Treatment of dandruff and scalp fungus with drugs and folk remedies at home

Look like you just got caught in a snowstorm? Dandruff is a problem that almost all the inhabitants of our planet face and which cannot be easily gotten rid of. This is one of the most common skin problems today.

If you think that this trouble will definitely bypass you, you are mistaken. Dermatologists unanimously claim that each of us experiences dandruff at least once in our lives. Most often this happens for reasons common to all, such as environmental pollution, stress and fatigue . In addition to these reasons, it is worth paying attention to some diseases - excessive secretion of the sebaceous glands or hormonal changes .

Each of us has dandruff, but in normal condition it is not noticeable to the human eye. The problem arises when we see it in the hair in large quantities and in the form in which we know it and are able to distinguish it from other skin problems. Its appearance is provoked by a fungus called Malassezia Furfur , which promotes the rapid renewal of scalp cells.
Thus, more cells are shed from the skin, which join together and become more visible. Attention! Dandruff in your hair has nothing to do with poor hygiene.
This is a very delicate issue, because many people are sure that hygiene is directly responsible for the presence of dandruff. This is an incorrect statement . Men suffer more from the problem of dandruff than women solely due to male hormones. In addition to being an aesthetic nuisance, dandruff can cause another problem. As a result, before their appearance, itching of the scalp appears. Despite the irresistible desire to scratch your head, you should not do this often, since as a result of frequent scratching, simple redness of the head can cause wounds that can become infected.

Recommended reading: what to do with dandruff in a child

Eczema of the scalp

Today there is a very common misconception that eczema is one of the main signs of uncleanliness and poor personal hygiene.

However, there is absolutely no connection between these factors and the occurrence of the disease; such lesions can appear for various reasons and are often the result of a general deterioration in health or pathological processes in the body. Eczema of the scalp is also not an infectious disease; it is not transmitted from person to person.

Eczema of the scalp often appears in children; in newborns, it is often caused by poor nutrition of the mother during pregnancy. In most cases, no treatment is required, and the symptoms of the disease completely disappear on their own after 2-3 weeks.

The process of regeneration of the skin after an illness takes longer, it can take at least 2 months, but young children virtually never experience discomfort. However, in the absence of positive dynamics, a mandatory consultation with a pediatrician is required.

The following methods of getting rid of the disease are usually practiced:

Lightly massage the scalp and skin with your fingers or with a damp washcloth.
Using special baby shampoos that contain ketoconazole. It is mandatory to obtain prior permission from a pediatrician.
Using mineral oils if other methods have not helped get rid of eczema.
Daily water procedures without using soap or other products that can cause skin irritation.

Effective treatment methods

Particular attention should be paid to seborrheic dermatitis. This scalp disease is characterized by itching and flaking. Seborrhea is episodic.

It can develop on any area of the skin. Dermatitis often accompanies allergies or asthma.

A pathological process in the activity of the sebaceous glands causes oily seborrhea. When dry, in addition to severe itching and dandruff, acne appears.

As scientists have proven, significant physical activity is required to remove it from the body. If this does not happen, adrenaline, accumulating in the blood, provokes unbearable itching of the skin.

To eliminate the symptoms of seborrhea on the scalp, it is important to include as many vitamins as possible in your diet. Fruits and vegetables should make up more than half of the total daily diet.

It is important to maintain an adequate distribution of time for work and rest. You need to learn to avoid stressful situations. It is advisable to avoid drinking alcohol, fatty, smoked and salty foods.

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Causes of eczema on the head

Experts still do not know the exact cause of eczema on the scalp.

However, there are known factors that can provoke the occurrence of this disease:

Predisposition to eczema at the genetic level.
Increased activity of the sebaceous glands.
General deterioration of the immune system.
The presence of chronic diseases that impair the functioning of internal organs.
Changes in hormonal levels.
Disruption of the digestive system.
Disruption of the endocrine system.
Contact with certain types of chemicals, preservatives or plants.
Side effect of taking certain pharmacological drugs.
Complications of an allergic reaction, the occurrence of eczema, are most often provoked by nickel.
Exposure to ultraviolet rays.
Systematic hypothermia or overheating of the head.
Frequent stress, long-term depression.
Mechanical damage to the scalp.

For some time, there was an opinion that one of the causes of eczema was fungal formations, since when taking tests, patients were found to have the corresponding types of infection. However, it was later found that all fungal infections are a consequence of eczema, but not a provoking factor.

Physiotherapy

Physical methods of influencing fungal skin lesions have a sedative effect, improve blood supply, and reduce the permeability of vascular walls.

They also relieve inflammation and itching, influence the functioning of the endocrine and immune systems, and also significantly alleviate the patient’s general condition.

Sedative treatment methods are:

electrosleep therapy - pulsed currents are used;
general franklinization - high voltage currents are used. This procedure is otherwise called an electrostatic shower.

