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Effective Natural Remedies for Seborrheic Dermatitis Relief

| Modified on Nov 25, 2024
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Vitamin D3

Seborrheic Dermatitis, a chronic inflammatory skin condition, often causes redness, itching, and flaky patches, primarily on the scalp, but can affect other oily body areas. While medical treatments are available, many seek natural remedies for a holistic approach to skin health. This article explores effective natural remedies such as vitamin D3, apple cider vinegar, and diet adjustments.

Understanding Seborrheic Dermatitis

Seborrheic Dermatitis is a common, chronic skin condition that primarily affects areas of the skin where sebaceous glands are most abundant. These areas include the scalp, face (especially the nose and eyebrows), ears, and upper chest.

Characteristics of Seborrheic Dermatitis

  • Appearance: The most noticeable symptoms are dandruff on the scalp, scaly patches, red skin, and stubborn dandruff that may seem greasy or oily. These scales might flake off, resembling a severe case of dandruff.
  • Affected Areas: While the scalp is the most common site, Seborrheic Dermatitis can also appear on the face, behind the ears, on the eyebrows, and in other areas with high sebaceous activity, like the upper back and chest.
  • Symptom Fluctuation: The severity of symptoms can vary with time. Many individuals experience flare-ups interspersed with periods of mild symptoms or even complete remission.

Natural Remedies for Seborrheic Dermatitis

Vitamin D3

Vitamin D3 plays a pivotal role in skin health. It's known to modulate the immune system and potentially reduce the inflammation associated with Seborrheic Dermatitis. Studies suggest Vitamin D3 deficiency may exacerbate skin conditions, including Seborrheic Dermatitis. Therefore, ensuring adequate Vitamin D3 intake through diet, supplementation, or sun exposure is vital.

In the context of natural remedies for Seborrheic Dermatitis, an anecdotal account on Earth Clinic offers compelling evidence of the potential benefits of Vitamin D3. Megs from Boston suffered from Seborrheic Dermatitis around the nose for over 40 years shared her experience. Despite trying numerous supplements and topical treatments from doctors and herbalists without success, she accidentally discovered the effectiveness of Vitamin D3 serum drops.

She began taking Vitamin D3 for reasons unrelated to her skin condition, primarily due to inadequate sun exposure. She took approximately 3-5 drops daily, with each drop containing 1,000 IU. Remarkably, she noticed a significant improvement in their skin condition within a day. The small bumps and redness typically associated with Seborrheic Dermatitis around the nose area cleared up noticeably. The SD did not return.

Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV) is one of the most popular natural remedies for Seborrheic Dermatitis, especially among the Earth Clinic community. People have found success using ACV both topically and internally for SD.

Tea Tree Oil 

Known for its antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties, it can reduce Seborrheic Dermatitis symptoms. Dilute it with a carrier oil and apply it to the affected areas.

Coconut Oil

This oil is excellent for moisturizing the skin and reducing scaling and itching. Its antifungal properties also help reduce the yeast that contributes to seborrheic dermatitis.

Aloe Vera 

Renowned for its soothing properties, aloe vera can calm irritated skin and moisturize, reducing dryness and flakiness.

Dietary Changes

An often-overlooked factor in managing Seborrheic Dermatitis is diet, particularly the consumption of dairy products. Research and anecdotal evidence suggest that dairy can exacerbate the symptoms of Seborrheic Dermatitis for some individuals. Understanding this connection is crucial for those seeking natural ways to alleviate their skin condition.

Why Dairy Might Worsen Symptoms

  • Inflammatory Response: Dairy products, especially those from cow's milk, can trigger an inflammatory response in some individuals. Since Seborrheic Dermatitis is an inflammatory skin condition, consuming dairy might worsen the symptoms.
  • Hormonal Effects: Dairy contains hormones and bioactive molecules that can affect the body's hormonal balance. This disruption can potentially influence skin conditions, including the worsening of Seborrheic Dermatitis.
  • Yeast Overgrowth: Some studies suggest that dairy products may contribute to yeast overgrowth in the body. Since Seborrheic Dermatitis is linked to Malassezia yeast, dairy consumption might aggravate the condition.

Herbal Remedies

Herbs like Calendula and Chamomile can be used as teas or topical applications. They are known for their anti-inflammatory and healing properties, relieving the symptoms of Seborrheic Dermatitis.

