Some home remedies, like aloe and certain supplements, may help relieve symptoms of seborrheic dermatitis.
Seborrheic dermatitis is an inflammatory skin disease that affects areas with oil-producing glands known as sebaceous glands. It commonly affects the scalp but can also appear on the face and upper body.
Some people consider dandruff to be a mild form of seborrheic dermatitis.
While seborrheic dermatitis may go away without treatment, it can also be chronic and cause flare-ups that may come and go. Treatment can help relieve symptoms like itching and reduce scale buildup, but it can sometimes take multiple treatments to clear up the rash.
Some people may find relief from their symptoms by using home remedies in combination with over-the-counter or prescription medications.
Keep reading to learn more about home remedies for seborrheic dermatitis and which may be effective.
Seborrheic dermatitis can result from different factors, depending on your skin type and sensitivities.
So there’s no catch-all alternative treatment.
It’s best to talk with a board certified dermatologist who recommend ways to manage it.
Some natural supplements that may be effective for seborrheic dermatitis include:
Fish oil
Fish oil supplements contain omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), which may benefit the skin. These omega-3 fatty acids may help:
- suppress flare-ups of dermatitis by modifying the immune response in the epidermis, or the top layer of your skin
- reduce skin dryness and flaking
- prevent skin barrier function loss
However, much of this research is based on animal studies and is not specific to seborrheic dermatitis. More research is still needed to better understand the specific benefits of fish oil for seborrheic dermatitis.
Aloe vera
Aloe vera is a plant with anti-inflammatory properties that
An older study from 2017 that examined the effectiveness of a gel containing aloe and other ingredients found that the gel improved seborrheic dermatitis on the faces of nearly half of the 25 participants with mild to moderate symptoms.
While more specific research on its effects on seborrheic dermatitis is needed, aloe
There
It’s also best to avoid taking aloe as a supplement if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Probiotics
Probiotics usually refer to supplements containing beneficial bacteria. Some
A small 2024 study suggests that using a probiotic containing two strains of bacteria in an oily suspension on the skin had benefits for seborrheic dermatitis. While the probiotic did not affect the skin’s bacterial microbiome, it did affect the gut microbiome and also resulted in skin improvements.
A 2023 review of research suggests applying topical probiotics to the skin may benefit multiple skin conditions, including seborrheic dermatitis of the scalp, by increasing the skin microbiome diversity and reducing yeast. The authors noted that certain strains of oral probiotics may also benefit seborrheic dermatitis.
Apple cider vinegar
Some people use an apple cider vinegar soak to loosen the scales on the scalp. Proponents believe it may also lessen inflammation in the area of the flare-up.
However, a
Olive oil
Olives have antioxidant, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antiviral properties and may support wound healing. Squalene, an organic compound in olive oil, may help treat various skin conditions, including seborrheic dermatitis.
You can look for skin products that contain olive oil or apply virgin olive oil directly to the skin.
However,
Tea tree oil
However, more research is still needed to better understand its specific effects on seborrheic dermatitis and other skin conditions.
You can find shampoos, conditioners, and skin products that contain tea tree oil. However, it’s best to test them on a small area first because some people may experience irritation.
A dermatologist may recommend specific topical products.
Seborrheic dermatitis may be more likely in females who follow a Western diet and do not eat enough fruit, according to 2024 research. People with seborrheic dermatitis were more likely to have increased levels of:
- copper
- manganese
- iron
- calcium
- magnesium
They also had lower levels of:
- zinc
- vitamin D
- vitamin E
However, the study did not re-measure these micronutrient concentrations after the seborrheic dermatitis cleared up. It’s unclear whether having normal levels of these micronutrients would prevent seborrheic dermatitis.
Research from 2018 suggests these nutrients and others may help treat psoriasis and seborrheic dermatitis. Other nutrients include:
- fatty acids
- vitamin A
- vitamins B1, B2, and B6
- niacin
- biotin
- vitamin C
- selenium
If you have seborrheic dermatitis, it may help to eat foods that support your immune system and have anti-inflammatory properties. This may involve eating a balanced diet, such as one that includes:
- plenty of leafy green vegetables
- antioxidant-rich foods like tomatoes and berries
- nutrient-rich oils, such as olive oil
- fruits that contain antioxidants, such as cherries, strawberries, and blueberries
- foods that are high in vitamin C, such as citrus, kiwifruit, and bell peppers
- foods high in vitamin A, like sweet potatoes and chicken
- foods with plenty of vitamin E, like wheat germ, avocados, and almonds
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Seborrheic dermatitis isn’t life threatening, but it is chronic and can be uncomfortable. At times, you may find the scaling, itching, and discoloration distracting, especially if it happens on your face or upper body.
If you have persistent seborrheic dermatitis or other symptoms, it’s best to talk with a doctor.
A dermatologist is a doctor who specializes in skin conditions. A primary care physician may refer you to a dermatologist, or, depending on your insurance plan, you may be able to make an appointment with a dermatologist without a referral.
A dermatologist can diagnose and help treat seborrheic dermatitis. This can involve ruling out other causes of your symptoms and helping identify contributing factors, including fungal or bacterial skin infections.
They may want to order some tests to further evaluate your situation and talk with you about treatment options complementary to your condition.
Dermatologists usually recommend topical treatments for seborrheic dermatitis. These can include:
- Corticosteroids: Creams and shampoos containing corticosteroids or hydrocortisone may help reduce severe inflammation. These are only suitable for short-term use, as they can cause side effects.
- Keratolytics: Products containing salicylic acid, lactic acid, urea, and propylene glycol may help remove scales.
- Antibacterial gels or antifungal creams: These can help with seborrheic dermatitis, especially in the case of a fungal or bacterial infection.
- Light therapy: Exposing the affected area to ultraviolet light may help soothe the skin and reduce itching and discoloration.
- Coal tar: Coal tar cream can help slow the process of skin cells dying and falling off.
- Medicated shampoos: They may recommend using a product containing ketoconazole, ciclopirox, selenium sulfide, zinc pyrithione, coal tar, or salicylic acid twice a week for a month or longer. If necessary, you can use them indefinitely.
Although it’s unclear what causes seborrheic dermatitis, there appear to be some common triggers.
Stress can aggravate flare-ups for many skin conditions, including seborrheic dermatitis. Try to be mindful of what triggers you in particular.
Know your triggers
It’s possible that your flare-ups are connected to an allergic reaction, so try to document if there’s anything unusual or new to your environment when a flare-up happens.
To keep from triggering a flare-up, avoid wearing pricky fabrics that may itch and irritate your skin, like wool caps and sweaters, in favor of softer materials like cotton and silk.
Self-care measures
Taking care of your skin may help relieve and prevent seborrheic dermatitis. This can include:
- washing affected areas regularly with a mild shampoo or soap-free cleanser
- avoiding hair styling products and makeup during a flare
Support your immune system
A weakened immune system can also contribute to how severe your symptoms are. Take care of yourself, and make sure to eat a diet rich in vitamins A, D, C, E, and zinc.
Ways of managing seborrheic dermatitis include at-home treatments and topical creams. Some home remedies, like probiotics or applying olive oil, may help relieve symptoms of mild seborrheic dermatitis.
It’s best to talk with a doctor, such as a dermatologist, to find an effective treatment plan.
They may recommend changes in your skin or hair care routine, in addition to specific products to target the cause of your seborrheic dermatitis.