To reduce the activity of the parasympathetic nervous system, the following are prescribed:

UHF EP;
ultraphonophoresis;
amplipulse therapy;
inductothermy.

High-intensity magnetic therapy has an anti-inflammatory effect, and low-frequency magnetic therapy effectively relieves pain, relaxes, and improves blood circulation.

Laser therapy is prescribed to improve the functioning of the immune system.

Water procedures relieve itching and normalize the patient’s emotional state:

radon baths;
sulfide baths;
tar baths;
alkaline baths.

There are local methods:

darsonvalization;
galvanization;
paraffin applications;
electrophoresis;
local magnetic therapy;
ultraviolet irradiation;
laser therapy.

Most often, combinations of several procedures are prescribed to improve the therapeutic effect.

We must not forget that there are contraindications for physiotherapy:

neoplasms of various nature;
acute stages of diseases;
fever;
acute stage of tuberculosis;
bullous dermatoses;
porphyria;
systemic lupus;
mental illnesses.

Physiotherapy in dermatology is used very widely.

Some ailments can only be overcome if a physical factor is included in general therapy.

As practice shows, after physiotherapy, restoration of the skin occurs faster , and in addition, with remitting ailments, the period of remission is significantly extended.

What does scalp eczema look like?

As the disease progresses, the external manifestations of eczema change, so the following stages are distinguished:

At the initial stage, the skin in the affected area looks tight and is noticeably dry. These areas are most often hidden by hair and unnoticeable.
Over time, the affected areas become greasy, and characteristic spots appear in the form of thickenings with a yellowish tint.
If left untreated, the lesions continue to spread and move from the scalp to the eyebrows, eyelids, area behind the ears, and nasolabial folds. Redness appears on the neck.

For a visual demonstration, below is a photo showing eczema of the scalp:

Hair loss

If, simultaneously with the appearance of dandruff, your hair begins to fall out, then you can provide first aid with special hair masks. In addition, there is often a need to enrich your diet with vitamins or supplements that promote hair growth. A dermatologist or pharmacist can advise you on which medications to choose.

Hair loss is most often associated with insufficient nutrition of the hair follicle from which hair grows. Its nutrition can be provided both internally (using injections) and externally (using a head massage). Cold-pressed olive oil in combination with egg yolk and vitamin E, which can be purchased at the pharmacy, can help cope with this problem. Massage your head with the resulting mixture, then rinse with warm water and shampoo for dry hair.

However, do not underestimate the “union” of dandruff and hair loss. Sometimes this can indicate serious diseases such as seborrhea, immune system disorder, fungus and other skin diseases. Hair loss in pregnant women is associated with changes in the body, stress and a lack of essential vitamins and minerals.

If you experience severe hair loss, you should urgently contact a professional . Based on the diagnosis, he will prescribe appropriate treatment. A negligent attitude to the problem can lead to a number of serious problems, including baldness.

Types of eczema of the scalp

Eczema, which affects the scalp, has a number of varieties. Each type has characteristic individual characteristics and specific course.

Types of eczema on the scalp:

Seborrheic eczema. The seborrheic variety of eczema is one of the most common forms of this disease, its main features are as follows:
At the initial stage, the formation of nodules with a pinkish-yellow color is observed. Later, characteristic plaques develop from them.
The risk group primarily includes people who have been diagnosed with oily seborrhea of the scalp.
Weeping eczema. Weeping eczema can be caused by an acute allergic reaction, as well as exposure to chemicals and other irritants on the skin. The main features of this form are discussed below:
In places where skin redness and swelling have been noticed, bubbles of small diameter will soon form.
The blisters merge with each other, which leads to the formation of erythema.
The affected area has a constantly weeping surface, which gradually becomes covered with a crust.
This form of eczema is characterized by a strong burning sensation in the affected areas and a feeling of unbearable itching. However, scratching or frequent touching should not be allowed, as wet areas can easily become infected, which can lead to serious complications.
Microbial eczema. Microbial eczema can occur in the presence of existing skin lesions, especially if purulent inflammation appears. At risk are people with extensive head burns, deep wounds and other similar injuries, and erysipelas. Eczema has the following features:
After some time, the bubbles open, which leads to the formation of crusts.
The skin on the affected areas becomes rougher and becomes frequently wet.

Help from folk remedies

Herbal medicine occupies a leading position in the treatment of folk remedies. Quite often, the therapeutic effect of masks based on herbal ingredients is simply irreplaceable.

Here are some recipes:

strong tea, vodka and castor oil are mixed in equal proportions, apply this mask for 30 minutes;
Apple cider vinegar is rubbed into the scalp one hour before washing your hair;
Full-fat kefir is kept for 30 minutes before washing;
Natural honey, sour cream, cognac and egg yolk are stirred one tablespoon at a time, leave for 2 hours under a film cover.

