The Role of Dermatitis In The Rosacea Picture

Rosacea and seborrheic dermatitis are different skin disorders, sometimes they can coexist at the same time. Approximately 35% of people with rosacea have seborrheic dermatitis which makes for an even more sensitive skin condition.

Seborrheic dermatitis involves overactive sebaceous glands which cause inflammation, flaking and a red rash in the central portion of the face. If one looks closely, the flakes usually have a greasy look, smell and feel. The dryness of seborrheic dermatitis is perceived because of the flaking which consists of dried layers of accumulated oil.

Seborrheic dermatitis causes yellowish scales to develop on the scalp, the hairline and the eyebrows; which is often confused with the crusting and scaling on the eyelids that occur with ocular rosacea. A doctor should check any scaling around the eyes, as the potential side effects of ocular rosacea are more serious than those of seborrheic dermatitis.

Topical steroids used in the treatment of dermatitis can create steroid induced rosacea. This condition typically worsens when the steroid is stopped. In an unfortunate cycle the steroid may be reapplied to diminish the redness which only worsens the condition.