Is Seborrheic Dermatitis The Same As Eczema?
Seborrheic dermatitis and eczema are two common skin conditions that can cause red, itchy, inflamed skin. While they share some similarities, there are also some important differences. Here’s a look at the key similarities and differences between seborrheic dermatitis and eczema.
Similarities
Both seborrheic dermatitis and eczema are chronic, meaning they can flare up at times and then subside for a while. They’re both characterized by red, itchy, inflamed skin. And they can both affect any part of the body, although they tend to appear in certain areas more often than others.
Differences
The biggest difference between seborrheic dermatitis and eczema is the cause. Seborrheic dermatitis is thought to be caused by an overgrowth of a natural fungus called malassezia on the skin. Eczema, on the other hand, is thought to be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors.
Another key difference is that seborrheic dermatitis tends to affect oily areas of the body, such as the scalp, face, chest, and back. Eczema, on the other hand, can affect any area of the body.
Finally, seborrheic dermatitis is more common in adults, while eczema is more common in children. That said, both conditions can occur at any age.
If you’re struggling with red, itchy, inflamed skin, it’s important to see a board-certified dermatologist to get a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
Seborrheic dermatitis is a chronic skin condition that causes flaky, white to yellowish scale to form on oily areas such as the scalp, face, or inside the ear. It can also cause red, itchy, inflamed skin. This condition is common in adults and often occurs in people with oily skin or who have dandruff.
Eczema is a broad term used to describe several different types of skin conditions that cause dry, itchy, and inflamed skin. Atopic dermatitis is the most common type of eczema. It often begins in childhood and can cause dry, itchy, red skin that may weep or blister. Eczema can also be caused by contact with certain irritants or allergens.
While seborrheic dermatitis and eczema share some common symptoms, they are two different conditions. If you think you may have either condition, see your doctor for an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.
Seborrheic Dermatitis
Seborrheic dermatitis is a chronic, relapsing-remitting skin disorder that is characterized by greasy, yellowish scales on the scalp, face, and chest. The exact cause of seborrheic dermatitis is unknown, but it is thought to be related to an overgrowth of the yeast Malassezia. This yeast is a normal part of the skin microbiome, but it can overgrow and lead to irritation in people with seborrheic dermatitis.
Eczema
Eczema, on the other hand, is a general term for a group of inflammatory skin conditions that cause dry, itchy, and inflamed skin. Atopic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, and nummular eczema are all types of eczema. The exact cause of eczema is unknown, but it is thought to be related to an overactive immune system response.
Key Differences
While seborrheic dermatitis and eczema share some similarities, there are some key differences that separate these two conditions:
- Seborrheic dermatitis tends to be more chronic and relapsing-remitting, while eczema may come and go in flare-ups.
- Seborrheic dermatitis usually affects the scalp, face, and chest, while eczema can affect any area of the body.
- Seborrheic dermatitis is thought to be caused by an overgrowth of yeast on the skin, while eczema is thought to be caused by an overactive immune system.
If you think you may have seborrheic dermatitis or eczema, it’s important to see a board-certified dermatologist for an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan. While there is no cure for either condition, both seborrheic dermatitis and eczema can be managed with a variety of treatments, including topical steroids, antifungals, immunosuppressants, and light therapy.