Symptoms of eczema on the scalp

Affected persons with seborrhoeic scalp eczema complain above all about yellowish, large and greasy feeling scales. Below the scales the scalp is reddened, some affected persons also suffer from discrete itching. Accompanying an unpleasant smell can emanate from the scalp, since the scales are a good breeding ground for various bacteria and fungi. In seborrheic dermatitis, in addition to the hairy scalp, the eyebrows and the areas between and around the nose and mouth are usually affected by the yellowish dandruff.

Therapy for eczema

The number of fungi on the scalp can be successfully reduced with the help of so-called antimycotics (antifungal agents). The anti-fungal agents can be used as a shampoo during hair washing. At the beginning, it is usually necessary to apply several times a day, which can be reduced in frequency if the therapy is successful.

The seborrhoeic eczema affects not only the scalp and beard area, but the facial skin in general. In these areas the application of antimycotic creams is suitable. In cases of a strong inflammatory reaction of the skin, anti-fungal agents are not sufficient as the sole therapy.

In this case, a cortisone preparation should be applied additionally in order to reduce the inflammation and to give the affected skin the opportunity for recovery and regeneration. For a more precise therapy plan, however, a visit to the doctor is recommended, as he can assess the inflammatory situation and take into account possible concomitant diseases in the therapy. In the case of eczema on the scalp, appropriate skin care is very important in order to protect the diseased skin in the best possible way and thus contribute to healing.

In general, in the case of eczema of the scalp, care should be taken to ensure that the shampoo is as gentle as possible on the scalp and that possible irritants such as artificial fragrances or silicones are avoided as far as possible in order not to additionally irritate the affected skin. This is especially true for diseases such as neurodermatitis, which are associated with very dry, very itchy skin. For seborrhoeic eczema, which particularly frequently affects the scalp, there are now special shampoos that have been adapted to the clinical picture.

These shampoos have an anti-inflammatory effect via urea or salicylic acid, for example, and reduce the formation of dandruff on the skin. Shampoos containing antimycotic active ingredients such as ketoconazole can also be prescribed, which act against skin fungi suspected of being the cause of seborrheic eczema.In any case, the origin of the eczema should be clarified with the dermatologist so that he can give individual advice and, if necessary, prescribe shampoos that are available in pharmacies. There are various household remedies that can be used to support the treatment of eczema of the scalp.

The simplest home remedy is to spend sufficient time in the fresh air and let the sun shine on the scalp – this is a completely natural remedy for eczema. Chamomile, aloe vera, spa curma or honey also have a calming effect on the skin. Soaked oat flakes are also said to have an anti-inflammatory effect.

Of course, home remedies should only be used as a support and if the eczema persists, the family doctor should be consulted. Tea tree oil is a popular natural remedy that has been used for a long time. Tea tree oil has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects and can promote wound healing.

This can be quite helpful and supportive in the treatment of eczema of the scalp. The tea tree oil can be applied directly to the eczema in diluted form, but can also be added to the shampoo. Please note that some people have allergic reactions to tea tree oil.

On first contact, one should first test the tolerance on a small area of healthy skin on the arm before applying it directly to the irritated scalp. Apple vinegar is also popular as a household remedy for treating seborrheic eczema on the scalp and is said to help with wound healing. Many patients report an improvement of the skin when the vinegar is applied directly.

Before using cider vinegar, the treating physician should be consulted, as the acid may additionally irritate damaged skin and is more likely to worsen the disease. Especially if the origin of the eczema is not certain, a doctor should be consulted beforehand. In the treatment of seborrhoeic eczema of the scalp, ointments containing cortisone may also be used.

These have an anti-inflammatory effect directly on the skin and can thus lead to healing of the skin condition. However, cortisone is usually only used in cases of severe skin infestation and only for a limited period of time, as the skin can change under the influence of cortisone. When the time is right for a cortisone ointment is very individual and must be determined by an experienced physician.

Under no circumstances should you start a cortisone therapy on your own! More about this:

Cortisone ointment

Independent treatment without prior examination and assessment of the current disease situation by a doctor is not recommended. In the worst case, the skin condition may worsen.

In addition, eczema, as described in the upper sections, often occurs when the body’s immune system is weak, which should be treated anyway. However, medicinal teas, for example from nettle or dandelion, can be taken as a supporting drink. Furthermore, various medicinal plants can stimulate the activation of the immune system and promote the healing of dandruff.

These include extracts of echinacea, propolis and olive leaf extract. A special consultation adapted to the disease situation is also recommended in this case. For example, alumina is recommended for dry eczema, graphite for weeping eczema, and menthol can help in cases of severe itching. The Schüssler salts Silicea or Potassium sulfuricum could also help. An appropriate selection of homeopathic remedies can be offered by an experienced homeopath, but if the eczema does not improve, medical treatment should not be neglected!