NGKUR Seborrhea/Eczema sufferers, please come in

[FrancesHouseman]

OU: I believe a lot of skin issues start with a breakdown in the digestive system - changing your diet might help

www.grassfedgirl.com/6-secret-eczema-solutions/

[Deleted]

I tried coconut oil for my seborrhea and it did fuck all. Maybe if it wasn't as bad as it is it might *might* do something, but mine causes skin lesions and it didn't help even a little. I'll stick with my Elocon cream. My doctors are okay with it during pregnancy, so I have no intentions of stopping using it.

[Deleted]

Mar 26, 2015 11:06:35 GMT -5 mistabinx said:

Mar 26, 2015 11:05:10 GMT -5 @led said:

I tried coconut oil for my seborrhea and it did fuck all. Maybe if it wasn't as bad as it is it might *might* do something, but mine causes skin lesions and it didn't help even a little. I'll stick with my Elocon cream. My doctors are okay with it during pregnancy, so I have no intentions of stopping using it.

None of my doctors ever even mentioned this to me, is it possible for use on the scalp? I have heard that because it's mainly on my scalp that can limit my med options

I mean, I've totally used it on my scalp before. I don't typically, but I've done it. 

[FrancesHouseman]

Mar 26, 2015 11:08:20 GMT -5 mistabinx said:

Mar 26, 2015 11:04:28 GMT -5 FrancesHouseman said:

OU: I believe a lot of skin issues start with a breakdown in the digestive system - changing your diet might help

www.grassfedgirl.com/6-secret-eczema-solutions/

Not gonna lie, my diet is pretty awful. I eat what I want, when I want. So I'd be open to looking into diet changes if necessary

It's anecdotal, but a lot of people feel better cutting out sugar, dairy, and gluten for a while - it doesn't have to be forever - but trying it for 21-30 days and seeing if it makes a difference might be worth a shot

[SheilaTheTank]

I don't use natural remedies as they don't work for me. The coconut oil soothed the cracked skin of new psoriasis but didn't stop or reduce it. I stick to the tar based creams such as t-gel shampoo and MG-217, which I personally think do miracles. You smell like a newly paved road but it does the job and rather well. I also try to expose myself to as much sun as possible when it does break out.

On a side note, I also have keratosis pilaris and gold bond came out with a rough and bumpy skin cream that specifically targets KP and it fucking works!!!! Sorry had to share that with someone.

[♪♫choppinbroccoli♫♪]

Mar 26, 2015 11:03:24 GMT -5 mistabinx said:

I don't have any good information to offer, but LOVE that gif.

[samanthasays]

I tried coconut oil and it just made my scalp a greasy mess, I could never wash it out! I switched to a shampoo without parables, I use Burts Bees Baby Bee, its pretty cheap and works well.

I also use Vitamin E oil and lavender and tea tree essential oil directly on the affected area. I comb it through with a boar bristle brush and my hair isn't greasy after. I can still go 2-3 days between washes. Washing less helped me too.

Good luck! I know it sucks :/ I just want to wear a fucking black shirt!!

[Deleted]

I live for coconut oil! I had really bad skin on my face. A lot of redness, acne etc. I use it as a moisturizer, to take off my make up and I use it on my scalp as well. My skin and hair are a lot better now and I suggest it to everyone!

If u use it on your scalp it will be greasy. What I do is on a Friday or Sat every other week, I will load my head up, throw a shower cap on and let it sit for a few hours, if not all night. Then I use a shampoo from Lush called Big and it gets all the build up out of my hair, but doesn't leave my scalp dry.

I also like Lush because their products aren't harsh on my skin and I have painful/horrible skin!

[britterrss]

I have had it since I was a kid! It got misdiagnosed as eczema for a while, but it's definitely seborrheic dermatitis. I got a medicated shampoo from the dermatologist that came in a tiny bottle and is RED. I don't use it much because it was expensive and doesn't seem to really get down to the scalp or go a long way, but I do use it when I'm having a bad flare up. But overall, honestly, I just live with it. You may need to wash your hair more often (or less) - try both and see which helps. I'm currently using Wen Sweet Almond Mint Cleansing Conditioner and it does not irritate my scalp. I've noticed over the years that the cheaper drug store stuff that is highly fragranced really makes the flare ups worse. So I spend the extra money and also try to buy ones that don't have the sulfides/sulfates, pthalates, and whatever else they say not to use.