Homemade masks help reduce the manifestations of seborrheic dermatitis, psoriasis, irritation and other problems.

Some of the easiest to use using natural ingredients:

clay, white and blue are used, improves the functioning of the sebaceous glands;
egg yolks, remove excess sebum;
essential oils, bergamot, tea tree, lavender, lemon, burdock, castor;
sea salt, natural peeling;
mustard softens the skin and improves hair structure.

Before using any natural remedies, you should consult a dermatologist. Some components may cause an allergic reaction, and some will not be beneficial.

The herbal composition of masks is undoubtedly much more useful than products based on chemical components. However, not all of them help cure fungal infections or psoriasis.

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Symptoms of eczema on the head

Below is a list of the main symptoms characteristic of this disease:

Peeling of the scalp, formation of a large amount of dandruff.
Redness of the skin, formation of characteristic scales, covering of the affected areas with crusts.
Increased oiliness of hair, which is not eliminated by washing; the hairstyle begins to look unkempt.
Hair loss.
Parallel development of other dermatological diseases, the occurrence of which is provoked by eczema; fungal infection.
The appearance of purulent lesions is characteristic only of the microbial variety of eczema, however, they can also occur due to a secondary infection.
Itching and burning do not always occur; these symptoms usually appear at later stages. The exception is weeping eczema, for which these symptoms are most characteristic.

Symptoms

Symptoms of the disease are itching, the formation of a large number of white scales, often greasy, that fall off during combing and washing the hair. In addition, irritation, focal baldness, and the appearance of pustules may occur. These are symptoms of seborrhea, a disease caused by yeast-like fungi that interfere with the normal functioning of the sebaceous glands. Dandruff with a crust on the head occurs as a result of viral infectious diseases, allergic reactions, infectious diseases of the scalp, and cancer.

How to treat eczema on the scalp in the hair?

Today, there are many ways to treat this disease; many necessary medications and auxiliary products are available without a prescription from a doctor, so most people independently determine the specifics of therapy.

However, it is still better to consult a dermatologist first to make sure the diagnosis is correct. The most popular treatments for various forms of eczema are discussed below.

There are a large number of over-the-counter shampoos that you can start using even before visiting a dermatologist.

Before purchasing, you need to carefully study their composition; the following components can help in the fight against eczema:

Selenium sulfide eliminates existing inflammation and dryness, eliminates itching, and also destroys yeast fungi, which can provoke the occurrence of many dermatological diseases.
Tea tree oil, the optimal concentration in shampoo is about 5%. Such remedies eliminate not only eczema, but also the infections that arise from it.
Zinc pyrithione. This component eliminates peeling and also destroys all bacteria and fungi. Additionally, it will promote accelerated regeneration of damaged skin.
Ketoconazole can be found in both over-the-counter and prescription shampoos. This is one of the most effective components to fight eczema.
Salicylic acid. The component is added to many medicinal shampoos; it cleanses the upper layers of the skin and promotes accelerated healing of damaged areas.

Various ointments also demonstrate a high degree of effectiveness in the treatment of eczema.

Dermatologists recommend using the following varieties:

Salicylic ointment. You can read what salicylic ointment helps with on our website.
Zinc ointment.
Naphthalene ointment.
Corticosteroids in the form of ointments are used in the most complex or advanced cases; they can only be used as prescribed by the attending physician.

Various traditional medicines have not lost their relevance; some effective ways to eliminate the main symptoms of eczema are given below:

Applying natural bee honey to your head can reduce flaking and get rid of itching. If necessary, it can be diluted a little with water, after which, for 2-3 minutes, begin to rub into the damaged areas with gentle movements. After the procedure, your hair should be washed using regular shampoo.
Sage lotions can speed up the healing process of damaged skin. To do this, tablespoons of dried sage are diluted in 0.5 liters of water, which is then brought to a boil. You can add one tablespoon of fresh honey to the finished product, after which cotton swabs are moistened with it and applied to areas affected by eczema for 20-30 minutes.
You can prepare a decoction, which is obtained by adding 40 grams of oak bark to 200 ml of water, brought to a boil. The product sits for 12 hours, after which one tablespoon of fresh honey is added to it. All components are thoroughly mixed to ensure uniformity of the structure, after which the decoction is applied to the affected areas of the head. After an hour, you will need to rinse it with warm water.

Eczema is an insidious skin disease that can occur on any part of the body. Both men and women suffer from it. Quite often the disease occurs on the scalp (seborrheic eczema). The pathology is not contagious and is of allergic origin. It often occurs in a chronic form, which requires drug therapy.