Conclusion

Natural remedies for Seborrheic Dermatitis, including using natural oils, dietary changes, and stress management, can offer relief without the side effects of conventional treatments. Incorporating Vitamin D3 into your regimen can be particularly beneficial.

Read below to learn which natural remedies and supplements have helped or cured Earth Clinic readers with seborrheic dermatitis and let us know which remedy helped you!

Related Links:

Cradle Cap Remedies for Children
Natural Cures for Dandruff

The comments below reflect the personal experiences and opinions of readers and do not represent medical advice or the views of this website. The information shared has not been evaluated by the FDA and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or prevent any disease or health condition. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for medical concerns.
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Posted by noel (California) on 08/17/2023
 ★★★★★

I've been battling persistent seborrheic dermatitis on my scalp even in my beard for over a couple years. I think I finally got it under control. I try to eat healthy (no processed foods, fast food, sodas etc) But I dont think the diet did much for seborrheic dermatitis, only the medications helped. I also recommend avoiding Coffee & greasy food as it might feed seborrheic dermatitis through creating unwanted oily skin. The routine that helped me:

1. shaving head so you can apply the medicine on the scalp.

2. ketokonazole shampoo 2% (you can get 1% at the store its called Nizoral). I put the shampoo in DRY for and let it stay half to most the day.

3. selsun blue shampoo. (the kind made with Selenium sulfide). When I get in the shower to rinse the Ketokonazole off I put the Selsun Blue in and leave 5-10 minutes.

4. Clindamycin Phosphate Topical Lotion. 1% (You might need prescription for this one, not sure if you can get online)

i did all 4 of the above, and it seems to be in remission. the true test is when the hair gets longer.

Replied by noel
(merced, ca)
10/26/2023

Just want to update from my above post, I've been watching a lot of videos on skin conditions and many Holistic Doctors saying many skin conditions are autoimmune related. So I've been on a Gluten Free (no wheat, barley, rye, etc) diet for a couple weeks now and it seems to have cured my dandruff / sebbhoreic derm problems - I dont even need to use the above shampoos anymore. So very important to eat organic, and gluten free if you have Sebbhoreic Derm. or if you have eczema or psoriasis. now reversing the autoimmune disease I feel is the next part, I have ordered Colostrum, Glycine & N-Acetyl Cysteine. Colostrum will hopefully help repair my body while the GlyNAC should detox me from glyphosate.

noel
(california)
02/13/2024

update 02/13/24

I had a few spots on my scalp that wouldn't go away. Maybe they were something other than Seb. Derm because things like ringworm can appear similar to the untrained eye.

I have been applying Clotrimazole 1% to these areas and it seems to be working well. It's sold at Target as Up & Up brand jock itch cream but you can get 10 times the amount for your money on Amazon.

noel
(merced, CA)
08/30/2024

okay, I have more info I wanted to share. I made a previous post that topical Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) cleared up my red flaky skin the best out of everything I tried, but I'm still not convinced this is a permanent cure. Then today I came across a study that claimed a topical Probiotic solution called EUTOPLAC is effective against Seborrheic Dermatitis outbreaks. I was able to find a online pharmacy that sells it, but I have not tried it. Now, we often hear a lot of disease starts in the gut. So if you've been on antibiotics or drink alcohol you are probably like me and there is dysbiosis or an imbalance or lack of intestinal bacteria which can wreak all kinds of havoc on your body from depression to cancer due to improper serotonin levels caused by dysbiosis including Seborrheic Dermatitis perhaps? So here's my theory. Restore the gut biome to its original symbiotic state using probiotics and perhaps the dermatitis will resolve itself. Now the thing about probiotics is there's so many different strains you might have to try a few until you find the correct strain that your gut requires. it could take anywhere from a week up to two months or more for your gut imbalance to be restored by probiotics. I would also advise to eat a lot Apples while on this regimen as they are prebiotic and will feed the probiotics. Another thing I am taking is Organic Grass Fed Colostrum - which is said to have its own probiotic benefits. Another thing that may be considered is enteric coated capsules so the probiotics can survive the stomach acid safely, but I'm not sure if that's completely necessary. I would also eat non-sugar Yogurt & Raw Milk as they will also supply probiotics. I will post the EutoPlac study below if you would like further reading:

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10834955/

Vera
(Colorado)
08/30/2024

Noel, seborrheic dermatitis is curable by high dose biotin. At least 40 mg (not mcg! ) daily for at least 3 months. More and longer may be needed in chronic cases, but you should see some result in that time period. They give 200 mg to babies, it's completely non-toxic. You are right, it is a gut issue. Some people are unable to absorb biotin in their gut, or inadequately so. It's also linked to sun exposure... without sun the body has a hard time absorbing biotin.

