SEBORRHEIC DERMATITIS: MUSTACHE, BEARD, AND SCALP AREA.
As a General Practice Physician, who has suffered with this same condition discussed in this forum for over 20 years, I have decided to respond with a long post. I shall attempt to tell you more than you care to know about this nagging condition, in hopes that you may find peace and solice from this troubling, tormenting, time-consuming, financially-draining, and self-defeating disease.
If I help one person to take control of this condition, it was worth my time.
The vast majority of the posts I have read, seem to suffer from CLASSIC: Seborrheic Dermatitis (As I have for years). And, some of you may have a mild component of "Rosacea" (a redness disorder, extreme sensitivity to any facial product, sunlight, and possibly foods), or "Psoriasis" (a cell-turnover disorder or "skin shedding disorder") mixed-in with your "Seb Derm".
In this post, I will attempt to tell you: 1) the basic CLASSIC MEDICAL APPROACH to treatment of this Seb Derm; and 2) methods that may not be completely conventional, but are based on MEDICAL SCIENCE and have been shown to work in many cases.
IT IS IMPORTANT TO KEEP IN MIND, THAT THE SKIN IS A UNIQUE ENTITY. NO TWO SKIN CONDITIONS ARE THE SAME. This is largely because of genetic factors, skin type, ethnicity, climate, and even your state of "hydration" can affect your skin. SO, WHAT WORKS FOR ONE PERSON, MAY NOT WORK FOR YOU. TREATING SKIN CONDITIONS IS LARGELY TRIAL AND ERROR.
With Seborrheic Dermatitis, A.K.A. "Seborrhea", A.K.A. "Dandruff" in common terms (A.K.A. "Cradle Cap" in Babies) one will have: 1) crusting/flaking in any of these areas: mustache, beard, or scalp. 2) itching; 3) redness. There may also occasionally be a "greasy" clearish-yellow, oily "ooze" from these areas, during a severe flare-up (this is "sebum", flowing from the inflamed sebum glands).
As a physician, I can tell you that [medical school teaches] that this is caused by a yeast called Malassezia furfur, formerly known as Pityrosporum ovale, on the skin surface, which over a period of days overgrows leading to an ARMY of yeast on the skin surface. These yeast release mycolic acids on the skin, which are very irritating to it. This also alters skin pH.
You then..... S C R A T C H like a mangy dog! You rub BACTERIA + YEAST into your broken skin, further irritating it.
It does not appreciate this!
It gets MAD! The fact that you just mowed the lawn, and sweat like a water buffalo also helps the yeast to grow, as they love the warm humid environment.
Now. Something that med school DID NOT and still to my knowledge DOES NOT [YET] teach, but [MOST] Dermatologists, and other Physicians accept as another important contributing factor to "Seb Derm" can be [get ready, I hope you are sitting down], face mites.
Now, these are primarily associated with Rosacea, not seb derm. However, there is becoming more evidence to show that there is more overlap between these two diseases. These "FACE MITES" are actual little bugs, also known as "eyelash mites", that live down in the base of the hair follice, inside the Sebum gland. The more scientific name of this mite is called Demodex folliculorum. In dogs, a variant similar to this is what causes "Red Mange". If you would like to see a picture of these mites just google them.
Now that I have you totally scared to death: Realize this- EVERYONE has these mites normally- to some degree. These live on everyone. However, those with Rosacea, and [probably] seb derm as well, have MASSIVE AMOUNTS of these mites on their faces and skin surface. These mites, both male and female, only come out at night, while you are sleeping, they breed, and then crawl back into their hole, which is: the Sebum Gland. All these mites living in your sebum gland help keep it inflamed and irritated, and encourage it to pour out sebum. (theoretically). This thick oily sebum, is then "Thanksgiving Dinner" for the YEAST!
So, the COMBINATION: 1) YEAST; + 2) FACE MITES; and 3) NORMAL FACE BACTERIA; (particularly Staph), tends to keep your face in a Royal Mess!
It is speculated that the reason one person gets seb derm, but another person does NOT get seb derm, is because of TWO FACTORS:
1) GENETICS- Seb Derm itself, is not inherited; however, the tendency to GET Seb derm IS inherited. What one actually inherits, is an INABILITY of the immune system to [for some reason] fight off either the fungus, or the face mites, or both ==> ultimately allowing fungal overgrowth and redness and itching.
