Table of Contents
- 1 What Is Seborrheic Dermatitis
- 2 Causes And Risk Factors
- 3 Signs And Symptoms
- 4 When To See Your Doctor?
- 5 How To Use Essential Oils For Seborrheic Dermatitis?
- 6 Best Essential Oils For Seborrheic Dermatitis
- 7 Essential Oil Recipes For Seborrheic Dermatitis
- 8 Best Carrier Oils For Seborrheic Dermatitis
- 9 Natural Treatment / Therapies For Seborrheic Dermatitis
- 10 Diet For Seborrheic Dermatitis
- 11 Seborrheic Dermatitis vs Psoriasis
- 12 Seborrheic Dermatitis vs Dandruff
- 13 The Bottom Line
What Is Seborrheic Dermatitis
Almost 5% of Americans suffer from seborrheic dermatitis, a chronic inflammatory skin condition that spares neither children nor adults.
Nearly 70% babies suffer from the condition within the first three months of life. The pediatric form of the ailment is known as cradle cap and is usually restricted to the scalp but can manifest in the diaper area as well.
Fortunately, babies are spared the full wrath of the condition as it usually resolves within a few months and typically, goes away completely within the first year. Adults have no such luck as seborrheic dermatitis turns into a chronic ailment that goes through periods of remission and flare-ups.
Although the condition is neither infectious nor harmful, it can cause persistent physical discomfort and a significant amount of mental trauma.
Causes And Risk Factors
The name of the condition offers insight on what it’s all about. The use of the term “dermatitis” clearly indicates that we are talking about a form of allergy here and then the word “seborrheic” sort of provides the explanation for the allergic reaction.
Nobody knows what exactly causes the condition. Because it affects areas with a profusion of sebum producing glands, the common understanding is that the oily skin secretion does play a role.
Actually, it’s both the sebum and fungal spores (read a kind of yeast) that feeds off sebum that are implicated in the hyper allergic response that causes the itching, swelling, redness and flaking.
Now, just because a fungus is involved, does not mean that this ailment is contagious. In fact, seborrheic dermatitis is neither infectious nor is it linked to poor hygiene.
The yeast, which is known as Malassezia, is a part of the normal microbiota not just of human skin but that of most warm blooded animals. The fat loving fungus normally lives peacefully on the human skin, feeding on sebum.
It’s not known what causes the radical increase in their population or how they end up triggering an immune response in some people.
While they continue to study and understand the life and workings of these critters, one thing is clear that seborrheic dermatitis only rears its ugly head in areas that offer ample food (sebum) for these critters. So, it’s not just the scalp that is afflicted by the rash but also other areas such as:
- The sides of the nose.
- Around the ears.
- The eyelids.
- The eyebrows.
- Moustache and beard.
- The upper back.
- The area between the shoulder blades.
- Skin folds at the arm and leg joints.
- The area right above the chest bone.
- The creases of the neck and armpits.
- The crease of the buttocks.
- The groin.
- Under the breasts.
- Around the navel.
Although a hyper-immune response causes the skin problems associated with seborrheic dermatitis, the condition does go into remission on its own. But, a myriad of factors can trigger it back into existence and these include:
- Neurological disorders like Parkinson’s disease and epilepsy.
- Hormonal fluctuations.
- Any ailment that impacts the immune system or weakens it, such as HIV/AIDS, certain types of cancers, organ transplant and alcoholic pancreatitis.
- Medical conditions that stress the body and the brain like a heart attack or cancer treatment.
- Some types of medications.
- Psychological conditions like depression, anxiety and eating disorders.
- Poor dermal care practices and alcohol based skin care products.
- Fatigue and sleep deprivation.
- Cold weather.
- Dermal dryness, dehydration and dry weather.
- Other skin conditions like acne, atopic dermatitis, rosaceaand psoriasis.
- Pollution and other environmental factors.
Signs And Symptoms
- Redness and swelling of the skin.
- Greasy oily patches with yellowish-white crusting.
- Itchy rash/patches.
- Scaly patches that cause flaking.
- Flakes that appear oily or moist.
- Flakes/dandruff covering the hair on the scalp, eyebrows, beard, moustache.
- Inflamed patches that are painful or cause a burning sensation.
- Hyperpigmentationand hypopigmentation of affected areas in those with dark skin tone.
- Skin peeling.
When To See Your Doctor?
If you can’t seem to control the condition with home treatment and/or OTC products or if your symptoms seems to be worsening, it would be best to seek advice from your doctor. The big problem with skin ailments such as seborrheic dermatitis is the very real risk of secondary/opportunistic infections that can make things worse. So, consult your doctor if:
- You have a low grade fever.
- The itchy, scaly patches turn an angry red and are painful/tender to touch.
- There are clear signs of pus accumulation like oozing and crusting.
- The scaly, red patches are causing anxiety and social withdrawal.
- There is an increase in the intensity and frequency of flare-ups.
- The condition seems to be spreading to other areas of the body.
How To Use Essential Oils For Seborrheic Dermatitis?
Modern medicine follows a well-defined protocol for the treatment of this condition. Although different drugs and products are used to get the job done, the protocol generally involves:
- Removing the scales and the crusts.
