4 Natural Remedies for Seborrheic Dermatitis (Diet ideas & More)

I, like many others, developed a mild form of seborrheic dermatitis when I was younger. For so long, I thought I was suffering from typical dandruff, until I did some research and noticed it was something else. If you’ve ever experienced seborrheic dermatitis, then I’m sure, like me, you’ve tried almost every trick in the book (or on the internet) to cure it. But what about a seborrheic dermatitis diet for example? Have you tried eliminating food for example?While there is no miracle cure that magically erases it forever for everyone (don’t we all wish!), there are steps you can take to control flareups and provide relief. Today, I want to share four natural remedies for seborrheic dermatitis that I stand by. I want to reiterate that these treatments will never cure it, but they will help if you stick to a steady regimen.

What is Seborrheic Dermatitis exactly?

To understand what seborrheic dermatitis is, you have to start off by thinking about normal dandruff. Technically, dandruff is a non inflamed form of seborrheic dermatitis and is the result of fungus building up on the scalp. However, this fungus continues to grow and spread, which can result in seborrhoea, but can also result in psoriasis. Although both seborrheic dermatitis and psoriasis can affect other parts of the body, their effects on the scalp can cause extreme discomfort, embarrassment and pain. While it’s easy to confuse seborrhoea with dandruff and psoriasis, there are a few symptoms that are distinguishable. Seborrheic dermatitis creates an oily type of flake while psoriasis is characterized by a thick flake-like crust.

Seborrheic Dermatitis Causes & Types

So what are some seborrheic dermatitis causes? Well – frustratingly, it’s unknown. Many believe that the condition might be linked to an abnormality of oil glands or hair follicles, while others believe it to be caused by the production of hormones, yeast fungus, fatigue, heavy drinking, stress and more. Whatever the case may be, there are steps you can take to treat the symptoms externally and internally.

One type of seborrheic dermatitis that usually goes unnoticed is scalp eczema on babies known as “cradle cap.” Cradle cap is actually the buildup of excessive sebum (like I mentioned earlier) and can create yellow or brown flaky patches on a baby’s head. Unlike it’s genetic chronic twin, most babies end up growing out of cradle cap, but the symptoms can still be rather painful.

Another type causes waxy, greasy hair in certain patches around the scalp. This may be an adult version of cradle cap and can be quite unsightly and embarrassing for adults.

Seborrheic Dermatitis Diet & Internal Healing

Before I discuss some treatments you can use to diminish the appearance and nuisance of seborrhoea, I’d like to first point out the importance of healing yourself internally first. Like I mentioned, many forms of seborrhoea are caused by yeast fungus, heavy drinking or can be from hormonal imbalances. It’s important to understand that eating or drinking something our body might be mildy allergic or sensitive to can cause an adverse skin reaction.

Learn more about how to identify a Food Allergy vs. Food Sensitivity Vs. Food Intolerance.

Like with all types of dermatitis, with seborrheic dermatitis diet is important.  It’s always best to start an elimination diet to find out if you can naturally relieve your seborrhoea by changing the food you consume. Many times food like dairy, gluten, eggs and many other top food allergens can really wreak havoc on your skin. A naturopath or integrative or functional MD can help you identify a seborrheic dermatitis diet for best results.

If you’re already eating healthy or have tried an elimination diet and are still experiencing symptoms, consider trying some seborrheic dermatitis natural treatments.

Here are a few tricks that have helped me to manage seborrheic dermatitis.

1) Brush Your Hair

Although many people, especially those with curly hair, might not brush their hair often, this simple trick really helps. The best brushes to opt for are brush and scalp invigorators. These little rubber brushes are made for the shower to work shampoo in and massage the scalp while eliminating flakes. Another great scalp treatment is this Remedywear™ Hat for Adults and kids. Made with TENCEL and embedded with anti-inflammatory zinc oxide, these hats make the perfect dry, itchy scalp treatment for those suffering from eczema, psoriasis, or seborrheic dermatitis.

