Eczema of the spleen, also known as seborrhea or seborrheic eczema, is a common but annoying problem for many people. It is a type of chronic eczema that causes scaly, red and sometimes itchy skin, usually on the scalp, but can also affect other areas such as the face, ears, and chest. Eczema can be particularly troublesome during cold winter months when the skin tends to get drier, or during stressful periods when your body is reacting to internal stresses. If you have ever noticed white or yellow flakes on your pillow, sweater or jacket, or if you have itchy and irritated skin on your scalp, it is possible that you are suffering from splenic eczema.
But what exactly is dandruff, and what can you do to manage it? In this article, we'll cover everything you need to know about dandruff, from what it is and why it occurs, to practical tips and products that can help you keep it under control. Whether you've been struggling with dandruff for a long time or you've only recently started to notice the symptoms, there are solutions that can help you regain a healthy and balanced scalp.
What is splenic eczema and why does it occur?
Stomach eczema is a chronic skin condition that occurs when the skin's sebaceous glands produce too much sebum, or oil, which, in combination with a yeast naturally found on the skin called Malassezia, can cause irritation. This irritation leads to the skin becoming red, inflamed and scaly. Eczema of the spleen is not contagious, but it can be hereditary, and some people are more likely to develop it than others. Common factors that can help trigger or worsen splenic eczema include:
- Genetics: If you have a family history of eczema or other skin problems, you may be more prone to developing splenic eczema.
- Climate: Cold and dry weather can make splenic eczema worse, while warm and humid climates can sometimes relieve symptoms.
- Stress: Physical or emotional stressors can trigger or worsen the symptoms of splenic eczema.
- Skin microflora: Imbalances in the skin's natural microflora, especially an overgrowth of the yeast Malassezia, can lead to splenic eczema.
Common symptoms of splenic eczema
Recognizing the symptoms of splenic eczema is the first step to treating it effectively. Here are some of the most common signs to look out for:
- Scaly skin: White or yellow flakes that appear on the scalp, shoulders, or eyebrows are a clear sign of splenic eczema. Sometimes the flakes can be oily or greasy, and they tend to come off easily.
- Itching: An itchy feeling on the scalp is another common symptom. The itching can be mild to intense and can sometimes become so bothersome that it interferes with your daily life.
- Redness: The skin in the affected areas may become red, inflamed and irritated. This is particularly common on the scalp, but can also occur around the nose, on the eyelids, and behind the ears.
- Oily skin: Due to the overproduction of sebum, the skin may feel oily or greasy. This can also lead to hair becoming greasier faster than usual.
Eczema can be troublesome and affect your self-esteem, especially if it is clearly visible on your face or scalp. However, there are many treatment options that can help you relieve symptoms and gain control of the condition.
How to treat splenic eczema: step-by-step
Managing dandruff can feel like a challenge, but with the right products and a consistent hair and skin care routine, you can reduce symptoms and improve your skin health. Here's a simple guide to start treating splenic eczema at home:
- Use a mild, emollient shampoo
One of the most important steps in managing dandruff is to use a shampoo that is gentle on the scalp yet effective enough to remove excess oil and dandruff. Caring Shampoo is an excellent choice because it contains hyaluronic acid and Piroctone Olamine, ingredients that help soothe the scalp, moisturize the skin and counteract dandruff and irritation. Use this shampoo regularly to keep your scalp clean and balanced without drying it out. - Exfoliate your scalp regularly
One of the most effective methods of treating dandruff is to exfoliate the scalp to remove dead skin cells and product residues that can aggravate the condition. Scalp Scrub is a perfect product for this purpose. It contains aloe vera, which has a soothing effect on the skin, and Piroctone Olamine, which is known for its antibacterial and anti-dandruff properties. Use this scrub once a week to keep your scalp clean and free of unwanted flakes. - Moisturize regularly
Keeping the skin moisturized is crucial to reduce the flaking and irritation associated with dandruff. A good conditioner or hair mask can do wonders to restore moisture balance to the scalp. Caring Masque is a deep-acting hair mask containing shea butter and hyaluronic acid, which helps to moisturize and protect the scalp from dehydration. Use this mask once a week to give your hair and scalp the nourishment they need. - Avoid heat and chemicals
Heat from hair dryers, straighteners and curling irons can make dandruff worse by further drying out the skin and causing irritation. Chemicals in some hair products can also worsen symptoms. If you have to use heat tools, make sure to protect your hair and scalp with a heat protectant product. Nourishing Heat Protection is a nourishing heat protectant that not only protects hair from heat damage, but also helps moisturize and strengthen hair thanks to ingredients such as hyaluronic acid and provitamin B5. - Follow up with a nourishing serum
After you've washed and moisturized your hair, you can finish your routine with a serum that helps restore the scalp and promote healthy hair growth. Scalp Food is a serum specifically developed to nourish and moisturize the scalp, while helping to relieve irritation and promote a healthy and balanced scalp. Apply the serum directly to the scalp and massage it in for best results.