- Killing most, if not, all the critters.
- Controlling the pruritus and erythema (itching and peeling).
- Lowering the inflammation, redness and pain.
- Modulating the immune response.
Steroids and antifungal formulations are mainstays in the treatment regimen. They work, but as expected, they bring along several side effects. Now, let’s talk about what essential oils can do to help with seborrheic dermatitis:
Can they treat inflammation: You betchya! In fact, many of these extracts are just as effective as corticosteroids in controlling inflammation. And there is also a bonus involved. Essential oils also greatly increase the pace of skin healing and lower stress levels, and we all know that stress can make your immune system go berserk on you.
What about the fungi: Well folks, these oils are every bit as potent as any antifungal ointment or drug out there. In fact, these extracts will not only control Malassezia but also keep a check on other opportunistic critters and secondary infections.
Will they offer reprieve from the pain: A lot of these oils have excellent antinociceptive properties; what this means is that they slow down the transmission of the pain impulse and reduce your brain’s ability to interpret and feel pain.
Are they a solution to the itching and peeling as well: Yes, the cooling and warming sensation created by these oils work as counter-irritants, controlling the body’s ability to experience the discomfort. Also, since these extracts clear excess sebum and clean the skin, they help in the faster removal of dead cells and reduce skin peeling.
And will they also help with the immune response: While immunomodulation is not a task that modern day drugs excel at, these offerings from the plant world do indeed regulate the workings of the immune system. Best of all is that this is accomplished without impacting the body’s ability to defend itself.
Wait, there’s more: And if all of that is not enough, the soothing nature of these oils helps to bring about faster skin healing and reins in the psychological impact of seborrheic dermatitis, be it stress, anxiety or fear.
Moreover, there are a myriad of ways in which you can include these oils in your treatment plan. In fact, if you don’t feel comfortable going completely natural, you can always combine these extracts with the topical and oral formulations that you are currently using. Take a look at the different ways in which you can use these oils:
- As an antifungal spray to stop the proliferation of the yeast spores.
- In combination with a carrier oil to lift the crust and make it easier to brush off the scales.
- With a gel base to control the inflammationand itching.
- Mixed with an anti-fungal shampoo to deliver a double punch to the critters.
- In the form of a mask to remove excess sebum.
- As an astringent and toner that regulates sebum secretion.
- In bath water for reprieve from pain and itching.
- Through inhalation to limit stress and regulate immune function.
- As a facial rinse for quick relief from the symptoms of seborrheic dermatitis.
Best Essential Oils For Seborrheic Dermatitis
1. Tea Tree
Tea tree oil functions as an immune system stimulant that improves the body’s ability to ward off infections. Its highly effective anti-microbial, anti-bacterial, and anti-fungal properties makes it one of the best essential oils that pharmaceutical companies want to use in natural soaps, hair shampoos and creams. This oil is a tested weapon that can be used against conditions like Seborrheic Dermatitis.
2. Neem
Neem oil has been used for centuries in traditional medicine to help in the recovery of patients suffering from skin conditions like acne, rashes, psoriasis and eczema due to its anti-bacterial, anti-fungal properties.
3. Himalayan Cedarwood
This oil eases itching due to its sedative nature. Its astringent action is considered to be most effective for treating conditions like seborrheic dermatitis.
4. Cedarwood
Cedarwood has properties that are similar to that of its Himalayan counterpart. This oil has proven to be very effective against seborrheic dermatitis due to its antifungal and anti-bacterial properties.
5. Lavender
Due to its stress relieving abilities, lavender oil has been used for all kinds of skin issues since ages. It anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties make it very effective for seborrheic dermatitis.
6. Rosemary
Rosemary stabilizes oil secretions and offers relief in issues of the scalp, especially dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis. It also nurtures the scalp and promotes hair growth by improving blood circulation.
7. Patchouli
I have found Patchouli to be very effective in taking care of rough, split and dehydrated skin. Due to its anti-fungal, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antibacterial properties, this oil has been used to treat dandruff, cold sores, acne, eczema, and fungal infections like seborrheic dermatitis.
8. Oregano
Research has confirmed that oregano oil can eliminate yeast and other fungi thanks to its potent anti-fungal properties.
9. Peppermint
Peppermint oil is comforting and helps alleviate itching caused by seborrheic dermatitis, while at the same time reducing the inflammation.
10. Eucalyptus
While battling with conditions like seborrheic dermatitis, if the thing that bothers you the most is inflammation, then eucalyptus is your go-to essential oil. This oil relieves inflammation almost instantly and is considered effective for treating several skin disorders.
11. Palma Rosa
An extract that exerts multiple effects to control seborrheic dermatitis, palma rosa oil is a potent skin tonic with antimicrobial properties. Geraniol, which is the principle phytochemical in palma rosa essential oil, is a powerful immunomodulatory agent that increases the production of anti-inflammatory compounds in the body (cytokines), while reducing the production of pro-inflammatory agents like TNF-alpha.
Highly recommended in Ayurveda for skin problems, this oil is prized for its ability to alleviate pain, burning and itching. Furthermore, the oil regulates sebum production and brings about rapid dermal heeling, which helps to remedy skin peeling and flaking.