It's a good idea to balance the biotin by other B vitamins, esp. B5 (no need for high doses).

If you try it, please let us know how you do! (hug)

noel
(california)
11/25/2024

thank you Vera, I will try Biotin if my current experiment fails. I normally take a B complex supplement but it only has 300mcg. I am trying Miconazole cream which seems to be working great after a couple days. (i assume Ketoconazole or clotrimazole would be effective too, however I am uncertain of how safe they are). Through elimination diet I realized I get breakouts if I drink soda pop, which leads me to believe the fructose feeds it. Much of my confusion came from me having 2 different problems - 1. The Seborrheic Dermatitis, and 2. An acquired allergy to butter or some other food which gives me pustules on my scalp similar to Seborrheic Dermatitis outbreaks. Another thing I would like to note to people with pets (especially if they are outdoor pets that come indoors) that pets could possibly be infected with the fungus and infecting/spreading Dermatitis to their owners.

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Posted by Mj (Tx) on 03/13/2017

This may help shed some light on why ACV needs to be organic (seems people have experimented with both organic and non on this site) to properly heal Seb Derm. I actually just learned this the other day... it really made sense to me. I thought eating organic was just about avoiding all the chemicals/pesticides sprayed on foods - and that is part of it, of course - but it's also that fruits/vegetables grown organically, in an environment without pesticides, must produce their own defense system against fungus, bacteria, "pests". You then ingest this immune boosting, parasite fighting mechanism when you eat organic. Or in this case, place it on a skin infection. WOW. Maybe this is common knowledge to some on this site but I don't think that point is communicated enough. Organic ACV probably has better properties to fight whatever is the root cause of SD.

I've had SD for decades btw and very excited to try something new. But while understanding the organic part, I don't get why ACV would work to treat Seb Derm in the first place. I totally agree with the poster who questioned why vinegar would work on what is considered a yeast infection??? I also went on the anti candida diet to try and help my skin and it definitely recommended avoiding vinegar because it "feeds yeast".

Just a thought... why not throw it out there given traditional medicine can't seem to figure any of this out: maybe it's not actually a yeast based infection? Or are there different "strains" of yeast, just like there are different strains of bacteria? And just like probiotics replace "bad" bacteria in the gut with "good" bacteria... could ACV be replacing or fighting off "bad" or inflammatory yeast strain with a "good" strain? Just thinking outloud...

Replied by Cam
(Edmond, Ok)
07/31/2018

I believe you may have your facts confused. When ingesting organic ACV, it doesn't promote growth of candida unless sugar is added to it. There are different approaches to the fermentation process that don't use sugar and most ACVs do not. Therefore, ACV is great addition for a candida diet.

Replied by Kelly
(Seattle)
07/21/2023
★★★★★

Vinegar is antifungal against candida and antimicrobial against many bugs because of it's acetic acid content. Https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5788933/

Apple Cider Vinegar
Posted by David (San Diego) on 10/08/2016
 ★★★★★

I've had sebohorreic dermatitis/little acne off and on for years now on my face. I tried literally everything to varying degrees of success, but it would always come back. I've been using ACV for about 2 months now on my face and it has completely cleared up my face. It was something that always made me insecure and I'm so thrilled to have it removed from my life. If you're suffering from it, give it a try.

Replied by Roger
(Ga)
08/21/2017

How did you apply it 1. On face 2. Scalp how long did it take to work??? I'm desperate for a cure.

Apple Cider Vinegar
Posted by Lavanya (India) on 08/25/2016
 ★★★★★

I am from India and was prescribed typical creams by dermatologists for SD as mentioned by few of you here. The problem was so bad I had flakes in my chin, around the nose, between my eyebrows and ear lobe. The itchiness was so bad and redness all over. These creams gave me only temporary relief as they were steroids and I started having side effects like facial hair.

