Eczema or seborrheic dermatitis?

When red patches appear on the skin, it can be difficult to tell the difference between eczema and seborrheic dermatitis. 
What other signs should you look out for? How can you be sure of the diagnosis? And is the treatment the same for both? 

This article sets out the important information you need to know.

What are the differences between eczema and seborrheic dermatitis?

Several criteria can help to tell the difference:

Atopic dermatitis, which has genetic or allergic origins, is characterised by very dry skin, also known as xerosis. This dryness causes discomfort and itching. Like seborrheic dermatitis, it develops in flare-ups. During these flare-ups, red patches can appear, which itch even more and get worse if you give in to the urge to scratch. This is why we may also hear the term seborrheic eczema or seborrheic dermatitis used to describe the same condition. 

The red patches of seborrheic dermatitis appear mainly in areas rich in sebum, such as the scalp, eyebrows, wings of the nose, and sometimes the chest or back. 
Eczema patches, on the other hand, are often well-defined and can form outside these oily areas, appearing on any part of the body. 

To help you better understand your skin and/or scalp problems, we suggest you carry out an initial online diagnosis. This diagnosis does not replace a medical consultation, but can point you in the right direction. 

Diagnosis process

A diagnosis can be difficult when atopic dermatitis persists into adulthood and affects the head and neck. To determine whether the symptoms are due to eczema or seborrheic dermatitis, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional. Their diagnosis will be based on: 

• observable clinical signs: the location of the lesions will inform the diagnosis. 
• experienced clinical signs. 
• a thorough investigation of family and personal history and lifestyle. 
• allergist tests may be necessary in certain cases. 

This information will enable the professional to provide a precise diagnosis. 

Treatment and prevention

Whether the medical diagnosis indicates seborrheic dermatitis or eczema, both are chronic inflammatory diseases. It is advisable to adopt a suitable skincare routine to relieve symptoms on a daily basis and prevent recurrences. 

In both cases, medical treatment will also be symptomatic, as there is no cure for eczema or seborrheic dermatitis:

• For atopic eczema,treatment generally includes dermocorticoids to calm inflammation and itching, possibly combined with antihistamines to reduce allergic reactions, and antibiotics in the event of secondary infection. 
• For seborrheic eczema or seborrheic dermatitis, your doctor will prescribe antifungal agents to be applied locally, often combined with corticosteroids in the event of flare-ups to reduce inflammation and control excess sebum and Malassezia yeast on the skin. 

A few general recommendations are also important to keep in mind:

• Use dermo-cosmetic treatments specifically adapted to your skin or hair condition. 
• Rinse skin and hair thoroughly after use. 
• Gently pat the skin dry, and avoid using a hairdryer on the scalp. 
• Do not scratch the lesions and keep your fingernails short.
• Avoid exposure to any irritating or allergenic substances (synthetic materials, aggressive chemicals, etc.).

Finally, to combat the factors that encourage or aggravate eczema or seborrheic dermatitis, psychological support and general assistance to improve your lifestyle are also always very useful and beneficial.