12. German (blue) Chamomile
If the condition is inflammatory in nature, you will undoubtedly find German chamomile essential oil in the list of oils that can treat the ailment, and why not? The anti-inflammatory effects of this oil are at par with hydrocortisone creams.
Redness, itching, pain and swelling, this extract can control them all. Moreover, the soothing effect of the oil helps to heal the skin and eliminates pain and itching.
In addition to these, angelica root, rosewood, ylang ylang, cistus, lemongrass, and May chang oils also help to control the spread and the symptoms of seborrhea. As far as carrier oils are concerned, calendula infused oil, borage seed, evening primrose, grapeseed and rosehip seed oils work exceptionally well.
Essential Oil Recipes For Seborrheic Dermatitis
Recipe 1: Soothing gel to heal the redness and itching
- ½ cup Aloe vera gel (home made; if store-bought, it should not have chemical additives)
- 2 tsp evening primrose oil
- 4 drops lavender
- 3 drops each peppermint and Himalayan cedarwood
- 2 drop rosemary
Method
Mix the oils together in a small glass bowl. Add this blend to the aloe vera gel and whisk well. Apply on the scaly and itchy patches along the hairline and the other areas of the body (except the eyelids and eyelashes). Allow the gel to dry on your skin and then wash the treated area after an hour, using luke warm or room temperature water.
Recipe 2: The antifungal shampoo to beat all antifungal shampoos
- 2 tsp borage seed/evening primrose oil
- 10 drops palma rosa
- 3 drops lemon grass
- 4 drops patchouli
Method
Mix the oils and store in a dark glass bottle. To use, add 2-3 drops of the blend to your shampoo (antifungal or regular) and use normally.
Recipe 3: Protective and healing spray
- 50 ml Lemon, lavender, rose or helichrysum hydrosol
- ½ tsp grapefruit seed extract
- 2 drops each palma rosa, Himalayan cedarwood and German chamomile
Method
This recipe is incredibly easy – all you have to do is pour all the ingredients into a spritzer bottle and give them a good, hard shake. Then, go ahead and spray it on your scalp. Get your hair dripping wet if need be to get to the skin on the scalp. But, remember to catch any wayward drops that threaten to get into your eyes. Allow the blend to dry on your scalp, leaving it on for at least for 2-3 hours or even overnight. Shampoo your hair in the morning.
Recipe 4: Scales and flakes be gone milk
- ½ cup coconut milk
- 1 tsp licorice root extract/licorice root powder
- 1 tbsp raw honey
- 4 drops each tea tree and palma rosa
- 3 drops lavender
- 2 drop each of eucalyptus and peppermint
Method
Mix the ingredients and apply all over your scalp as well as on any other areas that are covered in itchy, flaky patches. On the scalp, go for the dripping wet effect, but as always, don’t get the mixture in your eyes. Wrap a hot towel around your head and let the blend work on your skin for 45-60 minutes. If you have a lot of flaking, you may want to run a brush/comb through your hair a few dozen times.
But be careful not to exert too much downward pressure. Once those scales are covered in the blend, they come off easily. Pressing down too hard will not help; instead, if you take a heavy hand, it will leave you with more inflammation, redness and micro lesions with a real risk of secondary infection. After the brushing or not, as required, wash off the blend with shampoo (hair) or soap (body).
Best Carrier Oils For Seborrheic Dermatitis
Olive oil
Although olive oil has long been used to treat both infant and adult seborrheic dermatitis, particularly to soften and lift up the crust and the scales caused by the condition, recent research has shown that this may not be the best choice.
The thing to consider here is this – the fungus that causes seborrheic dermatitis or rather triggers the immune hyper response, feeds on sebum. More specifically, it gobbles up the saturated fats and poops out the unsaturated fats in the form of their volatile counterparts.
In fact, the volatile free fatty acids of Oleic acid are found to be the main problem. They compromise the dermal protective barrier and allow the critters and their excrements to get deep enough into the skin to trigger the body’s immune response.
So, if you were to remove oleic acid from this equation or at least lower its quantity in sebum, the fungus would not be able to create as much trouble. Actually, in people who are sensitive to the free fatty acid form of oleic acid experience symptoms like seborrheic dermatitis even when they do not have fungal hyper-colonization.
Now, let me take this story ahead. Olive oil is chock full of oleic acid, including extra virgin olive oil. So, if you use this oil, there will be that much more oleic acid for the fungus to eat and process into its allergenic form. Hence, if you are suffering from seborrheic dermatitis, keep olive oil away from those red and flaking patches.
Castor oil
The very factor that makes olive oil unsuitable for treating seborrheic dermatitis makes castor oil a fabulous choice to deal with the condition. Ricinoleic acid (Omega 9) forms 90% of castor oil’s lipid makeup. The topical application of this lipid not only yields anti-inflammatory effects but also analgesic benefits.
Plus, the unique lipid profile of castor oil makes it a powerful antimicrobial agent. In fact, this oil is often used to treat fungal infections of the skin and other parts of the body. Because castor oil contains 6% oleic acid at the most and around 1-5% linoleic acid, it also makes up for the deficiency of linoleic acid that is often seen in seborrheic dermatitis patients.