Medications

Local preparations:

Exoteric . This drug has a depressing effect on all types of fungal infections. Available in ointment form and used externally.
Clotrimazole . Effectively relieves the unpleasant symptoms of the disease - eliminates peeling and itching. Has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects.
Miconazole . Ointment for topical use. Eliminates inflammation processes, works as an antifungal and antiseptic agent.
Nizoral . Release form: shampoo and cream. A very popular antifungal agent.
Cynovitis . Soothes inflamed areas, normalizes the functionality of the sebaceous glands.

As for the tablet form of drugs used internally, the doctor may prescribe agents that destroy pathogenic microorganisms. It must be said that these drugs are quite toxic, so it is extremely important to adhere to the prescribed dosage. In addition, there are the following contraindications for their use:

kidney diseases;
malignant processes;
blood diseases;
violation of metabolic processes;
problems in the functioning of the circulatory system.

Most often, doctors prescribe:

Ketoconazole . Take 1 tablet per day for 2 weeks.
Miconazole – 4 tablets per day.
Fluconazole – 1 tablet per day.
Nystatin – up to 4 tablets per day.

What is eczema on the scalp in the hair?

Seborrheic eczema is a complication of seborrhea of the scalp and differs from it in that the initial cause of this disease is not a malfunction of the sebaceous glands, but inflammation of the skin itself.

The course of the pathology is chronic with periodic exacerbations, subsidence and relapses.

Eczema, localized on the parietal part of the head, often goes unnoticed for a long time, and the patient considers dandruff to be the cause of unbearable itching. To get rid of it, a person begins to use shampoos that are inappropriate for him, which further aggravate the disease.

Skin pathologies such as seborrheic dermatitis or seborrheic psoriasis are often equated to seborrheic eczema.

Both sexes are susceptible to the disease, but many more men are seen with this disease than women. Scalp eczema causes the patient great suffering, both physical and emotional. As a rule, this pathological process develops in people who have reached puberty.

Treatment of itchy scalp.

Since itching is just a consequence or a symptom, to treat it it is necessary to identify and eliminate the cause that caused it. In this case, you need the help of a specialist who, after a complete diagnosis (various studies taking into account clinical manifestations and the specific case), will prescribe the optimal treatment.

If the cause of itching turns out to be elementary parasites (for example, lice), then to remove them you should purchase modern effective remedies for such parasites at the pharmacy (Nittifor (solution or cream), Para Plus aerosol, Pediculen lotion.). After removing lice, you should also get rid of nits by using a fine comb. It is also recommended to check other family members for the presence of lice, and the patient’s clothes and bedding should be boiled and ironed with a hot iron. In this case, I would not recommend resorting to traditional methods (using, for example, kerosene), they not only will not help, but can also cause harm. Unlike lice, it is somewhat more difficult to determine the presence of demodicosis, but the doctor will do it in a matter of seconds. To treat demodicosis, you must consult a doctor; only he can prescribe medications.

Treatment of seborrhea is a long and complex process. Proper nutrition, avoidance of stress, hormonal balance (disturbances can provoke seborrhea), adherence to sleep and rest schedules are important in the treatment of the disease. In addition, it is important for patients to keep their scalp clean.

For dry skin, nourishing masks will be useful; they will have a softening effect and improve microcirculation. Also of great importance is compliance with the drinking regime (at least one and a half liters of water per day), which will prevent dehydration.

If the itching is caused by a lack of vitamins and microelements, you should take a course of vitamins (Vitrum, Complivit, Alphabet, Centrum, etc.).

Treatment of itching with folk remedies. Herbal medicine and massage are especially effective for treating the scalp. Decoctions of medicinal herbs have long been used to normalize the functioning of the sebaceous glands. Decoctions and extracts of nettle, oak bark, and chamomile are especially beneficial for the skin. Massage activates blood circulation, which, in turn, improves skin nutrition.

Onion and garlic juice, due to their sulfur and acid content, effectively eliminate dandruff and relieve itching caused by hair coloring. Add lemon juice and vegetable oil (preferably olive) to freshly squeezed onion or garlic juice; take everything in equal proportions. Apply the resulting composition to wet hair and skin and leave for half an hour, then rinse with warm water adding a small amount of lemon juice or vinegar.

For the same purposes, it is effective to use an apple mask. Grind one medium-sized apple on a coarse grater. Grate a large apple and apply the resulting mixture to your hair and scalp before washing. Put a cotton cap on top. Leave the mask on for half an hour and wash off. Recommended for use twice a week.

Dandelion flower lotion is also effective in relieving itchy scalp. Grind a handful of fresh dandelion flowers and place in a glass container. Pour this herbal mass with 50 ml of vodka, the juice of one freshly squeezed lemon and a teaspoon of honey, preferably in liquid form. Mix everything thoroughly and leave to infuse for two weeks. After the specified period, the resulting tincture must be filtered. Half an hour before washing, apply the infusion to the skin and hair, and put on a cotton cap or scarf on top. After the time has passed, wash your hair with shampoo.