2) IMMUNE SYSTEM VULNERABILITES- If you have had Seb Derm since, let's say, High School, you most likely have the genetic type. If however, you are well into adulthood, and suddenly develop Seb Derm for the first time ever, and have never had any "dandruff" type problems before- you should probably ask your doctor to do some blood work to check your immune system- as SEB DERM can be the FIRST SIGN of other more serious IMMUNE DISORDERS. (Don't panic here folks, just ask them and get it checked) (all of the ones I am talking about are very treatable).
GENERAL TIPS:
1. Realize that this disease requires DAILY DISCIPLINE/MAINTENANCE/PAMPERING OF YOUR SKIN, or it will get worse.
2. Depression and Anxiety will worsen this disorder. (they cause an elevation of cortisol, which the yeast thrive on!). So get any emotional problems treated by a professional, if you are depressed or anxious- this should help your skin!
3. You must have meticulous hygiene, and you can no longer be "the lazy cave man, who says "oh I'll shave tomorrow....next week".
4. Take charge, and this thing cannot control your life.
5. Read everything you can get your hands on, and educate yourselves about the 3 conditions I have discussed, from CREDIBLE sources. BE SURE they are CREDIBLE sources folks. Some might be, ***edited by moderator*** web addresses not allowed, etc.
Go to your local library if necessary. Print up articles. File them. Become your own expert.
6. Go to a Good Dermatologist who will spend time with you, or even a family doctor if they are willing to work with you and spend time with you and listen to you. A good doctor is not always the one with the most qualifications, but the one with the investigative wit, tenacity, and interest in your case. If you are not happy- MOVE ON TO ANOTHER DOCTOR.
7. You may want to bring articles of interest (i.e., pictures of the face mites) to your doctor for discussion for emphasis. (these mites are actually NEW in medicine, and many doctors are unaware of them).
8. Don't be afraid of making your doctor mad, or of getting another doctor, if he is not willing to hear what you have to say and try to seek out the best treatment. THIS IS NOT A POPULARITY CONTEST. YOUR HEALTH COMES FIRST.
9. Consider asking your doc to test you for: 1) immune deficiencies, and 2) Auto-immune disorders (i.e., Lupus, etc.)
10. INSIST on a "Demodex Scraping" if you are at a dermatologist who is familiar with them, and/or does them. (they will look at a scraping under the microscope for the face mites). (you can just ask the derm's nurse if they ever do demodex scrapings, she'll know)
11. INSIST on a SCRAPING of the RASH for YEAST CULTURES, BACTERIAL CULTURES, and HISTOLOGY. Tell them you want to know a "Laboratory Confirmed Diagnosis", not just a "Clinical Diagnosis". (the fungal cultures will take weeks to get back, but it's worth it- mark your calendar, and CALL THEM to follow up, don't expect them to call you, nowadays, medical mishaps happen way too often).
12. Once 9, 10, 11, is done- a more concrete diagnosis can be reached, things can be excluded, and treatment can be guided to your specific situation.
13. Steroid Creams will usually get your condition under control fast. The tradeoff: they will cause THINNING of the skin over time and can cause "red blood vessels" to become visible on your face. (this is part of Rosacea, called telengectasias). Steroids can also cause "rebound" or withdrawal flareups.
Do do I use steroid cream? Yes. There is a place for them in my opinion. But they should be used sparingly. I use a weak steroid ointment- for mild flares, or 1% hydrocortisone for more troublesome flares. However, if one maintains GOOD HYGIENE, and GOOD SKIN CARE, you will find it is very rare that he requires topical steroids. Even then, I would probably only use it when I needed a quick fix (i.e., such as social event coming up). Also, be very careful of the STRENGTH of steroid cream you put on your face- make sure it is one for the face. Using too potent a cream can thin the skin.
I intended to go more into the specific medications, but it is late at night, and I'm tired, so I will just tell JUST A FEW of my favorite meds (and some OTHER TIPS) and you can ask your docs about them. Here goes:
PRESCRIPTION ONLY:
Nizoral Cream (Ketoconazole Cream 2%) - Still one of the best Antifungal Creams- works great to kill the specific yeast we discussed.
Nizoral Shampoo (Ketoconazole Shampoo 2%)
Permethrin Cream - great to kill the demodex face mites. (also kills scabies, lice, etc); good for those with pustules/acne;
Metrogel- an antifungal and antibiotic; reduces the demodex mite population on the skin.
Triamcinolone Ointment 0.1% - is a very weak steroid for the face; yet is very moisturizing; can be put on at night.
Hydrocortisone Cream 1% - or other steroid creams (there are many) for flairs.
RECOMMENDED OVER-THE-COUNTER FACIAL PRODUCTS:
Aveeno Positively Radiant Cleanser (or Pads)- The best, non-irritating facial cleanser- with nutrients, I have found; Buy at Walmart.