2) Treat & Cleanse the Scalp

For soaps and shampoos, many people who suffer from psoriasis and seborrheic dermatitis stand by using coal or pine tar soap to treat the scalp or body. The smell can be a bit strong at first, but the results are worth it. If you’re looking for a body wash or shampoo, try this one from Emily Skin Soothers. It was formulated by an acupuncturist to help his infant daughter’s dermatitis and contains Chinese herbs to soothe and heal itchy, flaky skin. Another option is a shampoo containing tea tree oil,  known for its natural ability to control bacteria and fungus, which makes it a perfect solution for your scalp! For all the soaps and shampoos mentioned, make sure to massage the product in well and let it sit for a few minutes, so it can really penetrate and treat the skin. But DO NOT leave any conventional soap or shampoo that is NOT intended to specifically treat dermatitis on the skin long at all – rinse it off immediately so you don’t further irritate and dry out your skin.

3) Apple Cider Vinegar

Lastly – this is my go-to for controlling my worst breakouts. Honestly, apple cider vinegar (ACV)helps almost everything and definitely helps seborrheic dermatitis and all forms of eczema – it’s why I love the tincture above.

Learn more about why Apple Cider Vinegar baths are great for dermatitis.

After washing my head with some hot water to open my pores, I’ll pour 1/3 cup of unfiltered organic apple cider vinegar on my scalp and wrap my hair up in a shower cap so that it stores the heat. Full disclosure – applying ACV might cause a burning sensation. If you find it to be too much, you can always dilute the cider with water (using equal parts water and vinegar: 1/3 cup vinegar and 1/3 cup water) and add a few drops of tea tree oil (optional).

Some people swear by drinking ACV as well! Talk to your physician about adding ACV to your seborrheic dermatitis diet.

4) Body Treatment

Although I’ve mostly discussed seborrheic dermatitis on the scalp, the condition does appear on the body as well. If you’re experiencing oily flaky patches on your skin and want to provide natural relief, it’s always best to go with a natural moisturizer. Two great options are Organic Manuka Skin Soothing Cream for its antibacterial properties or Emily’s Skin Soother with Chinese herbs.

We also recommend you try our Coconut and Sunflower Oil Soap Bar. Made with just 3 ingredients, this natural soap bar provides cleansing without causing further irritation or dryness. It’s perfect to use from head to toe to treat eczema, psoriasis, acne, rosacea, and of course, seborrheic dermatitis.

Seborrheic dermatitis can be an embarrassing and all together annoying condition. Although there is no cure, there are natural products out there that can reduce inflammation and flakes, as well as provide relief. My seborrhoea is in no way cured, but with a tight regimen and healthy diet, I’ve managed to keep it under control.

Do you suffer relentlessly from seborrheic dermatitis? Have you tried a seborrheic dermatitis diet? Share your story with us in the comment section below!

17 Comments

  1. Joey Wong on November 3, 2016 at 1:24 am

    Hello – Just wanted to add I have had a great experiences with Polytar shampoo ( a type of prescription shampoo) – using it once or twice on top of the methods here would be a killer combination. I am not sure if Polytar is still around, I hope they are still, as my own bottle is running out for this type of Eczema!

  2. venkatesh on January 16, 2017 at 4:34 pm

    I had dandruff for more than 7 years, which I tried to get rid off by using normal shampoos like Head&Shoulders etc. It never occurred to me that the persistent dandruff and itching could be a symptom of an underlying cause. Now, when it dawned on me that I have a disease which is responsible for the flaky skin on my scalp and side of my nose I quickly started googling for the treatment etc. I wasn’t really sure what I had. dermatitis, eczema, tinea etc were some of the guesses. First, the doctor gave me corticosteroid. Needless to say, it didn’t cure me. Then I tried Nizral which is 2% ketoconazole shampoo. I had high expectations for it, but alas, it didn’t work either. Finally, my dad recommended me the Candid shampoo. Here is the link https://www.amazon.com/Glenmark-Treatment-Dandruff-Versicolo-Suspension/dp/B01K4UU8O8/ref=pd_rhf_cr_p_img_1?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=F7V9H69Y0JD0MVVZJXVJ I used Candid after every 3 days and it cured all the dandruff and flaky skin on my nose in a month. If you have the same problems I highly recommend you to try this shampoo once.
    I don’t know if this information is helpful but I will write it anyway. I have oily skin. I lived in areas with very hot and humid climate. My symptoms were flaky skin on scalp and side of nose. My scalp used to itch a lot when I was outside in hot weather and sunlight.

