While there is no specific cause ofseborrheic dermatitis, a variety of risk factors have been identified.

Additionally, a factor frequently linked to seborrheic dermatitis is a yeast species calledMalassezia.

This article will highlight the causes and risk factors behind seborrheic dermatitis.

A close up of seborrheic dermatitis (eczema) on the scalp

Reproduced with permission from © DermNet New Zealandwww.dermnetnz.org2023.

This photo contains content that some people may find graphic or disturbing.

Reproduced with permission from DermNet New Zealandwww.dermnetnz.org2023.

In the end, it’s possible that the link betweenMalasseziaand seborrheic dermatitis may simply be an incidental finding.

Regardless, the fact that seborrheic dermatitis responds to antifungal drugs, suggests some sort of connection.

In fact, scientists have found 11 gene mutations or protein deficiencies linked to seborrheic dermatitis.

In adults, particularly, seborrheic dermatitis tends to be chronic and relapsing.

This means that having a good treatment plan in place is key to keeping the disease at bay.

Frequently Asked Questions

Seborrheic dermatitis is not contagious and cannot be spread from person to person.

While its exact cause is still unknown, it does appear to run in families.

Seborrheic dermatitis is not resulting from a food allergy, but your diet may play a factor.

The researchers also found that people who ate more fruit had a lower risk of seborrheic dermatitis.

American Academy of Dermatology.Seborrheic dermatitis: who gets and causes.

Borda LJ, Wikramanayake TC.Seborrheic dermatitis and dandruff: a comprehensive review.J Clin Investig Dermatol.

2015;1;91(3):185-90.

Dessinioti C, Katsambas A.Seborrheic dermatitis: etiology, risk factors, and treatments: facts and controversies.Clin Dermatol.

2018 Apr;32(4):529-36. doi: 10.1111/jdv.14704

University of Rochester Medical Center.Seborrheic dermatitis.

2019;139(1):108-114. doi:10.1016/j.jid.2018.07.027

National Eczema Association.

(2002-2019).Seborrheic Dermatitis.

Sasseville D MS, FRCPC.

Seborrheic dermatitis in adolescents and adults.

In: UpToDate, Fowler J, (Ed), UpToDate, Waltham MA.