If you have been experiencing redness, rashes, and minor signs of inflammation on your face, you may have heard the terms dermatitis and rosacea thrown around- two different conditions that are, in some cases, alike.
So how do you know what you are dealing with? Well, first and foremost, it’s always important to seek medical attention rather than getting your answers here (on the internet). But if you are curious about the differences, you have come to the right place!
What is Seborrhoeic dermatitis and how is it treated?
Seborrheic dermatitis is a type of dermatitis that affects 10% of the population and is caused by sebaceous glands producing excess oil known as sebum. Common areas of seborrheic dermatitis are the face, chest, scalp and ears, but for some, it may also present itself on other areas of the body.
Though the underlying cause is unknown, a correlation between seborrheic dermatitis and some health conditions like immunodeficiency, and neurological or cardiac issues does exist.
The main symptoms of seborrheic dermatitis are:
- Redness
- Skin flaking
- Scaling
- Greasiness
The treatment options available for seborrheic dermatitis are:
- Topical medicines
- Antibiotics
- Antihistamines
- Oral medications
What is rosacea and how is it treated?
Rosacea is far more than what meets the eye. Beyond the facial redness or seemingly extra “blushing”, rosacea is a chronic inflammatory disease that affects the blood vessels and can lead to redness, papules and pustules, bulging of the skin, and eye issues. Though rosacea can be controlled with proper skin care and medical intervention, there is no cure.
Common symptoms of rosacea are:
- Redness after certain triggers
- Itching
- Papules and pustules
- Skin bulging
- Issues with the eyes
Common treatments are:
- Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) Therapy.
- Topical medication
- Antibiotics
- Scabicide (A medication used for Scabies)
- Laser resurfacing
Takeaways
Though sometimes confused by patients, seborrheic dermatitis on the face and rosacea are different conditions that call for different treatments.
If you are dealing with an outbreak on your skin that is causing redness, itching or other concerning symptoms we urge you to reach out to skin care physician Dr. Shehla Ebrahim. She will be able to guide you through diagnosis and treatment plans for optimal skin health!
CLICK HERE to consult.