Shaving Cream: Nivea For Men, Sensitive Shaving Gel, Alcohol-Free (white/blue can) ; Wal-Mart
Nivea For Men, Sensitive Lotion; (apply within 2 minutes of shaving) (always keep face clean and moisturized) ("baby your skin")
BEST RAZOR:
Panasonic ES-LA93-K Vortex Men's Shaver- $192.26 at Amazon; I recommend switching to a VERY GOOD electric razor. This one is expensive, but worth it. It is also excellent for scalp shaving.
FOR SHAVING ON THE GO:
Braun M90 Mobile Shaver, $19.62 at Amazon, Great way to shave on the go, if you are a busy person.
(Note: I would recommend waiting until your face is doing well to switch razors, as to not further irritate it)
GENERAL TIPS: Maintaining good hydration and fluid balance (i.e., drinking water) is important for skin health. Maintain Good Nutrition, generally, I recommend a multi-vitamin, b-complex, and fish oil. (that's about it) (don't over do it on the supplements) (there are tons of claims out there, and I have yet to find any that work).
15-20 min. SUNLIGHT: HELPFUL for Seb Derm, but usually aggravates rosacea. You may have to experiment and see what works for you.
HOT WATER: DEFINITELY aggravates Rosacea; and to a lesser degree, Seb Derm. (best to use cool or tap water on face)
FOODS: Rosacea- often worsened by hot food, hot tea/coffee/beverages; Liquor; spicey foods such as jalapeno peppers, etc.; experiment!
NOTE: No Rubbing alcohol on face. Ever. This is known to provoke Rosacea.
VERY IMPORTANT: RULE OF THUMB IN REGARDS TO FACE PRODUCTS: IF IT BURNS WHEN YOU PUT IT ON YOUR FACE, DO NOT USE THE PRODUCT.
DO NOT USE SOAP ON THE FACE, ETC. - BABY YOUR FACE. USE THE CORRECT REGIMEN, ALL THE TIME, EVERYTIME.
GOOD LUCK GUYS,
JStew, M.D.
As a General Practice Physician, who has suffered with this same condition discussed in this forum for over 20 years, I have decided to respond with a long post. I shall attempt to tell you more than you care to know about this nagging condition, in hopes that you may find peace and solice from this troubling, tormenting, time-consuming, financially-draining, and self-defeating disease.
If I help one person to take control of this condition, it was worth my time.
The vast majority of the posts I have read, seem to suffer from CLASSIC: Seborrheic Dermatitis (As I have for years). And, some of you may have a mild component of "Rosacea" (a redness disorder, extreme sensitivity to any facial product, sunlight, and possibly foods), or "Psoriasis" (a cell-turnover disorder or "skin shedding disorder") mixed-in with your "Seb Derm".
In this post, I will attempt to tell you: 1) the basic CLASSIC MEDICAL APPROACH to treatment of this Seb Derm; and 2) methods that may not be completely conventional, but are based on MEDICAL SCIENCE and have been shown to work in many cases.
IT IS IMPORTANT TO KEEP IN MIND, THAT THE SKIN IS A UNIQUE ENTITY. NO TWO SKIN CONDITIONS ARE THE SAME. This is largely because of genetic factors, skin type, ethnicity, climate, and even your state of "hydration" can affect your skin. SO, WHAT WORKS FOR ONE PERSON, MAY NOT WORK FOR YOU. TREATING SKIN CONDITIONS IS LARGELY TRIAL AND ERROR.
With Seborrheic Dermatitis, A.K.A. "Seborrhea", A.K.A. "Dandruff" in common terms (A.K.A. "Cradle Cap" in Babies) one will have: 1) crusting/flaking in any of these areas: mustache, beard, or scalp. 2) itching; 3) redness. There may also occasionally be a "greasy" clearish-yellow, oily "ooze" from these areas, during a severe flare-up (this is "sebum", flowing from the inflamed sebum glands).
As a physician, I can tell you that [medical school teaches] that this is caused by a yeast called Malassezia furfur, formerly known as Pityrosporum ovale, on the skin surface, which over a period of days overgrows leading to an ARMY of yeast on the skin surface. These yeast release mycolic acids on the skin, which are very irritating to it. This also alters skin pH.
You then..... S C R A T C H like a mangy dog! You rub BACTERIA + YEAST into your broken skin, further irritating it.
It does not appreciate this!
It gets MAD! The fact that you just mowed the lawn, and sweat like a water buffalo also helps the yeast to grow, as they love the warm humid environment.