I was so worried since I have already changed around 8 dermatologists in last 3 years. I stumbled upon this website and wanted to use Braggs, However one of the online store said it will take 8 days for the delivery, I was so restless that I couldn't wait for 8 days so I bought "Amercian Gargen" ACV from the local super market. Its been a week that I am using diluted solution (1 ACV:1 boiled and cooled water)for application on the skin with cotton ball and drink about 10 ml with warm water as soon as I wake up. First day I had the redness and burning sensation, However it reduced after 3-4 days of application. Its now reduced more than 75% on my face. Though I dont see any flakes in the scalp, I still apply it like I apply oil and wash it with shampoo after 30 min which gives a nice shine. I would suggest not to use Almond/Coconut oil on the face since it increased flakes for me.

I also realized dryness increased when I tried a brand of foundation cream on the face, So I stopped using that as well.

ACV is a great solution to SD without any side effects. Good Luck!

Apple Cider Vinegar
Posted by Cw (Southwest Missouri) on 06/30/2015
 ★★★★★

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Amazing results.

I found this website on June 23, just 1 week ago. The same day I started regiment of 2 tablespoons of organic ACV with "The Mother", 1 teaspoon of raw un filtered honey and 8-10 oz of water 3 times a day and once a day rubbing straight ACV right on my problem areas, mostly on my face and in my ears. The results are increarable, in just 3 days my SD that I have been dealing with for 8 years is completely gone!

If anyone is sitting on the fence, please do not wait any longer, start using this today and get your life back.

Thank you all very much!

Replied by Shay
(Arlington, Va)
09/26/2015

Does anyone rinse their face off after using ACV with the mother in it? If so how long do you keep the ACV on your face? Also, is it natural to burn when applying after a few days?

Replied by Dennis
(Michigan, Usa)
06/10/2016

You might try diluting it with some water to where it won't burn anymore and then as you begin not to burn anymore try to slowly work up to higher strength of ACV. The only thing with this cure is you will smell of vinegar when in public perhaps. It works though and I've tried everything from prescription creams to coconut oil and more. Good luck!

Replied by Nevada
(Bethlehem, Pa)
08/18/2016

So am I correct that you drank this concoction rather than applying it topically?

EC: It appears that the original poster used 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar in a glass of water with honey internally three times daily. And also used it topically once a day as well.

Replied by Marcela
(Crawley, Uk)
10/31/2017

hi, I just started with this.. so I drink mix of ACV with water 2 teaspoons with 250ml warm water + a teaspoon of honey... morning on my empty stomach and then 2x more, noon and before I go to bed. each time, before I put honey in it I just tap a few drops of the mixture on my problem areas (on my face around my mouth and nose), leaving it for a few min and then put an almond oil ... hope it helps

Apple Cider Vinegar
Posted by Thushara Tom (Nj) on 06/09/2015
 ★★★★★

I am 37 yr old female using cortisone creams from 15 yr old on my scalp and face and underarms for SD. Indian and US doctors recommended the same kind of medications for me.

After reading this article, I tried organic ACV for last 5 days and the results are great. My face, behind my ear, underarms are showing much improvement.also my scalp is getting much better and I am keep using it.

I suggest this to all who have SD which is a mental nuisance to all.

Replied by Naddy
(Canada)
12/20/2015

How do you use the ACV? Do you rub it on your areas or you just drink it?

Thomas S.
(Mesa, AZ)
03/24/2024

Both, drinking ACV has a host of benefits that will help SD. Spraying with a solution of 50% ACV and the other half pure water can have amazing results. I have dealt with SD and eczema successfully utilizing this process.

Replied by Linda
(Alpharetta, Ga)
01/19/2016

I have SD on my face (around my nose) and tried ACV diluted 50:50. While it is good to remove the flakes, I find that it dries around my nose which causes cracking and peeling. Has anyone had this issue. I am back to using cortisone on my face and know this can't be a long term solution.

Replied by Mmsg
(Somewhere, Europe)
01/19/2016

Linda, how about moisturizing with coconut oil after the ACV?

Replied by Liz
(Chicago, Il)
01/19/2016

I don't suggest apple cider vinegar for Seb Derm. It will only help temporarily. I tried it over the years for my seb derm on my face, both internally and externally.

Try 3% lugol's iodine applied topically for a week. I have written about this on Earth Clinic previously. I will try to find my post.

My seb derm has not returned 2 years after trying lugol's iodine.