Onion peels are also good to use for the same purposes. Wash the peels from four onions and place them in an enamel bowl with a liter of boiling water. Place the mixture on the fire and simmer for an hour over low heat. Use this decoction as a rinse after washing your hair. The decoction helps after two or three times of use.

If these simple methods do not relieve the itching, it is recommended to consult a doctor in order to rule out more serious skin problems and diseases.

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Types, stages and symptoms of seborrheic eczema

According to its occurrence, seborrheic eczema can be acquired or congenital. The latter form is almost impossible to cure, but in the case of an acquired form with proper treatment, the chances of recovery are quite high.

A special form of scalp eczema - gneiss - occurs in infants in the first months of life and usually goes away on its own, without requiring treatment.

For eczema on the scalp in the hair, peeling of the skin and severe itching are typical. Its characteristic feature is rashes in the form of small nodules that do not contain fluid, as well as dull redness of the upper layer of epithelial tissue. Foci of eczema are plaques formed from flaky elements of a yellowish-brownish color. The rashes grow, merge with each other and form ring-shaped elements on the skin. The affected areas have clear boundaries and jagged edges.

Conventionally, three stages of seborrheic eczema can be distinguished:

Folk remedy No. 1 - Vinegar

Vinegar is a very affordable and widespread product. Its obvious advantage is the absence of flavors and dyes. Therefore, when used, it will not irritate the scalp.

To treat dandruff, vinegar is used both in its pure form and diluted with water in equal proportions. This composition is applied to the scalp for a while, then washed off, then allowed to dry. You can also pour undiluted vinegar onto your hair, leave for about 10 minutes and rinse. A more effective way: apply undiluted vinegar to clean, dry hair , wrap it in a towel or plastic bag and leave for half an hour, then wash your hair with shampoo.

Causes and development factors

Modern dermatologists are of the opinion that seborrheic eczema is of an infectious-allergic nature and in the vast majority of cases (65–75%) occurs due to the proliferation and activation of pathogenic fungi of the genus Pityrosporum ovale on the scalp. Less commonly, the pathology is caused by Candida fungi or staphylococci.

The exact cause of excessive proliferation of fungi on the scalp is still unknown. However, doctors agree that there are two types of factors that enhance the vital activity of these microorganisms - internal and external.

It should be remembered that internal causes are of primary importance in the development of eczema on the head, because this pathology is a complication of existing disorders in the body. Only a small part of all cases of the disease arise from the direct influence of any external conditions.

The so-called internal factors are associated with the state of the patient’s body:

increased sebum production due to hormonal imbalance. An incorrect ratio of androgens and estrogens in the human body, diabetes mellitus, and obesity lead to increased function of the sebaceous glands of the head. And sebum, in turn, is an excellent breeding ground for the development and reproduction of fungi;
hereditary predisposition. If parents suffered from eczema, then it is very likely that their children will also have this disease. The genetic factor is especially important for young men;
frequent stressful situations, neuropsychic experiences, chronic fatigue;
chronic dysfunctions of the liver (hepatitis, cirrhosis), gastrointestinal tract (gastritis, pancreatitis, enterocolitis, duodenitis, ulcers) and some cardiovascular diseases can also predispose to increased activity of the sebaceous glands;
reduced immunity, vitamin deficiency, chronic infectious diseases of the respiratory tract, poor nutrition are predisposing factors for the deterioration of the scalp and the spread of fungal infections.

Negative environmental factors include:

long-term uncontrolled use of any medications, especially hormonal drugs and antibiotics;
use of hair care products (shampoos, hairsprays, foams, masks) with inappropriate chemical composition, which irritate the scalp and lead to increased sebum production;
allergic reactions to hair dyes or other chemicals that come into direct contact with the scalp;
the use of alcohol tinctures for scalp care;
living in an area with excessive pollution and poor environmental conditions.

The most effective cosmetics if the formations itch

It is recommended to treat redness using shampoos based on zinc, selenium sulfide and ketoconazole. They help cope with various pathogenic bacteria. Salicylic acid has an exfoliating effect and improves the functioning of the sebaceous glands.

Cosmetics based on ichthyol and birch tar restore and renew skin cells and destroy bacteria. The use of such shampoos, according to consumer reviews, is effective even for such serious skin problems as the rehabilitation period after chemotherapy.

To destroy fungus on the scalp such as Candida and Malassezia, it is necessary to use the following ointments:

zinc pyrithione;
ciclopirox;
ketoconazole;
bifonazole;
clotrimazole.