Now. Something that med school DID NOT and still to my knowledge DOES NOT [YET] teach, but [MOST] Dermatologists, and other Physicians accept as another important contributing factor to "Seb Derm" can be [get ready, I hope you are sitting down], face mites.
Now, these are primarily associated with Rosacea, not seb derm. However, there is becoming more evidence to show that there is more overlap between these two diseases. These "FACE MITES" are actual little bugs, also known as "eyelash mites", that live down in the base of the hair follice, inside the Sebum gland. The more scientific name of this mite is called Demodex folliculorum. In dogs, a variant similar to this is what causes "Red Mange". If you would like to see a picture of these mites just google them.
Now that I have you totally scared to death: Realize this- EVERYONE has these mites normally- to some degree. These live on everyone. However, those with Rosacea, and [probably] seb derm as well, have MASSIVE AMOUNTS of these mites on their faces and skin surface. These mites, both male and female, only come out at night, while you are sleeping, they breed, and then crawl back into their hole, which is: the Sebum Gland. All these mites living in your sebum gland help keep it inflamed and irritated, and encourage it to pour out sebum. (theoretically). This thick oily sebum, is then "Thanksgiving Dinner" for the YEAST!
So, the COMBINATION: 1) YEAST; + 2) FACE MITES; and 3) NORMAL FACE BACTERIA; (particularly Staph), tends to keep your face in a Royal Mess!
It is speculated that the reason one person gets seb derm, but another person does NOT get seb derm, is because of TWO FACTORS:
1) GENETICS- Seb Derm itself, is not inherited; however, the tendency to GET Seb derm IS inherited. What one actually inherits, is an INABILITY of the immune system to [for some reason] fight off either the fungus, or the face mites, or both ==> ultimately allowing fungal overgrowth and redness and itching.
2) IMMUNE SYSTEM VULNERABILITES- If you have had Seb Derm since, let's say, High School, you most likely have the genetic type. If however, you are well into adulthood, and suddenly develop Seb Derm for the first time ever, and have never had any "dandruff" type problems before- you should probably ask your doctor to do some blood work to check your immune system- as SEB DERM can be the FIRST SIGN of other more serious IMMUNE DISORDERS. (Don't panic here folks, just ask them and get it checked) (all of the ones I am talking about are very treatable).
GENERAL TIPS:
1. Realize that this disease requires DAILY DISCIPLINE/MAINTENANCE/PAMPERING OF YOUR SKIN, or it will get worse.
2. Depression and Anxiety will worsen this disorder. (they cause an elevation of cortisol, which the yeast thrive on!). So get any emotional problems treated by a professional, if you are depressed or anxious- this should help your skin!
3. You must have meticulous hygiene, and you can no longer be "the lazy cave man, who says "oh I'll shave tomorrow....next week".
4. Take charge, and this thing cannot control your life.
5. Read everything you can get your hands on, and educate yourselves about the 3 conditions I have discussed, from CREDIBLE sources. BE SURE they are CREDIBLE sources folks. Some might be, ***edited by moderator*** web addresses not allowed, etc.
Go to your local library if necessary. Print up articles. File them. Become your own expert.
6. Go to a Good Dermatologist who will spend time with you, or even a family doctor if they are willing to work with you and spend time with you and listen to you. A good doctor is not always the one with the most qualifications, but the one with the investigative wit, tenacity, and interest in your case. If you are not happy- MOVE ON TO ANOTHER DOCTOR.
7. You may want to bring articles of interest (i.e., pictures of the face mites) to your doctor for discussion for emphasis. (these mites are actually NEW in medicine, and many doctors are unaware of them).
8. Don't be afraid of making your doctor mad, or of getting another doctor, if he is not willing to hear what you have to say and try to seek out the best treatment. THIS IS NOT A POPULARITY CONTEST. YOUR HEALTH COMES FIRST.
9. Consider asking your doc to test you for: 1) immune deficiencies, and 2) Auto-immune disorders (i.e., Lupus, etc.)
10. INSIST on a "Demodex Scraping" if you are at a dermatologist who is familiar with them, and/or does them. (they will look at a scraping under the microscope for the face mites). (you can just ask the derm's nurse if they ever do demodex scrapings, she'll know)
11. INSIST on a SCRAPING of the RASH for YEAST CULTURES, BACTERIAL CULTURES, and HISTOLOGY. Tell them you want to know a "Laboratory Confirmed Diagnosis", not just a "Clinical Diagnosis". (the fungal cultures will take weeks to get back, but it's worth it- mark your calendar, and CALL THEM to follow up, don't expect them to call you, nowadays, medical mishaps happen way too often).