Missm
(Ny)
07/12/2020

How I cleared my scalp issues. I also tried borax etc, various shampoos, apple cider vinegar and was not able to complete get rid of my scalp issues plus the high ph did a number on my hair.

I first used 15 per cent lugols iodine on my scalp spots. Not recommended with those with short hair where you can see your scalp as lugols stained dark brown (you can apply vitamin c diluted to remove stain though it may alter the efficacy of the iodine). The iodine dried spots up and flaked off. I did this for two weeks. You can tell where you have problem areas as the iodine hurts on application, but this is far better than the itching, pain and flakes.


You might try this alternate solution that I now use.

PetMd benzoyl Peroxide Shampoo benzoyl peroxide 3 percent, sulfur 2 percent, salicylic 2 percent. This shampoo is non scented, and goes deep into hair follicles and scalp. I add a dropper full of lugols in the bottle and peppermint and tea tree oil. This works better than any other shampoo or zole formula including derm suggestions and medications. The shampoo is a very good formula.

Now the key here on top of the above which eradication a years worth of horrible scalp issues is cleaning up your diet.

I am a big coffee drinker and was using full fat heavy cream, as I was doing a keto diet. Big discovery, I removed dairy, and potatoes and this sped up and cleared any flares! So now instead of dairy in coffee I use coconut milk, and fries it zucchini fries, or sweet potatoes. Totally worth giving up these foods to not have misery!

Doctors will not tell you about lugols iodine because it's cheap and not big pharma, but there are many studies online about its value. Iodine was a very common cure for years but got pushed aside by big pharma.

Scalp issues can be caused by yeast, mites, bacteria this formula above can treat most.

If you are going to get serious with new regimen, you need to wash all your bedding in hot water, detergent and borax, then dry everything on high heat. Change your pillow cases as often as you can. You may have a mite issue. And again examine your diet. Are you eating lots of dairy, or grain products, nightshades. Start eliminating the foods you eat the most often during the day!

Replied by Jeff
(Qc)
07/30/2016

Liz, would you suggest using this cream near the eyes? I have SD beside my nose, in the upper cheek area and also along my nose moving upwards beside my eyes. I'm using protopic as prescribed by my dermatologist for the SD on the sides of my nose but I've just recently had it spread. Any advice would be appreciated.

Replied by Deidra
(Ill)
10/20/2016

Hi. Can you use this iodine on your scalp?

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Posted by Feathers (Louisville, Ky) on 01/09/2015
 ★★★☆☆

BETTER BUT WITH SIDE EFFECTS

Hello,

to make a story short, been with S/D for more than 10 years. Tried a lot of things to get rid of it.

I will post a more detailed entry later. After reading this site, I bought ACV with the mother and applied 20 mn ago with a 1:1 ratio (ACV / bottled water). The results seem to be here already concerning the flaking, but when I finished applying it I realized parts of my face were red. The excess mixture of ACV and water ran down my face for a while, while I was applying it on my hair.

My face feels hot on the red parts. Any ideas what may have caused this, and will it last?

Those two links are pics of the red zones on my face right now.

http://tinypic.com/r/2yuy29y/8

http://tinypic.com/r/1yoh9j/8

I will post a more detailed history and results later.

Replied by Debbiefudge
(East Sussex, UK)
01/10/2015

The best solution is to stop it from running down your face.

Put a towel on, tip your head back. You may be allergic, it sounds as though it is 'burning' you.

You, MAY get better results with distilled, WHITE vinegar, instead of ACV.

Replied by Alex
(Dallas, Texas)
02/24/2015

The best remedy for SD is Neem juice (comes with a dropper, just put a dab on your trouble spots and it vanishes in 24hrs). The burn on your face when AcV drips is typical nothing to worry except for the discomfort.

Replied by Niamh Healy
(Dublin, Ireland)
03/15/2015

Hi, what do you mean by 'the mother'? I have ACV.

Thanks in anticipation.

EC: Hi, you'll find information about Apple Cider Vinegar with the 'mother' here: https://www.earthclinic.com/remedies/acvinegar.html

Replied by Marcela
(Crawley, Uk)
11/01/2017

you guys use ACV too much concentrated.. even in most bottles 'with the mother' is written that u should use it 2 tea spoons with a plenty of water, at least 200ml..

of course if you use 50:50 or 1:1 it'is too strong for a sensitive face

Apple Cider Vinegar
Posted by Andre1990 (London, UK) on 11/05/2014
 ★★★★★

I created an account just to post about my treatment of Seb Derm with Apple Cider Vinegar.

