What should pregnant women do about seborrheic dermatitis?

Written by Xie Ming Feng
Dermatology
Updated on September 13, 2024
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Seborrheic dermatitis is a chronic papular and squamous superficial inflammatory skin disease that occurs in areas where sebum is secreted, and it can be accompanied by varying degrees of itching. Pregnant women diagnosed with seborrheic dermatitis are generally treated primarily with topical medications. It is advisable to choose mild, safe ointments with low irritability for external application. Safe antibiotic ointments, traditional Chinese medicine ointments, or ointments primarily for moisturizing and repairing the skin barrier can be used. Specific medications should be used under the guidance of a doctor. Additionally, pregnant women should be informed to maintain a regular lifestyle, get enough sleep, limit diets high in polysaccharides and fats, avoid spicy and irritating foods, eat more vegetables and fruits, avoid various forms of mechanical irritation, and use less hot water and strongly alkaline soaps for bathing.

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Written by Xie Ming Feng
Dermatology
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What are the symptoms of seborrheic dermatitis?

Seborrheic dermatitis, also known as seborrheic eczema, is a chronic, superficial inflammatory skin disease characterized by papular and scaly inflammation that occurs in areas of sebum secretion. It can be associated with varying degrees of itching and is commonly seen in adults and newborns. The main symptoms include hair follicle papules appearing in areas of sebum secretion such as the scalp, face, chest, and back, which then merge into dark red or yellow-red patches. These patches are covered with greasy scales and crusts, which can lead to exudation, crusting, and erosion, manifesting eczematous changes. In severe cases, the lesions can spread throughout the body, leading to diffuse erythema and significant desquamation. At this stage, it is referred to as seborrheic erythroderma. This condition is chronic and may have recurrent episodes.

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Written by Huang Ling Juan
Dermatology
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What is seborrheic dermatitis?

Seborrheic dermatitis refers to a type of inflammatory skin disease that occurs in areas where sebum secretion is abundant, including the face, chest, and back. These areas tend to be oilier and are prone to developing erythema and greasy scales. If the seborrheic dermatitis is of the dry type, it may also be accompanied by symptoms of peeling skin. The condition commonly affects individuals with hyperactive sebaceous glands, typically those with oily skin. Some people have combination skin that is also prone to oiliness, making them susceptible to seborheic dermatitis, often due to improper skin care. Dietary habits, frequent late nights, and consuming overly spicy or greasy foods can also lead to the development of seborrheic dermatitis.

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Written by Huang Ling Juan
Dermatology
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Seborrheic dermatitis causes

The causes of seborrheic dermatitis are multifaceted. Typically, if one does not pay attention to their diet, consuming spicy, irritating, or overly greasy foods can easily lead to the occurrence of seborrheic dermatitis. Seborrheic dermatitis can also occur when there is excessive secretion of male hormones, which leads to overactive sebaceous glands. Additionally, some metabolic disorders and genetic factors are also related to the onset of seborrheic dermatitis. Furthermore, seborrheic dermatitis can be associated with a deficiency in B vitamins, as well as physical and chemical irritants. Frequent scratching of the skin or the use of overly alkaline facial cleansers can promote the occurrence and exacerbation of seborrheic dermatitis. Psychological factors can also lead to the occurrence of seborrheic dermatitis; excessive stress, anxiety, and depression can all trigger the condition.

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Written by Xie Ming Feng
Dermatology
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Is seborrheic dermatitis contagious?

Seborrheic dermatitis, also known as seborrheic eczema, is a chronic, papular, scaly, inflammatory skin disease that occurs in areas where sebum is secreted. It can be accompanied by varying degrees of itching and commonly affects areas such as the face and trunk, where sebaceous glands are abundant. It is more frequently seen in adults and newborns. The exact cause of the disease is still not completely understood. It is generally believed to be related to increased sebum secretion, changes in the chemical composition of sebum, and colonization and infection by Malassezia yeasts. Factors like stress, diet, deficiency of B vitamins, and alcohol consumption can also influence the occurrence and development of the disease. Therefore, seborrheic dermatitis is not contagious.

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Written by Huang Ling Juan
Dermatology
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How to deal with seborrheic dermatitis?

For seborrheic dermatitis, topical application of some corticosteroid medications like desonide ointment or hydrocortisone butyrate cream can be utilized. However, it is important to avoid prolonged, excessive use on the more delicate facial skin. In cases of oozing or erosion, treatments such as boric acid solution or saline can be used for wet compresses. Additionally, for seborrheic dermatitis, one may also choose calcineurin inhibitors like tacrolimus ointment or pimecrolimus cream. If severe itching occurs with seborrheic dermatitis, symptomatic itch relief should be provided, primarily through oral antihistamines such as desloratadine dispersible tablets or cetirizine hydrochloride tablets. Treatment can also include traditional Chinese medicine based on differential diagnosis.