    • Jassprit on October 21, 2020 at 4:03 am

      I have same problem but i have combo skin i have alot of danruff and flakes and also itchy scalpes i used to go dermatologist he gave me alot of medicibes like bloosom hairs , bloosom advance , potassium citrate , selenium,and many multivitamins shampoos like anaphase for hair lose ,ketoconazol , blue cap solution, diprovate lotion ,minoxidil 2% etc it stop my danruff for sometimes usually 20 days and i feel very weak ,low, dizziness, confusion stress then i stop these medicines , i take these for 4 months my hair fall increased but dandruff stop for few days but now dandruff come back what can i do now should i go again to same doctor should i changed my doctor actually my dermatologist is very costly for me now its go out of my budget( 5k/mon ) is it small amout?? i again discuss prblm with dermatologist i told him that my hair fall increase he said we start hair sit ups and its cost 4k per week minimum…. I’m in trouble pls help me somebody i don’t wanna to lose my beauty it’s means alot for me…..plz

  3. Jeni on December 16, 2018 at 5:42 am

    Hello! I have extremely bad seborrheic dermatitis on my scalp and mild to moderate seb derm on my t-zone, chest and behind the ears. I found using a 3% salicylic acid shampoo called Dermarest (Walmart for like $13) works wonders on the face/neck/ears. I alternate between that and coal tar (T-Gel) shampoo a couple-few times a week and it clears it up completely (at least on the face/neck/ears). I also use benzoil peroxide face wash as I was lucky enough to be blessed with adult acne on top of the seb derm. I’ve never been able to completely make it go away on my scalp, however the coal tar shampoo really helps with the burning and dramatically lessons the dandruff. I get extremely oily yet very dry skin and hair somehow and no amount of water or diet change (recently went vegan) seems to make a difference. Tried a dozen shampoos, including tea tree brand, and the only thing that so far has helped is the coal tar and salicylic acid. Doctor and I have come to the conclusion that my particular condition is caused from the water system in my community. My park manager uses chloramine (a very cheap, VERY corrosive form of chlorine) to clean our well water. It causes the water piping to strip, leaving micro metals in the water. My skin reacts poorly to unpure metals (think green finger from nickel rings), so we believe it is a combination of the metals and the extremely harsh chemicals in the water causing my particular case of seb derm. You might look into your water source and what it’s being treated with as well.
    It is good to consider all possibilities when trying to eliminate factors in seb derm, as the post says, no one really knows what causes it.
    I did also note, however, that sunlight/UV rays majorly help clear up my facial seb derm, as it’s almost non existent during the summertime. I wouldn’t recommend using a tanning salon all the time though, because that can be very damaging to your skin as well.
    Anyways, now that I’ve left a comment almost as long as the post, I hope some of this information can be helpful or useful to you. I can personally attest to the embarrassment of dandruff flakes and the constant scratching of your scalp/face. It sucks. But no one single thing has been proven to help this condition. So hopefully my alternating treatments as well as the original posted ones will make it a little more bearable.

  4. Yvette on March 9, 2019 at 2:18 pm

    My dandruff was partially kept under control by coal tar shampoos, but I always had itchy areas (sometimes weeping on my hairline) and flakes on my shoulders. I tried a hair conditioning treatment of coconut oil (pure coconut oil out of the jar), left it overnight, and the redness + scales went away entirely (my intention was for conditioned hair so this was completely unexpected). I now put it on – rubbing it hard into my scalp every 2-3 months and leave it on overnight and wash my hair in the morning. I don’t use any special shampoo now and don’t have any dandruff either. Sadly I do have a bit of acne, and putting the coconut oil on my face exacerbated that so I don’t know how it would work if you have seborrheic dermatitis on your face.

