatment outcomes.

In most situations, it is not a dangerous problem that may be treated with over-the-counter or topical drugs. When it persists, it can indicate the presence of additional disorders. So, in this article, we will discuss skin inflammation and how it can be treated. Let us quickly begin.

About Seborrheic Dermatitis

Seborrheic dermatitis inflammatory skin ailment that causes redness, scaly areas, and dandruff. It is a chronic form of eczema that mostly affects the scalp. It can also appear on oily parts of the body, such as the face, upper chest, and back. Cradle cap is a disorder that occurs in babies. This often arises within the first few weeks of birth and then fades over several weeks or months. To diagnose seborrheic dermatitis, your doctor would most likely ask you about your symptoms and examine your skin. A small portion of skin may need to be removed (biopsied) for laboratory study. This test helps to rule out alternative possibilities.

Seborrheic Dermatitis Treatment

The major treatments for seborrheic dermatitis in adolescents and adults include medicated shampoos, creams, and lotions. If nonprescription medications and self-care routines do not help, your doctor may recommend that you try one or more of the following treatments:

Alternate antifungal gels, creams, lotions, foams, or shampoos with another drug.

Your doctor may advise you to try a product containing 2% ketoconazole or 1% ciclopirox. You might also alternate between two or more goods. Ketoconazole can make tightly coiled or chemically treated hair drier and increase the risk of breaking. To mitigate this impact, apply it only once a week in conjunction with a hydrating conditioner. 

The frequency with which you shampoo or apply other antifungal products will be determined by your hair-grooming habits and symptoms. For several weeks, medicated shampoos can be used once a day or twice a week. Allow the product to sit on your scalp for a few minutes and see the package directions so it can do its job. After that, rinse. After your symptoms have subsided, use a medicated shampoo only once a week or every two weeks. This will aid in preventing a recurrence.

Inflammation-Controlling Creams, Lotions, Shampoos, or Ointments

Your doctor may prescribe a prescription-strength corticosteroid to be applied to the scalp or other affected regions. Hydrocortisone, fluocinolone, clobetasol, and desonide are the elements which are present that help in treating Seborrheic Dermatitis. They are efficient and simple to use. And only use them till the symptoms have subsided. They can create adverse effects if used for several weeks or months without a break. These include skin discolouration, thinning skin, and skin with streaks or lines. Calcineurin inhibitor creams or ointments, such as tacrolimus or pimecrolimus, may be beneficial. Another advantage is that they produce fewer side effects than corticosteroids. However, they are not first-line treatments because the Food and Drug Administration is concerned about a possible link to cancer. Furthermore, tacrolimus and pimecrolimus are more expensive than mild corticosteroid medicines.

Antifungal pill

If previous treatments aren’t working or if your illness is severe, your doctor may prescribe an antifungal medicine in pill form.

Home Remedies and Lifestyle Changes to Control Seborrheic Dermatitis

With lifestyle adjustments and home treatments, you may be able to control seborrheic dermatitis. Before your condition improves, you may need to try new products or a mix of products. The ideal technique for you is determined by your skin type, hair-grooming habits, and symptoms. Even if your disease improves, it is likely to return at some point. When the symptoms return, continue treating the illness. To prevent flare-ups, include non-prescription anti-dandruff items in your self-care routine.

Wash your Scalp Frequently

If ordinary shampoo isn’t working to get rid of dandruff, consider non-prescription dandruff shampoos. They are categorised based on the active substance that they contain:

• Pyrithione zinc 
• Selenium sulphide 
• Ketoconazole 
• Tar 
• Salicylic acid 

The frequency with which you shampoo or apply other antifungal products will be determined by your hair-grooming habits and symptoms. For several weeks, medicated shampoos can be used once a day or twice a week. After your symptoms have subsided, use a medicated shampoo only once a week or every two weeks. This will aid in preventing a recurrence. Shampoo containing tar or selenium sulphide can darken light hair. Over time, a shampoo that has helped may lose its potency. If this is the case, experiment with alternating between two or more categories. 

Make sure to let your shampoo on for the specified amount of time to allow the ingredients to function. After that, rinse. These shampoos should be gently applied on the face, ears, and chest before thoroughly rinsing.

Summary

Dandruff can lead to scalp inflammation which causes irritation, redness and itchiness. Regular shampooing can help you to get rid of this situation. If you feel the situation is getting worse consult with the doctor and resolve it.