So, castor oil can definitely be used against seborrheic dermatitis, but remember to mix it with another carrier, preferably, a dry oil (less viscous/thin) to balance the viscosity of castor oil.
Natural Treatment / Therapies For Seborrheic Dermatitis
1. Garlic
Sure it smells, but it’s full of sulfur, which is nature’s very own antimicrobial agent. Plus, the allicin in it helps in tackling inflammation as well as secondary infections. And if that’s not enough, it also contains zinc and selenium, both of which are recommended for seborrheic dermatitis.
The trick here is to use garlic in the right way because those active compounds are very strong and can cause several side effects if not applied as they should be.
So, start with 7-8 freshly peeled cloves of garlic. Use a food processor or juicer to extract the juice/pulp from the garlic cloves. Mix 1 tsp of this juice with 3 tbsp warm water and apply on the affected area. Keep the diluted juice on your skin for 10-15 minutes and then wash it off with a mild shampoo/soap
2. Apple cider vinegar
The acidic nature of ACV can also be used in the same way as garlic juice. The acid in the vinegar will help to curb the itching while killing the critters responsible for the condition.
Moreover, ACV also regulates the functioning of those wayward sebaceous glands. Mix ACV with cold water in equal proportion and apply to the affected areas. Wash off after 30 minutes.
3. Honey
When mixed with water, honey releases hydrogen peroxide, which is an effective antimicrobial agent. Plus, raw honey is known to speed up skin healing by taming the body’s inflammatory response. Mix equal quantities of honey and water and apply on the itchy, red patches. Wait for 15-20 minutes and then wash the area with room temperature water.
4. Good ol’ salt
This treatment works exceptionally well when the eyelids are afflicted by seborrheic dermatitis. Neither essential oils nor other herbs and ointments can be safely used in this area but salt can only do good. So, start with 1 heaped tablespoon of sea salt or Himalayan Pink salt. Mix it in 1- 1½ cups of water.
Soak a face cloth in the saline water and wring lightly. Place it on your eyes as you would an eye mask or eye pillow. Sure, the salt will sting a bit. However, the stinging is no more intense than the smarting you feel after a swim in the ocean. Keep the soaked face cloth on your eyes for 10 minutes and then splash regular water on your eyes to wash off the salt solution.
Diet For Seborrheic Dermatitis
Fight the inflammation on all fronts
If you are suffering from seborrheic dermatitis, you already have a problem with inflammation. Don’t add to your woes by introducing pro-inflammatory compounds into your body through the food you eat.
Making a conscious effort to stay away from unhealthy foods will make a remarkable difference to the intensity and frequency of seborrheic dermatitis episodes.
At the least, significantly lower your consumption of added sugar in all forms, trans fats, refined carbs, alcohol, processed and packaged foods, salty foods, carbonated beverages, sugary drinks, caffeine and food items that are known to trigger allergic reactions.
Give your body external healing support
Sure you can take Omega 3 fatty acid supplements but a better way to get these healthy and anti-inflammatory fats into your body is by eating 3-4 servings of seafood (fatty fish like tuna, salmon, mackerel, and sardines) each week.
Probiotics heal the body from the gut
What goes on in your gut impacts every response from your body. So, help out your tummy by sending in the good cavalry or probiotics. These gut friendly bacteria not only help to keep your digestive system in good health but also regulate immune functions and promote healthy and controlled immune responses. You can get your dose of probiotics from supplements or from a bowl of yoghurt.
Don’t forget the micronutrients
All those essential minerals and vitamins come courtesy of fruits and veggies. So, get your 4 servings of the good stuff each day. Take your pick from nutritionally dense produce like apples, pears, berries, bananas, cherries, water melon, papaya, melons, avocados, leafy greens, sweet potato, bell pepper, carrots, tomatoes and cruciferous veggies.
A water body
If you think your immune system has already gone crazy on you, wait till you take your body to the brink of dehydration and then you will now the true wrath of that immune system. Also, let’s not forget that dehydrated skin cells die faster, are more prone to hits from critters and environmental factors and vulnerable to damage. So, drink up your H2O to give those cells a fighting chance against the fungus and the damage it causes.
Herbs and supplements
Even minor flavorful changes to your food, like the addition of ginger and garlic herbs like mint, rosemary, basil, parsley, thyme and oregano and spices like cinnamon and turmeric can make a world of difference to the health of your skin.
The best part of using herbs and spices is that you only need a very small amount to create a big splash. So, ask for flavor because it’s your right and it’s good for you!
That said, there are several adaptogenic herbs and botanicals available in supplement form that play an important role in regulating the immune system. Ayurveda practitioners often recommend giloy, amlaki, manjishta, neem and licorice root powder supplements to calm inflammatory skin problems.
Modern medicine recommends the use of zinc and biotin. But supplementing with zinc only works if a deficiency of the mineral is causing the condition.
