Seborrhoeás

Seborrhoeás is a common skin condition that causes flaky, white to yellowish scales on oily areas such as the scalp, face, sides of the nose, eyebrows, ears, chest, and back. It is often associated with dandruff, which is a milder form affecting only the scalp. The exact cause of seborrhoeás is not fully understood, but it is thought to involve a combination of factors including an overproduction of oil (sebum) by the skin's oil glands and a reaction to a common yeast called Malassezia, which is normally present on the skin.

Symptoms can vary in severity. On the scalp, it can range from mild dandruff to thick, greasy scales. On the face, it may appear as red, itchy patches with greasy scales, particularly in the eyebrows, along the sides of the nose, and behind the ears. In infants, a severe form known as cradle cap can occur, presenting as thick, yellowish crusts on the scalp. Seborrhoeás is a chronic condition that tends to flare up periodically and can be exacerbated by stress, fatigue, weather changes, and certain medical conditions or medications.

Diagnosis is typically made based on the characteristic appearance of the rash. Treatment aims to control the condition and reduce symptoms. For mild cases, over-the-counter shampoos containing ingredients like selenium sulfide, ketoconazole, or salicylic acid can be effective. For more severe or persistent cases, a doctor may prescribe stronger antifungal shampoos, topical corticosteroids, or other topical medications. While there is no cure for seborrhoeás, it can usually be managed effectively with appropriate treatment.