Dr. Magda Belmontesi, dermatologist and consultant of our Internet portal, explains: ”Seborrheic dermatitis affects approximately 3% of the world`s population (mostly men). Its peaks are recorded during adolescence and often during midlife. The cause of this pathology is not yet completely understood: the studies led on this matter mention the correlation in aetiology of the seborrheic dermatitis with the fungus Malassezia furfur (formally known as oval Pityrosporum), massively present on the affected areas. While the cell multiplication increases, the production of sebum does not increase but the sebum changes its composition, thus causing the scalp irritation.”
So, researchers believe that the most probable cause is a subject`s high sensitivity to Malassezia furfur, a yeast normally present among the many microorganisms residing on the skin.
Anyway, there are also other factors suspected of contributing to the rise of this pathology.
Here they are:
* genetic predisposition
* anomalies of the skin`s immune system
* external environmental factors (humidity, temperature,
etc.)
* exposure to detergents or irritating agents
* hormonal alterations
* alcohol, highly seasoned foods, coffee, spicy foods,
high-fat diet, smoke
* excess of very aggressive detergents
AN INSIDIOUS DISEASE
The rise of seborrheic dermatitis is characterized by yellowish and greasy scales associated to scalp erythema, small scabs and itching (not always present but in some cases intense). “The treatment recommended by dermatologists – Dr. Belmontesi continues – is based on ketoconazole creams and/or shampoos. Pyrithione zinc, selenium sulphide and octopirox represent the basic ingredients of other shampoos that can be useful in the treatment of this pathology.”
SPECIFIC PRODUCTS
For the treatment of seborrheic dermatitis there is a brand new proposal from the Baths of Uriage, whose thermal waters have been specifically recommended for some time for the treatment of seborrheic dermatitis: it`s called “DS Line” and proposes a new regulating, anti-inflammatory and antimycotic approach in the field of dermal cosmetology. The goal of these products is working on the inflammatory role of Malassezia by regulating the skin`s inflammatory processes. In fact, the Uriage line “DS” proposes two formulations developed with the same bearing concept: to fight the inflammation caused by microorganisms and to stabilize the proliferation of the Malassezia furfur thanks to an innovative principle – the TRL 2 Regul (patented by Uriage) – and Piroctone Olamine, a very strong antifungal agent.
Moreover, thanks to the presence of Eau Thermale d`Uriage, the Uriage line “DS” ensures an indispensable soothing and moisturizing action.
The regular application of Eau d`Uriage helps skin to stabilize two fundamental functions: soothing and moisturizing. Morning and evening on face and body, a generous sprinkle of Eau Thermale d`Uriage associated to Uriage DS Cleansing Gel guarantees a complete comfort and a perfect cleansing.