Bit of background, early 20's male with Seb Derm originally in one eye brow as flaky skin (i didn't know what it was) but it ultimately spread to either side of my nose, forehead, and parts of beard.

Tried many things; at first it was emoillients (moisturising to the extreme), then I self prescribed Ketoconazole (Nizoral cream). The initial treatment stopped the flaking, but was 5% still red and not very pleasant to apply twice daily. The cream then (after 1 year) appeared to stop being as effectively recently.

Then I tried ACV - applied nothing else but Bragg directly to the skin and drank it twice a day minimum. With nothing else - this started to work after about a week and the results were fantastic.

Unfortunately I ran out of the stuff for about 4 days, and the redness has returned slightly but so far so good - very impressed!

Replied by Lindsey
(Annapolis, Md)
08/15/2020

Did you dilute the ACV before putting it on your skin? Or just straight up?

Kelly
(Seattle)
10/26/2020

Lindsey, he said he applied "nothing else but Bragg directly to the skin and drank it twice a day minimum."

Apple Cider Vinegar
Posted by Jennifer (Los Angeles, Ca) on 10/06/2014
 ★★★★★

Very excited to make this post! I've had Seborrheic Dermatitis of the scalp for over 7 years now. Used the typical T-sal shampoos which didn't cure but felt like "maintained" the SD to a manageable degree (i.e. it wasn't really itchy just more of a cosmetic nuisance). Recent flare ups and itchiness led me to finally use the prescription strength corticosteroid which didn't help. I could feel it literally burning, but it would not reduce the size/redness of the patches. Fed up I finally hit google and this message board seemed to have the most "real" responses so I figured why not!

My first night I used pure ACV, no dilution. I didn't have Braggs with "the mother" on hand, but thought it was worth a shot. I applied with a spray bottle and let sit for 30 minutes. I washed it out and my hair/scalp looked great! I'd say 90% was gone.

I then purchased the Braggs ACV and tried a 1:1 dilution. This time I put my hair up (it is long) prior to the ACV treatment so the rest of my hair wouldn't soak up the ACV/make a mess. This was much better! I also applied with an eye-dropper which was more precise than the spray. I let it sit for 30-45 minutes then rinse/shampoo after.

After this second round SD was 95% gone. Within 2 more treatments I haven't seen any major flakes or had any flare ups! A few tiny flakes here and there but nothing like before (where my whole scalp basically came off). With the ACV I used an all natural coconut shampoo, but I have also used Pantene afterward and it was fine.

I was so excited by my results I had my dad try the ACV on his facial SD. He has been using a variety of washes/topicals for years and within 3 days of applying ACV with a cotton swab his SD is gone as well!

Bottom line- give it a try! This experience has really turned me off from traditional medications, not that I was a big fan before. Regular ACV and Braggs both worked, but I am sticking with Braggs because more people seem to recommend it.

Replied by Nick
(Long Island)
01/01/2016

Was wondering what kind of shampoo you use afterwards?

Replied by Jessica
(Fresno, California)
03/31/2016

I'm 27, and I've suffered with SD for as long as I can remember. I always thought it was just itchy scalp but then it spread to my eyelids (not too much) but then to my nose and that is HORRIBLE. There is no way to hide it. Make up makes it even worse. What exactly do I look for what it comes to the ACV?! Any brand? Organic? I'm new to this and so eager to try it out.

Mama To Many
(Tennessee)
04/01/2016

Look for a brand of apple cider vinegar that is organic and raw, "with the mother."

You might also try avoiding shampoos and toothpastes with SLS. (Sodium Laureth Sulphate.)

You can use baking soda to wash your hair and even to brush your teeth.

Many years ago I had dermatitis on my eyelids. It was caused by make up. You might check your health food store for for a natural mineral make up.

Don't use straight vinegar on your eyelids. dilute it a lot. Maybe 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar per cup of water.

~Mama to Many~

Kelly
(Seattle)
07/22/2023

To all Readers:

You don't need to buy ACV with "the mother". There are multiple studies on Pubmed that show it's the acetic acid in the vinegar which is killing the fungus or other microbes and causing the dermatitis -- or other types of wounds -- to heal. So you can buy plain ol' vinegar and get the same results -- maybe even better. Or just buy acetic acid, and dilute it to 1-2% in water.