12. Once 9, 10, 11, is done- a more concrete diagnosis can be reached, things can be excluded, and treatment can be guided to your specific situation.
13. Steroid Creams will usually get your condition under control fast. The tradeoff: they will cause THINNING of the skin over time and can cause "red blood vessels" to become visible on your face. (this is part of Rosacea, called telengectasias). Steroids can also cause "rebound" or withdrawal flareups.
Do do I use steroid cream? Yes. There is a place for them in my opinion. But they should be used sparingly. I use a weak steroid ointment- for mild flares, or 1% hydrocortisone for more troublesome flares. However, if one maintains GOOD HYGIENE, and GOOD SKIN CARE, you will find it is very rare that he requires topical steroids. Even then, I would probably only use it when I needed a quick fix (i.e., such as social event coming up). Also, be very careful of the STRENGTH of steroid cream you put on your face- make sure it is one for the face. Using too potent a cream can thin the skin.
I intended to go more into the specific medications, but it is late at night, and I'm tired, so I will just tell JUST A FEW of my favorite meds (and some OTHER TIPS) and you can ask your docs about them. Here goes:
PRESCRIPTION ONLY:
Nizoral Cream (Ketoconazole Cream 2%) - Still one of the best Antifungal Creams- works great to kill the specific yeast we discussed.
Nizoral Shampoo (Ketoconazole Shampoo 2%)
Permethrin Cream - great to kill the demodex face mites. (also kills scabies, lice, etc); good for those with pustules/acne;
Metrogel- an antifungal and antibiotic; reduces the demodex mite population on the skin.
Triamcinolone Ointment 0.1% - is a very weak steroid for the face; yet is very moisturizing; can be put on at night.
Hydrocortisone Cream 1% - or other steroid creams (there are many) for flairs.
RECOMMENDED OVER-THE-COUNTER FACIAL PRODUCTS:
Aveeno Positively Radiant Cleanser (or Pads)- The best, non-irritating facial cleanser- with nutrients, I have found; Buy at Walmart.
Shaving Cream: Nivea For Men, Sensitive Shaving Gel, Alcohol-Free (white/blue can) ; Wal-Mart
Nivea For Men, Sensitive Lotion; (apply within 2 minutes of shaving) (always keep face clean and moisturized) ("baby your skin")
BEST RAZOR:
Panasonic ES-LA93-K Vortex Men's Shaver- $192.26 at Amazon; I recommend switching to a VERY GOOD electric razor. This one is expensive, but worth it. It is also excellent for scalp shaving.
FOR SHAVING ON THE GO:
Braun M90 Mobile Shaver, $19.62 at Amazon, Great way to shave on the go, if you are a busy person.
(Note: I would recommend waiting until your face is doing well to switch razors, as to not further irritate it)
GENERAL TIPS: Maintaining good hydration and fluid balance (i.e., drinking water) is important for skin health. Maintain Good Nutrition, generally, I recommend a multi-vitamin, b-complex, and fish oil. (that's about it) (don't over do it on the supplements) (there are tons of claims out there, and I have yet to find any that work).
15-20 min. SUNLIGHT: HELPFUL for Seb Derm, but usually aggravates rosacea. You may have to experiment and see what works for you.
HOT WATER: DEFINITELY aggravates Rosacea; and to a lesser degree, Seb Derm. (best to use cool or tap water on face)
FOODS: Rosacea- often worsened by hot food, hot tea/coffee/beverages; Liquor; spicey foods such as jalapeno peppers, etc.; experiment!
NOTE: No Rubbing alcohol on face. Ever. This is known to provoke Rosacea.
VERY IMPORTANT: RULE OF THUMB IN REGARDS TO FACE PRODUCTS: IF IT BURNS WHEN YOU PUT IT ON YOUR FACE, DO NOT USE THE PRODUCT.
DO NOT USE SOAP ON THE FACE, ETC. - BABY YOUR FACE. USE THE CORRECT REGIMEN, ALL THE TIME, EVERYTIME.
GOOD LUCK GUYS,
JStew, M.D.
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The first product Ive found that seems to work is L'Oreal Expert Post-Shave Balm (ceramide 5) - Ive tried post shaves by just about every company but this one does seem to help calm down the redness.
It's about £8 in UK from Boots.
It's best to wait around 30mins after shaving before applying it as I find if you use it directly after it stings and can make the redness worse.
It's about £8 in UK from Boots.
It's best to wait around 30mins after shaving before applying it as I find if you use it directly after it stings and can make the redness worse.
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Sorry for bumping this old topic but has anyone who posted here actually found a cure?