The rating of the most popular shampoos for problematic scalp, based on consumer surveys, looks like this:

"Nizoral." Reduces discomfort. Itching and flaking are reduced after the first use. It even treats fungus.
"Dermazol", thanks to the main component ketoconazole, eliminates dandruff. Indicated during the treatment of seborrheic dermatitis.
"Sebozol" is an excellent remedy for eliminating problems associated with pathogenic microbes. Indicated for the prevention of seborrhea.
"Home Institut" is made on the basis of plant components of stinging nettle. Restores hair structure, normalizes the activity of the sebaceous glands. It especially helps with oily seborrhea.
Bioderma relieves itching and flaking. The unique composition of the product eliminates fungus and renews skin cells.

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Diagnostics

If you have symptoms of scalp eczema, you should consult a dermatologist. Typically, diagnosing this skin disease is not difficult, and an experienced specialist will recognize it during a visual examination and questioning of the patient. To clarify the diagnosis, the following research methods are used:

dermatoscopy - examination of sore spots using a special magnifying device (dermatoscope) allows you to see the affected area of the skin in great detail;

To make a diagnosis, examination using a dermatoscope is used.
allergy tests - allow you to find out whether an allergy to hair care products is the culprit of eczema;
biopsy, or scraping from eczematous plaques - using laboratory analysis of pathological cells, the causative agent of the disease is identified.

Due to the fact that this pathology is often a consequence of a disorder in the functioning of vital organs and systems, it is very important for a patient with seborrheic eczema to undergo as complete an examination as possible. It will help to find out the original cause of this dermatological disease and choose the right methods to combat it.

To detect foci of chronic inflammation and the main underlying pathologies, patients with seborrheic eczema are referred for consultations to doctors of other specializations:

gastroenterologist;
neurologist;
endocrinologist;
therapist;
otolaryngologist;
ophthalmologist.

For the same purposes, such patients may be prescribed additional studies:

gastroscopy;
liver tests to assess the condition of the liver;
immunological and hormonal blood tests;
determination of blood glucose;
ultrasound examination of the abdominal and pelvic organs;
rhino- or pharyngoscopy.

The symptoms of seborrheic eczema of the scalp are in many ways similar to those of other skin diseases. The latter are differentiated from this pathology by the following characteristics:

Summarize

Dandruff is considered a fairly common disease, affecting approximately 20% of the world's population .

In some cases, dandruff is accompanied by the formation of sores and scabs, causing itching and other discomfort.

The reasons for their occurrence are very different, it could be lichen, psoriasis, allergic dermatitis, fungi, lack of vitamins or problems with the digestive system .

Currently, there are a large number of anti-dandruff shampoos; if you have sores, it is recommended to consult a trichologist.

The doctor prescribes treatment based on diagnosis; ointments and creams will help get rid of the disease very quickly. When fighting dandruff, you can also use folk recipes, but only after consulting a trichologist, identifying the cause of the disease and making a diagnosis.

How to treat scalp eczema

Treatment of eczema on the scalp and hair should be comprehensive and versatile. Only several methods of therapy in combination can achieve relief and subsidence of the inflammatory process in a relatively short time.

At the initial stage of the disease, you can try to get rid of eczema by washing your hair with special anti-dandruff shampoos with antimicrobial additives. They can be purchased at the pharmacy. The choice of means is carried out purely individually by trial and error.

If a particular type of shampoo helped well, but over time the fungi adapted to it and it stopped having the desired effect, then you need to replace the product or alternate them with each other.

It is important to strictly follow the recommendations indicated on the package, otherwise there will be no benefit. The shampoo is applied to the scalp and rubbed into the skin with soft, light movements. Then leave it for a few minutes so that the active ingredients have time to exert their therapeutic effect, then rinse thoroughly.

Below is a list of the most popular and effective antiseborrheic hair care products:

shampoos containing the antimycotic active ingredient Ketoconazole (Nizoral, Dermazol, Sebozol). They wash their hair twice a week, alternating them with regular shampoo;
shampoo with selenium (Selsun Blue) or zinc (Head & Shoulders), they can be used to wash your hair every day;
tar shampoos. They contain a useful component - birch tar, which can restore normal sebum secretion in a short time.

For eczema, remedies are recommended for both external use and oral administration.

In parallel with the use of a special shampoo for local treatment, hormonal ointments and creams with corticosteroids are used, which cope well with itching and burning in eczema:

Hydrocortisone;
Soderm;
Desowen cream (Desonide 0.05%)
Prednisolone;
Fluocinolone acetonide.

These medications are applied directly to the eczematous plaques. Due to possible side effects and allergic reactions, they can be used for no longer than two weeks, only as prescribed by a doctor and with great caution. For the most severe forms of seborrheic eczema, hormonal drugs are prescribed intramuscularly in the form of injections.

Ointments and pastes containing zinc or salicylic acid have an excellent wound-healing effect:

Zinc ointment;
Salicylic ointment;
Zinc-salicylic paste;
Sudocrem.