Seborrheic Dermatitis vs Psoriasis
The most striking difference between seborrheic dermatitis and psoriasis is the involvement of the sebaceous glands and their secretions in the pathogenesis of the former. Because the onset of seborrheic dermatitis can be traced to the hyper functioning of the sebaceous glands, oily, greasy skin and larger than normal pores are the hallmarks of the condition.
In contrast, psoriasis is linked to extreme dermal dryness. Although both conditions lead to inflammation, red, itchy patches and scales and may look the same, the quality of the scales offers a clear indication of which skin ailment you are dealing with.
Psoriasis causes silvery scales on reddened areas of the skin and these scales run thick as the accumulation of dead skin cells builds quickly. An attempt to remove these scales can cause bleeding, and as such, if you respond to the itching, you will likely end up with bleeding and sore patches.
As opposed to this seborrheic dermatitis scales are thinner and come off easily. Also, they have a yellowish-white appearance owing to the involvement of skin oils in the condition. Moreover, psoriasis seldom limits itself to the scalp, and patients often develop plaques on the outside of their elbows and knees.
While seborrheic dermatitis patches can also be seen in skin folds, if they appear on the joints, it’s on the inside where the skin folds and forms creases. Nail pitting is another common sign of psoriasis that is absent in seborrheic dermatitis.
Now, here is the real bad news- A person can suffer from both conditions simultaneously, which makes a proper diagnosis crucial for the control and treatment of the ailment.
Seborrheic Dermatitis vs Dandruff
Think of dandruff as the mild mannered and shy cousin of seborrheic dermatitis. Although there is skin flaking involved, it is mostly restricted to the scalp if you are dealing with dandruff. Critters play a role in the onset of both problems, but dandruff never causes skin redness and inflammation on its own. It’s only when you scratch your skin that you end up with tiny wounds and redness.
Although dandruff can move to other areas of the body covered with dense hair like the eyebrows, it never affects non-hair covered or sparsely covered skin. Also, there is no skin peeling or oozing rash involved and the itching too is mild in case of dandruff, as compared to the intense pruritus caused by seborrheic dermatitis.
The Bottom Line
Considering that essential oils work generally well for most of us, I suggest that anybody suffering from seborrheic dermatitis should try them at least once.
While pharmaceutical treatments can be helpful in some cases, they are generally limited to only suppressing the symptoms. The multifaceted healing abilities of essential oils, whether anti-fungal, antibacterial or antispasmodic can be used to address the root cause of the disease while at the same time allowing the skin to heal, renew and restore in a gradual and natural way.
I’m having a flair up of sb and it’s causing me to lose hair. I have been treating with a mixture of oils. Should I be applying the masks daily? It also makes my whole hair oily, am I using too much oil?
I’m using jojoba as my carrier mixed with oregano, tea tree, rosemary, pepper mint. My biggest issue is the amount of hair that’s falling out. The weather here in Chicago just got very cold very fast so I suppose wearing hats everyday will help?
I had an outbreak last year and lost a lot of hair but was able to grow more with castor oil masks. You mentioned to mix castor oil with a dry oil, what would you suggest to mix it with?
Thanks so much for any advice.
Hi Vesi,
Thanks for reaching out. You can use the masks daily or every alternate day. Absolutely, a hat or beanie will help. I would use rosehip seed oil as a dry oil and mix in with castor.
Regards,
Olivia
Awesome thanks so much for the info.
How long do you recommend leaving essential oils on scalp? I think I read a comment from you that it shouldn’t be left on for too long.
Forgot to ask about shampoo. I have been mixing essential oils in dr bronners castle soap but I also have the Jason’s dandruff shampoo. I know that one has a lot of ingredients. Please let me know your thoughts.
Hi Vesi,
Apologies, I cannot comment on others’ products.
Regards,
Olivia
Hi Vesi,
You can leave for an hour before washing off. You can even leave some hair masks overnight if needed.
Regards,
Olivia
Hi, been looking for a helpful tips coz i am starting to mix essential oils for SD. Is jt good to mix all essential oils for topical use. Like for example jojoba as carrier oil mix with lavender, rosemary, teatree oil and argan oil?
Can i mix the same to existing organic shampoo for SD. Thanks!
Hi Piai,
Yes absolutely – you can make up a blend of essential oils diluted in carrier oil for topical use. And yes you can add essential oils to your existing shampoo.
Regards,
Olivia
I got the cedar, oregano and rosemary oil. I mix the cedar and oregano in mineral oil. I read that mineral doesn’t feed the yeast. Rosemary with mineral. To help with hair growth . My seborrhea has seems to act up in phases. This has helped and makes my hair very soft. I apply the oil mixture to my scalp put on cap leave it for hour then shampoo out. I’m Black America so I wash once a week or every two weeks.
Hi Pamela,
Thanks a lot for sharing your tips and which essential oils and recipes work for seborrheic dermatitis.
Regards,
Olivia
Question from AC:
Dear Olivia,
I had a quick question in regards to this informative article:
https://essentialoilbenefits.com/12-essential-oils-for-seborrheic-dermatitis/
I have extreme seborrheic dermatitis and I am looking to make a pomade to put into my hair to hold my style, but to also offer hair health benefits.