I used to use good old Head & Shoulders, but if I use it for too long at a time, it stops working (I'm currently in a period where it's not working). I've also used T-Gel in the past and it always worked, but then I read about it's carcinogenic affects. I tried natural shampoos like Jason's and some other one containing coal tar and they didn't do anything. I actually got a rash on my face from one of them...

My dermatologist also prescribed me a steroid/antifungal/something ointment to put on really badly flared up spots, especially when they are near the hairline on my forehead, or behind the ears/nape of neck (those seem to be the worst spots for me) and that shit WORKS. I will try to remember to PM you with the name of it when I get home. (But I think you can't really use it all over, all the time.)


SheilaTheTank you mentioned Keratosis Pilaris - I got that shit, too. I use 100% Pure Coconut Oil and it works miracles! After 2-3 days of using it, the bumps are noticably smoother. I also have used Amlactin in the past and it works really really great, but it's more expensive and increases your risk of sunburn. Lucky for us, most cases of KP diminish or go away completely when you hit your 30s. *FX*

[samanthasays]

Mar 26, 2015 12:00:50 GMT -5 mistabinx said:

Mar 26, 2015 11:44:21 GMT -5 samanthasays said:

I tried coconut oil and it just made my scalp a greasy mess, I could never wash it out! I switched to a shampoo without parables, I use Burts Bees Baby Bee, its pretty cheap and works well.

I also use Vitamin E oil and lavender and tea tree essential oil directly on the affected area. I comb it through with a boar bristle brush and my hair isn't greasy after. I can still go 2-3 days between washes. Washing less helped me too.

Good luck! I know it sucks :/ I just want to wear a fucking black shirt!!

Dude, seriously.

I'm definitely going to look into/try the Burt's Bees. Where do you get the oils from? Anywhere/brand special/specific?

Mountainroseherbs.com is pretty inexpensive and still good quality. NOW essential oils are another good and inexpensive brand that are at some health food stores, they have a lavender and tea tree oil blend that I really like on my scalp. I ordered food grade vitamin E from amazon because I take it orally as well. I rub the oil in after I wash my hair and as needed when it is dry.

I also switched to a silk pillowcase (bed bath and beyond). It sounds weird but I think it prevents my hair from pulling at my scalp when I sleep, I am a stomach and side sleeper and my worst patches are around my hairline. The pillowcase has actually helped! And it helped the lines around my eyes, which I cant complain about

[britterrss]

Also, be careful with tea tree oil. In my experience, using it too often will burn your skin and cause inflammation, which can make it worse overall. This happened behind my ear I'm still trying to heal it after THREE months of a flare up.

ETA: samanthasays, I am going to try this tea tree/lavender/vit E thing! Thanks!

[SheilaTheTank]

Mar 26, 2015 12:06:47 GMT -5 britterrss said:

I have had it since I was a kid! It got misdiagnosed as eczema for a while, but it's definitely seborrheic dermatitis. I got a medicated shampoo from the dermatologist that came in a tiny bottle and is RED. I don't use it much because it was expensive and doesn't seem to really get down to the scalp or go a long way, but I do use it when I'm having a bad flare up. But overall, honestly, I just live with it. You may need to wash your hair more often (or less) - try both and see which helps. I'm currently using Wen Sweet Almond Mint Cleansing Conditioner and it does not irritate my scalp. I've noticed over the years that the cheaper drug store stuff that is highly fragranced really makes the flare ups worse. So I spend the extra money and also try to buy ones that don't have the sulfides/sulfates, pthalates, and whatever else they say not to use.

I used to use good old Head & Shoulders, but if I use it for too long at a time, it stops working (I'm currently in a period where it's not working). I've also used T-Gel in the past and it always worked, but then I read about it's carcinogenic affects. I tried natural shampoos like Jason's and some other one containing coal tar and they didn't do anything. I actually got a rash on my face from one of them...

My dermatologist also prescribed me a steroid/antifungal/something ointment to put on really badly flared up spots, especially when they are near the hairline on my forehead, or behind the ears/nape of neck (those seem to be the worst spots for me) and that shit WORKS. I will try to remember to PM you with the name of it when I get home. (But I think you can't really use it all over, all the time.)