Apple Cider Vinegar
Posted by Cd (Manchester) on 08/10/2014
 ★★★★★

Hi all,

Thanks for all your posts as it has helped me a lot! :)

I have been suffering from severe Seborrheic Dermatitis on my face for over a year. Nizoral cream (anti fungal) from the doctor has helped but not as much as I would like.

I tried ACV 1:1 with water last week. I apply it at night with a cotton pad after washing my face with warm water and leave it on. The following morning I wash my face with water again and reapply ACV.

Results have been fantastic, no more flaking, very little redness and normal skin. It does smell for around 5 minutes after application, however this is a very small trade off for clear skin.

Thanks all and good luck!

CD

Replied by Cd
(Manchester)
05/25/2015

Also, I have found that using e45 dermatological emollient face wash is excellent and helped the cause a LOT! Thanks all, good luck.

Apple Cider Vinegar
Posted by Tenzin (Australia) on 07/13/2014
 ★★★★★

Hi everyone, Those who got a problem with seborhoic dermatitis and severe dandruff in your scalp. I recommend you to apply apple cider vinegar diluted with water 50/50. For the scalp; apply it on the scalp 30 minutes before washing. It will help wonders. I asked my friend to try it, and she is relieved from that. She used all other medical product; but no results. Finally, she is satisfied with apple cider vinegar.

Friends try it but use organic apple cider vinegar. I wants everyone to be free from stress and wants to see smile on their face.

Apple Cider Vinegar
Posted by Aman (Uk) on 12/26/2013
 ★★★★★

I tried all sorts of things to get rid of my seborrheic dermatitis/dandruff. I had it on my face and my scalp. Tried putting vaseline on at the start as I thought it was dry skin! Didn't work (obviously! ) Tried changing my moisturiser. Didn't work. Aloe Vera only seemed to make the appearance better for about 20 mins and then the flaking would start again. Tried a shampoo with Ciclopirox. Still no improvement. Tried a cream with neem in it. Still didn't notice much improvement.

Then I reached for the apple cider vinegar. I wasn't looking forward to it as I don't love the smell of vinegar. I diluted it to half strength with water and applied it to my scalp, shampooing and washing it out after 10-15 mins. Also applied to my face where affected and washed off with water after 10 mins. I saw improvements within a few days. I had to keep up the treatments for a bit. The facial treatments I did twice a day and the scalp treatments twice a week when washing my hair. 99% of the symptoms cleared up. The rest vanished as soon as warmer weather came in and I got a good dose of sunshine. So far I haven't had to do the facial treatments in the summer or autumn but am waiting to see if I may have to return to them once the weather gets properly cold again. The twice weekly scalp treatments I've kept up. I read somewhere someone suggesting that if the scalp is kept free from dandruff then that might control the whole lot which seemed to make sense to me. Thanks to all those who recommended apple cider vinegar for this condition as it really helped me.

Apple Cider Vinegar
Posted by Miselliej (Prescott, Az) on 11/02/2013

Folks, it must be ACV with the "mother". No other has the health benefits of this. Braggs is a good one.

Replied by Kelly
(Seattle)
07/22/2023

This is simply not true, and can be proven by doing a google search for seb dermatitis or wound healing and vinegar. It's the ACETIC ACID in the vinegar that kills the organisms or infections that cause the skin problems, not anything in unprocessed vinegar. Personally, I would think that the 'mother' might possibly be unsterile, and could create problems. Nevertheless, there are NO studies using Bragg's ACV with the mother, while there are at least six using regular vinegar (diluted! ) and/or acetic acid -- the active ingredient in vinegar.

Apple Cider Vinegar
Posted by Sam (Toronto, Canada) on 03/20/2012
 ★★★★★

I just wanted to say thanks! I'm 29 and i've had SD for over 9 years now. I've used everything prescribed by the docs and needless to say - it only works till it doesn't. I stumbled upon this site looking for ways to get rid of the dandruff buildup on my eyelids and behind my ears. Its not attractive.

I was very excited about using the ACV diluted with water treatment. I have (had) really - really bad SD with the scabs and all. I sprayed the diluted ACV solution on my face and hair. Got as much to the scalp as possible. I have long hair. Waited for 15 mins and washed it away.