In regards to the essential oils – I can add a few oils, but wanted to ask which are truly the strongest to stop extreme dry hair and scalp and the crusty flakes that develop from that.
Out of the 12, what are probably the most powerful 3 or 4 in your opinion? I was thinking Neem, Tea Tree and Rosemary would be a good combination for my issue and for hair health in general.
I would really appreciate your feedback here and look forward to hearing from you.
Thank you
Olivia’s Response:
I would suggest you go with neem, rosemary, lavender and cedarwood (a drop or two of tea tree is also ok) diluted in argan or jojoba or castor oil.
I’m not Olivia but I have had SD since I was 15 years old. I made a spray bottle for natural highlights and I also put 4 drops of lemon EO in a protein shake that I drink. It is gone!!! This is not to sell anything I just want you to know. I used to have to put rubbing alcohol, vinegar, ketoconazole prescription shampoo and selson blue! You name it an I have tried it on my scalp. I have never been able to use gels, hairspray, certain shampoo and never conditioner. I bought me a dollar tree water bottle. It may hold 10oz of water. I added 2 drops of lemon for highlights because when you go into the sun it has a reaction. Little did I know I was fixing an issue I cried over all the time. I started buying oils in November. Read a ton of info. Started putting 4 drops of lemon ES in my shake didn’t really notice I had been a month with no scalp bleeding and horrible itching. Then I added my spray and my hair has never been better. I want to shout it from roof tops but I already look crazy. LOL. ONE 15oz bottle give you 280 drops for around 11 dollars. Better than every shampoo and or prescription I have ever had. I hope you see this and try it!!! Best of luck to you.
Hi Tammie,
Thanks for sharing, greatly appreciated. Looks like lemon EO worked wonders for you.
Regards,
Olivia
Hi Olivia, I have just used a bit of oregano oil, and it did irritate my skin right away, though I washed it off after 15 minutes (hope it did no harm). Then I read it had to be mixed with jojoba oil.
How much Jojoba and Oregano Oil would I have to use? Do I dip it on cotton? And after how long should I wash it off?
Thanks!
Hi Tom,
Indeed, essential oils should always be diluted in a carrier oil. Use 12 drops of oregano in 1 ounce (30ml) jojoba oil. You can apply using a Q-Tip or cotton ball. There’s no need to wash away as you want the blend to work through the affected areas. If irritation continues, we’ll have to swap the oregano for something else.
Regards,
Olivia
Hi Olivia, thanks for the response! I just wanted to ask one more thing. I have a beard and mustache where the Seborrhea occurs, and I try to keep it kind of short. Is there no problem applying the oils over the hair, or would I have to shave?
Thanks.
Hi Tom,
There’s no issues to apply the blend over the hair. If it becomes itchy, perhaps a few drops of almond oil or similar to moisturize.
Regards,
Olivia
Oregano is one of the hot oils. I am a member of doTerra and always read up on any oil before I use it. I can use some oils without a carrier oil like lavender and rosemary. I have had scalp problems since chemo but my upline made me a recipe of different oils that I put in my scalp and let it stay overnight. It has taken a long time for my scalp to improve but the oils have really helped. Rosemary is great to put in hair each time you wash, a couple drops. It helps hair thicken and also if hair falls out more than normal it helps it to grow back. I also put 10 drops of lemongrass in my shampoo bottle and a few drops of peppermint.
Hi Patricia,
Thanks a lot for sharing your tips, it is much appreciated.
Regards,
Olivia
I have been suffering with SD for a year on the back of my head. I have been treating it with essential oils because I have heard there is no cure and I do not want to use steroids and creams that are not going to fix it!! I do think the oil use is personalized because I first tried tea tree and that did nothing for me! I found that using a shampoo with pyrithone zinc (ie..head and shoulders) was most helpful but now I have a 2oz glass bottle that I mix 20 drops of the Now brand Peace, Love and Flowers (patchouli, ylang ylang and orange) and 5 drops of Peppermint oil into the shampoo and give it a good shake before each use. I have to wash my hair everyday for it to be most effective. Now my favorite part! I use a 10ml roll on stick with 10drops of Oregano oil and then Peppermint oil! My head rarely itches and it has kept the inflammation down pretty well and very dry instead of it weeping like it did at first. When this first sprung up I was like what in the world!! The itching was unbearable and uncontrollable how embarrassing!! Now I run around smelling like a ball of peppermint itch free lol!!
Hi Elizabeth,
Thanks for sharing some of your secrets and for letting us know what worked for you to combat Seborrheic Dermatitis. Much appreciated.
Regards,
Olivia
Just started using Castile soap and wow is all I can say. Sure has made a difference in the short amount of time that I have used it for the SD. I was wondering if I can add my essential oils to the Castile or if it would be better to wash it then use a carrier oil/essential oil after.
Hi Paula,
It is perhaps best to use essential oils diluted in a carrier oil both during and after for optimum results.
If you have more questions, please don’t hesitate.
