What is splenic eczema?

Splenic eczema, also known as seborrhea, is a skin disease that causes scaly and red skin on the scalp. The condition can also affect other oil-rich areas of the body, such as the face, chest and back. Symptoms include:

• Scaly skin: White or yellow flakes of skin on the scalp or body.
• Redness and irritation: Inflamed areas that may feel sore.
• Itching: Intense itching that can worsen the condition if scratched.

Splenic eczema is chronic, which means that it can recur at regular intervals. However, it is not contagious.

What causes splenic eczema?

There is no exact reason why some people develop splenic eczema, but some factors that may influence the condition are:

1. Overproduction of the skin's natural oils: Sebum, the oil produced naturally by the skin, can interact with the yeast Malassezia and trigger inflammation.
2. Stress: Emotional or physical stress can trigger or worsen symptoms.
3. Genetics: If there is a family history of skin conditions, the risk increases.
4. Climate: Cold, dry winters or hot, humid environments can make eczema worse.
5. Other medical conditions: for example Parkinson's disease, HIV or depression.

How is splenic eczema treated?

Although splenic eczema is chronic and cannot be completely cured, its symptoms can be managed with the right treatment and a good skincare routine. Here are some steps you can take to alleviate your symptoms:

1. use a gentle shampoo

Shampoos containing Piroctone Olamine can be very effective in treating dandruff. Caring Shampoo from The Every is an ideal product for this purpose, as it is developed to soothe the scalp and counteract dandruff formation.

2. regular exfoliation

Exfoliating the scalp helps remove dead skin cells and oil that can worsen the condition. Scalp Scrub is an excellent option that contains natural scrubbing particles and aloe vera to soothe and balance the scalp.

3. apply a nourishing scalp treatment

A product like Scalp Food can help moisturize and balance an irritated scalp. With ingredients such as yacon and aloe vera, it soothes inflammation and nourishes the skin.

4. avoid hair care products with harsh chemicals

Hair care products containing sulphates and parabens can further irritate the scalp. All products from The Every are free of such harmful substances and are developed to be gentle on the skin.

5. Coping with stress

As stress is a known trigger for splenic eczema, it is important to find ways to manage it. Meditation, yoga or regular exercise can help reduce stress levels.

Natural ingredients that can help with dandruff

Choosing products with natural ingredients can be a gentler way to manage dandruff. Here are some ingredients that are known for their positive effects on the scalp:

• Aloe Vera: Has anti-inflammatory properties that can soothe irritated skin.
• Peppermint oil: Can provide a cooling effect that relieves itching and reduces inflammation.
• Piroctone Olamine: Helps to control the yeast fungus that contributes to splenic eczema.
• Olive oil and coconut oil: Natural oils that help moisturize the scalp.

Step-by-step guide to managing splenic eczema

Here is a simple guide to create a routine to help you manage splenic eczema:

1. wash your hair with an anti-dandruff shampoo
Use a shampoo like Caring Shampoo from The Every, which contains Piroctone Olamine to effectively counteract dandruff and soothe itching.

2. exfoliate your scalp once or twice a week
Use Scalp Scrub to remove dead skin cells and keep the scalp clean and free of excess oil.

3. apply a nourishing treatment after every hair wash
Scalp Food is a great product to use to moisturize the scalp and give it the nutrients it needs to stay balanced.

4. avoid overusing styling products
Products that can irritate the scalp, such as those with alcohol or strong fragrances, should be avoided.

5. Be careful with heating tools
Use heating tools sparingly, and always apply a heat protection product, such as Nourishing Heat Protection, to minimize damage to both hair and scalp.

Common mistakes to avoid

When dealing with splenic eczema, it's important not to do things that can make the condition worse. Here are some common mistakes:

• Washing your hair too rarely or too often: Washing your hair too rarely can lead to a build-up of oil and dead skin cells, while washing too often can dry out your scalp.
• Using hair care products with harsh chemicals: Products with sulphates, parabens and artificial fragrances can irritate the scalp.
• Ignoring symptoms of scalp problems: It is important to treat any itching or flaking immediately to avoid making the problem worse.

FAQ

Q: Can splenic eczema go away by itself?
A: No, splenic eczema is chronic and can come and go. It is best to treat the symptoms regularly to keep them under control.

Q: How do I know if I have splenic eczema or common dandruff?
A: Dandruff often causes redness and itching in addition to scaly skin, while common dandruff only causes flaking of the skin.

Q: Can I use hair wraps if I have dandruff?
A: Yes, as long as the product is gentle and free of harsh chemicals. Choose a wrap like Caring Masque from The Every to provide moisture without irritation.

Q: Is splenic eczema contagious?
A: No, splenic eczema is not contagious and cannot spread from person to person.

Q: Can diet affect splenic eczema?
A: Yes, a nutritious diet that is low in sugar and refined carbohydrates can help improve skin and scalp health.

By following the right routines and using products that are gentle on the scalp, you can effectively manage dandruff and keep your scalp balanced and healthy.