The difference in my facial skin was dramatic. I mean I use it 3 times a day on my face now (rub it on with a cotton ball). My skin looks healthy and even some dark spots on my skin have faded away. I love it.

It took almost a month to see the same results on my hair. But i'm glad to report that after 9 years i'm finally dandruff free! And if that wasn't great enough my hair is healthier and shinnier to boot!

I want to thank this little community for the "enlightenment".

So Thanks, Sam

(p.s. I use a mild 99% organically sourced ginger based shampoo to wash my hair after the ACV treatment)

Replied by Susan
(West Jordan, Utah)
07/31/2012

I tried Organic apple cider vinegar and water (1:1ratio) on my hair first time yesterday. It feels good. Couple of questions.

1. Should I quit my current dandruff shampo prescription?

2. When using on Face, should I quit my steroids I am currently using?

When I used first time I used baby shampoo first then sprayed this solution waited 10 mins and rinsed off. Just wondering if I need to shampoo before the application or after appilcation? I have read that some ppl suggested to spray it and leave it on. Is that better?

Please let me know. Also if someone can suggest some good shampoos when I quit the dandruff shamoos that will be great.

Replied by Kas
(Illinois, Usa)
08/08/2014

Do not immediately come down off your steroids. Begin the ACV wash FIRST without your antidandruff shampoo. Steroids are very potent and need to be stepped down slowly. Do NOT simply come off them. Speak with your doctor about the best way to cut down your steroids. Good call on coming down off them though. My mother has been getting off and on steroid treatments for years because of breathing problems and her doctors recently confirmed that she has suffered liver damage because of their consistent long-term use. :)

Apple Cider Vinegar
Posted by Fifi (Gold Coast, Qld, Australia) on 12/31/2011
 ★★★★★

Hi everyone, I'm 28 and had been searching for a remedy to treat seborrheic dermatitis on my face for about 3 years. Finally, this year it has cleared up and I believe that raw apple cider vinegar with the mother helped a lot. I do not really suffer from SD on my scalp, it only appears there in small patches in winter which clears with shampoo. The sides of my nose were the main problem area. I had constant pink patches on the skin there, which would sometimes burn. I had hardly any flaky skin, just the pink, sometimes red irritated patches.

Anyway, it was diagnosed by a dermatologist as SD and after a couple of years of on and off again treatments prescribed by him and my family doctor, I decided to change my diet and my skin care routine.

Ten months ago, I cut virtually all yeast from my diet. I stopped using prescribed medications on my SD. There was an initial flare up as my skin was addicted to the steroid cream I had been using. I began to use a face wash which is very calming. I used filtered water to dilute raw Apple Cider Vinegar with mother in a small spray bottle. After cleansing and whenever I thought of it during the day, I would soak my face with the spray. I would keep my eyes closed with a folded tissue held over them. At first the smell was bad but it does not last long. I did this intense soaking everyday for about 2 months and then as the SD improved I cut back to doing it morning and night. I stopped spraying and just used a soaked cotton ball.

I also use the Apple Cider Vinegar as a salad dressing and mixed into tuna. Ten months on my SD has not returned and my skin has never looked better. I still avoid eating yeast but I am not as strict. I stopped using the Apple Cider Vinegar on my face, but I think I will start to use it again as a toner after reading everyone's great reviews here. I am also going to try the baking soda face scrub. I think it is important to dilute the Apple Cider Vinegar if you are going to apply it to your face and avoid getting it in your eyes.

Replied by Karin
(Wilmington, Nc)
04/14/2014

I have found two remedies that control seborrheic dermatitis: African formula zinc shampoo - can be bought at Health Food Stores, been using this for years. Also lavender tea works great. I make the tea with 2 heaping tspns. dried lavender in 2 cups of water, boil water, let steep for 15 min. Keep in refrigerator. Spray on scalp after shampooing. It smells great, nice for hair.

Replied by Joellie
(Holland)
07/26/2014

Hi, I did read about your Apple Cider Vinegar treatment on sebderm. I am curisous if you could pass me a link of your cleanser you use am / pm. Did you ever see any tiny flakies returned?
Thanks

Replied by Stephanie
(Oregon)
05/19/2015

I get the eliminating yeast part, but doesn't ACV contain yeast? In yeast elimination diets, vinegar is one of the first things to go. Interested as I too am looking for a natural remedy for facial SD


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