Regards,
Olivia
I have been suffering with sebborhoeic blepharitis for over a year. I can only see scales if I look extremely carefully. I occasionally get greasy eyelids. I have been losing allot of eyelashes with this condition which is deeply distressing. I also suffer with dehydrated skin&Acne. Can you help advice on essential oils for my eyes/eyelashes/eyelashes. I wish so much for my lashes to be the same again and hope the hair will grow back. Thank you.
Hi Lydia,
To cure seborrheic blepharitis, dilute 2-3 drops of tea tree oil in 1 tsp of coconut oil. Soak a cotton ball in the oil blend and place it over your eyelid for 10-15 minutes. Repeat twice a day.
For deal with the loss eyelash hair, you can use a blend of 2-3 drops lavender in 1 tsp of castor oil (emu oil is a great substitute as well). Use your finger or cotton ball and apply the mixture from the eyelash roots to the eyelash ends. Just make sure you wash the area prior to application. You can also massage the eyelash area every night to promote blood circulation / enhance hair growth.
Regards,
Olivia
I read an article from an eye doctor that said what he uses for his patients for their eyelids. Use 1/2 castor oil and 1/2 pure grade tea tree oil. I made the mixture in a small bottle and every night right before bed applied the mixture to my upper and lower lashes. Get close to your lashes but not in your eyes. I dipped a clean cotton swab each time into the bottle dampening the swab not soaking it. After 2 weeks my eyelids cleared up.
Hi Kim,
Thanks a lot for sharing, much appreciated.
Regards,
Olivia
How long does it take before I should start seeing results? I’ve been doing the the essential oil treatments 1 time a day consistently now for a few weeks and don’t think I’ve seen much change. I don’t know what is enough time to give it, before I change or stop attempting. It’s quite nasty in my hair. Lol
Hi Erica,
Patience is key and results should generally be seen in about 4-6 weeks of consistent use of essential oils. Which recipe or treatment in particular are you following.
Could you please do the treatment / recipe at least twice a day instead of only once. If that still does not show results, I would change the essential oil recipe to another one. Just let me know which one you are currently on.
Regards,
Olivia
I’ve used neat tea tree oil. And a recipe of coconut oil, tea tree, neem, peppermint & eucalyptus.
Any suggestions on how to not make your hair look so gross from the oil. Main treatment areas are all around my hairline which is very visible at work.
Hi Erica,
You can add a bit of floral water or vinegar to the blend that you have prepared. You could also substitute coconut oil with jojoba oil as the latter is more easily absorbed into the skin.
Regards,
Olivia
This sounds weird, but it works for me. I do tea tree and roman chamomile and then I comb just around my hairline with a lice comb, This loosens and removes the dead skin/crusty stuff. I do not use a carrier oil, but because of this blog post, I have ordered jojoba. Notice that the tea tree recipe says to wash it off after 10 minutes. I don’t do that, but if you feel it is noticeably oily when you go to work, you can rinse it off first. I keep a lice comb and one of thise round, rubber hair/scalp brushes in the shower. I have noticed that a lot of websites say to wash your hair less often, but I have found that if I do not wash at least every other day, it flairs up badly. It also gets bad when I eat too much gluten and sugar. I have not found a way to make it stop forever, but these things definitely have helped. I have been struggling with this for about 20 years.
Hi E,
Thanks for taking the time to write and for your detailed explanation for combatting seborrheic dermatitis. It is really appreciated.
Regards,
Olivia
Olivia, How many drops of essential oils do you recommend to use, with 1 Tablespoon of carrier oil? How often can it be applied to scalp, for sebbhoriac dermatitis? I plan to use either Coconut or Aragon oil with patchouli and rosemary oil. Thank you.
Hi Kae,
You can use 3-4 drops essential oil per 1 tsp of carrier oil. You can apply up to twice per day, once in the morning and once at night. Do a skin test patch beforehand.
If you have any other questions, please don’t hesitate.
Regards,
Olivia
Hi Olivia,
I have been reading that cold pressed organic Avocado Oil and cold pressed Hexane free Castor Oil is are helpful with the above mentioned skin conditions, most specifically Seborrheic Dermatitis.
Many articles say they can be used on the skin and also the scalp?
Also, what essential oils are safe to use to treat SD near or around your genitals?
What is your opinion?
Thank you.
SR
Hi SR,
Thanks for sharing. Both the cold pressed organic Avocado Oil and cold pressed Hexane free Castor Oil are good oils. You could try them out for a couple of days and see if they show positive results for the condition.
For Seborrheic Dermatitis around the genitals, you can go with the above oils or try the essential oils within the article, however make sure you dilute them in a carrier oil. Use about 12 drops of essential oils (tea tree, rosemary, eucalyptus, etc.) in total for 30ml carrier oil (almond or jojoba). Always do a skin test patch beforehand.
Regards,
Olivia
Thank you! 🙂
You are welcome.
Hi Olivia, thank you for sharing other items to assist SD. I use essential oils and I am very pleased to use them to support in any health issue.
Hi Darlene,
You are welcome.
Olivia
Question from RH:
i have tried everything possible for the last 2 years it gets better for a week or so and as soon as i stop ANY OF THE CHEMICAL CREAMS etc i get it back. i do have a bad kidney. can you help?
