What natural remedy is there for seborrheic dermatitis?

Updated on ,validated by the medical directorate.

When conventional medicines or dermo-cosmetics are slow to take effect or when there are frequent relapses despite appropriate treatment, some people find themselves at a loss and look for an alternative to treat their seborrheic dermatitis: a natural treatment!

In this article, find out what natural remedies are available.

What natural remedies are available for seborrheic dermatitis?

Sometimes you just don't know what to do when you suffer from seborrheic dermatitis! That's why some people turn to more natural remedies.
The concept of ” natural ” treatments is very broad and does not mean the same thing to everyone. They include: 

  • homeopathy, provided you are accompanied by a specialist in this discipline.
  • essential oils known for their antifungal or soothing properties. But beware that not all essential oils are created equal.
  • phytotherapy. 
  • certain cosmetic products. 

There are many natural treatments for seborrheic dermatitis, and patients sometimes report that they are effective, even though scientific studies have not yet clearly proven this. 

Seborrheic dermatitis and apple cider vinegar

Seborrheic dermatitis and apple cider vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is often mentioned as a natural treatment for seborrheic dermatitis. Its antibacterial and antifungal properties are thought to help reduce inflammation and combat the yeasts responsible for this skin condition.
Some people notice an improvement when they use diluted apple cider vinegar as a hair rinse or apply it directly to the scalp. Use with caution, however, as it can be irritating to the skin, especially if used without diluting or on already irritated skin.

Aloe vera for seborrheic dermatitis

Some people use aloe vera to treat seborrheic dermatitis of the face by applying it directly to the skin.
Known for its soothing and healing properties, aloe vera can provide temporary relief (1). Applying aloe vera gel to seborrheic dermatitis of the scalp produces a cooling sensation. This helps to calm inflammation, reduce redness and moisturise the skin. However, aloe vera for seborrheic dermatitis is not a cure: it can help manage symptoms and make you more comfortable, but it does not act on the causes of the condition.

Aloe vera for seborrheic dermatitis

Natural and effective

Today, the search for a more natural approach in treatments is constant, and it is becoming a real criterion for some consumers.
But beware: treating seborrheic dermatitis naturally is not a guarantee of effectiveness, or even safety: what is more allergenic than pollen, and what is more natural than petroleum? 

So why not—go natural, but do so with caution, as seborrheic dermatitis is a chronic condition whose therapeutic balance is difficult to achieve. Always ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice before trying any natural remedy.

What are the natural treatments for seborrheic dermatitis? 

In the case of seborrheic dermatitis, natural treatments can also include approaches which do not directly target the symptoms of the disease, but which act on the aggravating factors.

Methods such as relaxation therapy, osteopathy and hypnosis can help to manage stress, improve well-being and reduce the frequency of seborrheic dermatitis flare-ups. To find this type of support, you can search for practitioners of sophrology, osteopathy or hypnosis in your area by consulting online directories, asking your GP or friends for recommendations, or exploring the websites of professional associations in these fields. 

What about miracle cures for seborrheic dermatitis of the face?

There is no miracle cure for seborrheic dermatitis of the face or scalp: this skin condition is chronic. But there are treatments available to relieve symptoms and prevent recurrences. 

Treatments for seborrheic dermatitis may include special shampoos, creams, lotions with antifungal and anti-inflammatory active ingredients, or oral medication in some cases. At the same time, adopting a healthy lifestyle is essential to help treat seborrheic dermatitis: for example, quitting smoking or reducing alcohol consumption can improve the condition of the skin.

The link between dermatitis and diet is also being studied more and more: certain eating habits may be linked to development of this condition.

Such lifestyle changes can be challenging to implement and maintain, but they are essential to improving seborrheic dermatitis and quality of life. Ask a healthcare professional or specialist coach for extra support and personalised advice.

Grandmother's remedies for seborrheic dermatitis

Grandmother's remedies are often based on empirical experience, i.e. on knowledge handed down from generation to generation, rather than on scientific evidence. They can sometimes offer natural relief for skin conditions such as seborrheic dermatitis. 

Here are the most common remedies:

  • Seborrheic dermatitis and apple cider vinegar: the application of apple cider vinegar, particularly to the scalp, is known for its antibacterial and antifungal properties, which can help reduce inflammation. 
  • Seborrheic dermatitis and coconut oil: applying coconut oil to the scalp is a well-known remedy due to its antimicrobial properties and its action in reducing itching.
  • Seborrheic dermatitis and aloe vera gel on the face or scalp for its soothing and healing action (1).

More and more natural brands are offering natural products inspired by these remedies. Make sure you check the quality of the ingredients and consult a health professional before using them. 

Source :  


(1) Kumari KMU, Yadav NP, Luqman S. Promising Essential Oils/Plant Extracts in the Prevention and Treatment of Dandruff Pathogenesis. Curr Top Med Chem. 2022;22(13):1104-1133. doi: 10.2174/1568026622666220531120226. PMID: 35642120.

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