Here is what I have http://img709.imageshack.us/img709/839/dsc05833nw.jpg
it actually looks a little lighter than normal cause of the lighting. Helpz!
Here is what I have http://img709.imageshack.us/img709/839/dsc05833nw.jpg
it actually looks a little lighter than normal cause of the lighting. Helpz!
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So I've still been looking for a cure to my ailment. I'm going to try an over the counter rosacea treatment in hopes that it will fix the problem because all the dermatologists I have seen never seem to be able to help.
When I say I have a "mustache" it's not really a true mustache I am forced to shave the hair to stuble. If I shave all the way the redness is insane. It's like this purplish/reddish rash that is horrible and I have always been very self conscious about it. This problem also occurs on my chin (below lower lip) so basically I am forced to always wear the 'designer' stubble look. I have very thick hair that grows fast and I wish I could shave fully.
It's especially embarrassing in close up pictures when you can REALLY see the redness. It's literally like a rash around my upper and lower lip. I've literally tired and wasted so much money on stupid products designed to treat redness, swelling, razor burn and NOTHING has worked!
Anyone made any progress?
When I say I have a "mustache" it's not really a true mustache I am forced to shave the hair to stuble. If I shave all the way the redness is insane. It's like this purplish/reddish rash that is horrible and I have always been very self conscious about it. This problem also occurs on my chin (below lower lip) so basically I am forced to always wear the 'designer' stubble look. I have very thick hair that grows fast and I wish I could shave fully.
It's especially embarrassing in close up pictures when you can REALLY see the redness. It's literally like a rash around my upper and lower lip. I've literally tired and wasted so much money on stupid products designed to treat redness, swelling, razor burn and NOTHING has worked!
Anyone made any progress?
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Hey I don't know if anyone will read this.. But I have the same problem. It started when I was about 17 and I think it was caused by wearing a beardnet (i had a goatee) at a meat processing plant I worked at. After wearing it for like a month or so I developed this rash on my upper lip (where a mustache would be) and it was actually the worst thing to happen to an already self conscious enough teenager. It was red pretty much all the time, and would become inflamed and bright red after I played any sort of sport that would make me sweat or get my heart pumping.. And my skin was already super sensitive before this rash developed. My mom took me to a dermatologist eventually that year and i was prescribed a topical steroid of sorts which never really seemed to do anything.
Anyways I'm now 24 and I've dealt with this the whole time. I quit using that steroid creme forever ago, but I've found different ways throughout the years to deal with it along with noticing how this little b****r works. The latest thing I've found that really seems fight off the redness/flakiness/itchyness is Aveeno Eczema lotion during the day, and after shaving, coupled with Aveeno Nighttime therapy lotion used at night.. haha fancy that. I'm pretty sure its the oatmeal that really seems to really soothe the symptoms.
Also heres a few things you can do to avoid inflammation.
1. Take warm showers.. NOT HOT! I noticed after I got out of the shower it was always bright red.. cooler showers helped immensely.
2. Shave with cold water. i know this is weird but it help reduce the irritation/redness caused by the razor tenfold
3. I quit shaving with soaps and foams and switched to Neutrogena Sensitive Skin Shave Cream. Works like a charm and also helps eliminate ingrown hairs and razor burn.
4. After shaving follow with Every Man Jack post shave lotion. I found it at target and it says its suitable for all skin types. I gave it a try and it works well. I suppose you could probably cut this out and just use the Aveeno Eczema lotion but im old fashioned.. i like to use an aftershave of some sort.
Also few more things. I've tried shaving with an electric rotary razor and it definitely helps keep the redness to a minimum but i never get a close shave, and my skin feels terrible afterwards, like theres stuff all over it. I also only shave a few times a week. But shaving more often than not is always better. Shaving after letting it grow for a week or so is painful, and usually just sets me back to the raised, itchy red rash. If you do this though, use an electric trimmer first to shorten it up. Helps a ton. Oh yea I use a 2 bladed razor.. I just always assumed if I used the 5blade ones it would just dominate my already sensitive skin. But its not a disposable two blade, its Gillette sensor excel or something like that. still really expensive for a damn razor. Anyways hope that some of this helps someone out there.. I know how hard it is to deal with this! You feel like everyone is looking at your bright effin red upper lip. But trust me it is possible to live comfortably with it. Hopefully what worked for me, works for you. Also must add that i hope the f*ckin dermatologists would get there act together and figure this sh*t out asap. I still can't find anywhere that can say for sure what this is...
