Seborrheic Dermatitis & Hair Loss: Understanding the Connection

In seborrheic dermatitis and hair loss, more hair falls out from the follicles regularly with no signs of regrowth, leading to the formation of bald patches. The condition of hair loss continues till the infection is not treated to restore the follicle health. 

Continue reading to know how hair loss occurs due to irritation on the skin surface and when to visit a doctor. 

Seborrheic dermatitis is an inflammatory skin condition where red flakes appear on the skin surface in the form of patches. This condition may indirectly lead to hair loss as it may appear anywhere on the scalp and be associated with infections like Malassezia and dandruff. It is associated with over secretion of sebum from the sebaceous glands. Sebum is an oily secretion that helps maintain scalp health by adding moisture. This seborrhoeic dermatitis leads to hair loss because of the scalp inflammation that it causes. 

Seborrheic dermatitis can be treated with the help of some over-the-counter treatments that include the use of salicylic and selenium sulfide-containing products to reduce infection. Once the infection and inflammation are treated, the hair loss will be revered, and new hairs will regrow. Shampoos, antifungal creams and medicines prescribed by the doctor can help treat this scalp dermatitis. 

Seborrheic dermatitis is easily identifiable. If you notice any such symptoms, then consult a hair doctor immediately. 

• Red Scalp
• Greasy Skin
• Formation of Patches 
• Dandruff that doesn’t go
• Infection on oily areas such as the nose and face 
• Flakes over the Scalp 

The increased loss of hair is another symptom. The infection can appear on any oily surface of the body, including the chest, eyebrows and ears. If not treated on time, it can spread to various portions and cause irritation and redness.