SheilaTheTank you mentioned Keratosis Pilaris - I got that shit, too. I use 100% Pure Coconut Oil and it works miracles! After 2-3 days of using it, the bumps are noticably smoother. I also have used Amlactin in the past and it works really really great, but it's more expensive and increases your risk of sunburn. Lucky for us, most cases of KP diminish or go away completely when you hit your 30s. *FX*

Like early 30s? Because i'm so over the red/bumpy skin thing. 

[britterrss]

Mar 26, 2015 12:14:52 GMT -5 SheilaTheTank said:

Mar 26, 2015 12:06:47 GMT -5 britterrss said:

I have had it since I was a kid! It got misdiagnosed as eczema for a while, but it's definitely seborrheic dermatitis. I got a medicated shampoo from the dermatologist that came in a tiny bottle and is RED. I don't use it much because it was expensive and doesn't seem to really get down to the scalp or go a long way, but I do use it when I'm having a bad flare up. But overall, honestly, I just live with it. You may need to wash your hair more often (or less) - try both and see which helps. I'm currently using Wen Sweet Almond Mint Cleansing Conditioner and it does not irritate my scalp. I've noticed over the years that the cheaper drug store stuff that is highly fragranced really makes the flare ups worse. So I spend the extra money and also try to buy ones that don't have the sulfides/sulfates, pthalates, and whatever else they say not to use.

I used to use good old Head & Shoulders, but if I use it for too long at a time, it stops working (I'm currently in a period where it's not working). I've also used T-Gel in the past and it always worked, but then I read about it's carcinogenic affects. I tried natural shampoos like Jason's and some other one containing coal tar and they didn't do anything. I actually got a rash on my face from one of them...

My dermatologist also prescribed me a steroid/antifungal/something ointment to put on really badly flared up spots, especially when they are near the hairline on my forehead, or behind the ears/nape of neck (those seem to be the worst spots for me) and that shit WORKS. I will try to remember to PM you with the name of it when I get home. (But I think you can't really use it all over, all the time.)


SheilaTheTank you mentioned Keratosis Pilaris - I got that shit, too. I use 100% Pure Coconut Oil and it works miracles! After 2-3 days of using it, the bumps are noticably smoother. I also have used Amlactin in the past and it works really really great, but it's more expensive and increases your risk of sunburn. Lucky for us, most cases of KP diminish or go away completely when you hit your 30s. *FX*

Like early 30s? Because i'm so over the red/bumpy skin thing. 

Well all the med websites say it should "gradually diminish by age 30, but some cases may persist longer."

[britterrss]

Mar 26, 2015 12:19:02 GMT -5 mistabinx said:

Mar 26, 2015 12:06:47 GMT -5 britterrss said:

I have had it since I was a kid! It got misdiagnosed as eczema for a while, but it's definitely seborrheic dermatitis. I got a medicated shampoo from the dermatologist that came in a tiny bottle and is RED. I don't use it much because it was expensive and doesn't seem to really get down to the scalp or go a long way, but I do use it when I'm having a bad flare up. But overall, honestly, I just live with it. You may need to wash your hair more often (or less) - try both and see which helps. I'm currently using Wen Sweet Almond Mint Cleansing Conditioner and it does not irritate my scalp. I've noticed over the years that the cheaper drug store stuff that is highly fragranced really makes the flare ups worse. So I spend the extra money and also try to buy ones that don't have the sulfides/sulfates, pthalates, and whatever else they say not to use.

Trim

I have found that washing my hair frequently (think like, 2-3 showers daily), does significantly help. But it's hard to keep that up every single day.

Check into the issues with Wen - just for your own knowledge. I stopped using it just to be on the safe side.

I have hydrocortisone cream for behind/inside my ears and it works so well! I wish I could put that all over my head lol

My medicated oils/shampoos work great, but like you said they're really expensive, and in general I'm just trying to avoid them now. It makes me sad

What the what?! Hair loss? Is that what you're talking about? JEEEZ. Well my hair does fall out but I don't know that it's an abnormal amount... plus the fact I was recently diagnosed with Hashi's and PCOS which can make your hair fall out. I guess I'm having a GO BALD TRIFECTA right now! How do I still have hair?!