Anyways I'm now 24 and I've dealt with this the whole time. I quit using that steroid creme forever ago, but I've found different ways throughout the years to deal with it along with noticing how this little b****r works. The latest thing I've found that really seems fight off the redness/flakiness/itchyness is Aveeno Eczema lotion during the day, and after shaving, coupled with Aveeno Nighttime therapy lotion used at night.. haha fancy that. I'm pretty sure its the oatmeal that really seems to really soothe the symptoms.
Also heres a few things you can do to avoid inflammation.
1. Take warm showers.. NOT HOT! I noticed after I got out of the shower it was always bright red.. cooler showers helped immensely.
2. Shave with cold water. i know this is weird but it help reduce the irritation/redness caused by the razor tenfold
3. I quit shaving with soaps and foams and switched to Neutrogena Sensitive Skin Shave Cream. Works like a charm and also helps eliminate ingrown hairs and razor burn.
4. After shaving follow with Every Man Jack post shave lotion. I found it at target and it says its suitable for all skin types. I gave it a try and it works well. I suppose you could probably cut this out and just use the Aveeno Eczema lotion but im old fashioned.. i like to use an aftershave of some sort.
Also few more things. I've tried shaving with an electric rotary razor and it definitely helps keep the redness to a minimum but i never get a close shave, and my skin feels terrible afterwards, like theres stuff all over it. I also only shave a few times a week. But shaving more often than not is always better. Shaving after letting it grow for a week or so is painful, and usually just sets me back to the raised, itchy red rash. If you do this though, use an electric trimmer first to shorten it up. Helps a ton. Oh yea I use a 2 bladed razor.. I just always assumed if I used the 5blade ones it would just dominate my already sensitive skin. But its not a disposable two blade, its Gillette sensor excel or something like that. still really expensive for a damn razor. Anyways hope that some of this helps someone out there.. I know how hard it is to deal with this! You feel like everyone is looking at your bright effin red upper lip. But trust me it is possible to live comfortably with it. Hopefully what worked for me, works for you. Also must add that i hope the f*ckin dermatologists would get there act together and figure this sh*t out asap. I still can't find anywhere that can say for sure what this is...
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Thanks for all the support, comments, replies.
So as of today here is the situation: In desperation I ordered an over the counter product called 'Prosacea' off of Amazon designed to treat rosacea. Also considering I had another doctor tell me I had rosacea and since it was relatively inexpensive I thought I'd give it a try. I used this product for a few weeks but it did next to nothing to reduce the appearance of redness however; it did provide a very soothing feeling after I applied it.
Today I decided to go see yet ANOTHER dermatologist to see if I could fix this problem. I have very mixed feelings about dermatologists because I have seen dermatologists in the past who have failed to reduce the symptoms.
So during my appointment the doctor confirmed I without a doubt had Dermatitis and and more specifically eczema(?). So he prescribed me two things: An anti-inflammatory steroid cream called' Desonide' and a shampoo called 'Ketoconazole' Shampoo that apparently is designed to reduce dandruff (which apparently has been proven to reduce dermatitis symptoms). I'll give these a try for a week and report back.
Not to be negative I just feel like I'm never going to be able to get rid of this redness that's been plaguing me for so many years! I've literally spent hundreds of dollars on doctors visits, over the counter creams, and just about every other product you can imagine to 'treat' redness and NOTHING has worked! All I want to do is just get rid of this stupid redness!
I'm just crossing my fingers that this prescription cream works!
So as of today here is the situation: In desperation I ordered an over the counter product called 'Prosacea' off of Amazon designed to treat rosacea. Also considering I had another doctor tell me I had rosacea and since it was relatively inexpensive I thought I'd give it a try. I used this product for a few weeks but it did next to nothing to reduce the appearance of redness however; it did provide a very soothing feeling after I applied it.
Today I decided to go see yet ANOTHER dermatologist to see if I could fix this problem. I have very mixed feelings about dermatologists because I have seen dermatologists in the past who have failed to reduce the symptoms.
So during my appointment the doctor confirmed I without a doubt had Dermatitis and and more specifically eczema(?). So he prescribed me two things: An anti-inflammatory steroid cream called' Desonide' and a shampoo called 'Ketoconazole' Shampoo that apparently is designed to reduce dandruff (which apparently has been proven to reduce dermatitis symptoms). I'll give these a try for a week and report back.
Not to be negative I just feel like I'm never going to be able to get rid of this redness that's been plaguing me for so many years! I've literally spent hundreds of dollars on doctors visits, over the counter creams, and just about every other product you can imagine to 'treat' redness and NOTHING has worked! All I want to do is just get rid of this stupid redness!
I'm just crossing my fingers that this prescription cream works!
