Important Information about Seborrheic Dermatitis, Adult Dermatitis Relief and Scalp Therapy

What is Seborrheic dermatitis and what causes it?

Dermatitis can appear on various parts of the body where sebaceous glands are most active, usually where hair grows such as the scalp, ears, eyebrows, eyelashes and on the folds of skin. Sometimes the condition can spread to the face. Other places Seborrheic dermatitis can occur include the nasal folds, body folds and creases in the naval and the groin.

The most common symptoms of dermatitis are dry or greasy, flaky, crusty skin patches of skin. The skin infected with Seborrheic dermatitis is extremely sensitive and is often irritated by soaps, shampoos and ordinary moisturizers.

Many individuals with Rosacea often develop a secondary infection and extra dryness on the face which may or may not be directly referred to as dermatitis. Little is known about what causes dermatitis during Rosacea although a number of theories exist, but left untreated further tissue breakdown and infection can occur and further weaken skin. Further irritations and infections can also occur if the skin cracks from too much shampooing or soaping, especially those containing Sodium Lauryl (or Laureth) Sulfate.

What is scalp Seborrheic dermatitis and what causes it?

Scalp Seborrheic dermatitis, otherwise known as dandruff is a flakey dry scalp. Scalp Seborrheic dermatitis is Seborrheic Dermatitis that is localized to the scalp and hair follicle on the scalp.

The cause of scalp Seborrheic dermatitis is unknown although there is new research indicating the use of Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, the foaming agent in shampoos can irritate the scalp and skin causing Seborrheic dermatitis. This can be confusing to some, especially when dandruff shampoo contains Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, but the ingredient Sodium Lauryl Sulfate can keep the scalp from a full recovery and after time can cause a secondary infection to set in.

How should I use Adult Dermatitis Relief?

Adult Dermatitis Relief can be used as a therapeutic facial moisturizer to address symptoms of dermatitis that occur with Rosacea. Use as needed on these specific places of dryness on the skin.

Adult Dermatitis Relief can be used on a variety of places on the body after a bath when skin is warm. Use on all dry and irritated patches of skin, paying close attention to the dry and crusty patches. Adult Dermatitis Relief can also be used every 4-6 hours during an outbreak to keep skin properly functioning.

Adult Dermatitis Relief can be used with Scalp Therapy to treat scalp Seborrheic dermatitis. Use the Scalp Therapy first before shampooing following directions on the bottle. Shampoo with a SLS Free shampoo such as our SLS Free Body Wash (which can be used as an all in one), or Dr. Bonner’s liquid castille soap. After finished in the shower or bath, use the Adult Dermatitis Relief on key spots on the scalp which are still dry and irritated. After a few minutes you can gently massage the crusty patches on the scalp with a soft washcloth if so desired, being careful not to break the skin.

The most important feature of Adult Dermatitis Relief is its ability to help skin function properly so the skin begins to filter and release necessary bacteria on its own (known as “proper release of sebum”), and to suffocate any bacteria before it multiplies on the skin. It is necessary to use Adult Dermatitis Relief often until the skin clears. In order to address a chronic condition correctly without damage to other organs, a longer investment is necessary.

Our remedies work with the entire body and not against it. Because our remedies are working with the body, results can be subtle and take time for the body to work with the formula as the body sees fit. Using a Kopec Naturals Naturopathic Remedy means you honor the entire body as it heals.

How should I use Scalp Therapy?

Scalp Therapy is a topical, transdermal remedy working both on the surface of the scalp in order to eliminate bacteria and yeast that congest the sebaceous glands, and also penetrating the shaft of the hair follicle addressing issues below the surface of the scalp.

Scalp Therapy is a dual remedy. Scalp Therapy is not only designed for the treatment of African American hair, but also the condition of scalp Seborrheic dermatitis for all hair types when used in combination with Adult Dermatitis Relief.

To use Scalp Therapy, massage into the scalp beginning at the forehead working to the base of the neck. Spend extra time on trouble areas. The massaging action important to penetrate deep into the hair shaft and the scalp. Shampoo after if so desired.

Is there additional information that I should have?

1. There are nutritional deficiencies associated with Seborrheic dermatitis such as too much glucose in the system from foods containing sweeteners such as sugar and high fructose corn syrup, and from white flour. Other nutritional deficiencies associated with Seborrheic dermatitis include a lack of Vitamin B's and essential fatty acids such as Omega 3 and 6.
2. During an outbreak on the folds of the skin, bathing once a day is important. Bath water should be lukewarm (between 82-84 degrees) and should not exceed 85 degrees. Hot water can further inflame the outbreak. Do not use soap or other irritating body washes which can further keep the skin from functioning properly. Do not rub the skin on the body with a washcloth. If you find the water “burns” the skin this may be a reaction from the chlorine and other chemicals in our water supply. Remember how sensitive the skin is during an outbreak. Suggestions for eliminating the “burn” of bath water are: 1. Purchase a water filter for the bath tub, OR 2. Add a half cup of sea salt into the bath water. (When using a salt bath, please test the water for irritation on a section of the skin before entering the bath).
3. Avoid using any products, soaps, body washes, shampoos containing Lauryl sulfates, especially Sodium Lauryl sulfate, also known as Sodium Laureth sulfate. During an outbreak the use of soaps and washes can be altogether eliminated. If necessary consider Kopec Naturals SLS Free Body Wash or Dr. Bonner’s castile soap.
4. Avoid the use of mineral oil (either straight or as an ingredient in body oils) and avoid petrolateum or petroleum jelly. The harm of these ingredients on the skin are too numerous to list but are a very real toxin to the skin.
5. Avoid scratching. Scratching can further break down skin tissue. Scratching during sleep is often an involuntary response.
6. The body can further heal while sleeping, and so it is important to ensure a proper night’s sleep. If sleep patterns are interrupted by an outbreak of a skin condition, calming products such as Kopec Naturals Sleep with Ease before bed can help give a restful night’s sleep.

Can I email you with additional questions?

I am so very happy to help you improve your health, share my thoughts and experiences, and provide you with relevant information. I am here to help, but I will also urge you to be very proactive in the solution. Often the solution may require extra work that is unpleasant for us to consider, but it can be the path to health and healing.

Laura Kopec, Nutritionist and Health Educator is studying for her Doctor of Naturopathy, and pursuing her PhD in Health Psychology. She has been creating health remedies since 1998, and in addition to her nutritional consulting and public speaking, she provides health information and support to customers as part of the exemplary customer service Kopec Naturals offers.

Information provided is solely for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Do not use this information for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, or prescribing of any medications or supplements. Only your healthcare provider should diagnose your healthcare problems and prescribe treatment. None of our statements or information, including health claims, articles, advertising or product information have been evaluated or approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The products or ingredients referred to are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Please consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement, diet or exercise program, before taking any medications or receiving treatment, particularly if you are currently under medical care. Make sure you carefully read all product labeling and packaging prior to use. If you have or suspect you may have a health problem, do not take any supplements without first consulting and obtaining the approval of your healthcare provider.