Thanks for the heads up. I'm on my 3rd or 4th bottle right now. Guess I'll be switching soon again. MH is probably tired of me wasting money "trialing" shampoos/conditioners. I have like 4 sets right now that I used for only a week or 2 each time.

[ssm]

A MAJOR difference for me is if I blow dry my hair or leave it wet. It is dramatically better after consistently blow drying it. The wet hair and moisture just let the sores and scans fester and ooze. Sorry I know it's gross :-( I have given up on caring about it. I still wear my black....I just shake my shirt off all the time. And try try try to not itch it. Although it is worst for me at bed time.

Coconut oil makes all the difference on my and my DS skin. I can usually clear up the small spots with coconut oil easily. I did have to get hydrocortisone 2% from the pharmacy for a bad spot DS has on his shoulder.

[juliayadda]

Mar 26, 2015 10:35:05 GMT -5 mistabinx said:

The other thread about acne reminded me to ask this.
I have seborrhea in a bad way - the worst place is on my scalp. It is worse in the winter than summer, and is bad enough that I usually wear my hair up, it's painful, itchy, it bleeds, all that fun stuff.
I've used some great medicated oils/mousses/shampoos, but at this point I'm avoiding them due to TTC, I just don't trust it after my loss and want to avoid all meds if possible. Needless to say, it has since gotten out of control. I was using Wen Tea Tree Oil conditioner, but stopped because of recent reports of hair loss/worsening skin conditions. 

Someone suggested coconut oil, I've never heard of it for this issue before, and never used it for any other reasons. So my questions are...

1) Have you used coconut oil for any of these skin issues? Did it work?
2) Have you ever successfully used any other safe, natural remedies for seborrhea/eczema?
3) What frequency did you use it and how? (apply for overnight, wait 4 hours, etc?)

I have eczema on my eye and ear. The only thing that works for my 1.0% Protopic. It is not pregnancy/nursing friendly and if you put it on your head you will need to wear a hat in the sun. It burns like a mofo. But it works, and fast. 

Natural remedies: 
I like the Aloe line from Body shop. Cosmetics database gives is a very good rating for lacking in "bad stuff" and I find it mild enough for my skin. I use good ol vaseline in between protopic applications as a barrier for my eczema. I am willing to give coconut oil a try on my ear (not on my eye though) 

ETA: I also like Argan oil, but not near my eye.

[ssm]

Mar 26, 2015 12:38:33 GMT -5 mistabinx said:

Mar 26, 2015 12:37:18 GMT -5 ssm said:

A MAJOR difference for me is if I blow dry my hair or leave it wet. It is dramatically better after consistently blow drying it. The wet hair and moisture just let the sores and scans fester and ooze. Sorry I know it's gross :-( I have given up on caring about it. I still wear my black....I just shake my shirt off all the time. And try try try to not itch it. Although it is worst for me at bed time.

Coconut oil makes all the difference on my and my DS skin. I can usually clear up the small spots with coconut oil easily. I did have to get hydrocortisone 2% from the pharmacy for a bad spot DS has on his shoulder.

Yes! I cannot leave my hair wet, only bad things come of it.

i do anyways. And it's pretty bad. I just don't have the time or desire to care. Ya know? Ya know.

[juliayadda]

Mar 26, 2015 12:14:52 GMT -5 SheilaTheTank said:

Mar 26, 2015 12:06:47 GMT -5 britterrss said:

I have had it since I was a kid! It got misdiagnosed as eczema for a while, but it's definitely seborrheic dermatitis. I got a medicated shampoo from the dermatologist that came in a tiny bottle and is RED. I don't use it much because it was expensive and doesn't seem to really get down to the scalp or go a long way, but I do use it when I'm having a bad flare up. But overall, honestly, I just live with it. You may need to wash your hair more often (or less) - try both and see which helps. I'm currently using Wen Sweet Almond Mint Cleansing Conditioner and it does not irritate my scalp. I've noticed over the years that the cheaper drug store stuff that is highly fragranced really makes the flare ups worse. So I spend the extra money and also try to buy ones that don't have the sulfides/sulfates, pthalates, and whatever else they say not to use.

I used to use good old Head & Shoulders, but if I use it for too long at a time, it stops working (I'm currently in a period where it's not working). I've also used T-Gel in the past and it always worked, but then I read about it's carcinogenic affects. I tried natural shampoos like Jason's and some other one containing coal tar and they didn't do anything. I actually got a rash on my face from one of them...