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Hey there, I have had similar problems. I went to see the doctor, he diagnosed cancer. I had several removed, others on my fore head were frozen off. others on the moustache area were tested and come back as not cancer, and was prescribed cortisone creams, that did little. One on the moustache area was a little worrying as there was a mild itch from time to time. I will be going back to get it tested again, incase it is another one. Beware of red rash areas, especially if there is an itch from time to time. it is not melanoma, but is another cancer that must be removed before it spreads. Check it now, and dont rely on the first doctor you see. I went five years after the 1st doctor said it was nothing to worry about, it went bad and bigger and i got a BIG CUT to get rid of it. Get another opinion from your local cancer clinic.
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Hey csrocker.. hows it goin with the new steroid cream and dandruff shampoo? Seeing any results?
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I somehow did not see StewieMD's post on the page before. I think he presented a lot of really valuable information/solutions to the problems we are facing with this condition and I would recommend to everyone who is a part of this thread to go and read it. I personally am going to do everything I can to follow his instructions and will report back with any success/failure.
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For those of you who are suffering from this problem, I have a pretty definitive answer as to what it is, but not so much on the treatment so I apologize for that. Do any of you get the same issue with your scalp? If this is the case than it is likely Seborrhiec dermatitis. The symptoms vary, but for me It's dry flaky skin on my scalp akin to dandruff only when I don't wash my hair it leads to patches. The same goes for my beard area. If I don't shave it gets extremely dry, flaky, and eventually patchy. Every single time I shave my face, it turns bright red and painful. The reason this problem occurs is an excess of a natural yeast produced by the body. I've found some success with a perscription shampoo and a topical liquid called Clobetasol propionate topical solution. It works wonders on my scalp, however when I just tried to apply it to my upper lip it burned like no tomorrow. Either that means it worked, or it's a bad idea. Will report back. Hope you can find some solutions to your problems.
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I've been following this thread for several months and it describes my conditions. I wanted to register and keep subscribed to this thread.
To recap:
- I am clean shaven, and have redness on my upper lip, two spots on my chin and a spot under my eyebrow
- I have to shave every 2 days to keep rash at a minimum, longer facial hair is too irritating to shave and makes it worse
- If I grow a full beard, i experience flaking in the same areas as when shaving
- Occasionally the day after a shave my chin will have some yellowish small faking, which from what Ive read is a problem with yeast
Phase 1
I too went to the dermatologist recently and was subscribed Desonide lotion, a steroid creme. I've used it almost every morning and night for about 3 weeks, and it has only helped a little.
Phase 2
I am planning on taking the advice of some here to try (1) an aftershave with alcohol, (2) dandruff shampoo/product (applied to my bare skin on lip), (3) vitamins. I am going to make an effort to combat the yeast and kill any face mites (from what I read).
Phase 3
If all else fails I will go to a dermatologist and take the advice of the doctor who posted about getting my skin scrapped and sent to a lab.
I'll be back.
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I have the same dilemma. Mine just started a few months ago. I think too, as a previous post, it is yeast that is present on the skin. I live in a warm climate, I recently started working out a lot, very hard, sweating profusely. Unknowingly, I must scratch my face with the sweat penetrating the scratch. I have tried a few different things, although I have had dermatitis on my scalp for years. It has migrated south, around my ears, now to around my nose, chin, etc. I have noticed it diminished or actually moves around at times. I recently have tried Oil of Oregano. Worth looking into as a antifungal. If anyone decides to use it, you must use a carrier oil, e.v. olive oil or coconut oil, because put directly onto skin it will give you a serious burn. But there is no other substance that is a better antifungal you will find.
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Ok I just got the following in the mail:
Permethrin Cream - great to kill the demodex face mites
Nizoral Cream (Ketoconazole Cream 2%) - Antifungal CreamsI am currently testing it on the inside of my forearm first.
Basically my plan is to use the Permethrin Cream which should take 12 hours to kill face mites. Then follow up with the Nizoral cream to control the yeast.
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Wow. This may be a little early to say this but I am seeing drastic results after a few days of treatment. I started with one treatment of Permethrin Cream (kill face lice), I put it on my face before bed and washed it off 8 hours later before I went to work. My face did tingle very slightly, the directions said it might do that. That evening before bed I started putting the Nizoral Cream on before bed. I noticed something drastic happening after two days. Several days later I wanted to check in with you all.
I purchased both the creams over the internet and took a few days to get here.
If you haven't already, go back to the bottom of page 3 of this thread and read StewieMD's post
I purchased both the creams over the internet and took a few days to get here.
If you haven't already, go back to the bottom of page 3 of this thread and read StewieMD's post
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