  5. Baby Siador King on April 27, 2019 at 3:53 am

    Hello,

    I think the problem of my daughter who is 14 years old is Seborrheic Dermatitis. We noticed it for like a week now. She also suffered dandruff since she was 12 years old. We have it checked by a Dermatologist. She let her used Seba Med shampoo 3 x a week and a a regular anti-dandruff shampoo 4 x a week. It did not work until she suffered this Seborrheic Dermatitis. Her hair is so waxy and oily even how hard she washed. Just today we tried a home remedy of massaging her scalp and hair with a mixture of Apple Cider Vinegar and water for 30 minutes. Then shampooed with a mixture of baking soda and anti-dandruff shampoo. It did not work. Maybe because we did not use the right shampoo yet.

    My question is how often do we need to treat her scalp with apple cider vinegar and that mixture of a tea tree oil shampoo with baking soda? I am a desperate mother who wants my daughter to look good and feel good about herself.

    Thanks,

    Baby King

    • Cheyenne on October 17, 2021 at 7:31 pm

      I use Neutrogena T-GEL shampoo. With head and shoulders apple cider shampoo as well. Have her wash her hair almost every night that should help

  6. […] massage the scalp while eliminating flakes; these are called brush and scalp invigorators. (from Little Itchy World). This will not cure the  dermatitis, but will relieve the itch and flakes until the next […]

    • Byrd on June 13, 2020 at 9:56 pm

      Really help. First in the shower get all my hair wet. Then take head and shoulders and a good amount of baking soda. Then place hands with mixture over your head and mix together. Then rub it in/on your scalp. My area of concern is crown of scalp. Leave this treatment on for 10 mins. Next rinse out good. Next taking a drinking cup and place equal parts vinager and water in it. Bend your head down and pour the solution on the parts of the scalp that you have issues with. Let that sit for 30 seconds. Then rinse with water. After that condition as usual. Basically this is neutralizing your scalp. Works like a miracle for me.

      • Chris on September 24, 2020 at 6:18 pm

        Using baking soda will disrupt the pH of your scalp–it’s way too alkaline! Our skin needs to stay acidic to function atits best. Disrupting the skin’s to acid mantle can create all kinds of problems. Same with the apple cider vinegar, but on the other end of the spectrum–it’s too acidic!

        I found Selsun Blue shampoo majorly helpful for seborrheic dermatitis and dandruff (I leave it on the face for 1 min., body and hair for 3-5 mins.), although I wish they’d make a version with the same active ingredient but no harsh detergents–it’s currently too drying to use every day. On alternate days I use Stridex pads with salicylic acid, but this is also drying (partly due to the formulation and the totally unnecessary menthol, which tingles because it’s actually a skin irritant!), so it shouldn’t be overused. If you find a gentler product with salicylic acid, it’s better to use that.

  7. Jude on February 7, 2021 at 4:18 pm

    Most people I talk to are oblivious to the fact that fast hair growth amino scalp therapy shampoos (of course with no sulfates, no parabens and no DEA) even exist. Individuals are now able to achieve longer hair and achieve more possibilities. Certainly worth exploring.

    Whether you’re talking about hair loss, hair damage, avoiding scalp disorders, hair growth, hair and scalp care at large, similar rules apply.

    Generally, you should try to stay away from hair products and treatments that include chemicals such as parabens, DEA and sulfates.

    What’s beneficial for your hair is good for your skin also.

    Clearly the content above is so accurate for various reasons. It stays away from the accustomed traps and traps so many fall into: buying bad alternatives. Thank you so much!

  8. Sarah on March 11, 2022 at 3:24 pm

    Apple cider vinegar is my go to cure. I mix some ACV with some coconut oil, and or avocado oil into a little travel bottle. Then I I massage it all into my scalp and brush it through my hair because it’s great for the hair too. Leave it on for a while I usually will put a cap on and leave it over night. When I wash my hair I mix my shampoo with apple cider as well and use that to wash my hair and scalp. Probably best to avoid hot water when rinsing it out

  9. Gina on April 4, 2022 at 11:08 pm

    I’m currently trying apple cider viniger and a scalp brush and it seems to be working so far! I have curly hair which limits things a lot. I have noticed though it doesn’t flair up when I’m out doing a multi day hike and not washing my hair but if I don’t wash at home it’s horrendous! I have no idea why!

    • Michile on July 12, 2022 at 6:27 pm

      Maybe there is fungal microbes in your pillow/pillowcase, that’s why the flare up at home when you don’t wash hair.

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