Olivia’s Response:
I am sorry to hear that. Can you please clarify what sort of fungal infection you get. If ringworm or athlete’s foot, you can refer to the following:
https://essentialoilbenefits.com/best-essential-oils-for-ringworm-relief/
https://essentialoilbenefits.com/best-5-essential-oils-and-7-recipes-for-athletes-foot/
Please refer to this post for dermatitis:
https://essentialoilbenefits.com/12-essential-oils-for-seborrheic-dermatitis/
Regards,
Olivia
Great article, thanks for the information , its absolutely spot on, could you advise which oil should be useful for me? I have all the minor symptoms of scales around ear canal,nose folds and forehead, In addition ,I also have itchy scalp and feel that I might have lost a little hair in the past few months . The scales seem to be intermittent every few months, Can seborrheic dermatosis cause a bit of hair loss as well? What should I do to keep a healthy skin and hair ? I have seen NHS practitioner but it has not been of much help . Thanks
Hi Subho,
There are various essential oils and recipes for seborrheic dermatitis as per the above article that you can use.
Yes seborrheic dermatitis can cause hair loss to some extent, however this is not permanent and the hair will grow back.
For more info about essential oils for healthy hair, please refer to the following article:
https://essentialoilbenefits.com/best-essential-oils-and-recipes-for-healthy-hair-hair-loss-and-hair-growth/
For more info about essential oils for healthy skin, please refer to the following article:
https://essentialoilbenefits.com/essential-oils-and-recipes-for-beautiful-skin/
Regards,
Olivia
Question from DH:
Love information you give on oils. Wondering what oil would be good to get rid of
seborrheic keratosis growths. Thank you.
Olivia’s Response:
You could add 3 drops of oregano oil to 1 tsp almond oil. Apply on the growth, cover with a Band-Aid and repeat twice a day. If you want an alternative, you could also use tea tree oil diluted in fractioned coconut oil.
Argan oil is what worked for me. Specifically, I used Argan Oil and let the oil soak into my scalp. I used to wash it off, but I found it heals the dermatitis better if you leave it on!
Hi Siri,
Thanks for sharing your experience of Argan oil and how you have been able to get rid of dermatitis.
Regards,
Olivia
I just bought neem oil today & the instructions say apply directly to skin. I want to use it as a daily cleanser. Is it safe to apply directly every day? Should I mix it with something & create my own oil cleanser?
Hi,
Neem oil is quite potent and applying it neat (i.e. undiluted) may irritate your skin or scalp. You may dilute 3-4 drops in 1tbsp of coconut oil or sweet almond oil. As always do a skin test patch before any application. At a later stage, you may increase the concentration as you feel appropriate.
Regards,
Olivia
I’ve been using many oils for a skin condition (not sure exactly what it is) that causing my face to flake and peel, then heal for about 3 days, then peel again. Its been going on for 2+ years. Anyway seems like whatever I use works for a few weeks then back to crappy skin. Anything prescription has made it much worse by irritating the skin further. Right now I’m using Tea Tree oil and love it. I do about a tsp. coconut oil with 1 or 2 drops tea tree anything more starts to burn. If neem oil is particularly harsh I’d do 1 drop for awhile then increase to 2 and so on. When it comes to essential oils less is more.
Hi Annie,
Thank you so much for sharing your experience with using essential oils for your skin condition. For some people, you are absolutely correct – single essential oils work best; for others, essential oil blends/recipes are necessary due to one essential oil enhancing the other. I always remind all my valued customers to always dilute essential oils in a carrier oil as well as do a skin test patch before any application. Trust your condition improves and you can finally get rid of it altogether.
Regards,
Olivia
Hi Olivia… I have dry flaky and very itch scalp which can have clusters of large dry areas. I was thinking about tea tree, peppermint and/or eucalyptus…. would you recommend a blend of all or some of these ?? Or add something else such as rosemary or lavender ?
Hi Richard,
You can use 3-4 drops of tea tree oil in one tbsp. of jojoba oil. Apply this blend 2-3 times per day to the affected areas.
Before washing your hair, you may also add Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV) to water (1:1) and let this mixture soak on your scalp for a few minutes before rinsing off. Please do a skin test patch beforehand to make sure you are not sensitive to any of the ingredients.
Regards,
Olivia
Can I mix apple cider vinegar, water, and tea tree?
Hi Tina,
Yes you can mix them in the ratio of 1 part ACV, 2 parts water and 15-18 drops of tea tree oil. Store in a jar and apply 2-3 times a day. Make sure to use the best quality ingredients for optimum results.
Regards,
Olivia
Thank You for sharing such great information. My only question would be, which oils are considered carrier oils?
Hi Marilyn,
Not a problem. Examples of Carrier oils are jojoba oil and coconut oil. Other common carrier oils include sweet almond oil and olive oil.
Regards,
Olivia
Hi Olivia! Can I leave the tea tree/carrier mix on my scalp, or does it have to be washed off?
Thanks
Hi Jen,
It is best to not to leave essential oils on the skin for an extended period of time. You may leave it for up to 2 hours and then wash it off. You can repeat that up to 3 times daily. If any skin irritation occurs, please rinse off immediately.
Regards,
Olivia