My dermatologist also prescribed me a steroid/antifungal/something ointment to put on really badly flared up spots, especially when they are near the hairline on my forehead, or behind the ears/nape of neck (those seem to be the worst spots for me) and that shit WORKS. I will try to remember to PM you with the name of it when I get home. (But I think you can't really use it all over, all the time.)


SheilaTheTank you mentioned Keratosis Pilaris - I got that shit, too. I use 100% Pure Coconut Oil and it works miracles! After 2-3 days of using it, the bumps are noticably smoother. I also have used Amlactin in the past and it works really really great, but it's more expensive and increases your risk of sunburn. Lucky for us, most cases of KP diminish or go away completely when you hit your 30s. *FX*

Like early 30s? Because i'm so over the red/bumpy skin thing. 

I used 2% salicylic acid face wash on my arms for KP once a week, followed up with Aloe body butter from the Body shop. I swear by it!

[SheilaTheTank]

Mar 26, 2015 12:44:51 GMT -5 juliayadda said:

Mar 26, 2015 12:14:52 GMT -5 SheilaTheTank said:

Like early 30s? Because i'm so over the red/bumpy skin thing. 

I used 2% salicylic acid face wash on my arms for KP once a week, followed up with Aloe body butter from the Body shop. I swear by it!

Is it prescribed or can you get it over the counter?

My biggest problem is the area that it is on. It's like half of my body, so I might as well bathe in the stuff. I really hope that over 30 thing is true and it goes away soon. lol 

[juliayadda]

Mar 26, 2015 12:47:50 GMT -5 SheilaTheTank said:

Mar 26, 2015 12:44:51 GMT -5 juliayadda said:

I used 2% salicylic acid face wash on my arms for KP once a week, followed up with Aloe body butter from the Body shop. I swear by it!

Is it prescribed or can you get it over the counter?

My biggest problem is the area that it is on. It's like half of my body, so I might as well bathe in the stuff. I really hope that over 30 thing is true and it goes away soon. lol 

Over the counter. My face couldn't handle it but generally if they are safe enough for the face they will be safe enough for the arm. I use Physoderm but I am unsure if you can get it in the states. 
 
something like this: 


ETA: It will take off skin layers, so in the sun spf is your friend, whether it is sunscreen or clothing if you cant wear sunscreen. 

[SheilaTheTank]

Mar 26, 2015 12:52:43 GMT -5 juliayadda said:

Mar 26, 2015 12:47:50 GMT -5 SheilaTheTank said:

Is it prescribed or can you get it over the counter?

My biggest problem is the area that it is on. It's like half of my body, so I might as well bathe in the stuff. I really hope that over 30 thing is true and it goes away soon. lol 

Over the counter. My face couldn't handle it but generally if they are safe enough for the face they will be safe enough for the arm. I use Physoderm but I am unsure if you can get it in the states. 
 
something like this: 


ETA: It will take off skin layers, so in the sun spf is your friend, whether it is sunscreen or clothing if you cant wear sunscreen. 

Thank you I will definitely look into this. It's easier to put on in the shower and wash off. Slathering myself with oil or cream after I shower and then putting clothes on makes me feel super icky because those creams are made to absorb slowly.

[juliayadda]

I got the ASA idea from Sephora. They were charging 45 dollars for a miracle cure for KP. Only active ingredient? Salicylic Acid...

[SheilaTheTank]

Mar 26, 2015 13:02:55 GMT -5 juliayadda said:

I got the ASA idea from Sephora. They were charging 45 dollars for a miracle cure for KP. Only active ingredient? Salicylic Acid...

bahahahahaha! I bet they sell cases of the stuff too.

[pismoduo]

Mar 26, 2015 12:20:10 GMT -5 britterrss said:

Mar 26, 2015 12:14:52 GMT -5 SheilaTheTank said:

Like early 30s? Because i'm so over the red/bumpy skin thing. 

Well all the med websites say it should "gradually diminish by age 30, but some cases may persist longer."

TIL - the bumps I have all over my arms and legs are an actual THING and not just my skin being weird.

I swear to god, I learn something new from this place every day.