Antifungal creams or ointments that suppress the activity of the fungus can be very helpful in treating seborrheic eczema. They are prescribed by a doctor after accurately identifying the causative agent of the disease:

When a bacterial infection occurs, an ointment or gel with metronidazole, a popular and harmless antibiotic, is also used to treat eczema on the head. The product is applied to the affected areas 1-2 times a day until the skin condition improves.

If external topical agents are ineffective, then antifungal drugs in the form of tablets or capsules for oral use (Ketoconazole, Terbinafine, Fluconazole, Itraconazole) can become a powerful weapon against seborrheic eczema. They are prescribed by a doctor, taking into account contraindications and the patient’s concomitant diseases. The duration of their use should not exceed one week.

Fluconazole is the most effective of modern antimycotics

Comprehensive drug treatment of scalp eczema should include the following types of drugs:

antimycotic;
antihistamines that reduce the manifestations of allergies (Diphenhydramine, Diazolin, Tavegil);
immunomodulatory (Methyluracil, Timalin, T-activin);
multivitamins;
restoring the microflora of the gastrointestinal tract (Bifiform, Linex);
tranquilizers and sedatives (Novopassit, Persen);
if necessary, antibiotics.

Often, eczema of the scalp in the hair appears as a consequence of metabolic disorders or diseases of the digestive system. Therefore, to increase the effectiveness of treatment, it is important to eat properly and follow a diet. This will help restore the body's functioning.

It is necessary to exclude or at least limit allergenic foods that can easily increase itching and flaking of the skin:

oranges and tangerines;
chocolate and other sweets;
strong meat broths;
honey;
eggs;
red fruits and vegetables (tomatoes, red peppers, strawberries, cherries).

It is better to remove fatty, smoked, very salty, spicy, fried foods, and mayonnaise from the diet during treatment. Naturally, stop drinking excessive coffee and do not drink alcoholic beverages. Herbal teas are good for quenching thirst and calming the nervous system.

To facilitate the work of the intestines, the diet of a patient with eczema should consist of easily digestible foods:

various vegetables and fruits yellow or green;
fermented milk products (kefir, yogurt, fermented baked milk, cottage cheese);
lean boiled or baked meat and fish (chicken, veal, pike perch, pike, grass carp);
cereal and pumpkin porridges;
vegetable soups and salads seasoned with sour cream.

In the complex of measures aimed at treating eczema in the hair, physiotherapeutic procedures are also of great importance. They are prescribed by a dermatologist. They are a good addition to drug treatment and are very beneficial for the skin and nervous system. The procedures promote rapid restoration of the skin and accelerate the healing of eczematous lesions. For seborrheic eczema the following are used:

treatment by exposure to magnetic fields;
baths with medicinal mineral waters (balneotherapy);
ozone and plasma therapy;
paraffin applications;
cryodestruction;
acupuncture;
electrosleep to calm the nervous system;
irradiation of lesions with ultraviolet rays;
segmental laser and ultrasound irradiation;
to speed up metabolism - treatment with mud and sea salt (thalassotherapy).

Herbs and gifts of nature can be used as a complement to medications, and sometimes even as a replacement when traditional treatment does not bring the desired result. Many folk recipes have a very positive effect on dermatological diseases. But before starting unconventional treatment, you need to make sure that its components do not cause allergies in the patient. To combat eczema on the scalp, the following folk remedies are considered the most popular:

lotions made from Kalanchoe juice or grated raw potatoes. A piece of gauze, generously moistened with juice, is applied to the problem area for 1 hour;
compress of birch buds. To prepare it, take 1 glass of fresh birch buds, fill it with 1 glass of hot water and cook for 20 minutes. A gauze napkin is moistened in the resulting decoction and applied to the eczematous plaques. The procedure should be done 3-4 times a day for 10 days;
cabbage lotions and eggs. Chopped cabbage leaf is mixed with egg white, the mixture is wrapped in cloth and applied to the eczema;
herbal compresses. Mix dry herbs of calendula, sage and chamomile in a ratio of 2:1:2, add boiling water and let steep for half an hour. Cool the infusion and strain. Several times a day, apply gauze soaked in it to the sore spot;
A decoction of burdock root can be taken orally twice a day before meals. Pour a tablespoon of finely chopped plant root into a glass of boiling water and cook for 15 minutes. Strain the broth;
healing ointment made from goose fat, sea salt and fir oil. Take 2 tablespoons of melted goose fat, 1 teaspoon of sea salt, 1 tablespoon each of fir essential oil and baby cream. Mix all components thoroughly and apply the resulting product to the affected areas of the head.

Baking soda

If you have dandruff and an itchy head, a folk remedy such as regular baking soda is perfect for treatment. Baking soda has the same properties as vinegar. This includes the destruction of fungus and exfoliation of dead scales from the scalp. Moreover, it is also accessible and inexpensive. The procedure of washing your hair with soda can be done every day.