Lifestyle changes to reduce splenic eczema
In addition to using the right products, there are several lifestyle changes you can make to keep splenic eczema under control. These changes can not only help you reduce symptoms, but also improve your overall health and well-being.
- Managing stress: Stress is one of the most common triggers for eczema and other skin conditions. When you are stressed, your body can react by increasing the production of stress hormones, which can lead to your skin becoming more sensitive and prone to inflammation. Finding ways to manage stress can therefore be crucial to keeping spondylitis under control. Consider including stress management techniques such as yoga, meditation, or regular exercise in your daily routine. Taking time for yourself, by relaxing and doing things you enjoy, can also help reduce stress in your life.
- Eat a balanced diet: Your diet has a major impact on your skin health. A diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, zinc and biotin can improve skin elasticity, reduce inflammation and help keep skin moisturized. Omega-3 fatty acids, found in oily fish such as salmon, mackerel and sardines, as well as in walnuts and flaxseed, are known for their anti-inflammatory properties. Zinc, found in meat, seafood, beans and nuts, can help regulate sebum production and reduce acne and other skin problems. Biotin, or vitamin B7, found in eggs, avocados and berries, is important for maintaining healthy skin and hair.
- Get enough sleep: Sleep is crucial for your body's ability to recover and regenerate, and this also applies to your skin. Sleep deprivation can affect your immune system and make your skin more susceptible to inflammation and irritation, which can worsen the symptoms of eczema. Aim to get at least 7-8 hours of sleep every night, and try to keep a regular sleep routine to give your body the rest it needs.
- Avoid harsh chemicals: Harsh chemicals in hair care products, such as sulphates and parabens, can irritate the scalp and aggravate dandruff. Choose products that are free of these substances and specially formulated for sensitive scalps. Sulphate-free shampoos and conditioners are gentle on the skin and help maintain the scalp's natural moisture balance without drying it out.
- Keep your scalp clean and dry: A clean and dry scalp is less prone to developing dandruff. Make sure to wash your hair regularly with a mild shampoo and avoid leaving your hair wet for long periods of time, as moisture can contribute to the growth of fungus that can worsen symptoms. If you exercise frequently and sweat a lot, it may be a good idea to rinse your hair with water between shampoos to keep your scalp clean and free of sweat and oil.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about splenic eczema
Q: What is the best way to get rid of dandruff?
A: The best way to deal with dandruff is to use a combination of products that are specially formulated for sensitive skin and scalp. It is important to keep the scalp clean through regular use of mild shampoo and exfoliating scrub, while moisturizing the skin to reduce flaking and irritation. Avoiding stress and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can also help reduce symptoms.
Q: Can stress make splenic eczema worse?
A: Yes, stress is a known trigger for many skin conditions, including splenic eczema. When you are stressed, your body increases the production of stress hormones which can lead to skin becoming more sensitive and prone to developing eczema. Managing stress through relaxation techniques and a balanced lifestyle can therefore help keep splenic eczema under control.
Q: Is splenic eczema contagious?
A: No, splenic eczema is not contagious. It is caused by an overproduction of sebum and a yeast fungus already naturally present on the skin. However, it is important to manage the condition properly to prevent it from getting worse and to avoid unpleasant symptoms.
Q: How often should I use an exfoliating shampoo or scrub?
A: It is recommended to use a scalp scrub or exfoliating shampoo once a week to remove dead skin cells and prevent the build-up of oil and dirt. However, excessive exfoliation can irritate the skin, so it is important not to overuse these products.
Q: Can I use regular hair products if I have dandruff?
A: It's best to use hair products that are specially formulated for sensitive scalps and free of harsh chemicals like sulfates and parabens. Regular hair products may contain ingredients that irritate the scalp and worsen the symptoms of dandruff. Choosing products that are gentle and moisturizing can help keep your scalp balanced and healthy.
Eczema can be a stressful skin condition to live with, but with the right products and lifestyle changes, you can take control of the condition and enjoy a healthy and balanced scalp. Remember to listen to your body, adapt your routine to what works best for you and be consistent in your care. Over time, you will notice an improvement in both your hair and your scalp.
Caring Shampoo Gentle sulfate-free moisturizing shampoo 26,00 € - available on subscription from every 7 weeks
Caring Conditioner Gentle sulfate-free moisturizing conditioner 26,00 € - available on subscription from every 7 weeks
Scalp Food - Serum Microbiome-strengthening, soothing scalp serum 45,00 € - available on subscription from every 7 weeks
Scalp Scrub Balancing exfoliating scalp scrub 39,50 € - available on subscription from every 10 weeks
Caring Masque Intensively nourishing hair mask with shea butter 35,00 € - available on subscription from every 10 weeks