[SheilaTheTank]

Mar 26, 2015 13:09:23 GMT -5 pismoduo said:

Mar 26, 2015 12:20:10 GMT -5 britterrss said:

Well all the med websites say it should "gradually diminish by age 30, but some cases may persist longer."

TIL - the bumps I have all over my arms and legs are an actual THING and not just my skin being weird.

I swear to god, I learn something new from this place every day.

Turns out 50% of people have some form of KP. I called them "bumpies" for years and thought they were related to my psoriasis. Then one day I googled it and there is an entire online community dedicated to KP. 

[pismoduo]

I have very mild eczema, mostly on my elbows and the tops of my feet. It flares up when I go too long without a shower or when I'm seriously stressed out. Worse in winter, when my skin is too dry and I use too many creams.

My H, however, has seriously bad eczema, particularly around his hairline and forehead. What seems to be working for him is washing his hair and face more frequently and a light smear of cortizone on the worst areas when it's starting to flare up.

[piccyami]

Mar 26, 2015 13:09:23 GMT -5 pismoduo said:

Mar 26, 2015 12:20:10 GMT -5 britterrss said:

Well all the med websites say it should "gradually diminish by age 30, but some cases may persist longer."

TIL - the bumps I have all over my arms and legs are an actual THING and not just my skin being weird.

I swear to god, I learn something new from this place every day.

THAT's what I have?  I've had it since I was a kid, but I just thought it was my skin.  Now I have things to google.

[pismoduo]

Mar 26, 2015 13:13:31 GMT -5 SheilaTheTank said:

Mar 26, 2015 13:09:23 GMT -5 pismoduo said:

TIL - the bumps I have all over my arms and legs are an actual THING and not just my skin being weird.

I swear to god, I learn something new from this place every day.

Turns out 50% of people have some form of KP. I called them "bumpies" for years and thought they were related to my psoriasis. Then one day I googled it and there is an entire online community dedicated to KP. 

Me too! I always had them, just had no idea what they heck they were. They don't usually get red, but my H used to think they were little tiny zits for the longest time. I get them on my face, my upper arms and the backs of my thighs mostly. Just little white, hard bumps.

Now that I know what they ARE, I'll say that a benzoyl peroxide cleanser with a gentle exfoliator has dramatically reduced the bumps on my face. I use AcneFree, which is one of those three step systems (cleanser, toner, repair lotion). It's not too bad ($30 per kit, lasts me 2 months or so washing my face once daily) and it's been working for me for a while.

[juliayadda]

Mar 26, 2015 13:14:52 GMT -5 pismoduo said:

I have very mild eczema, mostly on my elbows and the tops of my feet. It flares up when I go too long without a shower or when I'm seriously stressed out. Worse in winter, when my skin is too dry and I use too many creams.

My H, however, has seriously bad eczema, particularly around his hairline and forehead. What seems to be working for him is washing his hair and face more frequently and a light smear of cortizone on the worst areas when it's starting to flare up.

I recommend a referral to a dermatologist for him. Unless he already has haha. When I went to the derm it turned out the cortizone was only a bandaid solution and because it thinned my skin when I scratched, the skin would rip easier. There are other products that are more effective, which can work in conjunction with cortizone to make his life a lot less annoying. 

[SheilaTheTank]

Mar 26, 2015 13:19:11 GMT -5 pismoduo said:

Mar 26, 2015 13:13:31 GMT -5 SheilaTheTank said:

Turns out 50% of people have some form of KP. I called them "bumpies" for years and thought they were related to my psoriasis. Then one day I googled it and there is an entire online community dedicated to KP. 

Me too! I always had them, just had no idea what they heck they were. They don't usually get red, but my H used to think they were little tiny zits for the longest time. I get them on my face, my upper arms and the backs of my thighs mostly. Just little white, hard bumps.

Now that I know what they ARE, I'll say that a benzoyl peroxide cleanser with a gentle exfoliator has dramatically reduced the bumps on my face. I use AcneFree, which is one of those three step systems (cleanser, toner, repair lotion). It's not too bad ($30 per kit, lasts me 2 months or so washing my face once daily) and it's been working for me for a while.

You can also try increasing Vitamin A intake but be careful to make sure that it is in the form of beta-carotene. I've read that a vitamin A deficiency leads to an increase in keratin production, which is what clogs the hair follicles, and creates the bumps.