Mix a spoonful of baking soda in a glass of warm water. Apply the prepared solution (shake it well before use) onto your scalp. Wash off with water. For very oily hair, after this procedure, you can add a spoonful of baking soda to the shampoo and wash your hair again.

Treatment prognosis and possible complications, consequences

Seborrheic eczema of the scalp is a chronic disease. Once it appears, it will accompany the patient throughout his life, manifesting itself in periodic exacerbations and remissions.

Eczema on the head does not in any way affect the general health of the patient, it is not transmitted from sick to healthy by contact and does not indicate the uncleanliness of its carrier. For those who strictly follow the recommendations of a dermatologist, the prognosis of the disease is favorable.

Fighting eczema requires patience and perseverance. You may need to treat the affected areas multiple times, and you may have to try many medicinal ointments and shampoos that will really help. Over time, a person learns to independently deal with exacerbations of the disease, recognize its beginning outbreak in time, select medications or folk remedies for himself and carry out healing procedures. With adequately selected therapy, the manifestations of eczema subside, leaving no traces on the scalp.

The neglected process can spread to the neck, forehead, eyelids and eyelashes, complicated by blepharitis. And this disease is already fraught with vision problems.

Advanced disease can be complicated by blepharitis

Treatment of eczema on the head in the hair is in most cases a difficult and slow task, because the course of the pathology depends on a huge number of factors. But all patients without exception should lead a healthy lifestyle, avoid nervous stress, maintain body and hair hygiene, as well as eat properly and improve their immunity in order to increase the effectiveness of the medications used and a speedy cure.

Drug therapy for red spots

To effectively treat red spots on the head under the hair, correct diagnosis of the problem is important. After all, an erroneous diagnosis may not only not bring results in treatment, but also provoke complications.

Before treatment you need to undergo examinations:

blood test for the presence of infectious processes in the body;
identification of allergic reactions through testing in a treatment center;
scrapings from the skin for fungus.

To treat scalp irritations caused by allergic reactions, antihistamine therapy is prescribed. The most popular of them: Claritin, Fenistil, Cetrin, Alergodil.

Trichologists recommend treating fungal infections of the skin under the hair with external use. Special shampoos Nizoral, Sulsen, etc. cope well with seborrhea and similar infections. In the case of a chronic course, taking antifungal tablets Fuconazole or Ketoconazole, as well as their analogues, is indicated.

Psoriasis is treated using ointments, shampoos and creams. It is also necessary to take special medications.

Most of the drugs indicated for the treatment of scalp problems are quite toxic. At the same time, it will be appropriate to take medications that reduce the load on the liver.

Do not neglect vitamin and mineral complexes. They improve metabolism, promote the elimination of toxins, help the body fight the negative effects of the environment and speed up the healing process.

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Prevention

To prevent the development of this unpleasant disease, it is necessary to take preventive measures:

fight dandruff and seborrhea of the head in a timely manner, do not let it get worse;
if you already have seborrhea, be extremely attentive to your condition and at the first signs of eczema (the appearance of a small pink rash) rush to a dermatologist;
enrich your diet with vitamins and microelements;
timely treat infectious and endocrine diseases, as well as pathologies of the digestive system;
do not overuse hairsprays, foams and hair gels;
by all means to increase the body’s resistance to infection, engage in physical exercise, toughen up, and spend more time in the fresh air;
protect your psyche from worries and worries.

Seborrheic eczema is a long-term condition that requires ongoing attention and treatment. With proper daily scalp care, you can minimize all the unpleasant manifestations of this disease. Eczema on the scalp in the hair can be successfully treated using medications and traditional medicine methods. The main thing is to promptly recognize symptoms, eliminate provoking factors and follow all prescriptions and recommendations of a dermatologist.

Features of nutrition for this disease

According to the recommendations of nutritionists and trichologists, scalp problems can arise due to a number of factors:

the presence of harmful products in the daily menu;
malnutrition as a result of following strict diets;
lack of vitamins and microelements;
incorrect attitude to nutrition - bulimia or anorexia;
lack of proteins important for the whole body.

During periods of exacerbation of skin problems, it is important to exclude salty, canned and spicy foods. For example, with seborrheic dermatitis or allergic reactions, this rule can play a decisive role. This even applies to onions and garlic. Trichologists do not recommend consuming milk and chicken eggs if red spots form on the scalp under the hair. It is recommended to limit the consumption of citrus fruits, strawberries, chocolate and baked goods. An increase in the diet of fruits and vegetables without heat treatment will help restore the body's defenses and increase resistance to dermatological diseases.

To boost your immunity, you should take vitamin and mineral complexes twice a year. A doctor - a trichologist or a dermatologist - will help you which one is better to choose, based on the individual characteristics of the body.

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